Tenerife what to see – Anaga mountains

Shrouded in magic and mystery … Anaga mountains – this is a must-see during your Tenerife vacation. Why? Because although Tenerife is mainly associated by tourists with beautiful weather all year round and beaches perfect for relaxation, it offers much more. In this article, we invite you on a journey through the luscious green mountains of Anaga, which will show you the wilder side of Tenerife.

Table of Contents:

1. Where are the Anaga mountains located
2. Interesting facts about Anaga Mountains
3. Anaga Mountains trails and most interesting places
4. How to prepare?

Where are the Anaga mountains located?

The Anaga Mountains lie in the northeastern part of Tenerife over 14,000 hectares. In 2015, they were included in the UNESCO Biosphere list. They were formed some 7 to 9 million years ago, making them one of the oldest areas on the island. Anaga is covered with dense laurel forests that resemble ancient jungles and has a specific microclimate.

How to get to Anaga?

There are several ways to reach the Anaga mountains.

Getting there by car – from Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island’s capital, you can drive through the mountains hooking up with beautiful viewpoints along the way, the nearby Playa Benijo or the village of Taganana. The roads are maintained in very good condition, but winding, so we recommend this option only to skilled drivers who feel comfortable behind the wheel.

Getting there by bus – you can also go by bus. From the south of the island, however, you must prepare for a rather long journey with transfers. It is best to check the current connections on Google Maps, as the bus course changes frequently.

Package tour – if you don’t want to worry about getting there, parking lots, or winding roads, it’s best to take a round trip with a Polish guide, during which you’ll see not only the Anaga mountains, but also other beautiful places of northern Tenerife: Candelaria, Santa Cruz and La Laguna. This is an option for those who want to relax during their vacation and learn a lot of interesting facts. You can book your tour 👉 here.

Interesting facts about Anaga Mountains

• Time travel – it’s not just beautiful sights, but a trip back in time. You can see ancient rock formations and feel the local climate of life in Tenerife
• Endemic plants – it is in the Anaga Mountains that you will find the most endemic plants per square kilometer, laurel forests
• is also an opportunity to see the real local life of the people in small villages like Taborno, El Draguillo and Taganana
• The Anaga mountains were used to shoot scenes for famous films, such as Wonder Woman 1984

Anaga Mountains trails and most interesting places

There are more than 140 trails in the Anaga Mountains and countless viewpoints that make an incredible impression on visitors. Below are our suggestions:

1. Mirador Cruz del Carmen – One of the most popular viewpoints, offering panoramic views of the entire Anaga range and nearby towns. There is a tourist information center here and the beginning of many hiking trails.
2. Bosque Encantado (Enchanted Forest) – This is one of the most mysterious places on the island. The dense laurel forest, covered with mosses and ferns, resembles scenes from a fairy tale. Entrance to this trail (El Pijaral) requires a free permit, which must be booked online in advance for max. 16 days in advance. The daily limit of people on the trail is 45. The trail is approximately 7 kilometers long.
3. Taganana Trail – Afur – Tamadite
   A loop through spectacular cliffs and valleys, offering incredible ocean views. The route hooks up with the intimate Tamadite beach, perfect for a relaxing break.
4. Chamorga and the Faro de Anaga Lighthouse
   The trail from the village of Chamorga to Tenerife’s northeasternmost point is a treat for fans of wild landscapes. Along the way you pass abandoned houses, mountain ridges and reach a lighthouse overlooking the endless Atlantic.
5. Playa de Benijo
   Although not part of the deep mountain trails, this wild black beach located in the foothills of Anaga is the perfect place to end the day. Especially at sunset, it makes an unforgettable impression.

What to bring with you?

• Comfortable shoes
• A rain jacket – the weather can change quickly. When the sun is shining on Playa las Teresitas, in the mountains it can be foggy and a few degrees
• Water and snacks
• Offline map or GPS (there is not coverage everywhere)
• Identity document if you plan to enter trails that require a permit

Summary

Are the Anaga mountains worth seeing? YES! This is the perfect place to experience the wild, green and lesser-known side of Tenerife. It’s not only unforgettable views and contact with nature, but also an authentic experience of the island’s culture. Whether you’re an avid hiker, photographer or just looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of tourist resorts, Anaga will charm you.

Pack your backpack and head for adventure! And if you’re looking for more information about Tenerife – follow our profile on IG 👉 here