Anaga Rural Park , located in the northeast of Tenerife, is a natural gem declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2015. This protected area, covering more than 14,000 hectares, encompasses a spectacular landscape of rugged mountains, laurel forests, deep ravines, and picturesque villages. It is one of the oldest geological sites on the island and an ideal destination for lovers of hiking, biodiversity, and local culture.
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🌿 Nature and Biodiversity
Anaga is a true paradise for nature lovers. Its unique terrain, with rugged mountains, sharp ridges, and deep ravines, has preserved a wealth of native flora and fauna.
- Laurel forest: A humid, cloudy ecosystem reminiscent of the ancient tropical forests of the Tertiary Period. Here, unique species such as the viñátigo, the til, and the Canary laurel live, as doves like the lapwing and the turqué.
- Endemic species: More than 120 plant species are found in Anaga alone. It’s also home to reptiles such as the black lizard and numerous unique invertebrates.
🥾 Recommended Activities
- Hiking: Anaga has more than 20 marked trails, ranging from easy routes to challenging mountain hikes. Some recommended ones:
- Path of the Senses (Cruz del Carmen): perfect for families.
- El Pijaral Enchanted Forest (permit required): a magical trail through dense laurel forest, with a unique atmosphere covered in mist and moss. It’s one of Anaga’s most spectacular trails.
- Chamorga – Anaga Lighthouse: scenic route through remote villages to the eastern tip of the island.
- Taganana – Playa de Benijo: combines views, vegetation and sea.
- Afur – Tamadite Beach: descending a ravine, with puddles and small waterfalls, until reaching the wild coast.
- Birdwatching and photography: Ideal for capturing foggy landscapes among forests or views of Mount Teide from the viewpoints.
- Wild beaches: Like Benijo, Almáciga or El Draguillo, with dark sands and volcanic views, perfect for disconnecting.
- Visits to towns and hamlets.
🏘️ Charming Towns
- Taganana: One of the oldest villages in Tenerife, with traditional architecture, cobbled streets and a church dating back to 1505.
- Chinamada: Noted for its cave houses, which are still inhabited today. Rural life is preserved in its most authentic form.
- Chamorga: The most isolated village in the park, ideal for hikers seeking tranquility and unspoiled nature.
- Afur: A small hamlet nestled between ravines and mountains, famous for its hiking trails, such as the one that leads to Tamadite Beach.
📍 Places to Visit in Anaga
Here are some of the most special corners within the park:
🌄 Viewpoints
- Jardina Viewpoint
Panoramic views of La Laguna and Mount Teide. - Cruz del Carmen Viewpoint
offers views of the Las Mercedes Valley and Mount Teide on clear days. Several hiking trails depart from here. - Pico del Inglés Viewpoint
One of the most impressive; on clear days you can see the entire ridge of the island. - Aguaide Lookout (Chinamada)
A natural balcony overlooking the cliffs, with breathtaking views of the ocean. Ideal after a hike from Chinamada.
🏞️ Unique places
- Old road to Pico del Inglés
Picturesque stretch flanked by high walls covered in moss and vegetation, with tree branches intertwining above, creating a natural tunnel of laurel forest. - Roque de Taborno,
known as the “Machu Picchu of the Canary Islands,” is a volcanic rock that stands out in the landscape for its sharp shape. To reach it, follow a circular trail from the town of Taborno. - Church of Las Nieves (Taganana)
One of the oldest churches in Tenerife, dating back to the 16th century. Surrounded by traditional houses and a rural atmosphere. - Anaga Lighthouse
Scenic route to the eastern tip of the island. The views of the Atlantic from the lighthouse are unforgettable.
🏖️ Wild beaches
- Benijo Beach:
One of Tenerife’s most photogenic beaches, surrounded by mountains and impressive sea cliffs. Perfect for watching the sunset. - Almáciga Beach
Popular with surfers, this wild beach offers a stunning natural setting. - Roque de las Bodegas
Black sand beach next to the village of Taganana, with restaurants and relaxation areas. - Tamadite Beach:
Isolated and difficult to access, it’s reached on foot from Afur through a spectacular ravine. Ideal for adventurers.
🍴 Where to Eat
Guachinches and restaurants serving typical Canarian food in Anaga Rural Park:
📸 Photos and videos
📌 Practical Tips
- How to get there: It’s easily accessible from La Laguna or Santa Cruz by road (TF-12 and TF-1). The roads are narrow and winding; caution is recommended.
- Climate: The weather in Anaga can change quickly. Fog and humidity are common, so bring warm clothing and appropriate footwear, even in summer.
- Respect for the environment: As this is a Biosphere Reserve, it is essential not to leave waste, stay on the trails, and respect the flora and fauna.
- Limited parking: On weekends, parking can be difficult at locations like Cruz del Carmen or Taganana, so arrive early.