Tenerife is one of the most diverse islands in Europe. In a single day you can see black volcanic beaches, humid forests in the north, raw volcanic landscapes in the centre and busy tourist resorts in the south. The best way to explore the island is by renting a car – the roads are good, although often winding and steep.
While on the island, it’s worth trying the local cuisine: papas arrugadas with mojo sauce, vegetable soups, vegetable paella and freshly squeezed orange juice.
Mount Teide – the heart of the island
Teide (3,718 m above sea level) is the highest peak in Spain and the central landmark of Tenerife. The area around the crater feels like another planet – barren lava fields, sharp rocks and colourful minerals create an extraordinary landscape.
- you can hike to the top (4–9 hours one way) or take the cable car,
- access to the very summit requires a free permit booked online in advance,
- an alternative is a night ascent (18:00–9:00) – sunrise hikes are especially popular,
- at the top you can clearly smell sulphur and volcanic fumes.
The altitude is noticeable – dizziness and quick fatigue are common, so it is recommended not to stay at the summit longer than about an hour.
Canary Island pines – a natural wonder
Around Teide grow the unique Canary Island pines, perfectly adapted to extreme conditions:
- needles grow directly from the bark,
- thick, resin-rich bark protects the tree from fire,
- the trees regenerate quickly after fires and eruptions.
They are one of the most fascinating examples of plant adaptation in the Canary Islands.
Anaga – the green north of the island
Anaga Rural Park is a completely different world: dense, humid forests, mist and narrow trails.
- many hiking routes of varying difficulty,
- an information centre with trail maps,
- in many places there is no mobile signal.
Benijo – the black beach of the north
Benijo is one of the most photogenic beaches on Tenerife – black volcanic sand, towering rocks and the raw power of the ocean. Nearby you’ll find a scenic trail climbing up the slopes.
El Draguillo – the trail above Benijo
Near Benijo beach there is a beautiful trail leading towards the village of El Draguillo. The route runs high above the ocean, offering spectacular views of black cliffs and wild coves of northern Tenerife.
- a narrow, rocky path along steep slopes,
- much less tourist traffic than in the south of the island,
- best walked early in the morning or late afternoon.
This trail shows a completely different face of Tenerife – raw, windy and almost untouched by mass tourism.
Los Gigantes – cliffs over the ocean
The monumental cliffs on the western side of the island rise several hundred metres above sea level. They are best admired from a boat or from viewpoints in the town of Los Gigantes.
Garachico – natural pools
Tenerife has many natural volcanic pools that provide some shelter from the waves. The ones in Garachico are among the most famous – although when the ocean is rough, swimming may be impossible.
Fañabé – the beach of the south
The south of the island offers wide, bright beaches and calmer swimming conditions. Fañabé is a good base for those who want to combine sightseeing with relaxation.
Masca Gorge – trekking in the heart of the island
Masca is a small village located in one of Tenerife’s most spectacular gorges. For years, the trail descending the gorge to the ocean was one of the island’s most popular hikes.
- steep rock walls rising hundreds of metres,
- narrow passages between lava formations,
- changing microclimates – from dry sections to humid, shaded areas.
Access to the trail is now sometimes restricted for safety and environmental reasons, so it’s best to check the current rules before visiting. Hiking Masca is one of the most intense trekking experiences on Tenerife.
Getting around the island
- the island is best explored by car,
- mountain roads and hairpin bends can significantly extend travel times,
- rental companies often prohibit taking the car to other islands.
Dragon trees
Tenerife is home to the iconic dragon trees (Dracaena draco) – an endemic species that naturally occurs only in the Canary Islands. They are one of the symbols of the archipelago.
Tenerife is an island of contrasts – from the humid greenery of Anaga to the harsh lava fields beneath Teide. Perfect both for trekking and for peaceful relaxation by the ocean.
Let’s meet @malvinadunder
Malvina Dunder 
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