Tenerife is an island of contrasts, where within a two-hour drive you can go from a lunar volcanic landscape to a misty primeval forest and back to a black sand beach at the foot of sheer cliffs.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Europe’s most visited national park. Las Cañadas Caldera (~16 km in diameter). Attractions:
Admission to the park is free. Only the cable car requires a fee.
Vertical volcanic cliffs ranging from 300 to 600 meters, plunging straight into the Atlantic. Best viewed from the water: boat tours from Puerto de Santiago, 2 hours, €20–35. From the shore: an observation deck in the village of Los Higanes.
A tiny village (600 m above sea level) in the Teno mountain range—a winding road with breathtaking views. The road to Maska is an attraction in itself. A hike into the Maska Gorge (3–4 hours downhill + boat ride) requires a permit.
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. A laurel forest (laurisilva) over 60 million years old. Perpetual fog and clouds; trees covered in moss. What to see:
A historic town destroyed by the 1706 eruption. The surviving part features colonial architecture from the 16th–17th centuries. Highlight: Charco El Ancla —natural pools in solidified lava. Free admission. Also worth visiting: the San Miguel Fortress and the Monastery of San Francisco.
Black sand, massive basalt rocks, rugged cliffs. Untamed and devoid of infrastructure. Sunset at Benijo is a local ritual for photographers. The waves can be strong, so keep an eye on the flag.
The Spanish Empire’s first colonial city without walls (UNESCO 1999). Its layout served as a model for cities throughout Latin America. A stroll down Calle la Carrera and through the old quarter is the best city walk on the island. Take the tram from Santa Cruz (10 min, €1.35).
The world’s oldest and largest dragon tree (Dracaena draco) is located in Icod de los Vinos. Approximately 1,000 years old, 17 m tall. A National Monument of Spain. Park admission: €6. Nearby are bodegas offering local wine.
8 km north of Santa Cruz. White sand from the Sahara (brought in during the 1970s). A cove protected by a breakwater, with calm waters. Popular with locals; has a non-touristy atmosphere. Bus No. 910.
A lush green valley on the northern slope of Mount Teide. The town is one of the most beautiful on the island: balconies made of Canary Island pine, celosías woodwork, and 16th–18th-century mansions. On the Feast of the Body of Christ, the streets are adorned with carpets made of colored volcanic sand.
| Mirador | Location | What You Can See |
|---|---|---|
| Pico del Inglés | Anaga | The entire northern section and the sea |
| Mirador de Masca | Teno, the road to Masca | The Masca Gorge and Cliffs |
| Rocas de García | Center of the Teide Caldera | Rock Formations, Throughout the Park |
| Tajo de Fontaneja Viewpoint | West | Deep gorge, Teno cliffs |
| Mirador de la Coronia | Anaga | Fishing Village, Atlantic |
How many days do you need to see the main attractions? 5–7 days. In 3 days: Teide, Los Higanes/Maska, La Laguna.
How do I get to Masca? By car on the TF-436. The road is narrow, and parking is limited, so arrive early.
Benijo Beach—is swimming allowed? Yes, but there can be waves. No lifeguards. For children, Teresitas or the southern beaches are better.
Los Higanes—from land or water? Definitely from the water—you get a completely different sense of scale.
