Teide National Park & Anaga, Tenerife 🌋
"Volcanic peaks and laurel forests above the Atlantic clouds."
February offers perfect hiking temperatures in the 20s (Celsius). You can drive the winding roads from the lunar landscapes of Mount Teide down to the jagged green spires of Anaga, all within a short distance.
A high-altitude adventure blending the misty, prehistoric laurel forests of Anaga with the volcanic, lunar landscapes of Mt. Teide and the dramatic cliffs of Masca.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 · Arrival in Colonial La Laguna
Morning — Arrive at Tenerife North Airport (TFN). Explore the historic center of San Cristóbal de La Laguna.
Afternoon — Pick up your rental car and drive into the jagged Anaga Mountains. Check into your rural retreat in San Cristóbal de La Laguna. Walk the colorful colonial streets of this UNESCO World Heritage town.
Evening — Dine on traditional Canarian tapas at Tasca El Obispado and enjoy local wines from the Tacoronte-Acentejo region.
💡 Book your rental car in advance; Cicar or AutoReisen are highly recommended local favorites.
Day 2 · The Ancient Laurel Forests of Anaga
Morning — Drive deeper into the Anaga Rural Park. Stop at Mirador Pico del Inglés for panoramic views of the entire island.
Afternoon — Hike the 'Enchanted Forest' trail (El Pijaral) through ancient laurel trees. Note: This requires a free permit booked weeks in advance. If no permit, hike from Cruz del Carmen to Chinamada.
Evening — Drive down to the coastal village of Taganana for a sunset dinner overlooking the Atlantic at Casa Africa. Try the grilled octopus.
💡 Anaga is often shrouded in fog; bring a light waterproof jacket even if it’s sunny at the beach.
Day 3 · Journey to the Lunar Landscape
Morning — Drive south toward Teide National Park. Stop in Vilaflor, the highest village in Spain, for coffee and almond sweets.
Afternoon — Check into the Parador de las Cañadas del Teide, the only hotel inside the national park. Hike the Roques de García loop to see the iconic 'Cinchado' rock formation.
Evening — Stargazing session near the hotel. Being away from light pollution, the night sky here is among the clearest in the world.
💡 The Parador fills up months in advance; book early for the best experience at high altitude.
Day 4 · Peak of Spain: Mount Teide
Morning — Early morning hike at the Ucanca Valley (Llano de Ucanca) to see the 'cathedral' rock formations in the soft morning light.
Afternoon — Take the Cable Car (Teleférico) up to 3,555m. If you secured a permit, hike the final 40 minutes to the summit of Mt. Teide (3,718m) for views of neighboring islands.
Evening — Relax at the Parador and enjoy a hearty 'Conejo en Salmorejo' (rabbit stew) at the hotel restaurant.
💡 Apply for your Teide Summit permit at least 2-3 months in advance via the National Parks website.
Day 5 · The Hidden Village of Masca
Morning — Drive out of the crater via the west side toward Santiago del Teide. Stop for views of the 'Los Gigantes' cliffs.
Afternoon — Drive to the Masca Valley. Hike the famous Masca Gorge trail (reservation required) or simply enjoy the harrowing but beautiful drive to the village.
Evening — Check into a boutique hotel in Garachico. Walk the lava-rock pools and enjoy dinner at Restaurante Aristides.
💡 Parking in Masca is very limited; arrive before 9:00 AM to secure a spot.
Day 6 · North Coast Gems & Departure
Morning — Explore the natural lava pools of El Caletón in Garachico. Visit the 800-year-old Dragon Tree in Icod de los Vinos nearby.
Afternoon — Drive back toward Tenerife North or South for your departure. If time permits, stop at a 'Guachinche' (traditional home-style restaurant) in the Orotava Valley.
Evening — Return flight.
💡 Guachinches are mostly found in the north and offer the most authentic, affordable food experience.