2025’s Wonderful Hike Through the Magic Forest of Tenerife

So, you think you know Tenerife? You’ve probably got pictures of sunny beaches and maybe Mount Teide in your head, right? Well, let me tell you, there’s a whole other side to this island that is, frankly, completely different. I drove up from the sun-baked southern coast, you know, and the world just started to change around me. The air got a little cooler, you see, and then mist started rolling in. Honestly, I stepped out of my car into what is called the Anaga Rural Park, but everyone really knows it as the “Magic Forest,” and it was almost like walking into a fairy tale. Actually, the change is so dramatic that it feels like you’ve been transported to a totally different country, maybe even a different time.

It’s just one of those places that genuinely sticks with you. Seriously, I’ve done a lot of hiking, but this spot is pretty unique. The whole area feels very, very old and untouched. So, as I was saying, I’m putting this review together for anyone planning a trip in 2025, to share what it’s really like to walk through these trees. To be honest, it’s about giving you the real-deal tips and a feeling for the place that you just can’t get from a simple tourist map. Anyway, let’s get into what makes this forest so special and what you actually need to know before you go.

Stepping into Anaga’s Ancient Laurel Forest

The first thing you have to understand is that, basically, this isn’t just any old woodland area. This is a laurisilva, or laurel forest, and honestly, it’s a living fossil. This type of forest, you know, used to cover huge parts of Europe millions of years ago, before the Ice Ages pretty much wiped it out. But here, in the Canary Islands, it kind of just clung on. So, as you walk, you’re literally surrounded by the kind of nature that dinosaurs might have seen, or something like that. The trees themselves are sort of the main attraction; they are often twisted and gnarled, covered in thick green moss and dripping with moisture, even on a day that feels dry. It’s incredibly atmospheric.

Actually, the shapes of the branches are what give the forest its magical feeling. They form these really strange, almost spooky canopies over the path, and light struggles to get through in some spots. It creates these shifting patterns of light and shadow that are, well, just amazing for photos. The air itself feels different up here; it’s clean, damp, and has this sort of earthy smell. You can actually smell the life all around you, from the wet soil to the greenery itself. It’s just a little bit of a sensory overload in the best possible way, I mean, it really wakes you up.

Walking through Anaga is like stepping back in time. You can almost feel the quiet history held within these ancient, moss-covered trees. It’s a very grounding experience, to be honest.

That feeling of history is everywhere, you know. It’s not like a museum, obviously, but you feel the weight of time just standing there. The silence is another thing; it’s not a dead quiet, but rather one filled with tiny sounds, like the drip of water or a bird call from far away. Apparently, the park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which makes total sense when you’re there. It feels like a very, very protected and important piece of the natural world, and it is a complete contrast to the more developed tourist zones of the island. Frankly, that’s what makes it so valuable.

Choosing Your Path: The Trail of the Senses

Okay, so you want to hike here, but where do you start? The park is huge, with tons of trails, but the most famous and accessible one is, for sure, the “Sendero de los Sentidos,” or the Path of the Senses. Seriously, it’s a great introduction. It’s right by the main visitor center at Cruz del Carmen, so you can’t miss it. The brilliant thing is that it’s actually split into three little routes, and they are all pretty short and more or less easy. The first one is especially accessible, with a wooden walkway perfect for families or anyone who just wants a little taste of the forest without a massive commitment. So, there is really something for every fitness level.

As you can probably guess from the name, each section is designed to engage your senses. You’ll see these little signs with symbols for a nose, an eye, or a hand. For instance, a hand symbol might be next to a tree with a really interesting bark, encouraging you to feel the texture. An eye symbol could point out how the light filters through the leaves in a certain way. To be honest, it sounds a little bit simple, but it genuinely makes you slow down and notice details you would otherwise just walk past. It kind of teaches you how to look at the forest, not just walk through it. I mean, it’s a simple idea executed really well.

I took Path 3, which is the longest of the trio but still only a little over a kilometer. It’s a loop that goes a bit deeper into the trees and gives you, frankly, a much fuller experience. You get to see more of the massive laurel trees and a few spots that feel very, very secluded. Even on a busy day, you can find moments of complete peace here. Anyway, no matter which path you choose, you’ll be on a mix of wooden boardwalks and well-maintained dirt trails. At the end of the day, it’s just a fantastic way to spend an hour or two soaking in the unique environment.

What to Pack and Expect for Your 2025 Visit

Alright, let’s talk practicalities, because as a matter of fact, a little bit of planning makes all the difference here. The weather in Anaga can be, well, completely different from the rest of Tenerife. Down by the beach it could be 25 degrees and sunny, while up here it’s 15 degrees, misty, and maybe even raining. So, the most important thing is layers. Honestly, bring a t-shirt, a fleece or sweater, and a waterproof jacket. You will likely use all three at some point. Even if it’s not raining, the trees can drip a lot, so a rain jacket is your best friend.

Next up is footwear. You don’t need, like, full-on mountaineering boots for the Path of the Senses, but sturdy sneakers or walking shoes are a must. The paths can be a little slippery from the dampness, you know, especially on the tree roots and stone steps. As for supplies, definitely bring water. I mean, it’s hiking, so that’s a no-brainer. Snacks are a good idea, too, as there’s not much available once you’re on the trail. The visitor center at Cruz del Carmen has a restaurant and a small shop, but it’s always smart to have your own stuff just in case. Basically, be self-sufficient for a couple of hours.

Getting there and parking is another big thing. You pretty much need a car to explore Anaga properly. By the way, the roads getting up there are windy and narrow but they are paved and generally in good condition. Just take it slow. Parking at the main visitor center, Cruz del Carmen, is free but also, like, extremely limited. On weekends or in high season, it can be really tough to find a spot after 10 AM. So, my best advice is to just get there early, you know, like before 9:30 AM, to avoid the stress. Otherwise, you might end up parking along the main road, which can be a bit tricky.

Beyond the Trees: Viewpoints and Local Flavors

Frankly, the hike is the main event, but you shouldn’t just turn around and leave once you’re done. The Anaga mountain range is filled with amazing viewpoints, or ‘miradors.’ Just a short walk from the Path of the Senses visitor center is the Mirador de Cruz del Carmen. On a clear day, the view from here is absolutely incredible. You can see the city of La Laguna sprawling below and, you know, a huge stretch of the island with Mount Teide dominating the skyline. It really gives you a sense of scale and perspective. There are other viewpoints all along the main road that are also worth a quick stop, each offering a slightly different angle of the dramatic landscape.

Now, for my favorite part after a good walk: the food. Instead of eating at the visitor center, I really suggest you take a drive down the winding roads to one of the coastal villages, like Taganana. The drive itself is an adventure, with switchback turns that open up to jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic. Taganana is this very charming, traditional village sort of tucked away from the main tourist trail. Here you’ll find these little family-run restaurants that serve, honestly, some of the freshest fish on the island. You have to try the “papas arrugadas con mojo,” which are these wrinkly, salty potatoes served with red and green sauces. It’s a Canary Islands staple and the perfect reward after your hike.

It’s this combination of things that makes a day in Anaga so memorable. You start in a mystical, ancient forest, and then, you know, an hour later you can be sitting by the sea eating fresh fish. It shows you the incredible diversity of Tenerife in a way that just lying on a beach never could. As a matter of fact, taking that drive and finding a local spot to eat is as much a part of the experience as the hike itself. It turns a simple nature walk into a proper, full-day cultural adventure.

My Personal Takeaways and Pro-Tips

So, at the end of the day, my hike through the Magic Forest was pretty special. It’s one of those places that actually lives up to its name. To make your trip just as good, I’ve got a few final thoughts and tips, you know, based on my own experience. These are the kinds of things that can really make your visit smoother and more enjoyable. They are honestly just little things, but they add up. Anyway, here is a quick list of what I learned.

My advice is pretty straightforward, really. You will find it just helps to be a little prepared. I mean, the place is beautiful no matter what, but these small things make it a more seamless experience.

• Go early. Seriously, I know I said it before, but get to Cruz del Carmen before 10 AM. It’s a totally different experience without the crowds, and you’ll actually get a parking spot without any hassle.
• Check the specific weather forecast. Don’t just look at the forecast for southern Tenerife. Actually, look up the weather for La Laguna or the Anaga mountains specifically, as it can be very different up there.
• Look down. Of course, you should look up at the incredible trees, but don’t forget to look down, too. The forest floor is this complex little world of its own, full of unique ferns, fungi, and flowers that are just as fascinating, you know.
• Charge your phone or camera. This place is incredibly photogenic, almost ridiculously so. You’ll be stopping every five feet to take a picture, so just make sure your battery is full. Honestly, you’ll regret it if it dies.

Frankly, my trip to the Anaga forest was a highlight of my time in Tenerife. It’s a place that feels wild and ancient, yet it’s so surprisingly accessible. Following these tips will, I hope, help you have just as an amazing time. It’s an experience that offers a complete escape and a peek into a prehistoric world, and honestly, that’s not something you find every day.