Hiking in Anaga. Playa de Antequera
Hiking and Hidden Gems in Tenerife’s Anaga Rural Park
If you're looking for an unforgettable adventure on Tenerife, I highly recommend a scenic hike through Anaga Rural Park, located on the island's rugged east coast. This unique route takes you through dramatic landscapes, descending from the mountains into a stunning gorge and ultimately reaching the remote Playa de Antequera. From the beach, a Water Taxi will whisk you away to San Andres, offering an experience you won’t soon forget.
How to Get There
To start your journey, hop on bus number 947 from Santa Cruz de Tenerife. You’ll need to ask the driver to drop you off at a specific turn near the entrance to the cemetery. This stop, nestled between La Ensillada and Las Bodegas, marks the trailhead. Just give the driver a heads-up, and they’ll be happy to stop.
The Hike
The route spans 5.3 kilometers, beginning at 620 meters above sea level, where you’ll descend through an ancient laurel forest. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, making it accessible for hikers of all ages. In the first 30 minutes, you’ll be treated to stunning views of nearby ravines, exotic plant life, and—on clear days—glimpses of the majestic Teide.
Anaga's Unpredictable Weather
Be prepared for the unpredictable weather typical of Anaga, especially along the eastern coast. It’s usually humid and windy, with occasional rain showers. Despite the weather, the descent is comfortable and scenic, taking us about two hours to complete.
Water Taxi to Playa de Antequera
Once you reach Playa de Antequera, one of the island’s most pristine beaches, you’ll be able to relax and take in the beauty of your surroundings. The beach, stretching about 300 meters, features crystal-clear waters and fine sand, which has been brought here by winds from the Sahara Desert over millennia. It’s a favorite among locals, making it a peaceful and unspoiled spot to unwind.
From here, you can take a short walk to another beautiful beach, Playa de Zapata, where you'll find impressive cliffs that house several large caves along the shoreline.
A Scenic Boat Ride
The highlight of this adventure is the Water Taxi ride. Once aboard, the captain will take you on a small tour, navigating along the coastline and stopping to explore the caves nestled within the cliffs. Along the way, you’ll learn fascinating historical insights about Tenerife, adding an educational twist to the scenic journey.
Final Tips
It’s best to book your Water Taxi in advance, ideally a week ahead, which can easily be arranged through a quick Google search. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking to relax in one of Tenerife’s most beautiful spots, this hike and boat ride offer a perfect day of adventure.
About Trek Tenerife
Trek Tenerife is the premier local hiking guide in Tenerife, offering exclusive guided tours of the island. Tenerife is an island that has something to offer for everyone - beautiful landscapes, scenery & adventure. Trek Tenerife’s off-the-beaten-path treks offer something for everyone. Book a trek today.
