Walk through the primeval laurel forest of Anaga
Wander through a subtropical cloud forest dating back to the Tertiary era, where moss-draped laurel canopies, giant ferns and mist-shrouded volcanic dikes form a living prehistoric sanctuary.
At a glance
Year-round; lush and green in all seasons
Morning before cloud cover thickens and car parks fill
2 to 4 hours
Forest hiking & botanical trails · Self-guided or guided
Easy to Moderate
Drop-in possible
Why walk in the Anaga laurel forest?
Twenty million years ago, humid subtropical laurisilva covered the entire Mediterranean basin. When the ice ages cooled the continent, these ancient woodlands retreated, surviving in the moist mountain microclimates of the Canary Islands, Azores and Madeira.
Anaga was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2015 and harbours the highest density of endemic species per square kilometre in Europe. Trade winds condense moisture on the dense canopy in a phenomenon known as 'horizontal rain', sustaining ancient ferns and lichens.
What to expect
Cruz del Carmen trailhead
Step into the cool mist at 920 metres altitude and feel the fresh, earthy woodland aroma as you enter under the evergreen canopy.
Sendero de los Sentidos
Follow historic pathways carved by ancient Guanche inhabitants, featuring tactile sensory stations highlighting textures, smells and birdsong.
Mirador overlooks
Emerge at dramatic rocky viewpoints where razor-sharp volcanic ridges plunge into green gorges meeting the northern Atlantic.
Plan your experience
When to go
Mornings offer clearer trails; afternoon trade winds roll low clouds through the trees, providing atmospheric photography but dropping temperatures.
Getting there
Drive from San Cristóbal de La Laguna via the TF-12 mountain road. TITSA public bus line 273/275 connects La Laguna to Cruz del Carmen several times daily.
Booking & permits
General trails from Cruz del Carmen require no permit. If you wish to hike the famous 'Enchanted Forest' route at El Pijaral, book a free permit online at centraldereservas.tenerife.es up to 15 days ahead.
What to bring
- Light rain jacket or windproof shell
- Sturdy walking shoes with non-slip tread (trails can be muddy)
- Warm fleece layer
- Reusable water bottle and trail snacks
Before you go
- Arrive before 10:00 to secure parking at Cruz del Carmen.
- Stay strictly on marked paths to safeguard delicate soil and endemic mosses.
Official information
Always verify permits, seasonal weather conditions and access directly with public authorities:
Official network trail statuses, interactive maps and route profiles
Official island tourism portal for hiking routes and conservation guidance
Ways to experience it
Walk the Sendero de los Sentidos (1.5 km loop) independently from the visitor centre.
Book a certified nature guide to discover endemic botany and prehistoric geological history.
Certified providers & operators
Anaga Experience
Guided botanical and cultural walking tours
Certified local eco-tourism operator based in northeastern Tenerife