Walking in the Canary Islands

Away from the beautiful beaches and dramatic coastline the islands interiors provide a wonderful escape for those interested in walking in the Canary Islands. Here you can see citrus and almond groves, mango, banana and avocado plantations, eucalyptus, aloe and many varieties of pine trees.

Where the coastlines are notable for the beaches and rocky cliffs the interiors of the islands provide mountains lush with greenery and wildlife, dramatic gorges with waterfalls and volcanic basins to explore. Many of the walking tracks are traditional routes used since the times of the Guanches, the indigenous people of the Canary Islands.

A good place to start your walking is in one of the islands national parks that have many routes within them. Of the smaller islands the Parque Nacional de Garajonay in La Gomera provides beautiful walking with lush vegetation and is a world heritage site. The Parque Nacional de le Caldera de Taburiente in La Palma has many marked routes suitable for novice walkers or those seeking gentler walking. In this park you can explore many extinct volcanic craters and walk around the rim of Caldera de Taburiente.

Tenerife, dominated by the snow capped Mount Tiede, Spains highest mountain, provides challenging walks and hikes for those interested in more mountainous walking in the Canary Islands. The Teno Rural Park includes the cliffs of Los Gigantes with the spectacular Masca Gorge which is only accessible by boat.

In Gran Canaria Roque Nublo dominates the skyline of the interior and stands above an old volcanic crater now full of almond trees and small villages. Walking in this area will lead you from mountains to meadows, lakes and farms you can even explore the troglodyte towns of the Guanches.

Walking is good all year round in the Canary Islands, however the best time to visit is in the cooler winter months of October to March. Sturdy footwear are a must, away from the beaches and in the mountains the climate can change dramatically, a fleece or warm jumper with lightweight waterproof jacket should protect you from the cooler winds.

There are many companies that organise walking holidays as well as day trips, however if you prefer to make your own itinerary there are several books and maps dedicated to walking in the Canary Islands.

If you are planning more than a days walking you can organise your routes to take you through the interiors of the islands staying in the fincas and casa rurals that provide accommodation for those seeking an alternative to the resorts.