Tenerife, known as the island of eternal summer, is an incredibly popular tourist destination thanks to its warm climate and beautiful beaches. However, there is much more to discover on this Canary island, especially when it comes to its natural riches. One of its standout treasures is Anaga Rural Park (Parque Rural de Anaga), a protected area in the north-west of the island.
Discover Another Side of Tenerife – Anaga Rural Park
Anaga Rural Park is a paradise for nature lovers and a haven of peace away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Covering more than 14,400 hectares, this rural park takes in rugged mountains, deep ravines, valleys covered in lush vegetation and steep, rocky coastlines. It has also been declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO because of its exceptional biodiversity.
One of the reasons Anaga Rural Park is so special is its unique geology. The area was formed millions of years ago by intense volcanic activity. As the lava flows cooled and solidified, they created spectacular shapes such as cliffs, jagged peaks and unusual rock formations. A walk through the park will take you through a surreal landscape that seems straight out of a fairy tale.
The Park's Biodiversity
The flora and fauna of Anaga Rural Park are another highlight of this protected area. Thanks to its isolated location and mild climate, Anaga is home to a wide variety of endemic and endangered species. You will find laurisilva (laurel forest), a type of subtropical forest found in the Canary Islands, characterised by its evergreen trees and dense vegetation. Among its plants are the Canary Islands dragon tree, an emblematic tree of the archipelago, and the tajinaste rojo, a plant that flowers in spring and fills the landscape with intense colour.
These forests are a refuge for a wide variety of insects and mammals, including the emblematic Canary parrot. Anaga is also home to numerous birds, some of them endangered, such as the Tenerife blue chaffinch and the long-eared owl. You can also find reptiles such as the lagarto tizón (Tenerife lizard) and the great Anaga lizard, as well as a wide variety of insects and other invertebrates.
How to Get to the Park
Anaga Rural Park is well connected to the rest of the island. If you set off by car from the capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, you will reach the park in just a few minutes. There are also buses departing from two places: La Laguna and Guagua.
What to Do in Anaga Rural Park
Anaga Rural Park has an extensive network of trails that let you explore these magnificent landscapes on foot. From gentle woodland strolls to more challenging routes that take you up to the mountain summits, there is something for every level of ability. One of the most popular trails is the Ruta de los Sentidos (Path of the Senses), which immerses you in the unspoilt beauty of nature while you enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean.
If you love photography, you won't find a better place than Anaga Rural Park to capture stunning shots. Every corner is an opportunity for a frame-worthy photo. From dramatic landscapes to the delicate details of the flora and fauna, this rural park is a paradise for photographers in search of the perfect shot.
Not only is the park itself a natural wonder, it is also home to charming rural villages where you can immerse yourself in authentic Canarian culture. Places such as Taganana and Almáciga offer a peaceful, authentic experience, where you can enjoy the local cuisine, explore historic churches and meet the friendly locals.
Finally, for those who seek adventure everywhere, there are options for canyoning, horse riding, sailing, diving, surfing and much more. The Rural Park is a complete experience that you can't enjoy in a single day. Many visitors plan a stay at the Anaga hostels so they can enjoy it at a more relaxed pace.
What to Eat There
The whole area is well preserved by the local communities and the government. That doesn't mean visitors have to compromise on food. Even surrounded by all this nature, you will find lovely restaurants and guachinches serving authentic Canarian flavours. Here is a list of places to eat in the Anaga Rural Park area:
Guachinche Bibi y Mana
Between Bajo el Roque and Azanos, Guachinche Bibi y Mana awaits you with its tasty pulpo frito (fried octopus) or queso asado (roasted cheese). They also serve house wine and desserts such as polvito uruguayo (a layered dessert of cream and crushed biscuits). Expect very friendly staff, an indoor dining room and a terrace surrounded by plants.
Restaurante La Charca
Restaurante La Charca has more than a thousand positive online reviews from tourists and locals alike, and that is only a fraction of its fans. With its reasonable prices, you'll fall in love with dishes such as pollo a la brasa (chargrilled chicken) and many more.
Restaurante Dos Barrancos
As you leave the area around the capital, Santa Cruz, you'll find this restaurant on the way to the Rural Park. Restaurante Dos Barrancos is very close to Valle de Anaga. It stands out for its traditional Canarian dishes of fresh fish and meat, which you simply have to try!
Set Off on a New Adventure in Tenerife
Anaga Rural Park is a must for anyone visiting Tenerife in search of a unique nature experience. Its wild beauty, exceptional biodiversity and fascinating geology make it a truly magical place. Whether you enjoy hiking, photography or simply admiring nature at its purest, this rural park will leave you speechless. So the next time you visit Tenerife, don't miss the chance to explore Anaga Rural Park and discover the wildest, most authentic side of this beautiful island.