Enchanted Forest in Tenerife
Located in the Anaga Natural Park, the Bosque Encantado trail is an exciting walk on the island of Tenerife.
Here we can let ourselves be carried away by one of the best-preserved Laurisilva landscapes in Spain. There are many species to be found throughout the forest. Yew trees, Follaos, Suaces, Brezos ....
Particularly striking is the size of the Píjaras, ferns that surround the path from the beginning.
In this article you will discover its mysteries and how to make the most of this experience. Are you going to miss it?
Why is it enchanted?
The reason for its name is due to its magical aspect, its paths surrounded by trees will make you feel like you are in the middle of a science fiction movie.
Its colours, the sound of the wind through the vegetation and its tranquillity make this forest an incredible place to visit and let your senses take you away.
Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Tenerife is a highly recommended activity for all those who love nature and protected areas.
Permission for the Enchanted Forest
Due to the fragility of the environment , a permit is required in order to be able to walk through it. This permit guarantees the protection of the area and its charms.
There are no places like this and it is everyone's responsibility to preserve them over time.
The permit can be obtained on the website of the Cabildo de Tenerife (the body in charge of its care), where you will find a section exclusively for booking nature activities.
The booking conditions are as follows:
- No more than 4 bookings per person
- 45 persons per day
- Maximum advance notice of 90 days
- No groups allowed
- Can be kept on mobile phone
- Fines for not having a licence are up to 600 euros.
It is advisable to obtain this permit at least one week before the route to avoid any inconvenience of availability.
It should be borne in mind that this is a protected landscape and we cannot pass through it without this documentation.
How to get to the Enchanted Forest
There are two ways to get to the Enchanted Forest of Anaga in Tenerife:
1. From La Laguna: Take the direction of Monte de las Mercedes and take the El Bailadero turnoff to drive along the TF-123, where the start of the route is located between kilometres 4 and 5.
2. From Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Take direction San Andrés and almost reaching Las Teresitas beach take the El Bailadero/ Taganana turnoff. Once on the TF-123 between kilometre 4 and 5 you will find the start of the route.
The journey time from both points is about 45 minutes. Both roads have spectacular scenery.
There is no signpost to warn you of your arrival on the route, but keep an eye out at kilometres 4 and 5 of the TF-123 in the Ensillada area. There are some car parks with a wooden barrier and a sign informing that this is a protected area.
to follow on your holidays?
Don't miss the Parque Rural de AnagaExperience : Hiking and Guachinche
Visit the Anaga Rural Park. Enjoy a unique forest and finish this experience in a Guachinche tasting typical Canarian dishes.
If you want to live a unique and environmentally friendly experience, and also get to know the Anaga Rural Park, Biosphere Reserve, with a local guide, book your place for a guided visit to an ancient forest.
The enchanted path
For this trail we have chosen to divide the route into two parts:
First part: Parking lot-The Yew Tree Viewpoint
When you park in the respective area, you will see an information sign. The 7-kilometre circular path starts right at this sign.
The path is not signposted. Follow the path at all times. Caution should be exercised as there is a lot of mud in some sections. The path is spectacular and you can enjoy beautiful natural landscapes.
After the first hour's walk you will reach the Roque Anambro. From here you can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the coast. It is an ideal place for a short break.
However, if you prefer, you can walk for another 30 minutes to reach the Mirador de Tejo. From there you can see the Roque de las Bodegas, Benijo and even one of the rocks of Anaga.
Second part: Mirador de Tejo-Parking
This section is less impressive than the previous one but it also hides some secrets. Along the stretch we can find caves carved in stone, which were used by shepherds for shelter.
After about 45 minutes we will return to the main path and reach the starting point.
Recommendations for walking the trail
- Wear comfortable footwear: There are stretches that can be muddy, so wearing suitable footwear for the occasion will enhance your experience.
- Warm clothing: it is an area with quite a lot of currents, so it is a good idea to take some clothing to protect you from the cold.
- Food and drink: it is an easy trail but lasts 3 hours, so it is essential to stay hydrated.
If you are interested in hiking, don't miss the wonderful trails along the Teide .
