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Teno Waterfalls Hike — Masca Gorge Guided Canyoneering & Jungle Pools, Tenerife - Buenavista del Norte

Teno Waterfalls Hike — Masca Gorge Guided Canyoneering & Jungle Pools, Tenerife

Buenavista del Nortechallenging

Difficulty

challenging

Duration

6–7 hours

Fitness Level

Requires good aerobic fitness, agility for scrambling, and comfort with swimming in natural pools.

Overview

Follow a winding road into Masca Gorge and hike through banana terraces, laurel forest, and river rapids to reach natural pools and waterfalls. This guided Teno adventure blends light canyoneering with jungle-like landscapes and a chance to swim in secluded springs.

Teno Waterfalls Hike — Masca Gorge Guided Canyoneering & Jungle Pools, Tenerife

The road down into Masca tightens like a fist around the mountain—hairpins unfold, the Atlantic flashes between terraces, and the car finally lets you out at a low, stone restaurant where the guide waits. You step onto a path that slips past banana and avocado plantations, then into a green world that feels older than the island’s resorts: towering laurel, moss-dark rocks, and a dry riverbed that begins to whisper. The trail dents and climbs, and within half an hour you’re inside the Masca Gorge proper, where rock walls funnel the stream and the forest closes in until the sunlight is a pale coin through leaves.

Adventure Photos

Teno Waterfalls Hike — Masca Gorge Guided Canyoneering & Jungle Pools, Tenerife photo 1

Adventure Tips

Wear grippy, waterproof footwear

Expect wet boulder-hopping and slippery slabs—sturdy trail shoes with good tread reduce slip risk.

Bring a dry bag for electronics

Phones and cameras are exposed during the wet section—keep valuables dry in a small waterproof sack.

Hydrate and fuel before the hike

Carry at least 1.5–2 liters of water and high-energy snacks; there are no services on the trail.

Plan for changing weather

Mountains can be cooler and windier than the coast—pack a lightweight wind shell and quick-dry layers.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Tenerife lizard (Gallotia galloti)
  • Red-billed chough and other mountain birds

History

The Teno massif is among Tenerife’s oldest volcanic structures; small terraces and tracks in the area reflect centuries of local farming and use by the island’s early inhabitants.

Conservation

The laurel and stream habitats are sensitive—stick to paths, avoid soap in pools, and pack out all trash to protect rare plants and clean water.

Adventure Hotspots in Buenavista del Norte

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sturdy waterproof hiking shoes

Essential

Grip and ankle support for wet rock and loose scree.

Quick-dry clothing and swimwear

Essential

You’ll spend an hour in the water—layers that dry fast are ideal.

Small dry bag or waterproof phone case

Essential

Protect electronics during the wet section and river crossings.

Lightweight wind/waterproof jacket

Useful for cool mountain breezes and sudden showers.

fall specific