excursion teide y masca

Excursion to Teide and the Masca Valley in Tenerife: A Journey to the Volcanic Heart and Hidden Villages

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Discover the majesty of the Teide National Park and the hidden beauty of the Masca Valley on a full day excursion that will take you through the most breathtaking landscapes of Tenerife.

This adventure, perfect for nature lovers and seekers of unique panoramas, combines the exploration of volcanic formations with visits to picturesque villages, offering an unforgettable island experience.

PRICE AND AVAILABILITY

📍 Detailed Itinerary of the excursion

Start of the Adventure:

The day starts early, with pick-up at selected points along the south coast of Tenerife. Be prepared for a day full of discoveries, wearing comfortable shoes, suitable clothing for temperature changes, and don’t forget your camera.

Ascent to the Teide National Park:

On board a comfortable air-conditioned bus, we will head towards the heart of the Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As we ascend, watch the landscape change, revealing the impressive volcanic formations and unique flora of the area.

Vilaflor:

Our first stop is Vilaflor, one of the highest villages in Spain.

Here, you will have the opportunity to stretch your legs, explore the cobbled streets and enjoy the views that this mountainous enclave has to offer.

Icod de los Vinos and the ancient dragon tree:

We continue to Icod de los Vinos to admire the famous ancient dragon tree, a living symbol of Tenerife.

This tree, with its impressive dimensions, is a must for capturing memorable photographs.

Garachico and Masca:

The route then takes us to Garachico, where you can admire the lava formations that reach down to the sea.

Afterwards, we enter the Masca Valley, a place of unparalleled beauty, with its houses embedded in the mountains and spectacular views of the gorge leading down to the ocean.

Free time and return:

You will have free time in Masca to explore at your own pace, immerse yourself in the charm of this village and, if you wish, savour the local gastronomy in one of its restaurants (lunch not included in the price). Finally, we’ll head back, passing through Santiago del Teide and, depending on the day, making a stop at the impressive cliffs of Los Gigantes.

Important Information and Recommendations:

  • Pick-up: Please confirm your pick-up point in advance. Pick-ups take place at the main resorts, but you may need to go to a nearby pick-up point.
  • Preparation: Wear suitable clothing and footwear for walking. Temperatures can vary significantly, especially at the heights of Teide.
  • Food: Bring water and snacks. Although you will have the opportunity to buy food, it is advisable to bring something to snack on the route.
  • Photography: Get ready to capture unique volcanic landscapes, charming villages and, with luck, clear skies offering panoramic views of Mount Teide.

This excursion to Teide and the Masca Valley is an exceptional opportunity to experience the natural and cultural diversity of Tenerife, from its volcanic peaks to its hidden valleys. Get ready for a day of exploration that will be etched in your memory.

Facts and Curiosities about Teide and the Masca Valley: What You Should Know Before Your Excursion

The island of Tenerife is a treasure trove of natural landscapes, history and culture. Among its most precious jewels are the imposing Teide and the mysterious Masca Valley. Here are some fascinating facts and curiosities that will make you appreciate these places even more during your excursion.

Teide: A Giant among Volcanoes

  1. Majestic Height: Teide is not only the highest peak in Spain, at 3,718 metres above sea level, but also the third largest volcano in the world from its base on the ocean floor.
  2. World Heritage: In 2007, the Teide National Park was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, in recognition of its unique natural value and its lunar landscape.
  3. A Natural Laboratory: Teide is a natural laboratory for scientific studies, especially in astrophysics, thanks to the island’s clear skies and low light pollution.
  4. Unique flora: Around Teide, you can find unique plant species adapted to the extreme conditions, such as the “Teide broom” which blooms offering an impressive visual spectacle.

The Masca Valley: A Journey to the Past

  1. A Hidden Village: Masca, with its stone houses and winding paths, looks like something out of a fairy tale. Until the 1990s, this place was accessible only on foot or by donkey.
  2. Pirates and Legends: It is said that the Masca Valley was a hideout for pirates, where they kept their treasures. Legends and tales of former inhabitants add an aura of mystery to the place.
  3. Exceptional Biodiversity: The valley is a nature lover’s paradise, with a rich biodiversity that includes numerous bird species, endemic plants and impressive geology.
  4. Hiking Routes: Masca offers some of the most spectacular hiking routes in Tenerife, with views of the ravine that descends towards the Atlantic Ocean.

Tips for your Excursion

  • Preparation: Take suitable footwear, sunscreen and plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike in the Masca Valley.
  • Respect for Nature: Both Teide and Masca are protected areas. Help to conserve their natural beauty by not leaving litter and following the marked trails.
  • Photography: Get ready to capture breathtaking landscapes. Sunrise or sunset light offers the best conditions for spectacular photographs of Teide.
  • Explore with Respect: These places are not only important from a natural point of view, but also culturally. Listen to the local stories and show respect for the island’s traditions.

Both Teide and the Masca Valley bear witness to Tenerife’s volcanic history, rich biodiversity and cultural traditions. Knowing these facts and curiosities will allow you to enjoy your excursion even more, connecting with the essence of these emblematic places of the island.

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