Top 14 Gorges around Arona

The region around Arona offers several impressive canyons, or 'barrancos'. Notable ones include Barranco del Rey, known for its deep gorge and geological formations, and Barranco de Chijas, which features narrow, winding passages and views of Roque de Jama. The Barranco de las Aguas (Madre del Agua) offers a serene escape with lush vegetation and a small waterfall. Additionally, the famous Barranco del Infierno, though technically in Adeje, is easily accessible from Arona and is a Special Nature Reserve with a permanent waterfall.

Yes, many canyons in the area offer excellent hiking opportunities. The Barranco del Rey is traversed by the GR131 long-distance footpath. The Barranco del Infierno is a popular, well-maintained trail leading to a waterfall. For a more challenging experience, the ascent to Roque del Conde offers great views, though it requires surefootedness. You can find various hiking routes in the area, including those listed in the Hiking around Arona guide.

The canyons are characterized by dramatic volcanic landscapes. You'll encounter impressive deformed basaltic columns, ancient lava flows, and layers of volcanic ash. Many barrancos feature unique flora, including endemic species like Tabaiba and candelabra/Cardon, especially in protected areas like the Punta de Rasca Lighthouse area. The Barranco del Infierno is particularly known for its diverse flora and the only permanent natural waterfall in Tenerife.

Yes, some canyons offer glimpses into the region's past. In Barranco del Rey, you can discover remnants of old farmhouses and ancient terrace fields, hinting at historical human activity. Barranco de Chijas also contains a subterranean gallery, showcasing past engineering efforts. These elements provide a fascinating insight into the island's agricultural heritage.

Yes, the Barranco del Infierno is accessible but requires a permit and advance booking. It's a Special Nature Reserve with limited daily visitors (around 300 people). You must register online at barrancodelinfierno.es to secure your spot. Hikers are equipped with a helmet and given a briefing. Hiking sticks can also be rented. The trail is well-maintained, but some sections can be steep.

For an easy and family-friendly experience, consider the area around the Punta de Rasca Lighthouse. This protected nature reserve offers a flat, easy tour along the coastline with recurring beautiful views. While the Barranco del Infierno is generally considered intermediate, families with children who are accustomed to hiking can manage it, as noted by visitors.

Difficulty varies. The coastal walk to Punta de Rasca Lighthouse is easy. The Barranco del Infierno trail is intermediate, taking about 3 hours. More challenging options include the ascent to Roque del Conde, which requires surefootedness and some mountain experience, especially on its north route. Barranco de Chijas offers very challenging canyoning descents with significant jumps, suitable only for experienced adventurers.

Beyond canyon exploration, the area around Arona offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, including moderate loops like 'View of the Barranco del Infierno – Roque Imoque' and challenging ones like 'View of Roque Imoque – Roque del Conde'. There are also running trails and MTB trails, such as the 'Malpaís de la Rasca Reserve Loop' or longer, more difficult routes towards Vilaflor.

Visitors frequently praise the magnificent views, especially from viewpoints like Coastal view and Roque del Conde. The unique volcanic landscapes, the lush vegetation found in areas like the Barranco del Infierno, and the sense of exploration are highly valued. Many appreciate the well-maintained trails and the opportunity to immerse themselves in Tenerife's natural beauty.

Tenerife enjoys a mild climate year-round, making the canyons accessible in most seasons. However, the cooler months from autumn to spring (October to May) are generally more comfortable for hiking, as summer temperatures can be quite high. During the wetter season, waterfalls like the one in Barranco del Infierno may be more impressive, though the flow can vary.

While the Barranco del Infierno is popular and regulated, other canyons like Barranco del Rey and Barranco de las Aguas (Madre del Agua) offer a more serene experience. These areas are often incorporated into hiking trails that are less frequented than the most famous spots, providing a chance for a quieter exploration of the island's natural beauty.