HikesSpainMasca Gorge

Masca Gorge

Also known as: Barranco de Masca

The Masca Gorge - a plunging ravine of volcanic walls down to a secluded Tenerife cove

Difficulty 4/5 · HardDayPoint-to-pointDay hike (gorge)
Distance
~5.5 km point-to-point
Max elevation
~600 m
Elevation gain
~600 m
Duration
3-4 h
iconicravinebooked entryboat exitday
Explore the lush trails and stunning mountain views in the Pyrenees, Spain.

The route

The line through Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.

Season & conditions

Best season

Year-round (dry conditions)

Weather risks

Heat, rockfall risk; flash-flood danger when wet

Open with a booked entry and helmet; closes for rockfall/weather; a boat exit is required. Confirm.

On the trail

Terrain & surface

A dramatic rocky ravine descending to a hidden beach

Technical & exposure

Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally

Navigation & waymarking

Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally

Accessibility & group fit

Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics

Crowds & solitude

A popular, well-known route - busier in peak season

Variants & turnaround

None - it is a one-way booked descent with a boat exit

Getting there & staying

Trailhead access

Masca village (booked entry)

Shuttle & transport

Boat from Masca beach to Los Gigantes (the standard exit)

Huts, camping & refuges

Day route - none needed

Gear, water & connectivity

Day-hike kit, water, sun/rain protection, sturdy footwear; coverage varies

Facilities

Services in Santiago del Teide; limited or none on the trail

Guide & crew

Not required; self-guided

Permits & safety

BOOKED ENTRY with a mandatory helmet; a boat picks you up at the beach (walking back out is not the norm). Confirm.

Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.

Hazards

Rockfall, the steep rough descent, heat, flash-flood risk

Emergency exits & rescue

Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote

This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.

Also in Spain

Walk Masca Gorge with your group
Manta plans the route, the huts and the easy alternatives so a mixed crew all get a great day.
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