MASCA GORGE HIKE ULTIMATE GUIDE

Masca Gorge hike (620m) is one of the most popular hiking trails in Tenerife. This stunning canyon route runs through a gorge surrounded by high, several hundred meter-tall rocks, all the way to the Masca Beach. Once closed for 3 years, it is now reopened with a limited number of people allowed to enter. Read my guide and get yourself prepared for one of the most famous trail in Tenerife.

MASCA GORGE FACTS

2024 UPDATE:

You can now only hike Masca Gorge one way (either descent or ascent), and return boat tickets must be secured in advance. Be sure to register at the access control point at least 30 minutes before your slot (either at the Masca Visitors’ Centre or Checkpoint 3). If starting from Checkpoint 3, there will also be a check at the port. For the descent, buy your return boat ticket no later than 4 hours after your scheduled descent slot.

For the latest details, check the official website here.

Distance: The total distance for this hike was 8,5km out and back.

Hike duration: Total hike duration was 2h and 50 mins. Depending on your fitness level this route should take no more than 5 hours.

Elevation gain: The total elevation gain for this hike was 650m.

Difficulty: This will be probably controversial but in my opinion this hike is (moderately) easy. Difficulty will of course depend on your experience and fitness level. For unexperienced hikers the return section where you have to climb your way up to Masca village might be challenging but overall the trail is fine and should be doable by everyone. Just don’t rush and bring enough water.

Gear needed: Although Tenerife is warm all year round, you should always remember to pack appropriately. I was fine wearing a t-shirt and shorts but I always carry additional layers in my pack. If you’re unsure what to bring on a hike, read this guide. For Masca Gorge you’re going to need a helmet that is provided for free at the entrance (keep in on all the time!) + appropriate hiking footwear (this is verified at the entrance).

Mandatory permit is required  and can be booked for free on caminobarrancodemasca website (it’s often down) I recommend booking it a few weeks in advance due to a very high demand.

My strava upload can he found here: MASCA GORGE

GETTING TO MASCA GORGE

By car: Parking in Masca is extremely limited, so it’s best to take public transport to avoid losing your reservation. Note that parking is limited to 2 hours max between 8:00am and 2:00pm, and exceeding the time limit could result in fines or towing. The rules were a little bit more flexible when I was there, today public transport or taxi is your best bet.

By bus or boat: There’s plenty of buses that can take you to Masca village depending on your location. The current schedules can be found here.

MY EXPERIENCE HIKING MASCA GORGE

Before it was closed in 2018, the Masca Gorge hike was one of the most popular trails in Tenerife. However, due to the high number of accidents and the need for rescue services to assist unprepared and irresponsible tourists, local authorities decided to secure the trail with railings, chains, and additional markings to prevent hikers from getting lost or injured. While these measures have made the trail safer, it is still a hike and requires some fitness and preparation.

The adventure begins in the stunning Masca Village center and starts with a gentle descent through agave and palm trees down to the riverbed.

After crossing the first little bridge and walking along a few houses, you’ll reach the valley, where you can admire the stunning rock formations filled with holes. You’ll also be greeted by the loud singing of various birds, making it difficult to decide which way to look.

As you walk through the canyon, you’ll feel as though you’re on the set of a Western movie, with the strong sun shining overhead. After a short walk, you’ll reach the first signpost, which will tell you that the Masca Beach is 3.4 km away.

The trail continues along the majestic rocks, with one part requiring you to walk under a rock. You’ll also notice a few water channels suspended above you, some of which were probably used as paths in the past. Unfortunately, you can’t access them now and must stay on the marked path.

As the morning progresses and the sun gets higher in the sky, it will begin to illuminate the surrounding rocks more and more brightly, adding to the unforgettable experience of hiking through the Masca Gorge.

After about 30 minutes of hiking, you’ll start to hear the sounds of waves crashing against the beach in the distance. As you continue your journey, you’ll eventually reach the famous Masca Beach, where a guard will note your arrival. This is how they track the safety of hikers on the trail. If you’re lucky enough to be one of the first to start and finish the hike, you’ll be able to enjoy a quick snack in peace before the beach gets crowded.

THE WAY BACK

You return using the same path, but this time you will be climbing up the Masca Village gaining quite some elevation of around 650 meters. Is it demanding? It depends on your fitness level and any contraindications you may have for hiking. If you’re in good shape, it shouldn’t be too challenging.

CONCLUSION

Masca Gorge is still a mandatory hike for everyone visiting Tenerife. This stunning canyon walk as well as the drive up the Masca village made me remember that part of the island forever. I hope you found this guide helpful and have a great time hiking the Masca Gorge. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Happy and safe hiking!

HAVE YOU SEEN MY OTHER HIKING GUIDES FOR TENERIFE?

I lived and worked in Tenerife for three months, hiking nearly every day. I’ve explored over 70 trails to bring you an ultimate guide – highlighting the Top 30 Best Hikes in Tenerife. Each guide has a detailed description including the distance, difficulty, gear needed and everything else needed to complete the hike successfully. If you happen to notice any changes on the trail that should be updated – please drop the comment below so I can keep this guide up to date.

If you prefer easier hikes that can be completed under 3 hours, check out Top 12 Short Hikes in Tenerife guide.

Safe and happy hiking my friend!