West zone
Cliffs that drop into the sea, ravines crossed on foot and roads that are part of the journey. Masca, Los Gigantes and Punta de Teno, the island's wildest face.
The west is dominated by the Teno massif, of a similar geological age to Anaga — around 6 million years, among the oldest terrain on the island. The result is deep ravines, vertical cliffs and narrow roads that wind between the two. It isn't the quickest area to explore, and that is precisely its charm.
What to visit
Cliffs of up to 600 metres that drop straight into the Atlantic. Boat trips to watch whales and dolphins leave from its harbour — the channel with Tenerife and La Gomera is home to a resident population of pilot whales all year round.
Los Gigantes guide →
A village of barely 90 inhabitants at the bottom of a ravine, reached by a road of sharp bends that is an attraction in itself. The trail to the beach runs through the whole ravine, several hours of demanding walking.
Masca guide →
The island's westernmost tip, with an 1897 lighthouse. According to the Buenavista del Norte town council, private vehicles, walkers and cyclists can't go up on any day: you get there on bus 369, by taxi or by boat.
Punta de Teno guide →How to organise it
Frequently asked questions
With 1 full day you cover Los Gigantes and Masca. If you want to add Punta de Teno at an easy pace, 2 days is better — you can only get there by bus, taxi or boat, so it isn't wise to rush.
The road is narrow with many bends, but it is paved and in good condition. If driving through ravines makes you uneasy, there are buses and organised excursions from the south and the north.
Yes. The village has viewpoints and streets that can be explored without going down into the ravine — the full trail to the beach is only for those who want the long walk.
Private cars can't go up: according to the Buenavista del Norte town council, access by private vehicle, on foot or by bicycle is prohibited every day. You get there on bus 369 from Buenavista del Norte, by taxi or on a boat trip from Los Gigantes and Puerto de Santiago.
From the west to the south is a little over half an hour — Los Gigantes and Costa Adeje combine well on the same route.
Photographs: Los Gigantes, Masca and Punta de Teno — Creative Commons licence credits in each individual guide.
