Barranco del Infierno
Barranco del Infierno (Hell’s Gorge) is in the south of Tenerife, in one of the island’s most popular towns, Costa Adeje. It is the second most-visited protected area on the island, only beaten by M. Teide, and you’ll understand why once you see it.
It has one of the most beautiful natural settings in Tenerife, with a ravine that luckily does not match its name; there is nothing about it that evokes the underworld, quite the opposite. The Barranco del Infierno is shaped by 2000 hectares of fairy-tale landscapes and postcard images.
This marvellous landscape of steep landscapes has been sculpted over seven million years and can now be explored via various hiking trails. In the past, the paths on the ravine were mainly used by shepherds to take their goats up to graze in the area. Today, it receives thousands of visitors annually.
Walk length
A circular route, starting and ending in Calle de los Molinos.
The trail is 6.5km long and takes between 2-3 hours. It’s best to arrive 15 minutes before the booking time at the meeting place, so that you are ready to go.
Highlights of Barranco del Infierno
As we head along the route, the paths narrow, and the walls seem to trap us.
If there’s one thing that characterises Barranco del Infierno, it is the various water courses which pass through it, forming small creeks and even waterfalls. The water allows for plenty of tabaibas, thistles, and even dragon trees to grow amongst the high and low parts of the trail. Through the journey, you’ll find several viewpoints to admire the beauty of the landscape.
- Bird sightings: birds, especially birds of prey, are very common in the area. You will find everything from hawks and sparrow hawks to eagles and ravens.
- Caves: Along the length of the Barranco del Infierno trail there are dozens of caves, many of which were home to the island’s pre-Hispanic inhabitants.
- Tenerife’s highest waterfall: water flows inland on the island are a rare sight, which makes this waterfall all the more special.
Before visiting Barranco del Infierno
Entry isn’t free – you can’t visit Barranco del Infierno without being part of a tour. To do this, you need to have obtained a permit either on the official website or at Barranco itself. However, we recommend reserving online before you go, as it is not guaranteed that you will be able to get a permit on site.
General recommendations
The trail is easy and doesn’t require good physical fitness. However, it is important to take certain precautions and follow these recommendations:
- Visit early in the morning. Try to reserve the first hour in the morning. At this time of day, the sun isn’t as strong, which makes the walk more enjoyable and allows you to better appreciate the beauty on show.
- Hiking poles. If you’re not confident in your physical ability, it is recommended to hire hiking poles on site.
- Appropriate footwear. Wear appropriate shoes for the hike. While specialised hiking shoes would be ideal, trainers will be sufficient. Sandals or other open-toed shoes are not permitted.
- Water. Temperatures can be high in this part of the island, especially in the summer. Therefore, it is recommended to bring enough water with you.
- Sun protection: Barranco del Infierno is very open, and for most of the hike you’ll be exposed to the sun. Remember to protect yourself with sun cream. You will be given a hat for the walk.
- Sunglasses. Sunglasses are recommended, especially if your eyes are sensitive to the sun.
- Documentation. Remember to bring any relevant documentation (ID card, passport, or similar), as well as your booking confirmation, either printed or on your mobile.
Times and Prices
Entry price is €11 for adults and €5.50 for children (5-12 years). Entry is not permitted to under-5s, and under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
- Summer (1st June – 15th September): 8:30am – 4:00pm
- Winter (16th September – 31st May): 8.30am – 5:00pm
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