Canyoning in Los Gigantes, Tenerife

Rising above the Atlantic on Tenerife’s sun-drenched west coast, the cliffs of Los Gigantes form a natural amphitheatre where the island’s volcanic heart meets the ocean. Here, canyoning takes on a distinctive character, shaped by the interplay of rugged basalt walls, lush ravines, and the ever-present sound of waves echoing below. The area’s dramatic verticality, carved by ancient watercourses and framed by the Teno Rural Park, offers a rare blend of wild beauty and accessibility. Canyoning in Los Gigantes is more than a sport—it is an invitation to explore the hidden arteries of Tenerife, where light filters through narrow gorges and the scent of laurel forests mingles with the salt air.

The experience of canyoning in Los Gigantes is defined by contrasts. Descents often begin in the cool shade of deep barrancos, where the rock is smooth and dark, and the air carries a gentle humidity. As you progress, the terrain shifts: abseiling down waterfalls, sliding over polished stone, and leaping into crystal-clear pools, each movement accompanied by the rush of water and the distant calls of local birds. Routes such as the Barranco de Masca or Barranco Seco offer varying lengths and levels of challenge, typically lasting between three and five hours. The sensation alternates between moments of quiet concentration—listening to the soft trickle of water or feeling the grain of volcanic rock beneath your hands—and bursts of exhilaration as you navigate technical drops or plunge into sunlit basins. The ever-changing play of light, from the golden morning glow to the cool blue shadows, adds a sensory richness unique to this corner of Tenerife.

Local guides in Los Gigantes are deeply attuned to the island’s terrain and climate, combining technical expertise with a genuine passion for outdoor adventure. All instructors are fully certified, providing modern canyoning equipment—helmets, harnesses, wetsuits, and ropes—tailored to the specific demands of each route. Safety is paramount, with thorough briefings and ongoing support throughout the descent. The outdoor culture here is inclusive and welcoming, shaped by a long tradition of mountain sports in the Teno region and a respect for the island’s fragile ecosystems. Logistics are carefully managed, from transport arrangements to group sizes, ensuring a seamless and secure experience for every participant.

Canyoning in Los Gigantes is accessible to a wide range of adventurers, from fit beginners seeking their first taste of the sport to experienced canyoners looking for new challenges. While no prior technical experience is required for introductory routes, a good level of physical fitness and comfort in natural environments is essential. The mild, subtropical climate of Tenerife allows for canyoning nearly year-round, with spring and autumn offering particularly pleasant conditions—temperatures are moderate, water levels are ideal, and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. Families with older children, groups of friends, and solo travellers alike will find options suited to their abilities and aspirations.

To discover the hidden gorges and vibrant outdoor spirit of Los Gigantes, Tenerife, canyoning offers an unforgettable perspective on the island’s wild side. Book your next adventure with Manawa and experience the thrill of exploring Tenerife’s most spectacular ravines, guided by local professionals who know every twist and turn of this remarkable landscape.