Hiking Barranco del Infierno: Tips for Booking and Walking Adeje’s Famous Gorge

When most travelers think of South Tenerife, images of wide golden beaches and lively coastal promenades instantly come to mind. However, just a few kilometers inland lies a dramatically different landscape of rugged peaks, deep vertical ravines, and surprising natural oases. The Barranco del Infierno (Hell's Gorge), located in the historic town of Adeje, is one of the island's most spectacular protected natural spaces. This hiking trail offers a thrilling journey through towering canyon walls, ending at the highest natural waterfall in Tenerife.

To fully appreciate these dramatic inland adventures, having a spacious, comfortable home base to return to is essential. Opting for premium monthly apartment rentals Los Cristianos holiday gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore the island at a deeply relaxed pace. Instead of rushing through a short vacation, a monthly stay allows you to monitor the weather, choose the absolute perfect day for your mountain treks, and return to a fully equipped home where you can kick off your hiking boots and unwind on a sunny private terrace. Here is our essential guide to conquering this iconic trail.

1. Crucial Tip: Booking Your Entrance in Advance

Because the Barranco del Infierno is a highly protected Special Nature Reserve, environmental preservation is strictly enforced. Entrance is strictly limited to only 300 people per day to prevent overcrowding and protect the local wildlife. Therefore, booking your entry ticket online weeks in advance is absolutely mandatory. The small entry fee includes the mandatory rental of a safety helmet, which must be worn throughout the entire hike due to the risk of occasional falling stones from the high canyon walls.

2. What to Expect on the Trail

The hike is a round-trip trail covering approximately 6.5 kilometers (4 miles), taking roughly 3 to 3.5 hours to complete. The difficulty level is rated as low-medium, making it highly accessible for anyone with a basic level of fitness. As you walk along the old goat tracks, the ravine progressively narrows, and the arid coastal flora transitions into lush, tropical vegetation. The ultimate reward at the end of the canyon is a spectacular 200-meter-high natural waterfall cascading down the sheer volcanic rock faces.

3. Essential Gear and Safety Guidelines

Proper preparation is key to enjoying the gorge safely. Sturdy hiking shoes or trainers with excellent grip are strictly required at the entrance gate—sandals or smooth-soled shoes are not permitted. Make sure to pack plenty of water, some energy snacks, and a light jacket, as the temperatures inside the deep, shaded canyon can drop significantly compared to the sunny coast. Additionally, swimming in the waterfall pool is strictly prohibited to preserve the pure aquatic ecosystem.

The Perfect Coastal Evening

After spending a rewarding morning trekking through deep volcanic gorges, descending back to the vibrant warmth of the coast is a true pleasure. A long day of hiking naturally works up a serious appetite. For an exceptional evening meal featuring a fantastic international menu, fresh ingredients, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere, visiting local landmarks like Restaurant Charly is a highly recommended choice for active travelers.

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