Los Carrizales: Gorge, Hiking and Canarian Heritage

At the headwaters of the Barranco de Los Carrizales, visitors can explore the hamlet of the same name. The barranco is a water-filled gorge in the protected Parque Rural de Teno. The landscape, hiking and traditional Canarian heritage are therefore central to choosing this destination. Canyoning and local agriculture add to these perspectives, leading from the natural setting of the barranco to specific activities and the cultivation of traditional onion varieties, which continues to this day.

Landscape and Views

Water flows through the barranco almost continuously during much of the year; water conditions can change seasonally. From the barranco, there are views of the sea and the nearby island of La Gomera. The route from Los Carrizales to Roque de Abache also offers a clearly identified viewpoint: from the summit along the route, views extend to Los Gigantes and as far as Punta Teno.

Hiking in Teno

The Teno hiking network lists PR TF-51.1 Los Carrizales as 2.2 km long; the route from Los Carrizales to Roque de Abache is 5.2 km long and includes 300 metres of elevation gain. The latter is rated as moderate and follows an unmarked, partly exposed path along the ridge of Los Carrizales. Suitable footwear and sure-footedness are recommended for this route. When choosing a hike, therefore, the specific nature of the trail matters as well as its distance.

Canyoning in the Barranco

The jumps in the barranco are no higher than 15 metres; how challenging this height is in practice may depend on conditions during a particular descent. According to Cabildo information from 2017, a permit from the Cabildo is required for canyoning in the Barranco de Los Carrizales. In addition to checking the permit requirements, check the current reservation procedure before taking part.

Traditional Heritage and Onions

The hamlet is considered an important example of traditional Canarian heritage. Traditional homes in Los Carrizales include single-storey buildings made of stone, wood, bricks and local clay. In the wider Macizo de Teno, single-storey houses predominate, alongside two-storey buildings arranged in rows or an L shape. Thus, the hamlet’s specific architectural features sit alongside a wider variety of traditional house types in the Teno massif.

Traditional local onion varieties continue to be grown in the hamlet. The red onions from Los Carrizales are among the notable local products and are highly regarded in Tenerife. The onion-growing tradition adds an agricultural dimension to the nature and hiking themes.

Getting There and Suggested Route

The hamlet can be reached via the TF-436 and a road branching off to the left towards Los Carrizales. Check road conditions before setting out. A municipal route through Masca, the Valle de El Palmar, Teno Alto and Buenavista recommends stopping at the Caserío de Los Carrizales. This suggested route offers an additional point of reference alongside the individual hikes.

Discover more destinations: Los Abrigos, Los Rechazos, Chamorga, Arafo, Santa Cruz De Tenerife, Las Aguas, Icor, Costa Adeje

For the main travel overview: Tenerife.