Barranco del Infierno – a wild ravine just above Costa Adeje
If you’re staying in the south of Tenerife and want a proper hike without spending hours in the car, Barranco del Infierno (“Hell’s Gorge”) in Adeje is perfect. Despite the dramatic name, it’s actually a green, peaceful ravine with a small waterfall at the end and fantastic views over the south coast.
A bit of history
Barranco del Infierno lies just above the old town of Adeje and forms part of the Special Nature Reserve of Barranco del Infierno, one of the island’s most visited protected areas.
The ravine was inhabited by the Guanches, the original inhabitants of Tenerife. Archaeologists have found caves, mummified remains, and rock engravings here – objects from the area are now in the Museum of Nature and Archaeology in Santa Cruz.
Later, the Spanish settlers used the permanent water in the gorge to irrigate terraced fields and to supply nearby villages, channelling the water down towards the coast.
Today, the area is strictly protected, and access is controlled to keep the ravine as wild as possible.
What the hike is like
Distance: about 6.5 km total, out-and-back (you return the same way).
Time: usually 2.5–3.5 hours, depending on your pace and the number of photo stops.
Difficulty: low–medium. The path is well marked but can be narrow, rocky, and sometimes slippery.
The hike starts in dry, rocky terrain with views over Adeje and the coast. As you follow the gorge inwards, the landscape gradually turns greener, with cane, ferns, and small streams – a nice contrast to the arid south. The path ends at a slender waterfall, considered the highest natural waterfall on Tenerife (don’t expect Niagara Falls, but it’s a very pretty spot).
Along the way, you may see birds of prey circling above, lizards sunbathing on rocks, and plenty of typical Canary Island plants.
Is it safe?
The ravine is highly regulated:
Daily visitor numbers are limited to around 300 people per day to protect the environment.
You must wear a helmet (provided at the start and included in the ticket price) because of potential rockfall.
There is a safety briefing before you enter, and staff monitor the path and close it on days with bad weather.
For most reasonably fit people, it feels like a safe, controlled hike. However, it’s not suitable for people with significantly reduced mobility or vertigo, as there are some drop-offs and uneven sections.
Who can go? Children & animals
Minimum age: entry is from 5 years old; children under 5 are not allowed, and baby carriers are also forbidden.
Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.
It’s a good outing for active kids who are used to walking, especially if you take breaks and protect them from the sun.
Animals (including dogs) are not allowed because it’s a Special Nature Reserve and they want to protect the local flora and fauna.
Prices & booking
Prices vary slightly depending on the source and can change, but currently you can expect roughly:
Adults (12+): around €11–13
Children 5–12: about 50% of the adult price
Residents of Tenerife / Adeje: discounted rates with proof of residency.
Numbers are limited, and booking in advance is strongly recommended and basically required. You book online through the official website (barrancodelinfierno.es) and choose a time slot.
Opening hours & best time of day
According to the official access times:
Summer (1 June – 15 September):
Entry from 08:00 to 10:30
Park closes at 13:30
Winter (16 September – 31 May):
Entry from 08:30 to 11:30
Park closes at 14:30
Morning slots are ideal – it’s cooler, and you still have the afternoon free for the beach or other plans.
Do you need a guide?
You don’t need a guide – many people walk the trail independently, following the clear path and signs.
If you prefer a more organised day, there are guided excursions that include hotel pick-up, the hike, and sometimes lunch in Adeje (often with the local speciality, garlic fried chicken).
What to bring
The official site suggests coming prepared like this:
Good, closed shoes or hiking trainers – flip flops and sandals are not allowed.
1–1.5 litres of water per person (there is no water on the trail).
Comfortable sports/hiking clothes – in summer, lightweight but with sun protection.
Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen – much of the path is exposed.
Light snacks (fruit, chocolate, sandwich).
Camera or phone – the views are worth it.
Toilets are available at the start, but not along the route. How to get there
Barranco del Infierno starts just above the historic centre of Adeje, a short drive from the main resorts of Costa Adeje, Playa de las Américas, and Los Cristianos.
By car: follow the TF-1 towards Adeje, then up to the old town; there’s signposted parking near Casa Fuerte, a few minutes’ walk from the entrance.
By bus: from the tourist areas, you can take lines 416, 417, or 473 to Adeje, then follow the signs on foot uphill to the trailhead.
It’s close enough to most southern hotels to fit easily into a half-day of your holiday – hike in the morning, pool or beach in the afternoon.
Why include Barranco del Infierno in your holiday?
It’s one of the best hikes in south Tenerife without needing to drive up to Teide or to the far north.
You see a completely different side of the island: from dry volcanic slopes to a surprisingly lush ravine with a waterfall.
It’s a manageable, well-organised route suitable for most active adults and older children.
Because visitor numbers are limited, it never feels overcrowded – a nice break from the busy beaches.
If you like the idea of a safe, scenic hike that you can easily fit into your holiday schedule in the south, Barranco del Infierno is an excellent choice.