Calima in Tenerife: should you still go hiking?
Updated October 9, 2026 · 6 min read
For most visitors, a calima day is a reason to shorten or postpone an exposed hike, not to chase a clearer view at higher altitude. If the forecast and the operator still allow the trip, the guided hike in Anaga Rural Park is the more cautious choice: €24, 3 hours and 4.8 stars from 232 reviews. For a clear day, the hike above Masca in the enchanted forest with pick-up offers 5 hours including a picnic for €89.
Check availability and prices for the Anaga hike
What calima changes
Calima is mineral dust from the Sahara hanging in the air. On Tenerife it can swallow long views, turn the sky beige and arrive with dry heat. A viewpoint day on Teide then loses its point. In Anaga’s laurel forest the nearby scenery stays interesting, but the air is dusty there too. A guide can promise neither clean air nor an improvement during the tour.
Check AEMET for Tenerife and the Tenerife ON warnings in the morning. If an area is officially closed or the operator cancels, do not switch to an unchecked trail nearby. For respiratory conditions, personal advice belongs with a doctor or pharmacist, not in a travel article.
Anaga or the long Masca day?
Anaga squeezes the outing into 3 hours in the laurel forest. It is the cheaper tour, and 232 reviews make its rating more reliable. It suits you if you want a guided walk without committing the whole day.
The Masca tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in the south, views of the Masca Valley and Mount Teide, and a picnic. Its 4.9 stars rest on 458 reviews. In strong calima, 5 hours outdoors is a poor trade, because the far views are part of what you pay for.
See dates and prices for the hike above Masca
When to postpone
Postpone if there is an official warning, a closure, poor visibility or if breathing feels uncomfortable. Choose Anaga only if current advice, the operator and how you feel all point that way. More altitude does not guarantee clearer air.
Our recommendation
On a mild, monitored calima day, the three-hour Anaga hike is the more sensible booking, because it stays short and does not live on distant views alone. In a strong event, book neither. Keep the Masca day for clear weather.
