Roque Cinchado and Mount Teide with hiker on the trail
Roques de Garcia - Teide
Walking path through volcanic terrain in Roques de García
Roques de Garcia - Teide
Roques de García hiking path with rock formations
Roques de Garcia - Teide

Route Highlights

  • Iconic rock formations: See Roque Cinchado, El Burro, and La Catedral up close.

  • Geological variety: Walk through lava flows, twisted corded lavas, and ancient volcanic chimneys.

  • Views of Teide: Constant views of Mount Teide and the wide volcanic plains.

  • Photo opportunities: Unique rock shapes and dramatic scenery throughout the loop.

Information

One of the most popular hikes in Teide National Park, this easy loop circles the famous Roques de García, including the iconic Roque Cinchado. The trail is short but full of geological features and wide views — perfect for a first walk in the volcanic heart of Tenerife.

The trail begins at the Mirador de los Roques, a viewpoint right off the main road through the park. From there, a wide, mostly flat path leads you past the left side of the towering rock formations known as the Roques de García — including Roque Cinchado, El Torrotito, El Burro, and Roques Blancos.

After circling the northern end of the rocks, the trail descends toward a dry valley called Llano de Ucanca, with great views of La Cascada — a large lava flow that hardened into smooth, twisting forms called corded lavas. These unique shapes were formed by very fluid pahoehoe lava, now visible thanks to erosion.

As you continue, the path climbs again, passing close to La Catedral, a striking vertical rock spire. This is actually a solidified lava chimney, formed from phonolite magma that never reached the surface.

The loop ends with a gentle climb back to the starting point, with Teide towering above and the full volcanic landscape on display. The total walk is 3.5 km and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours at a relaxed pace.

Despite the altitude (2,000–2,180 m), the trail is accessible and well-maintained. It’s a great walk for families, photographers, and anyone curious about Tenerife’s volcanic past.

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How to Get Here

By car:
Take the TF-21 through Teide National Park. The trail starts directly at Mirador de los Roques, which has a small parking area. Spaces fill up quickly, especially between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., so try to arrive early or later in the afternoon.

By bus:
TITSA line 482 (from Costa Adeje) and 348 (from Puerto de la Cruz) run to Teide National Park with stops at or near Roques de García. These buses run once daily in each direction and only during high season or weekends.

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