Malpaís de Güímar

A volcanic landscape in Tenerife that looks like another planet

Located in the east of Tenerife, the Special Natural Reserve of the Malpaís de Güímar is one of those zones that look like they have been plucked straight from a science fiction film. The land is practically desert and combines the black of solidified lava with red sand, leaving visitors believing that they are on another planet. The areas where you can see where the hardened lava flows sprouted through the fissures of the Montaña Grande are especially interesting to see.

Walking through lava flows beside the sea in Güímar

Despite the dryness of this volcanic landscape situated so close to the sea, indigenous Canarian vegetation such as the tabaiba or the cardón plants do grow in the Malpaís de Güímar, sprouting up from between the lava cracks. You can get up-close to the landscape through a series of walking routes that are also ideal for those who are new to hiking or who wish to enjoy the experience with children.

Flora interest

Trekking routes

Wildlife interest

Güímar

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Sustainability

Never leave waste of any type lying around, including cigarette butts. Leftover food leads to a proliferation of rats and wild cats, which pose a serious threat to the fauna.
Respect the animals. Do not bother them or feed them. If you see an injured specimen, you can call the emergency number: 112. Do not pick flowers or plants.
Do not pick up or take away stones or any other item from the natural environment. And do not move them to pile them up into sadly famous 'towers'.
Do not walk in areas where it is not allowed and respect the signposting along trails. Leaving the set paths causes damage to the environment and could also be dangerous for you and anyone with you.
Do not light fires outside the permitted areas and be especially careful during the summer months.
Try not to alter the peace of the environment with excessive noise (loud music, yelling, etc.).