The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in the Canary Islands

There are over 40 dog-friendly hiking trails in the Canary Islands featured on komoot, offering a wide variety of landscapes and experiences for you and your canine companion.

The Canary Islands offer an incredible diversity of terrain, often referred to as a 'continent in miniature'. You can expect everything from volcanic landscapes with lunar-like paths, ancient laurel forests shrouded in mist, dramatic coastlines, and even desert-like dunes. Each island presents unique natural features, ensuring a varied hiking experience.

Yes, the Canary Islands offer many easy dog-friendly trails. Approximately two-thirds of the routes in this guide are rated as easy, making them suitable for casual strolls or families with dogs. An example is the Faro de Punta del Hidalgo – Punta de Hidalgo Lighthouse loop from Tesesinte, an easy walk with minimal elevation.

Absolutely! Many dog-friendly trails offer breathtaking vistas. From panoramic ocean views to dramatic volcanic scenery and lush forest outlooks, the islands are renowned for their scenic beauty. While specific viewpoints vary by island, you'll often encounter stunning backdrops on routes across Tenerife, Gran Canaria, La Palma, and Lanzarote.

The Canary Islands are rich in natural wonders. On your dog-friendly hikes, you might encounter impressive waterfalls like the Arure Waterfall or the Waterfall in Barranco de Arure. There are also beautiful lakes and lagoons, such as the Maspalomas Lagoon or the unique Charco de los Clicos - Green Lake. Many trails also pass through ancient forests or offer views of iconic volcanic formations.

Yes, many dog-friendly trails in the Canary Islands are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without needing to arrange transport back. For instance, the Sortija Park – Barranco del Cospedal loop from Puerto de la Cruz is an easy circular option on Tenerife.

The Canary Islands enjoy a mild climate year-round, making them an ideal hiking destination even in winter. The pleasant temperatures and abundant sunshine from October to April are particularly favorable, as many other regions are too cold. However, always be mindful of the midday sun during warmer months and ensure your dog has access to water and shade.

Yes, for those seeking a bit more challenge, there are moderate dog-friendly trails available. About a third of the routes in this guide fall into the moderate category. An example is the Lo Hoyo Tile Kiln – Mirador de la Centinela loop, which offers a longer distance and more significant elevation gain.

The dog-friendly trails in the Canary Islands are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 134,000 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to explore unique natural environments with their dogs.

Yes, you can find dog-friendly trails that lead to or pass by beautiful waterfalls. The Canary Islands have several notable cascades, such as the Arure Waterfall. While not all trails directly feature waterfalls, some routes, like the Cascada del Río – Pasajirón loop from Risco Bermejo, are named for their proximity to such natural attractions.

Approximately 40% of the Canary Islands' landmass is designated as protected areas, including national parks and natural parks. While many trails are dog-friendly, regulations for dogs can vary within these protected zones. It's always advisable to check specific park rules regarding leash requirements or restricted areas before your visit to ensure a smooth and enjoyable hike.