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

The Canary Islands offer a vast network of hiking trails suitable for families. Our guide alone features over 7,000 routes, with more than 3,200 classified as easy, making them perfect for outings with children.

Thanks to their remarkably mild climate, the Canary Islands are an ideal destination for family hiking year-round. Even during winter months, temperatures remain pleasant, often around 20°C (68°F), ensuring comfortable conditions for outdoor adventures.

Yes, many family-friendly trails in the Canary Islands are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, consider the Return to Tenejías and Aguaide viewpoint — circular from Chinamada in Tenerife, or the Cubo de la Galga – circular route in La Palma, which takes you through a lush laurel forest.

The Canary Islands boast incredibly diverse landscapes. On your family hikes, you might encounter unique volcanic formations like Roque Nublo in Gran Canaria or Roque Cinchado in Tenerife. You can also explore lush laurel forests, dramatic gorges such as Cubo de la Galga Gorge, and even discover charming villages like Masca Village.

Absolutely! The islands' varied terrain includes beautiful gorges and barrancos where you can find waterfalls. For instance, you could visit the Arure Waterfall or the Waterfall in Barranco de Arure, both offering refreshing sights during your family adventure.

The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in the Canary Islands, with an average score of 4.38 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning and diverse scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the year-round pleasant weather that makes hiking enjoyable for all ages.

Each island offers unique family-friendly experiences. Tenerife is great for its diverse landscapes, from volcanic areas to laurel forests. Gran Canaria, known as a 'continent in miniature,' provides a wide variety of scenery. La Palma, 'La Isla Bonita,' is famed for its lush forests and dramatic caldera. La Gomera is perfect for exploring ancient cloud forests in Garajonay National Park, while Lanzarote offers unique lunar landscapes.

Yes, you can certainly experience the unique volcanic landscapes on easy family hikes. The Malpais de Guimar - circular from El Puertito de Guimar route in Tenerife is an excellent example, offering an accessible way to explore the island's volcanic heritage.

Even with the mild climate, it's wise to pack layers as conditions can change, especially at higher elevations. Essential items include comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), plenty of water, snacks, and a light rain jacket. For younger children, consider a carrier for longer distances.

While popular spots can attract visitors, many trails offer a more tranquil experience. Exploring routes on smaller islands like El Hierro or seeking out less-known paths in the larger islands' rural parks can lead to peaceful family adventures away from the main crowds. Look for trails marked as 'easy' or 'moderate' that are slightly off the main tourist routes.

Absolutely! The Canary Islands are famous for their breathtaking panoramic views. Many family-friendly trails lead to stunning viewpoints. For example, the Pico de las Nieves summit in Gran Canaria and Roque de los Muchachos in La Palma offer incredible vistas, often above a 'sea of clouds,' perfect for memorable family photos.