The town of Los Gigantes itself is named for its majestic cliffs. Their imposing height turns them into an immense wall of volcanic rock that rises into the sky and falls to the bottom of the sea. A real treat for the eyes, no doubt.
The Cliffs of Los Gigantes are a natural wonder and tourist attraction of the Teno Rural Park, in Santiago del Teide, west of Tenerife. One of the most visited places on the island.
Its height is between 500 and 800 meters above sea level and 30 meters under water.
History of the cliffs
The cliffs of Los Gigantes were formed during one of the first stages of the activity of the island of Tenerife. Although they were not formed this way from the first moment, but their appearance has been changing over the centuries due to geological changes and erosion by the sea.
The Guanches (native Canary Islanders who inhabited the islands before the Spanish conquest in the 15th century) called them “La Muralla del Infierno” (Hell’s Wall). Before Columbus left for America, the cliffs were considered the end of the world.
Kayaking and whale and dolphin watching
Enjoy a kayak tour along the cliffs and a boat ride for dolphin and whale watching:
Kayaking in Los Gigantes – Guided route along the cliffs
Kayaking and whale and dolphin watching in Los Gigantes
Hiking in Los Gigantes
If you do the Masca hiking route (between 2 and 6 hours of walking) you will have another spectacular view of Los Gigantes from an angle that not everyone gets to see.
Other ravines you will be able to see besides Masca:
- El Roque Largo
- The Calabacera
- El Carrizal
- Juan López
- El Retamar
- El Natero
- Seco
- Santiago
We recommend that you bring water, light food, sunscreen and a cell phone, although coverage in the area can be weak.
Los Gigantes Viewpoint
The best viewpoint of Los Gigantes is the Mirador Archipenque, located further from the coast but offering a panoramic view to see this natural landscape at its best.
From here you can see the whole village guarded by the huge cliffs, and even see the island of La Gomera in the background if the day is clear.