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The Masca Valley runs from just south of Masca until the Atlantic coast. The starting point is in Lomo del Medio, right next to the Masca village. The 8 km long hiking trail is quite demanding and takes about 3 hr either way. There is a ferry terminal that offers a connection to Los Gigantes, but must be booked in advance. Along the way, hikers are rewarded with unique volcanic formations, dated to Miocene age basaltic lava flows.
Though, nowadays the hiking is largely limited to a few hikers for "conservation purposes". The rumour is that some corrupt local gets paid by the ferry company that bring people from Los Gigantes to the Masca base down at the sea, so they reduce the number of people allowed considerably. It's probably best not to support this.
In general a permit, helmet (free) and proper hiking boots are required to be allowed to enter.
Masca Gorge is a narrow valley in the north-west of the island of Tenerife. The gorge is situated within the Teno Massif. The gorge is a popular tourist destination due to its dramatic scenery and unique geology. An eight-kilometre long walking trail begins at Masca village and continues for the length of the gorge to finish at Masca beach, approximately ten kilometres from the north-west tip of Tenerife.
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Mirrador de Masca
One of the best viewpoints in the Masca Valley, overlooking the Masca Gorge (Spanish: Barranco de Masca).
Plaza de Masca
Beautiful square with a giant laurel tree in its centre.
Appears to be closed to visitors permanently.
Viewpoint overlooking the entire Masca Valley, with the Teno Massif in the background. Parking space is limited to about 5 or 6 cars, but it's worth a stop if there is space available. From here, there are no more opportunities to stop along the side of the road until reaching Masca village.