If we had to recommend just one hike in southern Tenerife for active families, Barranco del Infierno would definitely be among our top choices. After all, this is one of the island’s most famous and popular routes. It leads you through an impressive nature reserve – Hell’s Ravine – and ends at a waterfall, which is the highlight of the trail.
Barranco del Infierno in Tenerife South: hiking through Hell’s Ravine to a stunning waterfall. Although Barranco del Infierno is located in the southern part of the island, the views here are nothing like the dry and sunny Tenerife landscape most people know. Instead, you’ll encounter high cliffs, lush vegetation, mountain paths, and the constant sound of flowing water.
Barranco del Infierno in Tenerife South: hiking through Hell’s Ravine to a stunning waterfall
What is Barranco del Infierno?
Barranco del Infierno – literally Hell’s Ravine – is a protected nature area in the Adeje municipality of southern Tenerife. This is one of the most visited natural attractions on the island. However, strict visitor limits are in place to protect the environment, so you must plan your visit in advance. Only a limited number of people are allowed on the trail each day, making an early reservation essential.
Most of the route consists of a well-maintained mountain path that winds through the spectacular gorge. At the end of the hike, visitors are rewarded with a waterfall.
Is Barranco del Infierno suitable for families with kids?
In our opinion, yes. However, you should carefully consider your children’s abilities, since the hike requires endurance. Officially, only children aged 5 and up are allowed on the trail – children younger than this are not permitted, even in carriers. Adults must accompany kids under 16.
We recommend this hike for families with children over 8 years old, but if your young hiker already has experience, you can try it with slightly younger kids. Just remember that the rules prohibit carrying babies and younger children in carriers.
If your children have already completed 5–7 km hikes, Barranco del Infierno will be a great choice.
The trail is usually rated as moderately difficult. There are not many steep ascents, but in places, the path runs alongside steep slopes – so you need to supervise younger children very closely.
This is a round-trip trail, which some kids don’t like, as you have to return the same way. For example, Greta and Oskaras preferred the Masca hike, which offered a more interesting experience for them.
How long does the hike take?
Officially, the route is about 6.5 kilometers (round trip), and the whole hike usually takes about 3 to 3.5 hours. Of course, it all depends on the number of stops, your children’s pace, and how much time you spend taking photos and resting.
The first part of the trail runs high above the gorge, offering wonderful views of Adeje and the southern coastline of the island. As you continue, the route gradually descends into the gorge, where the environment becomes greener and more humid.
Moreover, you might meet some local birds along the way – they are not afraid of people at all.
How to reserve your visit?
This is one of the most important things to know when planning your hike.
You can only enter Barranco del Infierno by reserving a specific time slot in advance. The number of visitors is limited to protect nature and ensure safety, so during high season, tickets often sell out days or even weeks ahead.
It’s best to buy tickets on the official website. During the reservation, you’ll select your entry time, so punctual arrival is crucial.
Also, in summer, staff may ask you to arrive as early as possible. For example, although we booked for 11:00 a.m., they requested that we come earlier. We began our hike before 10:00 and felt glad we did, since they only allow access to the waterfall until noon. We just made it and returned with the waterfall attendant.
What to know before you go?
Staff at the entrance hand each visitor a safety helmet, which you must wear for the entire route. They enforce this rule because falling rocks may be a risk in the narrower parts of the gorge.
Staff also check your footwear. They don’t allow visitors with flip-flops or open shoes on the trail. You must wear closed sports or hiking shoes.
Starting your hike earlier helps you avoid midday heat. On your way back, you’ll need to hike uphill for part of the route – and the hotter it is, the harder this section becomes.
We recommend bringing:
- Enough water – there are no places to refill along the route
- Sun protection
- Light snacks
- Phone or camera for photos
In addition, we suggest bringing hiking poles.
Where to park?
There are public parking spaces near the trailhead in the town of Adeje. During high season, plan for at least 20–30 minutes for parking and walking to the entrance. The official information also lists recommended parking lots near the trail’s start.
This trail combines spectacular mountain views, protected nature, a sense of adventure, and a clear goal – to reach the waterfall deep in Hell’s Ravine. For many years, this hike has remained one of the most popular in all of Tenerife.
