Alto de Guajara

Legend has it that Princess Guajara, after losing her beloved Tinguaro in the Battle of Aguere, took to the mountains and, after wandering for a long time, threw herself off a mountain. That mountain is now known as Alto de Guajara.

The PNT-15 trail to Alto de Guajara is a high-mountain route in Teide National Park, connecting the Degollada de Guajara with the summit of Guajara, the third highest peak in Tenerife at 2,715 m. It is a 2- to 3-km hike (one way), with an elevation gain of approximately 325–350 m and an estimated duration of between 1h30m (one way) and up to 2h30m if combined with the round trip or connecting with other trails. The difficulty is high, especially due to the altitude and loose volcanic terrain, but it does not require technical equipment.
From the summit, the view is spectacular: Mount Teide, Pico Viejo, and Montaña Blanca dominate the landscape, while the gigantic Caldera de Las Cañadas stretches out before you, with its plains and lava flows. On clear days, you can see islands such as La Gomera, La Palma, El Hierro, and Gran Canaria. It also preserves the remains of the cabin of astronomer Jean Mascart, who observed Halley's Comet from here in 1910.

The route starts near the Parador de Las Cañadas and is well signposted with green poles. It also connects with other trails such as the GR-131 or the PNT-31, ideal for lengthening or varying the route. The environment is volcanic and arid: ochre and black tones dominate among rocks and stony ground, with adapted vegetation such as tajinastes or Teide broom in spring. As you ascend, the air becomes cooler, the sun's intensity more pronounced, and the sky infinitely blue.

There are no services along the route, so it's recommended to bring warm clothing, water, sunscreen, hiking shoes, and a charged phone. Also, arrive before noon whenever possible. The trail is occasionally closed for environmental or security reasons (such as mouflon management), so it's a good idea to check the status before you go.

If you're looking for an adventure without technical climbing, with physical effort, 360° views, and the silence of the altitude as your soundtrack, Alto de Guajara is an unforgettable experience in Tenerife: radical nature, scientific history, and breathtaking panoramas.