Masca Gorge to the Sea

The Masca Gorge descent is among the most iconic hikes in the Canary Islands. From the clifftop village of Masca — itself perched at 650 m — the trail plunges 600 m through a narrow basalt gorge flanked by 300-metre walls, crossing and recrossing a seasonal stream bed. The hike ends at a tiny black-sand cove where a boat (pre-booked separately) ferries walkers to Los Gigantes marina.

The gorge requires registration at the Masca park office. The route involves scrambling over boulders and multiple stream crossings — hiking boots are essential. The boat return runs at set times; missing it means a 2-hour cliff road walk in the dark.