Masca

Verified content· Updated 27 June 2026

Santiago del Teide

One of the most famous and spectacular villages in TenerifeNestled in a ravine of the Teno massifAt 650 meters altitude, just 90 inhabitants

One of the most famous and spectacular villages in Tenerife, nestled in a deep ravine of the Teno massif at an altitude of 650 meters. With just 90 inhabitants, Masca is a labyrinth of traditional stone houses clinging to the slopes of steep mountains. Until the 1960s, it was only accessible on foot or by donkey.

Today, it is the starting point of the famous Masca ravine that descends to the sea. The village retains an authentic rural charm with local restaurants where you can try Canarian food with breathtaking views.

Gallery

The mountain hamlet of Masca, in the Teno massif (Buenavista del Norte, Tenerife). — Asier Sarasua Garmendia (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Traditional terraced houses in the village of Masca, perched on the hillside. — oatsy40 (Flickr) (CC BY 2.0)

Panoramic view of the Masca valley, in the Teno massif. — Benjamín Núñez González (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Cliffs of the Masca gorge ravine, in the Teno massif. — Benjamín Núñez González (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Essential information

Accessibility

It is reached via the TF-436 road, narrow and with sharp curves; parking in the hamlet is very limited (maximum 2 hours, from 8:00 to 14:00), so public transport is recommended (TITSA lines 355 Buenavista–Masca–Santiago del Teide and 365 Buenavista–Masca). From December 2025, TITSA manages and strengthens public transport access (line 355) and the bus is strongly recommended, although parking in the hamlet remains available with those limitations. Visiting the village is free, but descending the Masca ravine requires prior reservation and mandatory access via authorized transport (bus line 355 from Santiago del Teide).

Risk Level

The descent of the Masca ravine is a demanding trail that requires prior reservation, closed mountain footwear, and a helmet; it is not suitable for children under 8 years old, so it is advisable to carefully calculate time and physical condition.