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Hiking Bliss: Exploring the Mirador de Samara Trail and Summiting Pico Viejo
Insider Tips for a Perfect Visit to Mirador de Samara in Tenerife and Summiting Pico Viejo. A Photographer’s Dream and Hiker’s Paradise in Tenerife.
As I stood atop the Mirador de Samara in Tenerife, I couldn’t help but feel awestruck by the stunning views that surrounded me.
This popular viewpoint in Teide National Park offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape, including the towering Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain.
The viewpoint is a must-visit for anyone exploring Tenerife and looking to experience the island’s natural beauty.
For those looking for a bit more adventure, a loop hike to the summit of Montaña de Samara is highly recommended. The trail is moderately challenging but offers incredible views of the surrounding islands and the volcanic terrain.
The hike takes an average of 1 hour and 54 minutes to complete, and visitors can enjoy the wildflowers and rocky landscape along the way.
The Mirador de Samara and its surrounding trails are a testament to Tenerife’s natural beauty and are not to be missed.
Getting to Mirador de Samara
By Car
The road to the Mirador de Samara is well-signposted and easy to follow. It is also a scenic drive, with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Samara Viewpoint
The Mirador de Samara is located in the western area of Teide National Park, which falls within the boundaries of the Guía de Isora province.
If you’re coming from the south of Tenerife, take the TF-1 motorway towards Adeje and follow the Guía de Isora signs. Once you reach Guía de Isora, follow the signs for the Mirador de Samara.
If you’re coming from the north of Tenerife, take the TF-5 motorway towards Santa Cruz and follow the Guía de Isora signs. Once you reach Guía de Isora, follow the signs for the Mirador de Samara.
There is a car park at the Mirador de Samara, but it can get busy during peak times. If the car park is full, there is additional parking available on the road leading up to the Mirador de Samara.
Mirador de Samara Trail
As a hiking enthusiast, I was thrilled to discover the Mirador de Samara Trail in Tenerife. This trail is a perfect choice for those seeking beautiful walks and breathtaking views of volcanoes.
In this section, I will provide an overview of the route and detailed reviews based on my personal experience.
Trail Overview
The Mirador de Samara Trail, also known as Sendero 13 (S-13), is a short and straightforward route that starts from Mirador de Samara. The trail is 3.2 miles long and has an elevation gain of 944 feet. It takes approximately 1 hour and 54 minutes to complete the loop.
The trail offers stunning views of the Samara Volcano, Botija Volcano, and Narices del Teide. The altitude of the track is around 5,200 feet, which makes it a moderate hike. However, caution is advised for those who are not used to hiking at high altitudes.
Detailed Reviews
I found the Mirador de Samara Trail to be one of the most beautiful walks I have ever taken. The views of the volcanoes and the surrounding landscape were simply breathtaking. The trail was well-maintained and easy to follow, with clear signs marking the way.
The reviews order of the trail are well-planned, with the most beautiful views at the beginning of the hike. The trail gradually descends towards the end, offering a peaceful and relaxing finish to the hike.
I also hiked the S-38, S-9, and S-32 trails in the Teide National Park, but the Mirador de Samara Trail was my favourite. The trail offered a perfect balance of beauty and difficulty, making it an ideal choice for hikers of all skill levels.
Summiting Pico Viejo
Trail Overview
I recently had the opportunity to summit Pico Viejo, the second-highest peak in the Canary Islands, via the Mirador de Samara trail.
The trail is a moderately challenging 3.2-mile loop that takes an average of 1 hour and 54 minutes to complete. The trailhead is located at the Mirador de Samara viewpoint in Teide National Park, Tenerife.
The trail offers stunning views of Montaña de Samara, Pico Viejo, and Mount Teide, making it a popular hiking destination. However, caution is advised as the trail can be steep and rocky in parts, and the altitude can make it challenging for some hikers.
Detailed Reviews
The route starts with a gentle incline through a pine forest, providing some much-needed shade on hot days. As you climb higher, the trail becomes steeper and rockier, requiring some scrambling over loose rocks and boulders. However, the effort is worth it for the incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
The summit of Pico Viejo is a rocky outcrop that offers panoramic views of the island, including the neighbouring island of La Gomera on clear days. The summit can be windy and chilly, so be sure to bring warm clothing and a windbreaker.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stunning views | Steep and rocky in parts |
| Challenging hike | Altitude can be challenging for some |
| Varied terrain | Can be windy and chilly at the summit |
Summiting Pico Viejo via the Mirador de Samara trail is a rewarding experience for hikers looking for a challenging hike with incredible views. However, caution is advised, and hikers should be prepared for the steep and rocky terrain, as well as the altitude.
When to Visit Mirador de Samara
As someone who has visited Mirador de Samara in Tenerife, I recommend planning your visit carefully to make the most of your time.
Here are some things to keep in mind when deciding when to visit Mirador de Samara.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Mirador de Samara is during the early morning or late afternoon. This is when the lighting is best for taking photographs and the temperature is cooler for hiking. If you visit during midday, the sun can be harsh and make it difficult to see the stunning views.
I visited Mirador de Samara on January 2, 2020, and the weather was mild and pleasant.
However, if you prefer warmer weather, you might want to plan your visit during the summer months. Just keep in mind that Tenerife can be crowded during peak tourist season, so it’s best to plan and arrive early to avoid the crowds.
If you’re planning to hike to the summit of Montaña de Samara, I recommend avoiding the hottest months of the year, like August. The heat can make the hike more challenging and uncomfortable. Instead, plan your hike for the cooler months of the year.
When planning your visit to Mirador de Samara, be sure to check the weather forecast ahead of time.
Tenerife can experience sudden changes in weather, so it’s always best to be prepared. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water if you plan to spend time outdoors.
Tips for Visiting Mirador de Samara
General Tips
First and foremost, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water. The walk to the mirador can be steep and tiring, especially in the heat. Additionally, bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
When you arrive at the Mirador, take some time to appreciate the stunning views. The volcanic landscape is truly breathtaking. Take plenty of photos, but respect other visitors who also want to enjoy the view.
Safety Tips
Unfortunately, there have been reports of thieves in the area, so make sure to keep an eye on your belongings. Don’t leave your handbag unattended and be aware of your surroundings.
Additionally, the area can get quite windy, so be careful when walking near the edge of the mirador. Keep a safe distance and don’t take any unnecessary risks.
Finally, make sure to dispose of your trash properly. Keep the area clean and respect the natural environment.
Reviews of Mirador de Samara
As I visited Mirador de Samara, I was curious to know what others had to say about this beautiful spot in Tenerife. So, I checked out the reviews on TripAdvisor to get a better understanding of what people thought of this place.
TripAdvisor Reviews
According to the reviews on TripAdvisor, Mirador de Samara is a must-visit spot in Tenerife. Many visitors praised the beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes, calling it a breathtaking experience.
They also appreciated the peaceful and serene atmosphere of this place, making it an ideal spot for solo travellers and couples.
The views from the Mirador are stunning, and it is well worth the visit. It’s a peaceful and quiet spot, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
One TripAdvisor member wrote…
The Mirador de Samara is an excellent place to take in the views of the island. The scenery is breathtaking, and it’s an ideal spot for couples looking for a romantic place to spend some time together.
Another reviewer mentioned…
Conclusion
As we conclude our journey through Mirador de Samara in Tenerife, you’ve gained insights into its breathtaking views, hiking trails, and summit experiences.
Plan your visit wisely, embrace the beauty, and capture the essence of this natural wonder.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with fellow travel enthusiasts. Happy exploring!
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