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Cliffs of Los Gigantes

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Landmark
—°17
Cliffs of Los Gigantes (Spain)

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The Cliffs of Los Gigantes (Acantilados de Los Gigantes) on the western coast of the Canary Island of Tenerife present one of Spain's most awe-inspiring natural spectacles. These gigantic rock faces, plunging almost vertically into the Atlantic Ocean, are forged from dark, basaltic volcanic rock and reach staggering heights of up to 800 meters. For the indigenous Guanche people of Tenerife, the cliffs held deep mythological significance; they referred to them as the 'Wall of Hell' (Muralla del Infierno), believing the formidable barrier marked the absolute edge of the world. Below the water's surface, the rocky cliffs continue to depths of 30 meters, creating a rich, unblemished marine ecosystem highly prized by scuba divers for its crystal-clear visibility and thriving populations of stingrays and moray eels. The waters immediately surrounding the cliffs are also a globally recognized hotspot for observing resident populations of short-finned pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

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Rain mm25241912732510253337

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The cliffs are freely accessible from several viewpoints along the coast. Access to the cliffs themselves is not permitted for safety reasons.
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Typical hours
The viewpoints are accessible at any time. There are no fixed opening hours as it is an open natural area.
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Photography
Photography is excellent from the viewpoints. For spectacular shots, use the morning light when the sun illuminates the basalt cliffs.
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Time needed
Allow about one hour to visit several viewpoints. For a boat trip along the cliffs, budget an additional two hours.
Combine with
Combine with the nearby town of Masca or the Playa de la Arena beach. A trip to Teide National Park is also a great addition.
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Getting there
The cliffs are accessible by car via the TF-454 road. Hiking trails from Los Gigantes also lead to the viewpoints.
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Insider tip
Visit the viewpoints in the late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds. Bring binoculars for birdwatching along the cliffs.

Geography

Coordinates
28.24610, -16.84240

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Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Sights in the town Cliffs of Los Gigantes (17)

Parque Rural de Teno🌿 nature

Parque Rural de Teno is an expansive mountainous nature reserve known for its deep ravines and ancient laurel forests.

🕒 Jul-Sep: Mo 00:00-20:00; Jul-Sep: Tu-Th 09:00-20:00; Jul-Sep

Franja marina de Teno-Rasca🌿 nature

The Franja marina de Teno-Rasca is a crucial coastal marine reserve sheltering diverse cetacean populations off the dramatic sea cliffs.

Playa de la Arena🎡 recreation

Playa de la Arena is a popular coastal beach distinguished by its naturally occurring striking black volcanic sand.

Parroquia del Espíritu Santo⛪ religious

Parroquia del Espíritu Santo is a local Catholic church providing a spiritual focal point for the surrounding coastal community.

Iglesia de San Fernando Rey⛪ religious

Iglesia de San Fernando Rey is a dedicated place of worship showcasing traditional ecclesiastical architecture in the Los Gigantes region.

Iglesia Nuestra Señora de la Luz⛪ religious

Iglesia Nuestra Señora de la Luz serves as a prominent church characterized by its iconic bell tower overlooking the surrounding area.

Playa Chica🎡 recreation

Playa Chica is a small, sheltered sandy cove offering calm waters for swimming near the dramatic Los Gigantes cliffs.

Playa Los Guíos🎡 recreation

Playa Los Guíos is a pretty dark-sand beach situated right at the base of the towering Los Gigantes cliffs.

En Honor a la figura de Don Pancracio Socas Garcia🏺 historical

This public monument commemorates Don Pancracio Socas Garcia, honoring his contributions to the local civic community.

Barca🏺 historical

The Barca monument is a sculptural tribute shaped like a boat, symbolising the deeply rooted seafaring traditions of the coastal area.

Antigua estación de bombeo de agua🏺 historical

The ruins of this old water pumping station represent early industrial infrastructure built to irrigate the surrounding coastal fields.

Centro Cultural Alcalá🎭 culture

Centro Cultural Alcalá is an active arts centre hosting community workshops and local cultural exhibitions near the seafront.

Auditorio🎭 culture

This theatre serves as a local performance venue near the coastal cliffs.

Risco Verde📍 landmark

This natural attraction features striking green rocky crags near the coast.

Camino del barranco de Masca📍 landmark

This rugged trail winds through the deep Masca ravine.

🕒 Mo-Su 08:00-18:00

Smiley📍 landmark

This distinctively named coastal attraction is set against the backdrop of the massive cliffs.

Mirador de Chirche🌿 nature

This observation point gives sweeping views over the traditional village of Chirche.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How high are the cliffs?
In some places, they rise up to 600 meters almost vertically from the sea.
What is the best way to see them?
The best way is by taking a boat tour from the Los Gigantes port.
Can you see dolphins there?
Yes, the waters are known for dolphins and pilot whales.
Are there beaches there?
Playa de los Guíos is a small black sand beach at the foot of the cliffs.
Can you hike on the cliffs?
There are paths above, but they are often challenging and steep.
Cliffs of Los Gigantes: where is it located?
Cliffs of Los Gigantes is located in Galicia, Spain.
Cliffs of Los Gigantes: what is there to see?
Highlights include Parque Rural de Teno, Franja marina de Teno-Rasca, Playa de la Arena.
Cliffs of Los Gigantes: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Cliffs of Los Gigantes: why is it worth visiting?
The Cliffs of Los Gigantes (Acantilados de Los Gigantes) on the western coast of the Canary Island of Tenerife present one of Spain's most awe-inspiring natural spectacles.
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