On the eastern coast of Tenerife, between the steep cliffs of Anaga and the open Atlantic, the Barranco de Zapata offers a rugged hiking route that feels far away from the island’s busy resorts. This coastal ravine combines wild volcanic scenery, dry scrubland and a remote black sand beach that is usually completely empty. The photos below follow the trail from the exposed coastal path down into the ravine and finally to the shoreline.

First View of the Bay and Headland

As the path approaches the sea, the first wide view opens over the small bay protected by a rocky headland. From here hikers can already see the contrast between the dark lava cliffs and the deep blue water, framed by low clouds that are typical for the Anaga coast.

Walking the Narrow Coastal Path

The approach to Barranco de Zapata follows a narrow dirt path that clings to the mountainside. Dry grasses and small shrubs line the trail, while groups of candelabra cactus stand out against the brown volcanic slopes. This part of the route is exposed, but it rewards walkers with uninterrupted sea views.

Entering the Volcanic Ravine

Leaving the exposed path, the route drops into the ravine itself. The walls close in and the landscape becomes rougher, with dark lava blocks, red rock layers and scattered euphorbia bushes. This section is wilder and more isolated, and it clearly shows the erosive power of winter rain on Tenerife’s volcanic terrain.

Deeper inside the ravine the rock colours change from black to rusty reds and browns, revealing different lava flows and ash deposits. Small palms and hardy shrubs manage to grow in cracks and ledges where a little moisture collects after rare showers.

Volcanic Rock Formations and Desert Vegetation

Along the sides of the barranco, the rock is weathered into strange shapes and ledges. Many surfaces are almost black, while others are oxidised into brick-red tones. Dried bushes cling onto the cliffs, their twisted branches emphasising the arid climate of this south-eastern corner of Anaga.

Cactus-Lined Slopes Above the Ravine

Higher up, the surrounding hills are blanketed with Tenerife’s characteristic Euphorbia canariensis, the tall multi-armed cactus that forms dense colonies on coastal slopes. From these vantage points, hikers can see how the ravines cut deep into the mountain range before finally reaching the ocean.

Looking inland, the terrain becomes even more dramatic. Parallel ridges form a pattern of waves in solid rock, with each valley hiding its own secluded path and occasional viewpoint over the sea.

Wildlife in the Ravine

Even in such a dry and rocky environment, hikers may encounter signs of rural life. Goats often graze on the sparse vegetation, moving sure-footedly among the boulders and adding a pastoral touch to the wild landscape.

Descending to the Black Sand Beach

Towards the end of the walk, the ravine finally opens onto a long stretch of dark sand and pebbles. The beach is backed by sharp cliffs and is usually reached only by hikers or small boats, which keeps it quiet even on weekends. The Atlantic waves break directly onto the black sand, creating a striking monochrome shoreline.

From the stony upper part of the shore, the view back into the ravine shows how the dry gully cuts sharply through the hills before reaching the ocean. Standing here, hikers get a full sense of the isolation of this small corner of Tenerife’s coastline.

Planning a Hike in Barranco de Zapata

The Barranco de Zapata route is best suited to confident hikers who are comfortable on narrow paths, uneven stones and steep slopes. Good footwear, sufficient water and sun protection are essential, as there is almost no shade along the way. Checking the tides is also important if you plan to spend time on the beach, because waves can cover large parts of the sand at high tide.

For visitors staying in or near Santa Cruz and Igueste de San Andrés, this coastal ravine is a rewarding day trip that shows the wilder side of Tenerife. The combination of volcanic geology, desert vegetation, panoramic sea views and a remote black sand beach makes Barranco de Zapata one of the most atmospheric hiking routes on the island.