Masca Village - a cactus with yellow flowers in front of a mountain
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Masca Village

4.6
·491k reviews·Masca, Spain

A breathtakingly beautiful village nestled in a dramatic gorge, often called Tenerife's Machu Picchu.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Afternoon (after 4:30 PM)

Fewer crowds, golden hour light

CrowdMedium
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Masca Village - a cactus with yellow flowers in front of a mountain

Masca Village

Best Time

Late Afternoon (after 4:30 PM)

Fewer crowds, golden hour light

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtakingly beautiful village nestled in a dramatic gorge, often called Tenerife's Machu Picchu. TikTok

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Masca feels like something straight out of a movie—think wild cliffs, crazy views, and a village that looks like it's hanging off the edge of the world. Instagram"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Drive Carefully!

The Masca road is very winding and steep. Consider a smaller car or a tour if you're not an experienced driver.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the village and potentially on uneven terrain.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Masca Village Charm

Masca Village Charm

The heart of the village

A picturesque hamlet nestled in a dramatic gorge, often called Tenerife's Machu Picchu.

TikTok
Masca Gorge Views

Masca Gorge Views

Surrounding viewpoints

Breathtaking panoramas of rugged cliffs and the deep gorge, offering a sense of wild, untamed beauty.

Instagram
Scenic Drive

Scenic Drive

Roads leading to Masca

The journey itself is an adventure with stunning, albeit challenging, mountain scenery.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Winding Roads

The journey to Masca Village is as dramatic as the destination itself. Expect steep, winding roads with sharp turns. Renting a car is popular, but consider a smaller vehicle or joining an organized tour if you're not comfortable with challenging mountain driving. TikTok

Timing Your Visit for the Best Views

Masca Village can get busy, especially during peak hours. Visiting later in the afternoon, after 4:30 PM, can offer a more serene experience and beautiful golden hour light for photos. Instagram

Best Times

When
Late Afternoon (after 4:30 PM)
Why
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Welcome to the Machu Picchu in Spain! ⛰️✨ 📍MASCA is a must stop that you have to visit if or if you come to Tenerife. 🌋 ✨One of the most magical villages 🚗 Little tip! The roads to get to the bottom have very big curves! Make sure you bring an appropriate car! #CapCut #tenerife #tenerife🇮🇨 #tenerifecanaryisland #tenerifefirstexcursions #tenerifelicidad #canarias #canarias🇮🇨 #canaryislands #islas...
@justaliveer
151.6K likes • 2.3M views

🚗 Drive Carefully!

The Masca road is very winding and steep. Consider a smaller car or a tour if you're not an experienced driver. TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the village and potentially on uneven terrain. Instagram

Masca valley oh my 😍 this mountain village is a must see in Tenerife ✨ #traveltiktok #traveltips #travelcouple #travelcoupledream #reels #fyp #tenerife #spain #canaryisland
@vanessatownsyy
16.7K likes • 444.9K views
The road to Masca isn’t for the faint hearted🫣iykyk But it’s 100% worth it!😍👇 Tucked in the Mountains, Masca feels like something straight out of a movie—think wild cliffs, crazy views, and a village that looks like it’s hanging off the edge of the world. Some even call it Tenerife’s Machu Picchu, and we totally get why🥹 Pro tip: Visit Masca after 4:30 PM to escape the crowds and to experience t...
saltinourhair
3.8K likes • 176.4K views

☀️ Bring Sun Protection

A hat and sunscreen are essential, especially if you plan to explore the village or surrounding areas. Instagram

📸 Capture the Views

Masca offers incredible photo opportunities at every turn. Don't forget your camera! Instagram

SAVE this post so you don’t forget! 🩷 1 - MASCA VILLAGE Around 45 minute drive from south Tenerife. You can rent a car and visit here yourself or book an excursion. This village is super small and cute so you probably won’t spend here all day but it’s a gorgeous place to come and have a late lunch. 2 - ANANGA NATIONAL PARK Located in the North of the island this place feels like a fairy tal...
itsgabinj
164 likes • 7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive Carefully!

The Masca road is very winding and steep. Consider a smaller car or a tour if you're not an experienced driver. TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the village and potentially on uneven terrain. Instagram

☀️ Bring Sun Protection

A hat and sunscreen are essential, especially if you plan to explore the village or surrounding areas. Instagram

📸 Capture the Views

Masca offers incredible photo opportunities at every turn. Don't forget your camera! Instagram

🍽️ Enjoy a Local Lunch

The village has charming restaurants perfect for a relaxed meal with stunning views. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Masca Village for its breathtaking scenery and unique, almost mythical, atmosphere, often calling it a 'Machu Picchu of Spain'. The dramatic gorge views and the charming, secluded village are major highlights. However, the challenging and winding roads leading to Masca are a significant point of caution for many travelers.

What People Like

Stunning gorge views
Picturesque village
Unique atmosphere

What People Dislike

Difficult winding roads

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most popular way to reach Masca Village is by car, driving through scenic but very winding roads from Los Gigantes or Santiago del Teide. TikTokInstagram Alternatively, you can take TITSA buses or join an organized tour for a more relaxed experience. Instagram Some travelers find taxis to be quite expensive. Reddit

Yes, the road to Masca Tenerife is known for its steep inclines, sharp curves, and narrow sections. It's recommended to drive cautiously and consider a smaller vehicle if you're not accustomed to such roads. TikTok

Yes, you can take TITSA buses to Masca. However, check the schedules carefully as public transit can be time-consuming, with journeys potentially taking around 2.5 hours each way. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Many tours offer visits to Masca Village, often combined with other attractions in Tenerife. This can be a convenient option if you prefer not to drive the challenging roads. InstagramReddit

The drive from Los Gigantes to Masca is approximately 30-45 minutes and is characterized by stunning coastal and mountain views, but also numerous hairpin turns. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no entrance tickets required to visit Masca Village itself. You can wander through the streets and enjoy the views freely. TikTok

Parking can be limited and may involve a small fee, especially during busier times. It's advisable to arrive early or be prepared to walk a short distance. Instagram

Masca Village is generally accessible year-round, but it's always a good idea to check local conditions, especially during adverse weather, as the roads can be affected. TikTok

Restaurants in Masca typically operate during daylight hours, often closing in the late afternoon or early evening. It's best to check individual restaurant hours if you plan a late meal. Instagram

Yes, the Masca Gorge hike requires a permit, which needs to be booked in advance. This is to manage visitor numbers and ensure safety. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can explore the charming cobblestone streets, admire the unique architecture nestled in the mountains, and soak in the incredible gorge views. TikTokInstagram Many visitors enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local restaurants. Instagram

No, Masca Village is not easily accessible with strollers due to its uneven terrain and steep paths. A baby carrier is recommended for families with young children. Instagram

Yes, the Masca Gorge hike is a popular but challenging trail that leads down to the coast. It requires a permit, good physical condition, and proper gear. Instagram

Everywhere! The entire village and its surroundings offer stunning photographic opportunities. Look for viewpoints overlooking the gorge and the traditional houses. Instagram

Most visitors spend 1-3 hours exploring the village and enjoying a meal. If you plan to do the Masca Gorge hike, allocate a full day. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Restaurants in Masca typically serve traditional Canarian cuisine, featuring local ingredients and dishes. Expect hearty meals perfect after exploring the village. Instagram

While traditional Canarian cuisine often features meat and fish, many restaurants are accommodating and can offer vegetarian dishes upon request. It's best to inquire directly. Instagram

Prices are generally moderate, reflecting the unique location and the cost of transporting goods to the village. It's a worthwhile experience for the ambiance and views. Instagram

Yes, there are small shops or cafes in Masca where you can purchase water, snacks, and local souvenirs. Instagram

For lunch, especially during peak season, making a reservation is a good idea to secure a table with a view. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Late afternoon, particularly after 4:30 PM, offers beautiful golden hour light that enhances the dramatic scenery. Instagram Early mornings can also be magical with fewer crowds. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive gorge and village views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the mountains. Instagram

Drone usage is often restricted in natural parks and protected areas. It's crucial to check current regulations before flying a drone in Masca. Instagram

Experiment with different angles, focus on the textures of the stone houses, and capture the scale of the gorge by including people in your shots. Instagram

Absolutely! Masca Village is incredibly photogenic, with its unique setting, traditional architecture, and dramatic natural surroundings. It's a photographer's dream. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Masca Village offers a unique adventure for families, but it requires some planning. The roads to Masca are very winding, so if you're driving, a smaller car might be more manageable. TikTok While the village itself is charming, it's not suitable for strollers due to the steep, uneven terrain. Instagram Consider using a baby carrier for younger children. Instagram

There are opportunities for light exploration within the village, and the stunning views provide a sense of wonder. Families can enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants, soaking in the atmosphere. Instagram However, the challenging Masca Gorge hike is generally not recommended for young children due to its difficulty and length. Instagram

🚗 Adventurous Drivers

For those who relish a driving challenge, the road to Masca Tenerife is an experience in itself. This iconic route is renowned for its dramatic mountain scenery and its series of tight hairpin bends. TikTokInstagram It's a test of skill and nerve, offering spectacular views that make the journey worthwhile. TikTok

It's advisable to drive a smaller, agile vehicle if possible, and to proceed with caution, especially around blind corners. TikTok Take advantage of the numerous viewpoints to pause, admire the landscape, and let other traffic pass. The drive is an essential part of the Masca adventure, providing a thrilling prelude to the village's beauty. Instagram

🚶 Hikers & Nature Lovers

The Masca Gorge hike is a must-do for serious hikers seeking an unforgettable natural experience. This challenging descent offers a unique perspective of the rugged Teno Rural Park, leading from the village down to the coast. Instagram Remember that a permit is mandatory and must be booked in advance. Instagram

Beyond the gorge, the surrounding Masca mountain area offers opportunities for scenic walks and appreciating the raw beauty of Tenerife's interior. TikTok Pack sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, and sun protection, as the terrain can be demanding and exposed. Instagram The sheer scale and wildness of the landscape make Masca a paradise for those who love to explore on foot. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Dramatic Masca Gorge Hike

The Masca Gorge hike is an iconic, albeit challenging, trek that descends from the village to the coast. This approximately 3-4 hour hike offers a unique perspective of the rugged landscape, with towering cliffs and a riverbed path. It's crucial to note that a permit is required for this hike, and it must be booked in advance due to visitor management and safety regulations. Instagram

Travelers often describe the hike as strenuous, involving scrambling over rocks and navigating uneven terrain. Proper footwear, plenty of water, and sun protection are essential. Instagram The reward is reaching the secluded Masca Bay, where you can arrange a boat taxi back to Los Gigantes, completing a truly memorable adventure. Instagram

Important considerations include checking the weather forecast, as the gorge can become dangerous during heavy rain. Also, be aware that the boat taxi service from Masca Bay is weather-dependent and may not always be available. Instagram

Driving the Masca Tenerife Road

The road to Masca Tenerife is legendary for its beauty and its challenge. This narrow, winding route snakes through the Teno Mountains, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. TikTokInstagram Drivers should be prepared for steep ascents and descents, numerous hairpin bends, and limited passing opportunities. TikTok

Many visitors opt to rent a car for the freedom to explore at their own pace. However, if you're not a confident driver on mountain roads, or if you're driving a larger vehicle, it might be wise to reconsider. TikTok Alternatively, joining a guided tour or taking a bus can alleviate the stress of navigation and driving. Instagram Regardless of your chosen method, the journey to Masca is an integral part of the experience, showcasing the wild, untamed nature of Tenerife. TikTok

Key advice for driving includes honking before blind corners to alert oncoming traffic and being patient. Pulling over at designated viewpoints allows you to safely admire the scenery and let other cars pass. TikTok

Masca Village: A Photographer's Paradise

Masca Village is a dream destination for photographers, offering a unique blend of natural grandeur and rustic charm. The village itself, with its traditional stone houses clinging to the mountainside, provides endless compositional possibilities. Instagram The dramatic Masca Valley setting, often compared to Machu Picchu, offers sweeping panoramas that are simply awe-inspiring. TikTok

For the best photographic results, aim for the golden hour – the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset. Instagram The soft, warm light beautifully illuminates the rugged landscape and adds depth to your shots. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for capturing the vastness of the gorge, while telephoto lenses can isolate details of the village architecture or distant mountain peaks. Instagram

Remember to be respectful of the local residents and their property while taking photos. Instagram Capturing the essence of Masca involves not just the grand vistas but also the smaller details – the textures of the stone walls, the vibrant flora, and the sense of timelessness that pervades this magical place. Instagram

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