Barranco de las Hiedras-El Cedro

Barranco de las Hiedras-El Cedro is one of the deepest ravines in the municipality of Arico, in southern Tenerife, and is listed as a Special Conservation Area under the Natura 2000 network. It lies within the Corona Forestal Natural Park, between the Valle de la Cuesta area — home to the Lomo de Tamadaya ridge — and Lomo del Garabato. The site combines a rugged canyon landscape with rare endemic flora, making it one of the island's more distinctive, if still relatively unknown, natural spots.

Where does the name come from?

The ravine's name reflects two landscape features: ivy (hiedra), which grows abundantly on the ravine's damp, shaded rock faces, and a cedar (cedro) — a single remarkable tree growing in the bed of the neighboring Barranco de los Cedros, above the settlement of El Bueno, between the Tamadaya pine forest and the Chajaña estate. According to available natural-history accounts, it is likely the largest wild specimen of Canary Island cedar on the entire archipelago — a living remnant of a species that was once far more widespread across the Canaries.

How do you get there and where does the route start?

Most routes begin at the El Contador recreational area, reached by a paved road starting in Villa de Arico or Lomo de Arico. From there, official waymarked hiking trails follow the PR-TF-86.2 route, with an alternative PR-TF-86.3 variant passing through La Sabinita. This is the safest way to take in the ravine's landscape without venturing into its more technical, demanding sections.

Can you descend through the ravine itself?

Yes, but it's an undertaking for experienced canyoners. Barranco de las Hiedras is known among canyoning enthusiasts as a demanding descent — it starts at the El Contador recreational area and finishes near La Sabinita, covering roughly 6.6 km. The full activity, including approach and exit, typically takes 7 to 8 hours and is rated as technically difficult. Steep rock walls, narrow passages, and changing conditions mean this kind of descent calls for proper equipment, experience, and ideally the company of a local guide or organized group.

What should you know before visiting?

The area is protected under the Natura 2000 network, so minimal-impact rules apply: stay on marked trails when hiking, avoid littering, and do not disturb wildlife. Given Arico's dry, southern-facing climate, it's best to plan a hike for the early morning hours, carry enough water, and wear sturdy trekking footwear, since the terrain can be rocky and uneven. Visitors interested purely in the scenery and flora, without the sporting element, should stick to the marked walking route rather than the technical descent through the ravine bed.

Frequently asked questions

Is the route suitable for beginners? The PR-TF-86.2/86.3 hiking trails are accessible to reasonably fit walkers, while the technical descent through the ravine itself is reserved for those with canyoning experience.

How much time should you set aside? A walk along the marked hiking trail can be done in a few hours, while a full canyon descent with approach and exit takes 7 to 8 hours.

Can you see the Arico cedar in the ravine? The famous tree grows in the neighboring Barranco de los Cedros, close to the same protected area — it's worth asking local guides for its exact location, since it doesn't sit directly on the main hiking trail.