Dramatic Rescue in the North of Tenerife

On Saturday afternoon, a 24-year-old woman was airlifted to safety after sustaining an injury while hiking along the trail that connects Afur with Taborno, one of the most scenic yet demanding routes in Tenerife’s Anaga mountain range. The accident happened at around 1:00 pm, when the hiker reportedly lost her footing, fell, and was unable to continue the route without assistance.

Emergency teams from the Canary Islands quickly mobilized to respond. A GES helicopter was dispatched, locating the injured hiker on the rugged mountainside. With the terrain making ground access extremely difficult, the only safe option was an aerial evacuation. The woman, who had suffered a moderate leg injury, was winched into the helicopter and transported to the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. There, an ambulance crew was waiting to transfer her to HUC Hospital for further treatment.

Thanks to the rapid response, the injured hiker received medical care within hours, but the incident once again highlighted the risks involved in mountain excursions on the island.

The Anaga Mountains: Beauty and Danger Combined

Anaga, located in the north of the island, is one of Tenerife’s most breathtaking landscapes. Declared a Biosphere Reserve, the area is famous for its ancient laurel forests, dramatic cliffs, and trails that offer panoramic views of the Atlantic. For visitors, it represents the ultimate excursion Tenerife experience, combining natural beauty with challenging routes.

Yet these same trails can also pose dangers. Many paths are steep, narrow, and exposed to sudden changes in weather, including fog and slippery conditions after rainfall. Even experienced hikers can find themselves in difficulty if unprepared.

The Afur–Taborno route, where Saturday’s accident occurred, is particularly demanding, winding through ravines and rugged terrain. It attracts adventurers seeking an authentic island experience, but it requires good physical condition, proper footwear, and awareness of the risks involved.

Past Rescue Incidents in Tenerife

This latest helicopter evacuation is not an isolated case. Tenerife’s emergency services frequently respond to hikers in distress across the island’s mountains:

• 2019: A group of tourists became disoriented near Chamorga, requiring air rescue after losing their way on a foggy afternoon.

• 2020: Two hikers were rescued by helicopter in Masca Gorge after suffering exhaustion and dehydration during summer heat.

• 2022: A Belgian tourist slipped on the rugged Barranco del Infierno trail, sustaining injuries that made helicopter assistance necessary.

• 2023: A British hiker was rescued near Cruz del Carmen after a fall on a steep section of trail in Anaga.

These recurring incidents underline a consistent theme: Tenerife’s wild landscapes are magnificent for exploration but unforgiving when approached without adequate preparation.

Safety Reminders for Hiking Excursions

Authorities once again used Saturday’s incident to remind both locals and visitors about the importance of preparation when planning a hiking excursion Tenerife. The **PAS principle—Protect, Alert, Assist—**applies not only to road accidents but also to emergencies in the mountains.

Key safety recommendations include:

• Proper Footwear: Hiking boots with strong grip are essential, especially on uneven or slippery surfaces.

• Check Conditions: Weather in Anaga can change suddenly, with fog or rain making trails treacherous. Always review forecasts before starting.

• Hydration and Supplies: Carry enough water and small food rations, particularly on longer or more remote routes.

• Avoid Hiking Alone: If an accident occurs, companions can call for help immediately.

• Trail Research: Always assess the difficulty of a route in advance and match it to your physical ability.

These simple steps can prevent accidents and ensure that a day out in Tenerife’s nature remains a memorable experience rather than an emergency situation.

Excursion Tenerife: A Balance of Adventure and Responsibility

For many visitors, renting a car, exploring the island, and then setting out on a mountain hike is the ultimate excursion Tenerife adventure. From the beaches of the south to the wild north, the island offers a diversity of landscapes rarely matched elsewhere in Europe.

But Saturday’s helicopter rescue is a reminder: with adventure comes responsibility. Tenerife offers world-class natural beauty, but it demands respect from those who choose to explore it.

By preparing properly and understanding the risks, hikers can fully enjoy the thrill of the Afur–Taborno trail or the forests of Anaga—without needing to rely on a rescue helicopter to bring them back to safety.