Barranco del Infierno

Barranco del Infierno, located in the heart of Costa Adeje, is renowned as one of Tenerife’s most dramatic natural ravines, offering a unique blend of rugged beauty and historical intrigue. Carved by centuries of water erosion, this spectacular gorge features a well-preserved trail leading through lush vegetation, steep volcanic cliffs, and ultimately to the island’s highest waterfall, cascading from a height of approximately 200 metres. Historically, Barranco del Infierno has held great significance, as archaeological evidence points to settlement by the indigenous Guanche people prior to the Spanish conquest in the late 15th century. Ancient burial caves, rock engravings, and artefacts discovered in the ravine reflect the deep cultural legacy of Tenerife’s early inhabitants. The area was officially declared a Special Nature Reserve in 1994, further protecting its botanical and zoological diversity, which includes rare endemic species. As early as the 16th century, the ravine’s abundant water supply was harnessed by local farmers and channelled to the surrounding agricultural terraces, thus playing a crucial role in the development of Adeje’s rural economy. Today, Barranco del Infierno is not only a sanctuary for nature lovers and hikers but also serves as a living museum, inviting visitors to witness the convergence of geological processes, pre-Hispanic culture, and colonial heritage within an extraordinary landscape.