The Caldera de Gairía Natural Monument lies at the foot of Tiscamanita. The protected area covers 240.9 hectares and spans the municipalities of Antigua and Tuineje. The caldera is a geologically young volcanic cone with vegetation typical of arid areas, including Tabaiba dulce (Euphorbia balsamifera). From its 461-metre-high summit, younger volcanic formations are visible: Malpaís Grande, the Caldera de la Laguna, the Caldera de los Arrabales and the Caldera de Liria. The Tiscamanita plain is also important for nature: it is considered one of the most important areas for the Guirre, the largest bird of prey in the Canary Islands.

Hiking on two routes

The local SL FV 31 hiking trail runs from Tiscamanita to Vega del Río Palmas. Its starting point is near the road between Tuineje and Antigua. Leaving Tiscamanita, the route passes cultivated land and climbs to the ridge of Morro Jorjado. It continues via Agua de Bueyes to Vega del Río Palmas; the trail ends at a volcanic cone. After the first climb, there is a rest area in a stone shelter with wooden tables and benches.

The SL FV 6 runs between Tuineje and Tiscamanita. The route is 5.6 kilometres long, has a low difficulty level and a stated duration of 2.25 hours. The two trails offer different perspectives on the surroundings: the SL FV 31 description focuses on the ridge, cultivated land and route to Vega del Río Palmas, while the SL FV 6 has a clearly stated length, difficulty level and duration. Before setting out, check the current trail conditions and, for the SL FV 31, the signage as well; the facilities at the rest area may also change.

The SL FV 7 also passes through the landscape around Tiscamanita: it crosses the protected area of Malpaís Grande and passes by or through the area of the Calderas de Gairía. Together with the Caldera de Gairía and the plain, this shows how strongly geological features and protected areas shape the character of the region.

Culture, architecture and Gofio

The Ermita de San Marcos dates from the late 17th century and is protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural. Its furnishings include two altarpieces and sculptures of the Inmaculada, the Virgen del Carmen and San Marcos. The domestic architecture also reflects the history of the village: most of Tiscamanita’s grand houses date from the 19th century and are largely associated with the prosperity brought by the export of cochineal. The Casa del Maestro is an emblematic building in the village and dates from the late 19th century.

The Centro de Interpretación de Los Molinos is housed in a traditional Majorero house; a restored windmill stands beside the museum. The centre focuses on Gofio culture and the process of making authentic Canarian Gofio. Along with the volcanic landscape, the history of the buildings and local food culture are among the features that make Tiscamanita distinctive.

The San Marcos festivities take place every year in August. Depending on the year’s programme, they include pilgrimages, Taifa dances, concerts, religious celebrations and a water and foam party. The annual Romería de San Marcos brings residents and visitors through the village in traditional dress; it features singing, Parrandas, offerings, decorated carts and traditional music. If you are planning your trip around the festivities, check the dates for that year’s edition.

Cycling routes around Tiscamanita

The Ruta 30 cycling route connects Antigua, Valles de Ortega, Casillas de Morales, Agua de Bueyes and Tiscamanita via dirt tracks and paved roads. The Ruta 37 starts in Tiscamanita and leads to Tuineje through the area known as Cortijo de Teguerey. The two routes therefore differ mainly in their itineraries: Ruta 30 connects several places, while Ruta 37 connects Tiscamanita with Tuineje. Check current route conditions before setting out.

Discover more destinations: Tarajalejo, Las Playitas, Gran Tarajal, Juan Gopar, Giniginamar.

To the main travel overview: Tuineje.