The moon landscape of Vilaflor
Paisaje Lunar, Sendero norte
Bizarre tuff columns that look like something from another planet.
Hidden in the pine forest above Vilaflor lies one of the strangest landscapes on the island: the Paisaje Lunar. Wind and water have shaped slender columns and turrets from soft volcanic tuff, a pale, almost otherworldly backdrop you have to hike to.
Through the pine forest to the columns
The path starts at Vilaflor and first leads through open Canary pine forest, resinous and scented with sun. After a good hour and a half the view opens onto the eroded tuff formations, the “moon landscape”. The loop is medium length and not difficult, but you walk the whole time, so pack water and sturdy shoes.
Why the landscape looks this way
The pale columns are made of volcanic ash that settled and solidified in ancient times. Where harder rock sits on top like a hat, it protects the soft column beneath from erosion, which is how the typical mushroom shapes form. A geology lesson under the open sky.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the hike to the Paisaje Lunar?
Depending on the route, around 9 to 13 kilometres as a loop, about three hours of walking. The path is quite manageable but continuous, take enough water, in the south it is sunny even at altitude.
Can you drive to the moon landscape?
No, the formations can only be reached on foot. You park above Vilaflor at the start of the trail. That is exactly what keeps the place quiet and unspoilt.
Impressions
Paisaje Lunar, Sendero norte — in pictures
© 2026 Holiday Home Tenerife · our own photos
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The house sits centrally in the sunny south-west — most destinations are less than an hour away.