In El Juncal, planning a hike begins with a seasonal question: The El Juncal de Tejeda–Las Ñameritas forest track is part of the approved hiking network of the Inagua Integral Nature Reserve from October through June. In addition to the forest track, there are circular routes and connections through the Barranco del Juncal; a separate access trail leads to the archaeological cave settlement. So when choosing your travel dates, consider both the rules in the protected area and the specific route you are interested in.

Hiking trails and seasonal rules

Check the current permit requirements for the forest track before setting out. Hiking in the Inagua Integral Nature Reserve is prohibited from July 1 through September 30 inclusive: The entire protected area is classified as a high forest-fire-risk zone during this period. The rule therefore applies not only to the forest track mentioned above. If hiking is an important reason for your trip, plan around these dates and check the latest forest-fire risk advisories before setting off.

Bicycles have a separate requirement: The Ñameritas–El Juncal track in the Inagua Integral Nature Reserve may only be used with prior authorization from the relevant authorities. As permit requirements may be updated, cyclists should confirm the rules with the responsible authority in advance.

Different route profiles

A route description published in 2023 lists a circular route in El Juncal de Tejeda as 12 km long and difficult; trail conditions and ratings may vary. It names the car park at the village entrance or the end of the paved road near the barranco as possible starting points. Check access, road conditions, and parking options before setting out.

According to its description, the El Juncal–Roque El Cofre–Taigüý–El Juncal route starts at the church of Juncal de Tejeda. Its final section follows a path parallel to the course of the Barranco del Juncal back to the starting point. Compared with the 12 km circular route, which has two listed starting options, this hike is distinguished mainly by its start at the church and its return along the path parallel to the barranco. Check local access conditions before setting out.

Another route description starts at the end of the GC-661: From there, an unpaved track first descends through the Barranco del Juncal before becoming a hiking trail toward Taiguy or Siberio. The transition from track to trail is a useful landmark for following this route. As trail conditions can change, check them before setting out.

The ravine, history, and archaeology

The Barranco del Juncal runs between large, sharply cut rock cliffs. Historically, a path through the ravine connected Tejeda with Mogán. The rock formations and the former route therefore represent two distinct aspects of the barranco.

The archaeological cave settlement of La Solana del Pinillo can be reached from El Juncal de Tejeda via the hamlet of Ronda and the Barranco de Tajuy. Check locally for access conditions in the upper area.

Celebrations and stories

The 2023 celebrations included a guided circular walk in the program. It passed through Plaza de El Juncal, Ronda, Las Cañadas, La Empalizada, El Toscón, Degollada del Humo, Cruz del Carpio, Fuente del Perro, and Juncal de Arriba; stories told by the grandparents were shared along the way. For culture enthusiasts, this event was therefore about more than just the route: it also focused on the stories.

The 2023 program also announced a Romería-Ofrenda in El Juncal in honor of Santa Teresita and San Martín de Porres. Visitors could join the procession behind the float for around €10; participation conditions may differ at future editions.

Discover more destinations: Arinaga, Cazadores, Balcon de Telde, Santa Brígida, Maspalomas, San Lorenzo, El Chorrillo, Roque

For the main travel guide: Gran Canaria.