Equipment

Take note of the mandatory requirements and recommendations in terms of equipment for completing the trail. 

The special conditions of the trail, which has a high difficulty, mean that you must have a good level of fitness to do this activity.

Please also bear in mind that departures by sea transport from Masca Bay to the port of destination may close unexpectedly for safety reasons due to adverse sea conditions. This means that visitors will return to the start point at Masca Visitors’ Centre on foot. Should this occur, users will start the return hike from the point they are at when they are notified. Therefore, visitors need a good level of fitness because the hike is physically demanding.

Weather conditions can also become challenging, especially on days with high temperatures. This is also why you should bring sufficient water with you (at least 1.5 l per person, because no drinking water is available along the trail) to ensure you are fully hydrated at all times and to reduce fatigue. It’s also important to remember that you should take precautions to protect yourself from sunburn and sunstroke during the months when the sun is at its strongest. Before beginning the trail, be mindful of the effort that such an activity entails. Check weather forecasts and if you are accompanying minors, supervise them at all times.

COMPULSORY EQUIPMENT:

If you do not have any of the mandatory equipment elements, you will be REFUSED ACCESS to the gorge.

Documents:

• ID document that identifies you as the ticket holder, even for minors (under 18 years of age).
• Where applicable, proof of being a Canary Islands resident, under 18 years of age, or a member of a Mountaineering or Caving Federation in Spain in order to qualify for the discounted rate.
• Trail entrance ticket for the booked time.
• Boat ticket for the Masca Bay-port of origin/destination journey.
• If minors will not be accompanied by their legal guardian, the latter must provide consent for the accompanying responsible person to do so. See the form here.

Clothes and accessories:

• Closed mountain hiking footwear and suitable clothing for hiking. * (Consult information).
• Helmet (this will be loaned to you by Masca Trail staff and must be returned at the end of the trail).
• Sufficient water (drinking water is not available along the trail). Minimum 1.5 litres per person.
• Mobile with charged battery.
• Specific medication (if required by medical prescription).

* Closed mountain hiking footwear and suitable clothing for hiking.

Mountain hiking boots or closed trekking shoes with deep lugs are essential for accessing the Masca Gorge trail. Even if you have a booking, you will not be allowed to access the trail if you aren’t wearing closed mountain hiking boots/shoes such as those shown in the following images:

If you have a booking to descend or ascend the Masca Gorge but are not wearing suitable closed mountain hiking footwear, you will not be permitted to access the trail. In other words, you cannot hike the trail in sandals, smooth-soled shoes or trainers, as shown in the following image:

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT:

• A hat to protect your head from the sun.
• Sunscreen.
• Sunglasses.
• Trekking poles.
• Some food.
• Garbage bag for waste.

And, as always, use your common sense at all times.