The VII Master Games organized by the Tenerife Island Council aim to promote adopting active lifestyles for adults aged 30 and above. José Carlos Herrero, a senior technician in Education and Environmental Control, favours hiking, the most popular activity within the programme. The expert has led four out of the five planned routes for this edition, with the remaining one set to explore the Las Lecheras trail connecting the two cities in the metropolitan area, Santa Cruz and La Laguna. These trails can serve as an introduction, as prior hiking experience is not necessary. “We have explored Anaga, Teno, Granadilla de Abona, and Teide, the routes have been a complete success,” highlights the mountain guide and National Parks expert.
Whether Canary Islanders or tourists, proper planning before heading out into the field is essential when hiking. Herrero stresses that clothing and footwear are crucial aspects of preparation. Additionally, he advises checking the weather, monitoring forecasts and alerts, and being aware of factors like altitude. In the Teide National Park, all trails are above 2,000 meters, potentially impacting health.
Hiking has experienced a surge post-pandemic. The technician believes there are both positive and negative effects of this activity’s popularity. “The good part is that many people have opted to discover the island, appreciate it, and raise environmental awareness. The downside, undoubtedly, is the crowding,” he explains.
Herrero attributes a significant portion of environmental damage to ignorance: “You cannot hike without knowing whether you are crossing a Protected Natural Area, nor should you veer off the path as it could damage the area’s flora and fauna.” Therefore, it is crucial to inquire at the appropriate information office for each visit and be aware that actions such as flying a drone without permission have consequences on local birdlife.
There is no zero risk in conserving the trails. The technician underscores that misuse of these paths is the main threat. “If regulations in Protected Natural Areas are not respected, Emergency Services have to intervene, which we see almost daily,” he argues.
“Venturing alone in the mountains is reckless”
For the expert, it is ideal for a minimum of three people to always hike a trail. Thus, if there is any issue, one person can stay with the injured party while another seeks help. “Venturing alone in the mountains is reckless,” emphasizes the guide. He also notes that the three main recommendations are to “plan the activity, equip yourself properly, and act accordingly.” Rescues, he asserts, are often preceded by neglecting one of these three pieces of advice.
Physical condition is another key aspect. Embarking on a trail like climbing Teide without the required preparation endangers the person and often necessitates the mobilization of rescue teams. “Straying off the trail is also not advisable. Besides being the area with the least impact on the landscape, it is also the safest place to hike,” he comments. Without orientation skills, the chances of getting lost in the mountains are high. The guide recommends that novices in hiking set realistic and long-term goals to first achieve optimal physical fitness, as well as to always seek advice from professionals familiar with the area.
