If you want to discover new landscapes and make the most of your holidays, visiting Tilos de Moya in Gran Canaria is an unforgettable experience that will connect you with your senses.
The hiking route in Tilos de Moya is ideal for spending a morning doing sport as a family and introducing the youngest members of the household to this activity. But above all, it will be a unique moment of connection with the island’s own nature.
Before going hiking in Tilos de Moya, it is important to bear in mind what you need to immerse yourself in this incredible adventure among the lush laurel and tilo forests. It is estimated that there are around 35 species of Gran Canaria’s most threatened flora here, which find their vital space to grow in this area.
Anyone can visit this unique place, but it is essential to respect the environment. Tilos de Moya is a small forest whose preservation aims to recover endangered and endemic species of the island, where visitors and locals can feel the embrace of nature up close.
Tilos de Moya, an Ideal Paradise for Adventurers
Tilos de Moya is located within a protected area and covers a section of Barranco de Los Tilos, around two kilometres long, between the municipalities of Santa María de Guía and Moya, on the island of Gran Canaria.
It is an area of approximately 20 hectares of what was once the ancient Selva de Doramas, which used to cover a much larger area. However, due to its overexploitation for timber, it is now reduced to a protected area. Even so, Tilos de Moya still preserves its natural richness, which captivates hikers.
Within this area, we can enjoy two main adapted trails which, as well as helping us discover the habitat of these tertiary laurel forests, allow us to enjoy a day in contact with the greenest nature on the island.
Routes Through the Park
In Tilos de Moya we can find several routes. There are two that are more popular, and in this article we indicate which they are. However, if you want to discover its natural richness in greater depth, the Interpretation Centre next to the park offers a complete guide to other paths. It opens from Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and admission is free.
Route 1: From the interpretation centre, a circular trail of 1,900 metres begins, which is easy to complete and ideal for doing with children and people going on this type of excursion for the first time.
Route 2: Once this route is finished, there is another signposted circular route that takes around three hours and is about 9 kilometres long. This latter route is somewhat more difficult due to the elevation gain. However, if you are looking for adventure, it is perfect for you.
In both cases, hiking in Tilos de Moya is a highly recommended activity, surrounded by nature and admiring the unique landscape.
Without a doubt, the Tilos de Moya forest, through which our route runs, is a protected area that deserves to be visited, as it is the only laurel forest in Gran Canaria.
How to Prepare for Visiting Tilos de Moya
If we are going to do a Tilos de Moya route in summer, we should choose light and breathable clothing. The use of sun cream on the face and exposed areas of the body is also recommended.
On the other hand, if we are going to do a route during the cooler days of winter, autumn or spring, we should include garments that help preserve body heat while also allowing sweat to evaporate from our body.
The items of clothing that should not be missing from your wardrobe if you are going hiking are the following:
- T-shirts: breathable, thermal.
- Mountain trousers: short, convertible or long.
- Sweatshirts.
- Mountain jackets.
- Waterproof jackets.
- Sturdy trekking or sports footwear.
Everything will depend on the weather that day; the most important thing is to be comfortable so that you can complete the route without any problems. If you visit Tilos de Moya, try to find clothing that suits the moment: comfortable, fresh and, above all, footwear that provides stability for your ankles during a long walk
What to Carry in Your Hiking Backpack
Water. Especially in summer, drinking water while walking is essential to stay hydrated at all times. In addition, although the atmosphere in Tilos de Moya is really cool, it is always advisable to carry at least two litres of water.
Food. Apples, easy-to-carry fruits, nuts and even chocolate to maintain your energy. It is important to be prepared in case the route takes longer than expected and to carry something to eat in your backpack in case you feel hungry or tired.
Sun protection and sunglasses. Prolonged exposure to the sun is harmful at any time of year, as it can burn and redden the affected skin. Therefore, when visiting Tilos de Moya, it is essential to apply a layer of sun cream before leaving and repeat the process during the hike.
Mobile phone or GPS. Before starting, you can download the map of the area so you can check it without needing a connection. If you also have a physical map you can carry, perfect!
Basic first aid kit. Include a small toiletry bag in your backpack with the basics: alcohol, plasters, adhesive tape, cotton wool, hydrogen peroxide, small scissors, mercurochrome and a bandage. This will be enough in case of a cut from a branch or an insect bite. Also add an anti-inflammatory medicine and some antihistamines for allergies, if necessary.
After discovering the hiking routes in Tilos de Moya, all that is left is to prepare your backpack and enjoy one of the most surprising natural spaces in Gran Canaria. This laurel forest is perfect for a different kind of excursion during your holidays on the island.
If you are organising your trip and looking for accommodation in Gran Canaria, Lopesan Hotel Group has hotels in the south of the island from which you can plan excursions, hiking routes and visits to the most impressive natural spaces in Gran Canaria, combining nature, relaxation and a privileged location near the sea.
