Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
A wellbeing-in-nature experience is a slow-paced guided outdoor activity designed to help you switch off and pay attention to your surroundings: forest bathing (inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku), yoga or meditation in natural settings. In Tenerife it often takes place in the laurel forest (laurisilva) of Anaga or in the monteverde woodland, and also on the coast or in the pine forest.
It is neither a hiking route nor a therapy. This page explains how it usually works and what to ask so you choose well.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Guided outdoor wellbeing activity |
| Formats | Forest bathing, yoga, meditation, breathing or combinations |
| Pace | Very slow; little walking |
| Duration | Usually 2 to 4 hours. Depends on the provider |
| Usual locations | Laurel forest and monteverde (Anaga, Teno), pine forest, coast |
| Group | Small or private |
| Previous experience | Not needed |
| Price | Depends on the format, duration and group size |
What forest bathing is
Forest bathing is a slow, guided walk through a forest where the aim is not to get anywhere but to pay attention to what you see, hear, smell and touch. The guide suggests pauses and simple attention exercises.
In Tenerife, the Anaga laurel forest, with its humidity, its sounds and its filtered light, is one of the most popular settings.
Common formats
| Format | What it involves | Suits you if… |
|---|---|---|
| Forest bathing | Slow walk with attention exercises | You want to switch off without physical effort |
| Outdoor yoga | Yoga session in a natural setting | You practise yoga or want to try it somewhere different |
| Meditation or breathing | Calm guided session | You are looking for a quiet break |
| Combined | Walk and session on the same day | You want a full day of wellbeing |
| Private | Your group only | Celebrations, couples, company teams |
What happens
- Meeting at the starting point.
- Introduction to the activity and its guidelines.
- Slow walk or session with guided pauses.
- Moment of silence or contemplation.
- Wrap-up, sometimes with a herbal tea or a light snack.
What it is and what it is not
- It is a leisure activity for switching off in nature.
- It is not a medical or psychological treatment. It does not replace care from a health professional.
- It is not hiking: if you want to walk, see guided hiking in Anaga.
Who it suits
- People looking for a quiet break during their trip.
- Couples or groups who want something different.
- Company teams on wellbeing days.
- Travellers who do not want physical effort.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- Anyone looking for adventure or exercise.
- Fog and humidity: common in the laurel forest; wear suitable clothing.
- Reduced mobility: check the terrain at the chosen spot.
How to choose well
- Which format exactly, and how much walking is involved?
- Where does it take place?
- What training does the person guiding have? For example, in forest bathing guiding, yoga or environmental education.
- Group size?
- Is transport included, or do you have to make your own way there?
- What happens if it rains?
- Is a mat or other equipment included?
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Guide | Included | Training |
| Equipment (mat, blanket) | In some offers | If you need to bring it |
| Herbal tea or snack | In some offers | — |
| Transport | Rarely | How to get there |
Rules in natural areas
- Do not leave the paths or authorised areas.
- Do not pick plants or leave litter.
- In some protected areas, such as El Pijaral in Anaga, companies are not allowed to run tours.
Weather
- The laurel forest is damp and often in the clouds: bring a waterproof.
- On the south coast the sun is strong: go early or in the late afternoon.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure.
- Format and duration.
- Group or private.
- Transport and equipment.
What to bring
- Comfortable layers and a waterproof jacket.
- Closed shoes.
- Water.
- A mat, if the activity includes yoga and one is not provided.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| Walking further in the laurel forest | Guided hiking in Anaga |
| Nature interpretation | Ecotourism route |
| Birdwatching at a relaxed pace | Birdwatching in Tenerife |
| Looking at the night sky | Stargazing in Tenerife |
Frequently asked questions
What is forest bathing?
A slow, guided walk through the forest focused on paying attention to the senses. It is inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku.
Do I need to be fit?
No. There is little walking, and it is done slowly.
Where does it take place in Tenerife?
Mainly in the Anaga laurel forest and the monteverde woodland; also in pine forests and on the coast.
Is it a therapy?
No. It is a leisure activity for switching off, not a treatment.
What happens if it rains?
It depends on the provider: some go ahead in light rain and others change the date.
Can it be done privately?
Yes, for couples, families or company groups.
