Mirador de La Centinela
Breathtaking volcanic vistas and ancient heritage await at Mirador de La Centinela, a scenic viewpoint in Tenerife.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Best light for photos
Mirador de La Centinela
Best Time
Best light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Breathtaking volcanic vistas and ancient heritage await at Mirador de La Centinela, a scenic viewpoint in Tenerife.
"Breathtaking view!!! You can see the fascinating landscape, of volcanic origin."
🚗 Access Road Improvements
Road improvements are underway, aiming for completion by mid-August. Expect better access soon!
💧 Bring Your Own Water
No facilities available, so pack water and snacks for your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Island Views
Soak in sweeping vistas of Tenerife's dramatic volcanic terrain and coastline. A truly unforgettable sight.

Roque de Jama
Admire the striking volcanic rock formation, a prominent feature of the natural landscape.
Archaeological Heritage
Discover ancient rock carvings and learn about the area's rich cultural past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Mirador de La Centinela
Accessibility and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Access Road Improvements
Road improvements are underway, aiming for completion by mid-August. Expect better access soon!
💧 Bring Your Own Water
No facilities available, so pack water and snacks for your visit.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Some walking is involved to explore the area and see the rock carvings.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, perfect for photography.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Access Road Improvements
Road improvements are underway, aiming for completion by mid-August. Expect better access soon!
💧 Bring Your Own Water
No facilities available, so pack water and snacks for your visit.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Some walking is involved to explore the area and see the rock carvings.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, perfect for photography.
⚠️ Check for Closures
The viewpoint has been temporarily cordoned off before. Always check local status.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views and the fascinating volcanic landscape at Mirador de La Centinela. However, many note the disappointment of closed facilities, including the restaurant and coffee shop, meaning visitors must come prepared with their own refreshments. Some have also encountered temporary closures of the viewpoint itself.
"A place worth visiting.
No restaurants or restrooms available. But a great view."
Reinhold Schwanz
"Very nice viewpoint, but it's a shame that the restaurant is closed so you can't drink or eat anything."
Dean Rajko
"Great views in all directions. You can see the fascinating landscape, of volcanic origin. Unfortunately, the coffee shop no longer exists."
Bernd Knoop
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mirador de La Centinela is located between the municipalities of Arona and San Miguel in Tenerife. Access is via local roads, and recent improvements are being made to the access road, expected to be completed by mid-August.
Information on direct public transportation is limited. It's recommended to check local bus routes for San Miguel de Abona or Arona and consider a taxi for the final leg of the journey. Renting a car offers the most flexibility.
Road improvements are ongoing and are expected to be finished by mid-August, which should enhance the accessibility to the viewpoint.
Yes, driving is the most common way to reach Mirador de La Centinela. Parking availability can vary, especially during peak times.
Mirador de La Centinela is located in the south of Tenerife, while Puerto de la Cruz is in the north. The drive between them can take over an hour, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Mirador de La Centinela is a natural viewpoint and typically does not require an entrance fee. However, it's advisable to check for any temporary access restrictions or charges.
As a natural viewpoint, Mirador de La Centinela is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, there have been instances of the viewpoint being temporarily closed for maintenance or other reasons.
Currently, there is no admission fee mentioned for accessing the viewpoint itself.
Visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and the lack of lighting. The best experience is during daylight hours to appreciate the views and surroundings.
No specific booking requirements are usually necessary for visiting the viewpoint. However, if any interpretation centers or specific activities are planned, it's best to check their individual booking policies.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are during the golden hours – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – for soft, dramatic lighting. Midday offers clear views but can have harsh shadows.
You can capture stunning panoramic landscapes, the unique Roque de Jama, ancient rock carvings, and the surrounding volcanic terrain.
Drone usage regulations can vary by region and park. It's essential to check local drone laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area.
The main viewpoint offers expansive vistas. Exploring slightly off the main path (safely) might reveal different angles of the landscape and Roque de Jama.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the panoramic views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of Roque de Jama or distant landscapes. A tripod can help with low-light photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Unfortunately, the restaurant and coffee shop at Mirador de La Centinela are currently closed. Visitors should bring their own food and drinks.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can enjoy a picnic with the stunning views. Please ensure you clean up after yourself and take all trash with you.
The nearest dining options would be in the nearby towns of San Miguel de Abona or Arona. These towns offer local Canarian cuisine.
No, there are no facilities to purchase snacks or drinks at the viewpoint as the associated establishments are closed.
In nearby towns like San Miguel de Abona, you can expect traditional Canarian dishes, fresh seafood, and local wines.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Tenerife's volcanic landscape, admire the Roque de Jama, and explore ancient rock carvings.
A visit to Mirador de La Centinela can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend admiring the views and exploring the immediate surroundings.
Yes, children can enjoy the open space and the impressive views. However, adult supervision is crucial, especially near any edges or uneven terrain.
While not a primary hiking destination, the area around Mirador de La Centinela offers opportunities for short walks to explore the natural surroundings and historical sites.
Mirador de La Centinela is significant for its archaeological heritage, including ancient rock carvings, and its role as a cultural landmark in San Miguel de Abona.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Bring plenty of water and snacks as there are no facilities. Ensure children are supervised closely, particularly near any edges. Comfortable shoes are a must if you plan to explore the immediate vicinity to look for rock carvings. The drive itself might be part of the adventure, so consider it a scenic stop on a larger itinerary.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶 Nature Lovers & Hikers
Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for the elements. The site is best enjoyed during daylight hours to fully appreciate the landscape. Consider combining a visit with nearby natural attractions for a more immersive nature experience on the island.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Natural Beauty
The area is situated at a strategic point, providing unobstructed vistas that are particularly captivating during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The interplay of light and shadow across the volcanic slopes creates a dynamic and ever-changing panorama. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the raw, untamed beauty of the Canary Islands.
While the immediate viewpoint is the main attraction, the surrounding natural environment invites gentle exploration. Remember to wear appropriate footwear if you plan to venture slightly off the paved areas to get different vantage points or explore the immediate vicinity.
A Glimpse into the Past: Heritage and Archaeology
The area is being developed into an interpretation center for this unique archaeological heritage, aiming to preserve and showcase these ancient findings. This initiative highlights the importance of the site not just as a viewpoint but as a living museum of Tenerife's past. Visitors can learn about the historical context and the ongoing efforts to protect these valuable artifacts.
Exploring these historical elements adds another layer to the Mirador de La Centinela experience. It transforms a simple scenic stop into an educational journey, allowing visitors to appreciate the deep cultural roots of the Canary Islands.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Amenities
Road access to the viewpoint is undergoing improvements, with works expected to be completed by mid-August. This suggests that while access is currently possible, the enhancements will likely make the journey smoother and more pleasant in the near future. It's always a good idea to check for any last-minute updates on road conditions or potential temporary closures before your visit.
For those looking to explore the area, comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as there may be short walks involved to fully appreciate the site and its surroundings, including the rock carvings. While the primary draw is the view, the historical and natural elements make it a worthwhile stop for a few hours.
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