Two foreign hikers were successfully rescued by helicopter from the cliffs of Los Gigantes in the southwest of Tenerife on Thursday afternoon, after reaching a point where they couldn’t continue due to severe fatigue.
CECOES received an alert at 7:10pm and emergency teams were quickly dispatched to the scene, including the fire brigade, the local police, and a helicopter from the Canary Islands Emergency Group (GES).
Upon arrival, the GES helicopter was placed on standby, ready to assist in the rescue operation, but it was quickly evident that the area they were in was too difficult to access, so they airlifted the two holidaymakers to safety where medical personnel assessed and treated them.
Rescuing hikers in Tenerife is a crucial and often challenging task due to the island's diverse and rugged terrain. The island is known for its dramatic landscapes, including volcanic peaks, deep ravines, and towering cliffs, which attract thousands of outdoor enthusiasts each year.
However, these natural wonders can quickly become perilous for hikers who are unprepared or face unexpected difficulties, such as fatigue, injury, or sudden changes in weather.
Rescue operations often involve coordinated efforts between local police, fire brigade, and specialised units like the Canary Islands Emergency Group (GES), which may deploy helicopters to reach inaccessible areas.
These helicopter rescues can cost victims up to €3,000 if they don’t have the correct travel insurance that covers this type of medical intervention.
