Visit Teide: Guide, Experience, and Tips

Visiting Tenerife is an experience that captivates travelers from around the world, and one of the main attractions that draws people to this stunning island is the Teide National Park. Home to the majestic Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain, this park offers breathtaking vistas, unique geological formations, and a rich biodiversity that beckons adventurers and nature lovers alike. In this guide, we will delve into everything you need to know about visiting the Teide, including practical tips for reaching the summit, the various trails available, and must-see spots within the park.

1. Discovering Teide, Spain's Highest Peak

Mount Teide rises to an impressive 3,718 meters, making it the tallest mountain in Spain. However, when measured from its base deep in the Atlantic Ocean, it ranks as the third highest mountain in the world. The entire volcanic structure, known as Las Cañadas del Teide, has been designated a National Park since 1954 and was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

What fuels the fascination with this natural wonder? For starters, its towering height is just one aspect. The park’s landscape features lunar-like terrains shaped over millions of years, offering a stunning backdrop of geological diversity. Visitors can also encounter a variety of endemic flora and fauna, making the Teide an ecological treasure trove worth exploring.

2. How to Reach Teide Independently

If you prefer to explore on your own, there are four main routes to reach Teide:

• From the North: Take the TF-21 road starting in La Orotava, which leads you through the picturesque area of Puerto de la Cruz.
• From the East: Use the TF-24 road to access the park from La Laguna or Santa Cruz. An alternative route from Güimar via TF-523 offers stunning views along the way.
• From the South: The TF-21 road is accessible for travelers coming from Granadilla, El Médano, or Los Cristianos.
• From the West: Follow the TF-38 road, especially recommended if you’re visiting from the Los Gigantes area.

The roads are well-maintained, though expect some winding sections as you approach the heart of the park, where the base station of the Teide Cable Car is located.

Your journey will take you through the Corona Forestal, a lush area with Canary pines and other native vegetation before transitioning into the stark, barren beauty of the Teide’s high-altitude landscape.

3. Visiting Teide via Organized Tours

For those who prefer a guided experience, numerous organized tours depart from various locations around the island. Here are a few noteworthy options:

• Teide Tour from Southern Tenerife (without cable car)
• Teide Tour + Cable Car Entry from the South
• Teide Tour from Northern Tenerife (without cable car)
• Teide Tour + Cable Car Entry from the North

Additionally, unique experiences enhance your visit, such as:

• Nocturnal Hiking in Las Cañadas del Teide
• Jeep Safari through Teide and Masca
• Stargazing at Teide

4. Is a Free Tour of Teide Possible?

Yes! A relatively new offering, the free tour of Teide includes transportation by minibus and a Spanish-speaking guide. While the tour is technically free, tipping is encouraged based on your experience.

This tour departs from the El Portillo Visitor Center, stopping at various viewpoints, culminating at the iconic Roques de García after approximately two hours. Keep in mind that spots are limited and tours run on a fixed schedule.

• Reserve your spot for the free Teide tour here

5. Must-See Locations in Teide National Park

While the cable car is a major highlight, it’s essential to spend time exploring the park. Here are some of our favorite spots:

• Mirador de Chipeque: Ideal for a stunning first view of Teide and its eastern slopes, often shrouded in clouds.
• Mirador de la Crucita: Offers breathtaking views toward the southeast, showcasing dramatic cliffs.
• The Teide Cake: A unique geological formation resembling a multi-layered cake due to its sedimentary layers.
• Mirador Piedra La Rosa: A rock formation shaped by wind and weather, resembling a giant rose.
• Teide Astronomical Observatory: One of the world's premier solar observatories, offering guided tours to learn about the cosmos.
• El Portillo Visitor Center: The perfect starting point for information about the park’s diverse flora and fauna.
• Tabonal Negro: A volcanic landscape characterized by striking red and black lava formations.
• Roques de García: Iconic rock formations that evoke images from fantasy films, surrounded by hiking trails.

6. Riding the Teide Cable Car

The Teide cable car is undoubtedly the best attraction and an unforgettable experience within the national park. Starting from 2,300 meters, it ascends in just 10 minutes over a distance of 2 kilometers, reaching the upper station at 3,555 meters.

Parking is ample and free at the base station. It’s advisable to check for available spots before heading to the cable car station to save yourself some walking. Facilities at the base include a restaurant, restrooms, and a gift shop.

Upon reaching the top, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the park, the volcano, and the entire island of Tenerife. At this elevation, you can embark on one of three hiking trails, leading to various viewpoints or the summit (with a permit).

How Much Does the Cable Car Cost and How to Book

The cable car departs every 10 minutes, and while tickets can be purchased on-site, it is recommended to reserve online ([official website](https://www.volcanoteide.com/es/volcano_teide/teleferico_del_teide/teleferico_del_teide)) to ensure your spot. The pricing structure for 2022 is as follows:

40€ round trip or 43.50€ with an audio guide (available for pickup at the information point or downloadable via the Volcano Teide Experience App).

Special prices are also available for sunset rides at 68€ round trip.

Precautions

If you have heart issues or are prone to vertigo, riding the cable car may not be advisable. Additionally, children under three years and pets are not permitted.

Be aware of the potential for altitude sickness at over 3,000 meters. Stay hydrated, take breaks, and avoid rushing your ascent to mitigate symptoms.

⭐ For more information on altitude sickness and prevention, check out this article on altitude sickness.

7. Hiking Trails in Teide

If you're feeling adventurous and want to explore further, the upper area of Mount Teide features three notable hiking trails that you can tackle:

Pico Viejo

The Pico Viejo trail is a must for those who want to experience the park's stunning landscapes without needing a permit. This 800-meter walk takes about 20 minutes, leading to a viewpoint overlooking the impressive Pico Viejo crater and the surrounding volcanic landscape.

La Fortaleza

Another shorter option, the La Fortaleza trail, provides views of ancient volcanic formations. This path is approximately 600 meters long and typically takes 15-20 minutes to complete, making it accessible to most visitors.

Pico del Teide (Telesforo Bravo)

For those who seek the ultimate challenge, the trail to the summit of Teide is a 700-meter journey with a challenging elevation gain of 165 meters. Due to the high altitude, it is crucial to pace yourself, taking breaks as needed.

Starting from a well-marked path, the trail soon becomes rocky and requires careful footing. Although not overly difficult, the altitude can make it feel strenuous. Expect to spend about 1 to 1.5 hours for the ascent, allowing time for photographs and rest.

Important: A permit is required to hike this trail. Only 200 people are allowed access daily, and reservations are often booked months in advance.

If you missed out on securing a permit, consider joining a guided tour that includes the cable car and summit ascent ([book here](https://www.civitatis.com/es/costa-adeje/entrada-teleferico-teide-senderismo-pico/?aid=1026)).

8. Ascending Teide from Montaña Blanca

The hike from Montaña Blanca to the summit of Teide presents a challenging yet rewarding journey spanning 8.5 kilometers with a significant elevation gain of 1,194 meters. The ascent typically takes 3-4 hours, starting from the Montaña Blanca parking area.

The trail begins on a dirt path leading to the flanks of Teide, where you'll follow the Lomo Tieso trail. This route was once traversed by notable scientists, offering stunning views of the northeastern sector of the park.

Upon reaching the base of the cable car at La Rambleta, if you're still feeling energetic, you can continue to the summit. Remember, a permit is required for this final ascent.

If you're hoping to catch the sunrise from the top, consider spending the night at the Altavista Refuge. This will allow an early morning start, but don't forget to reserve in advance and bring a flashlight!

For a more relaxed experience, consider joining a guided hiking tour that includes a permit and insights into the unique terrain and environment.

Map of Teide National Park

To assist with your planning, here’s a map indicating all key points of interest within Teide National Park:

Visiting Mount Teide is undoubtedly one of the highlights of any trip to Tenerife. Should you have any questions or wish to share your experiences, feel free to leave a comment!

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