Rising from the heart of Tenerife, Mount Teide is Spain’s highest peak, dominating the landscape at a whopping 3,715 metres. The volcano is the centrepiece of the UNESCO-listed Teide National Park and should be on your wish list if iconic natural attractions and wild scenery get your pulse racing.
Fertile soil supports pine forests and bright wildflowers, creating a surprising contrast to the black and rusty-red lava fields you can walk among. Eruptions over thousands of years formed the mountain, which has long held a special place in the island’s history. It was sacred to the indigenous Guanche people and still enthrals visitors today with its otherworldly scenery and panoramic views.
Every time of day offers a different way to experience Mount Teide’s beauty. From early morning hikes and riding the cable car to sunset views and clear night skies on a star gazing tour, your visit to Mount Teide is one to remember.
Things to know before you visit Mount Teide National Park
Be weather-ready and bring a light jacket; it can feel cooler in the evening
Wheelchair access is limited to viewpoints and visitor centres
Hiking trails are on uneven volcanic terrain and are not suitable for wheelchairs
Café and toilet facilities by the cable car base station
Bring plenty of water and snacks as facilities are limited
Dogs are welcome on leads in many parts of the park
Assistance animals are allowed on the cable car
Hiking trails are open all year round, but check weather conditions before setting out
Cable car opening times vary by season but are roughly 9.00am to 5.00pm – check before you go
Summit permits from the national park authorities are required to hike to the summit crater
When to visit Mount Teide
Mount Teide is spectacular year-round. Spring brings colourful wildflowers, while summer offers long, clear days. Autumn is ideal for quieter trails and mild temperatures, and winter can reveal snow-dusted volcanic landscapes. Early mornings offer the clearest views, while sunset and stargazing tours showcase the mountain at its most magical.
How to get to Mount Teide
Mount Teide National Park is located in the centre of Tenerife, in the Canary Islands and most beach resorts are within an easy, 90-minute reach.
Tour transfer:
An organised tour that includes a transfer is by far the easiest way to access and enjoy the park.
By bus:
It is possible to visit Teide by bus, but services are limited and often run only once per day from Costa Adeje in the south and from Puerto de la Cruz in the north.
By car:
Parking is limited but there’s a free car park near the Teide Cable Car base station. Additional parking can be found near Roques de García, El Portillo Visitor Centre and the Parador area.
