Mount Teide: A Guide to Hiking Spain’s Highest Summit

Mount Teide stands as one of Tenerife’s most iconic landmarks without a doubt. This majestic volcano commands the island’s scenery and proudly claims the title of Spain’s highest summit. Whether you’re a passionate outdoor enthusiast or not, a trip to the Teide National Park is highly recommended. Moreover, at the summit, breathtaking views await, attainable with different levels of effort. Further details about hiking choices, cable car adventures, permits, and additional information can be found below.

Hiking Permit to Mount Teide

Those considering hiking to the top of Teide must know that a permit is mandatory. Moreover, when applying for online permission, it is crucial to secure it well in advance, preferably two or three months prior. The permit is applicable for trail number 10, Telesforo Bravo, which begins at La Rambleta (3,555 m) – the same location where the cable car stops. If you possess the permit, you can hike to Spain’s highest summit. However, even without a permit, you can still explore the surroundings and enjoy panoramic views.

How to obtain the Mount Teide Peak Permit?

To book the Pico del Teide access permit, visit the official website of Teide National Park. Subsequently, complete the permit with the following steps:

First step: Under the booking tab, select ‘General Public’ and proceed to the next step.
Second step: Choose an available date and time, specify the number of persons, and then proceed to the next step.
Third step: Fill out your details in the following step.
Final step: Confirm your details and either print out your permit or make a note of the permission number and access password.

Note: Alongside your permit, you must carry your ID/passport. The permit is only valid during the specified time. If you arrive early, you will need to wait, and if you arrive late, access will be denied by the guard.

Where to park to climb Mount Teide and how to get to the cable car?

Depending on whether you begin your ascent at the cable car station or the Montaña Blanca hiking start point, you can select your parking preference. These two parking lots are approximately 2.6 km apart.

BY CAR
For the hike: Set ‘Sendero de Montaña Blanca‘ as your destination, and you will easily locate the small parking lot. With only 12 parking spaces available, arriving early is advisable.

For the cable car: Enter Teide Cable Car or Teleférico del Teide as your destination, and the navigation system will guide you there. At the cable car base, there is a free parking area that can accommodate up to 220 vehicles.

BY BUS

There aren’t many bus options for travelling to the Teide cable car station, but you can take bus 342 from Costa Adeje or bus 348 from Puerto de la Cruz. Additionally, you can explore other bus options and transportation alternatives by checking schedules and routes here. Simply input ‘Parque Nacional del Teide’ as your destination to discover more travel choices.

Hiking options on Mount Teide

When it comes to hiking Mount Teide, one can choose from several hiking routes or take the cable car. However, below, I will list the options for both the cable car and the most famous hiking route starting from Montaña Blanca. Additionally, for a smoother and well-prepared hiking experience, check the status of the trails and cable cars. Also here you can check the current weather and the forecast for the upper cable car station at 3,555 m.

HIKE UP AND DOWN

This option to hike from Montaña Blanca to the Teide peak, offers a comprehensive hiking experience, allowing enthusiasts to immerse themselves in natural surroundings, push their physical limits, and relish completing the entire trail. Hikers can explore the landscape, enjoy scenic views, and potentially encounter diverse flora and fauna. As it typically demands more time than a cable car, it caters to those with ample time and a desire for a thorough hiking experience. It’s particularly suitable for individuals who relish physical activity, possess the necessary fitness level, and seek a more challenging adventure

Costs: free

HIKE UP AND COME DOWN BY CABLE CAR

This option offers a versatile experience, seamlessly combining the enjoyment of a scenic hike with the comfort of a cable car descent, providing a well-rounded adventure for a diverse range of visitors. Hiking up provides a physical challenge, allowing individuals to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings at a slower pace. On the descent, opting for the cable car offers a convenient and quicker journey, saving both time and energy. Consequently, this option strikes a balance between the physical exertion of hiking and the convenience of a cable car ride, catering to both adventure seekers and those desiring a more leisurely experience.

Costs: cable car descent ticket 23 EUR

Additional time: + 8 minutes with the cable car

GO UP BY CABLE CAR AND HIKE DOWN

This option is often chosen by those seeking to strike a balance between experiencing the thrill of hiking and taking advantage of the convenience of cable cars for uphill travel. Not only does taking the cable car up save the energy and effort required for the steep ascent, but it also offers a flexible combination of both modes of transportation. By hiking down, enthusiasts still immerse themselves in the natural surroundings, appreciating the landscape at a leisurely pace. Simultaneously, the cable car provides a quicker way to reach a higher starting point. This flexibility caters to individuals with varying fitness levels and preferences, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying experience.

Costs: cable car ascent ticket 23 EUR

Additional time: + 8 minutes with the cable car

GO UP BY CABLE CAR AND COME DOWN BY CABLE CAR

This option is not only convenient and comfortable but is particularly well-suited for those who wish to enjoy scenic beauty without engaging in extensive hiking. It provides a suitable choice for individuals preferring a more relaxed experience or those with concerns about physical fitness or health. However, reaching 3,555 m is easily done by cable car, but the hike to the peak at 3,718 m entails a short but steep ascent.

Costs: cable car return ticket 41 EUR

Additional time: 16 minutes with the cable car + the descent from the Teide Peak

Personal experience on the Mount Teide hike

I chose the first option because I genuinely wanted to experience the challenge of hiking to such a high summit. Being outdoors is something I truly love. It was a strenuous hike, not necessarily due to the length but more because of the steep ascent and high altitude. I tackled the Montaña Blanca to Teide Peak trail in February, and the weather was mostly sunny and windy. The ascent went smoothly, but on the way down, I experienced a headache and didn’t feel quite right. It could have been due to the significant elevation gain, and I probably should have stayed more hydrated.

How hard is the Mount Teide hike?

The difficulty of the Teide hike can vary based on the specific route chosen. The most common route, starting from Montaña Blanca, is challenging due to the steep ascent and high altitude. Hikers may experience fatigue and shortness of breath, especially if they are not acclimated to high elevations.

It’s important to consider factors such as your fitness level, previous experience with high-altitude hiking, and any potential health issues. Additionally, the weather conditions can impact the difficulty, as Teide’s summit can be cold and windy.

For those who may find the hike strenuous, an alternative is to take the cable car partway up and then hike to the summit. This option reduces the physical exertion while still allowing you to experience the breathtaking views from the summit.

Before attempting the Teide hike, it’s advisable to check current trail conditions, and weather forecasts, and ensure that you are adequately prepared with proper clothing, water, and any necessary permits.

What to bring on a hike to Mount Teide?

These items should be on your hiking checklist:

• Backpack
• Weather-appropriate clothing (be prepared for cold or rain)
• Food (sandwiches, energy bars, fruits, snacks, etc)
• Water
• Camera
• Sunscreen/Sunglasses
• First aid kit
• Headlight/flashlight
• Knife or multi-tool
• Gloves (if you are going in colder months)

Some interesting facts about the Teide National Park

World Heritage Designation: Teide National Park has earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its outstanding volcanic characteristics and distinct biodiversity.

Highest Peak in Spain: Mount Teide, the park’s centrepiece, is the highest peak in Spain and the third-tallest volcano on Earth from its base.

Volcanic Origins: The park is situated on a massive prehistoric volcanic explosion site, forming the stunning caldera that characterises the landscape.

Lunar Landscape: Some areas of Teide National Park, especially around the summit, have an otherworldly appearance, often used by scientists to simulate conditions on Mars.

Teide Observatory: Nestled within the park is the Teide Observatory, renowned as one of the world’s premier astronomical observatories, thanks to its elevated location, pristine skies, and minimal light interference.

Flora and Fauna: Despite the formidable volcanic surroundings, the park harbours diverse plant and animal species that have uniquely adapted to the demanding conditions.

Star Gazing: Teide National Park is renowned for its exceptional conditions for stargazing. The clear skies and high elevation make it a popular destination for astronomers and astrophotographers.

Teide Cable Car: Visitors can take a cable car to ascend near the summit of Mount Teide, providing breathtaking views of the park and beyond.

Ancient Guanche Connection: The Guanches, the indigenous people of the Canary Islands, considered Mount Teide a sacred mountain. They believed it to be the home of the gods.

Filming Location: The park has served as a filming location for various movies, including scenes for “Clash of the Titans” and “One Million Years B.C.” The unique landscape has a cinematic quality that attracts filmmakers.

Other hiking options besides Mount Teide

If you’re not inclined to tackle a challenging terrain, there’s a much easier hike called Mirador de Samara. It offers a delightful contrast between the volcanic landscape and the lush green pine trees. You can find all the information about this shorter hike here.

In conclusion, embarking on the journey to Mount Teide, Spain’s highest summit, unfolds a remarkable adventure, seamlessly blending natural wonders, physical challenges, and awe-inspiring vistas. Whether you lean towards the invigorating ascent of a hike or prefer the convenience of cable cars, Mount Teide stands as an enduring testament to the unique beauty of Tenerife. This guide diligently aims to provide you with essential insights, ensuring your journey is not just a hike but a richly enriching experience. As you take each step on this iconic peak, may the memories created become indelible imprints of your exploration. May your entire Mount Teide adventure be a tapestry of awe-inspiring moments, fostering a profound appreciation for the remarkable landscapes that define this extraordinary destination.

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