Mirador de la Tarta
Witness Tenerife's volcanic heart at Mirador de la Tarta, showcasing stunning geological layers and panoramic views of Mount Teide.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Mirador de la Tarta
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness Tenerife's volcanic heart at Mirador de la Tarta, showcasing stunning geological layers and panoramic views of Mount Teide.
"Amazing views, wonderful place to stop and see the scenic magnificence of this beautiful island."
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Plenty of designated car stops for easy access and viewing. :car:
📸 Capture the Layers
Don't miss the unique volcanic rock formations, a photographer's dream. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Volcanic Layers
Mirador de la Tarta
Witness the distinct geological layers formed by past lava eruptions, a testament to the volcano's history.

Teide Volcano Panorama
Mirador de la Tarta
Gaze upon the majestic Teide volcano, often seen rising above the clouds, offering a breathtaking spectacle.

Astronomical Observatory Views
Mirador de la Tarta
Spot the impressive Izaña astronomical observatories, a reminder of the clear skies and scientific endeavors in the region.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Best Views
Geological Wonders and Astronomical Sights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Plenty of designated car stops for easy access and viewing. :car:
📸 Capture the Layers
Don't miss the unique volcanic rock formations, a photographer's dream. :camerawithflash:
🔭 Gaze at the Stars (Daytime)
See the Izaña astronomical observatories from this vantage point. :telescope:
☀️ Prepare for Sun
Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be intense even on cooler days. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Plenty of designated car stops for easy access and viewing. :car:
📸 Capture the Layers
Don't miss the unique volcanic rock formations, a photographer's dream. :camerawithflash:
🔭 Gaze at the Stars (Daytime)
See the Izaña astronomical observatories from this vantage point. :telescope:
☀️ Prepare for Sun
Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be intense even on cooler days. :sunwithface:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible, scenic magnificence of Mirador de la Tarta, highlighting the amazing views of El Teide and the unique geological layers left by volcanic eruptions. Many appreciate the ample parking and find it a wonderful, unique place to stop and soak in the island's beauty.
"What an incredible viewpoint. Watching El Teide and the scope of La Orotava from here really is amazing. Ample spots to park. Certainly returning."
Thomas Türling
"Amazing views, wonderful place to stop and see the scenic magnificence of this beautiful island.
You can see the multiple eruptions of the volcano in the surrounding rocks. And the astronomy Observatories."
Helen Christie
"Beautiful rocks and road. There are a number of designated car stops to view the hills and the amazing landscape."
Himanshu Singh Karki
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mirador de la Tarta is located on the TF-24 road, ascending from La Esperanza towards Las Cañadas. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available.
Many visitors drive up from La Laguna or Santa Cruz.Yes, the TF-24 is a beautiful scenic route, offering stunning views as you climb towards the higher altitudes of Tenerife. The drive itself is part of the experience.
Public transport options to this specific mirador are limited. It's best accessed by a rental car or a guided tour that includes stops along the TF-24.
The road is well-maintained and paved, suitable for all vehicles. It's a winding mountain road, so drive cautiously and enjoy the changing landscapes.
Absolutely! Mirador de la Tarta is a perfect stop during a day trip to Teide National Park. You can combine it with visits to other viewpoints and attractions in the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Mirador de la Tarta is a public viewpoint and does not require an entrance fee. You can visit and enjoy the views freely.
As an outdoor viewpoint, Mirador de la Tarta is accessible 24/7. However, the best viewing times are during daylight hours, especially sunrise and sunset.
No, parking at the designated spots around Mirador de la Tarta is free of charge.
Typically, there are no specific facilities like restrooms or shops directly at the mirador itself. It's a natural viewpoint.
While accessible at night, visibility will be limited to the stars. For the geological and landscape views, daytime or sunset is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The unique volcanic rock layers are a must-capture.
The panoramic views of Teide and the surrounding landscape, especially during golden hour, are spectacular.For sunset, consider a slightly longer exposure to capture the colors and a wider aperture for landscape shots. A tripod is recommended for low-light conditions.
Given its altitude and distance from light pollution, it can be a good spot for astrophotography, especially if you can capture the Milky Way over Teide.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) offers the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography, highlighting the textures and colors of the terrain.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check the latest rules for Teide National Park before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
You can see the impressive Teide volcano, the Izaña astronomical observatories, and the unique geological formations showcasing layers of volcanic eruptions.
Most visitors spend 30 minutes to an hour here, enough time to take photos, admire the views, and learn about the geology.
The viewpoint is generally accessible from the parking areas, but the terrain can be uneven. It's advisable to check specific accessibility details if needed.
Wear comfortable shoes as you might walk around the viewpoint. Layers are recommended as temperatures can change quickly at higher altitudes, even in summer.
While Mirador de la Tarta is primarily a viewpoint, the surrounding area within Teide National Park offers numerous hiking opportunities for those who wish to explore further.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are no playgrounds, the open space around the viewpoint allows children to explore safely (under supervision, of course). The dramatic views of Teide can also be quite awe-inspiring for younger visitors. Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Visiting during the day, rather than sunset, might be more manageable with younger children to avoid late hours and potential crowds.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
It's an ideal spot to pull over, take in the panoramic views of Teide and the surrounding volcanic terrain, and appreciate the geological history laid bare in the rock formations. The readily available parking makes it a convenient and rewarding stop without requiring a long detour. Combine it with other viewpoints along the route for a comprehensive scenic drive experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Marvel of Mirador de la Tarta
These geological features are not just visually striking but also scientifically significant. They offer insights into the eruption history and the composition of the volcanic material. The surrounding landscape is a testament to the raw power of nature, with vast expanses of volcanic rock and sparse vegetation adapted to this harsh environment. It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the dynamic geological processes that continue to shape our planet.
Many visitors are fascinated by the visible evidence of past eruptions. The rocks themselves become a natural museum, showcasing the different phases of volcanic activity. It’s a stark reminder of the island's fiery origins and the ongoing geological evolution of the Canary Islands. The clarity with which these layers are visible makes Mirador de la Tarta a standout location for anyone interested in geology or simply awe-inspired by natural wonders.
Capturing the Iconic Teide and Beyond
Beyond Teide, the mirador offers expansive views of the Izaña astronomical observatories. These impressive facilities, perched high on the mountain, are a testament to Tenerife's reputation as one of the best places in the world for stargazing. Seeing them from Mirador de la Tarta adds another layer of wonder to the landscape, hinting at the scientific exploration happening in this remote region. The combination of natural volcanic beauty and human scientific endeavor creates a unique visual narrative.
For photographers, Mirador de la Tarta is a dream location, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The changing light dramatically enhances the textures of the volcanic rock and the colors of the landscape. Whether you're capturing the vastness of the Teide National Park or the intricate details of the geological layers, this viewpoint offers endless photographic opportunities. Remember to bring your camera and perhaps a tripod for those magical twilight shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit