Teide National Park
Explore Spain's highest peak and a surreal volcanic wonderland, offering Mars-like landscapes and world-class stargazing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Spectacular sunsets above clouds
Teide National Park
Best Time
Spectacular sunsets above clouds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Spain's highest peak and a surreal volcanic wonderland, offering Mars-like landscapes and world-class stargazing.
"It feels like you’re walking on another planet with all the volcanic rocks and dramatic landscapes."
🚗 Drive Cautiously
Roads can be narrow; be mindful of larger vehicles and white line cutting on corners.
☀️ Pack Sunscreen & Hat
The sun is intense at high altitudes, even when it's cool.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Roques de García
Near Parador de Cañadas del Teide
Iconic rock formations offering surreal, Mars-like landscapes and stunning views of Mount Teide. A must-see for photographers and hikers.
Mount Teide Summit
Via Cable Car
Ascend to Spain's highest peak for breathtaking panoramic views above the clouds. Summit permits are required for the final ascent.
Minas de San José
Volcanic landscape area
Explore an otherworldly terrain of volcanic rocks and craters, feeling like you're walking on the Moon or Mars.
Stargazing at Night
Various viewpoints
Experience exceptional stargazing with minimal light pollution, revealing the Milky Way and constellations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Teide Adventure
Altitude and Weather Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Cautiously
Roads can be narrow; be mindful of larger vehicles and white line cutting on corners.
☀️ Pack Sunscreen & Hat
The sun is intense at high altitudes, even when it's cool.
🧥 Bring a Jacket
Temperatures drop significantly, especially after sunset. Layers are key!
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the varied terrain and hiking trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Cautiously
Roads can be narrow; be mindful of larger vehicles and white line cutting on corners.
☀️ Pack Sunscreen & Hat
The sun is intense at high altitudes, even when it's cool.
🧥 Bring a Jacket
Temperatures drop significantly, especially after sunset. Layers are key!
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the varied terrain and hiking trails.
💧 Carry Water & Snacks
Amenities are scarce on many routes; come prepared.
📸 Tripod for Night Shots
Ideal for capturing the stunning night sky and Milky Way.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Teide National Park for its breathtaking, otherworldly volcanic landscapes and exceptional stargazing opportunities. The drive through the park and the views from Mount Teide are frequently highlighted as unforgettable experiences. Some note the need for advance booking for the cable car and summit permits, and the importance of being prepared for changing weather conditions.
"Amazing place. We hired a car and drove here. Narrow ish roads so be cautious of larger vehicles cutting the white lines to make the corners. Views en route were breathtaking. We pulled in at a few spots including base of the volcano for sightseeing and photos. Truly amazing scenery, a must if you visit the area."
N J Recycling Services
"Absolutely beautiful region during the day but especially at NIGHT. Would 100% recommend to anyone who enjoys stargazing or any sort of astronomy. Bring a camera and a towel to lay down and look up. Do the sunset in the summer around 9pm to see the surrounding islands and then drive up further to the National park around Mirador de La Ruleta, there’s plenty of parking and room to use a camera with a tripod! A highlight of our holiday."
Theo Bryson
"Absolutely breathtaking volcanic landscape. The charred earth and sparse vegetation made every sign of life more beautiful.
We took route 13 and completed it in around 2hrs with a couple of detours. There were no amenities on our route so make sure you pack all you need.
Definitely worth a visit!"
Omoloro Oyegoke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach Teide National Park from Tenerife South Airport (TFS) is by renting a car. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via the TF-21 highway. Alternatively, you can book a guided tour that includes transportation.
Yes, you can visit Teide National Park via organized tours or public buses. However, having a car offers the most flexibility to explore at your own pace and stop at various viewpoints.
The TF-21 is the main road that winds through the park, offering access to key attractions like Roques de García and the cable car station. Driving offers breathtaking volcanic landscapes.
Yes, there are parking areas available at major attractions such as the cable car station and viewpoints like Mirador de La Ruleta. Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
You can hike in many areas of Teide National Park without a permit. However, to reach the summit crater of Mount Teide, a permit is required, which must be booked months in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Teide National Park itself is free. However, you will need to purchase tickets for the Teide Cable Car and potentially a permit to hike to the summit.
The price for the Teide Cable Car can vary, but it's advisable to check the official website for current pricing and to book your tickets in advance to avoid queues.
Summit permits for Mount Teide are limited and must be booked online through the official national park website, often months in advance.
The Teide Cable Car typically operates daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date operating schedule before your visit.
While it might be possible to buy tickets on the day, it's highly recommended to book online in advance to guarantee your spot and avoid disappointment, especially during busy periods.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Roques de García loop for unique rock formations and the hike to the summit (with a permit). Many shorter trails offer stunning volcanic scenery.
For stunning sunsets and to be above the clouds, summer evenings around 9 PM are ideal. Weekdays offer fewer crowds for daytime exploration.
Dress in layers. Bring a jacket as it gets chilly, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat due to the high altitude and strong sun.
Yes, families can enjoy the scenic drives, short walks, and the cable car. The unique landscapes are fascinating for children.
Teide is renowned for its exceptional stargazing due to minimal light pollution. It's a prime location for observing the night sky.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a Parador hotel with a restaurant near Roques de García, and a cafe at the base station of the cable car. However, options are limited, so packing snacks is recommended.
Yes, picnicking is allowed in designated areas. It's a great way to enjoy the unique scenery while having a meal. Remember to take all your trash with you.
In the nearby towns and villages, you can find traditional Canarian cuisine, including fresh seafood and local specialties.
Dining at the Parador hotel can be on the pricier side. Bringing your own food and drinks is a more budget-friendly option.
It's advisable to bring high-energy snacks and plenty of water, especially if you plan on hiking. Avoid heavy meals before strenuous activity at high altitude.
📸 📸 Photography
Roques de García, Minas de San José, and any viewpoint offering vistas of Mount Teide and the surrounding volcanic plains are excellent for photos.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for the volcanic landscapes. Midday can be harsh, but the unique terrain still makes for striking shots. +1
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes, and a tripod is essential for astrophotography.
Yes, several tour operators offer specialized photography tours that take you to the best locations at optimal times.
Capture the surreal, Mars-like terrain, the dramatic rock formations, the cable car ascending Mount Teide, and the incredible night sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. Ensure children are dressed in layers, as temperatures can be cooler than on the coast. Short, easy walks are available, and the sheer scale of the volcanic formations will capture their imagination. It's a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about geology and nature in a truly memorable setting.
🌌 Astrophotography Enthusiasts
To make the most of your night photography, bring a sturdy tripod, a camera with good low-light performance, and a wide-angle lens. Plan your visit for a new moon phase for the darkest skies. Popular spots include areas around Mirador de La Ruleta and Mirador de La Tarta for unobstructed views.
🚗 Road Trip Adventurers
Be prepared for winding roads and be cautious of other vehicles. The journey itself is an adventure, with the landscape constantly changing as you ascend. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the unique terrain, and allow ample time to stop and explore the various geological wonders.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Volcanic Landscapes
+1Visitors can explore these landscapes through various hiking trails or by driving along the scenic roads. Areas like Minas de San José are particularly striking, with their barren, colorful earth and rock formations that evoke images of Mars. The sheer scale and unique geology of the park provide endless opportunities for exploration and photography, offering a stark contrast to the island's coastal areas.
Whether you're trekking through the lava fields or simply admiring the views from a roadside pull-off, the volcanic heart of Tenerife is an unforgettable experience. The park's dramatic scenery is a testament to the powerful geological forces that shaped the Canary Islands.
The Magic of Teide at Night
Visitors can witness the Milky Way in all its glory, identify constellations, and even spot shooting stars. Many travelers recommend bringing a camera with a tripod to capture the breathtaking celestial displays. The experience of looking up at a sky teeming with stars, with the silhouette of Mount Teide in the foreground, is truly magical and often cited as a highlight of a Tenerife holiday.
For the best experience, consider visiting on a clear night, away from any artificial light sources. Several viewpoints offer excellent vantage points for astrophotography and simply marveling at the cosmos. It's an opportunity to connect with the universe in a profound way.
Hiking and Summiting Mount Teide
Even without a summit permit, there are numerous trails that allow you to explore the caldera and its fascinating geological features. The Roques de García area offers a popular loop trail that showcases the iconic rock formations. It's crucial to be prepared for the altitude, as even those in good shape can feel the effects.
Remember to pack plenty of water, snacks, and wear appropriate footwear and clothing. The weather can change quickly, so being prepared for varying conditions is essential for a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit