Roques de García Tenerife
Explore surreal volcanic landscapes and marvel at iconic rock formations with breathtaking views of Mount Teide.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Roques de García Tenerife
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore surreal volcanic landscapes and marvel at iconic rock formations with breathtaking views of Mount Teide.
"The landscape is stunning, and the views of Teide are spectacular. Do bring plenty of water however."
🚗 Parking Challenges
Arrive early to secure parking, as it fills up quickly, especially with tour buses. :car:
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring ample water! The high altitude and dry air are dehydrating, even on cooler days. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Roques de García Rock Formations
Teide National Park
Marvel at surreal, otherworldly rock formations against the backdrop of Mount Teide. Feels like another planet!
Mount Teide Views
Along the trail
Spectacular, panoramic views of Spain's highest peak, Mount Teide, dominate the landscape.
Volcanic Landscape
Teide National Park
Experience a unique, Mars-like terrain with vast lava fields and volcanic cones.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Pack Smart for the Altitude
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Challenges
Arrive early to secure parking, as it fills up quickly, especially with tour buses. :car:
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring ample water! The high altitude and dry air are dehydrating, even on cooler days. :droplet:
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
There's no shade on the trail. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself. :sunwithface:
🥾 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy walking shoes. The terrain is uneven in places, and good grip is helpful. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Challenges
Arrive early to secure parking, as it fills up quickly, especially with tour buses. :car:
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring ample water! The high altitude and dry air are dehydrating, even on cooler days. :droplet:
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
There's no shade on the trail. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself. :sunwithface:
🥾 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy walking shoes. The terrain is uneven in places, and good grip is helpful. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Scenery
The unique landscapes are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera or phone! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Roques de García for its stunning, otherworldly landscapes and spectacular views of Mount Teide. The hike is described as easy and unique, offering a memorable experience. However, some note that parking can be challenging, and the lack of shade makes it very hot on sunny days.
"Absolutely a great hike. The landscape is stunning, and the views of Teide are spectacular. Do bring plenty of water however- even in the morning when it's cool, the dry, high elevation is very dehydrating.
The difficulty of the hike is sort of dependent upon which direction you start. If you start your hike clockwise, you'll descend the steepest portion immediately. The trail will take you to the bottom of the "valley" (lava flow) and as you continue, you'll slowly climb back to the original elevation and mostly stay at that all the way back. If you opt to start counterclockwise, it's a super easy, flat hike until you slowly descend. Then you have a pretty short but substantially steeper hike back up to the car park.
As others have said, parking can be challenging. If you're here early it's easy, but late morning into afternoon and it gets very busy. It appears that they are expanding the car park, but I think it's just to add more space for busses.
This is a wonderful hike in a beautiful setting. We definitely recommend it."
Kevin
"A short and easy hike with amazing views of Teide and the surrounding landscape. There’s a fun little climb at the end and along the way you’ll find posters with interesting info about the volcano and rock formations. It can get crowded and there’s no shade, so the hike can feel challenging on a hot summer day."
Giedrė Kairelytė
"Probably the best/unique looking trail in Tenerife. Very easy, suitable for anyone. It's a loop, with only one steep incline near the parking lot."
Alin Zaharia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Roques de García is by car, driving through Teide National Park. Parking is available near the Parador de Cañadas del Teide. Be aware that parking can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Some visitors also arrive via organized tours or buses.
Yes, you can visit via organized tours or public buses that go to Teide National Park. However, having a car offers more flexibility to explore the park at your own pace.
From the south of Tenerife, you'll typically take the TF-21 highway towards Vilaflor and then continue into the national park. From the north, the TF-21 also leads you up. The drive itself offers stunning scenery.
While there are no specific permits needed to drive through Teide National Park or hike the Roques de García trail, permits are required for certain activities like ascending to the summit of Mount Teide. Always check local advisories before your visit.
The drive time varies depending on your starting point. From the southern tourist areas like Costa Adeje, it can take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. From the north, it might be similar or slightly longer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit the Roques de García area within Teide National Park. Access to the park and the hiking trails is free.
Teide National Park is generally open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, visitor centers and facilities within the park may have specific operating hours. The Roques de García trail is accessible at any time.
The hike around the Roques de García is free to access. You only pay for parking if you drive your own vehicle, and that is also typically free unless you are in a very specific designated paid area.
Yes, many tour operators offer guided hikes and excursions to Roques de García and other parts of Teide National Park. This can be a great option if you prefer not to drive or want to learn more about the geology and history.
The main restriction is related to parking availability. During busy periods, the car park can fill up quickly. Otherwise, the area is open for exploration.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Roques de García trail is a circular route, approximately 3.5-4 km long, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. It's considered easy to moderate, with one steeper incline near the parking lot.
The trail is generally suitable for families, though some reviewers suggest it might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues due to the terrain and potential heat.
Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip. Given the high altitude and potential for sun exposure, light, breathable clothing, a hat, and sunglasses are recommended. Layers are also a good idea as temperatures can change.
Restrooms are typically available near the Parador de Cañadas del Teide, which is close to the trailhead. There are also cafes and restaurants at the Parador.
The direction can affect the difficulty. Hiking clockwise means descending the steepest part first, while counterclockwise involves a steeper climb back up towards the end. Choose based on your preference.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic rock formations themselves are prime photo subjects. Look for angles that capture the scale of the rocks against Mount Teide. The entire volcanic landscape offers unique photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunset can be particularly dramatic, though it can also get crowded.
Drone usage in national parks is often restricted or requires special permits. It's best to check the official regulations for Teide National Park regarding drone operation before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and rock formations. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of Mount Teide. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or long exposures.
The main trail itself provides numerous viewpoints. The area around the Parador de Cañadas del Teide also offers excellent vantage points. Keep an eye out for unique rock formations that create natural frames.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, it's essential to bring plenty of water and sun protection as there is no shade, and the high altitude can be tiring. 🚶♀️ Casual Hikers & Sightseers
📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers the most stunning light for capturing the textures and colors of the volcanic terrain. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive vistas and a tripod for sharper shots in varying light conditions. The surreal environment provides a unique backdrop for both landscape and portrait photography. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Geology of Roques de García
+1The formations are primarily composed of phonolite, a type of volcanic rock. Over time, wind and water have sculpted these rocks into their current, dramatic shapes. The most famous formations include the 'Cinchado' (a rock balanced on a narrow base) and the 'Roques de García' themselves, which give the area its name. The sheer scale and unique textures make it a photographer's and nature lover's paradise.
Walking among these geological wonders feels like stepping onto another planet. The Roques de García trail offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to get up close to these natural sculptures. The contrast between the rugged, arid terrain and the majestic presence of Mount Teide in the background creates a truly unforgettable visual spectacle.
+1Navigating Teide National Park and Parking
Many visitors report that arriving early in the morning is the best strategy to secure a parking spot.
For those driving, be prepared for winding roads and varying altitudes. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering breathtaking views of Tenerife's diverse landscapes. Always check for any temporary road closures or advisories before setting out, especially if visiting during winter months when weather conditions can be unpredictable.
The Roques de García Hiking Trail
The trail is generally rated as easy to moderate, with the main challenge being a steeper, albeit short, incline near the parking area. As you traverse the path, you'll be surrounded by the dramatic Roques de García rock formations and enjoy constant, awe-inspiring views of Mount Teide. The landscape is so distinctive that many visitors feel like they've landed on another planet.
+1 The trail is exposed, meaning there is very little shade, so it's crucial to be prepared for the sun and heat, especially during summer. Reviewers suggest that the direction of the hike can alter the experience. Starting clockwise means tackling the steepest descent first, while a counterclockwise route involves a more gradual descent followed by a steeper ascent back to the starting point.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit