Corona Forestal Natural Park
A vast natural park offering pine forests, volcanic landscapes, and breathtaking views, especially famous for its sunsets above the clouds.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Snow-capped El Teide views
Corona Forestal Natural Park
Best Time
Snow-capped El Teide views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast natural park offering pine forests, volcanic landscapes, and breathtaking views, especially famous for its sunsets above the clouds.
"Amazing journey getting there, we travelled from South to North over the clouds!"
🚗 Scenic Drive Essential
The drive itself is an attraction! Enjoy the changing landscapes as you ascend.
🥾 Trail Variety
From pine forests to volcanic rocks, trails offer diverse scenery. Wear sturdy shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunset Above the Clouds
Various viewpoints
Witness the sun dip below a sea of clouds, painting the sky with unforgettable colors. A truly magical experience.
El Teide Views
Throughout the park
Marvel at the majestic presence of Mount Teide, especially striking when capped with winter snow.

Diverse Hiking Trails
Various trailheads
Explore a variety of landscapes, from fragrant pine forests to rugged volcanic terrains.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Magic
Embrace the Drive and Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Scenic Drive Essential
The drive itself is an attraction! Enjoy the changing landscapes as you ascend.
🥾 Trail Variety
From pine forests to volcanic rocks, trails offer diverse scenery. Wear sturdy shoes!
📸 Sunset Spectacle
Don't miss the sunset; it's a highlight, often viewed from above the clouds.
❄️ Winter Wonder
Winter brings snow to El Teide, creating a unique and beautiful contrast.
Best way to explore Teide with car, no permit and being very casual hikers?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Scenic Drive Essential
The drive itself is an attraction! Enjoy the changing landscapes as you ascend.
🥾 Trail Variety
From pine forests to volcanic rocks, trails offer diverse scenery. Wear sturdy shoes!
📸 Sunset Spectacle
Don't miss the sunset; it's a highlight, often viewed from above the clouds.
❄️ Winter Wonder
Winter brings snow to El Teide, creating a unique and beautiful contrast.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Corona Forestal Natural Park, particularly the breathtaking sunsets viewed from above the clouds and the dramatic landscapes featuring Mount Teide. The scenic drives and diverse hiking trails are frequently praised, making it a highly recommended destination for nature lovers and photographers.
"Amazing journey getting there, we travelled from South to North over the clouds! Don’t miss out on the observatory"
John Mac
"Warmth, the smell of pine trees, beautiful sunsets. One of my favorite places to drive"
Volpe M Reuling
"Beautiful landscape, great hiking trails and views, everything from pine forest to volcanic rocks with mt Tiede in the background."
Wara Kat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Corona Forestal Natural Park is by car. Several routes offer stunning views as you ascend into the mountains. Roads are generally well-maintained, but be prepared for winding paths. Consider using GPS for navigation, and allow extra time to stop and admire the scenery along the way.
While public transport options are limited for direct access into the heart of the park, some visitors opt for guided tours that include transportation. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and to fully experience the park's scenic drives and trail access points.
Routes from the south and north offer dramatic ascents, often taking you above the cloud line. The journey itself is a significant part of the experience, with numerous viewpoints to pull over and enjoy the expansive vistas.
Generally, the main roads are well-maintained. However, always drive cautiously, especially on winding mountain roads. Check local conditions before you go, particularly in winter when snow might affect some routes.
The driving time varies significantly depending on your starting point. From major towns, expect anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, not including stops for photos.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Corona Forestal Natural Park is generally free. You can drive through and access many of the trails without purchasing a ticket.
For casual hiking and driving, no special permits are typically required. However, if you plan on specific activities like overnight camping or organized events, it's advisable to check with local park authorities for any necessary permissions.
The park is generally accessible year-round, 24 hours a day, as it's a natural landscape. However, visitor centers or specific facilities might have limited hours. It's best to check locally if you plan to visit any specific amenities.
There is no entrance fee to access Corona Forestal Natural Park. The park is a protected natural area open for public enjoyment.
Yes, you can visit the park at night, and it's a popular spot for stargazing due to low light pollution. However, always exercise caution when driving and hiking in the dark.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The park offers a variety of trails, from easy walks through pine forests to more challenging routes across volcanic landscapes. Popular options include trails that lead to viewpoints overlooking the caldera and Mount Teide.
You can encounter native wildlife such as various bird species, lizards, and potentially rabbits. Keep an eye out during your hikes, especially in quieter areas.
Absolutely! The park is a photographer's paradise, especially during sunrise and sunset. The dramatic landscapes, volcanic formations, and cloud inversions offer incredible opportunities for stunning shots.
While not abundant, some designated picnic areas and basic restrooms can be found at certain access points. It's advisable to bring your own supplies and be prepared for limited facilities on more remote trails.
Dress in layers, as temperatures can change significantly with altitude and time of day. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential due to the varied terrain. Don't forget sun protection, even on cloudy days.
📸 📸 Photography
Many viewpoints offer spectacular sunset vistas, especially those looking west over the cloud layer. The drive itself provides numerous pull-offs with breathtaking scenery.
Drone regulations can vary. It's crucial to check with local park authorities or aviation regulations before flying a drone to ensure compliance and avoid any restrictions.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but offers clear views of the volcanic textures.
Focus on the unique volcanic rock formations, the vast pine forests, and the incredible cloud inversions. The contrast between the rugged terrain and the soft clouds is a recurring theme.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the volcanic formations or distant peaks. A sturdy tripod is recommended for sunset and low-light photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for shorter, easier trails that are suitable for little legs. The unique volcanic terrain can spark children's imaginations, and spotting local wildlife like birds and lizards can be an exciting adventure. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection, and keep a close eye on children, especially near any steep drops or uneven terrain.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Plan to make frequent stops at the numerous viewpoints to capture the stunning scenery. The changing landscapes, from lush forests to stark volcanic plains, make for a dynamic and visually rewarding road trip. Consider dedicating a full day or even an overnight stay to truly savor the experience and explore the park's diverse offerings at your own pace.
📸 Sunset & Stargazing Aficionados
Arrive well before sunset to secure a good spot and enjoy the changing light. After dark, the clear skies often reveal a dazzling display of stars. Bring a warm blanket, a thermos of something hot, and prepare to be mesmerized by the celestial show.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Scenic Drives
When planning your route, consider starting from either the south or north of the island, as both offer unique perspectives. The roads are generally well-maintained, but caution is advised, especially during adverse weather conditions. Using a GPS is helpful, but don't be afraid to pull over when you see a particularly stunning vista. The journey is as much about the destination as it is about the breathtaking scenery you encounter along the way.
Hiking and Exploring the Trails
Many trails provide stunning views of Mount Teide, especially when it's capped with snow during the winter months, creating a dramatic backdrop. For those seeking a truly memorable experience, aim for trails that lead to viewpoints where you can witness the magical phenomenon of sunsets above the clouds. It's essential to wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes as the terrain can be uneven and rocky. Dressing in layers is also recommended, as temperatures can fluctuate significantly with altitude and the time of day. Remember to bring water and snacks, as facilities can be limited on more remote paths.
Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips
For landscape photographers, the 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset are prime time, offering soft, warm light that enhances the textures of the volcanic rock and the depth of the forests. Even midday can yield striking images, especially when capturing the intricate details of the geological formations. Don't miss the chance to photograph Mount Teide, particularly in winter when snow adds a unique element to the scenery. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the park and a telephoto lens to isolate interesting details. A tripod will be invaluable for low-light conditions during sunset and for capturing sharp images of the dramatic cloud formations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit