A guide to climbing Teide on Tenerife

Conquering Tenerife’s Teide: a guide to summiting Spain’s highest peak

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is renowned for its stunning beaches, diverse landscapes and superb walking routes as detailed in our guidebook to walking on Tenerife.

At its heart lies Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak and the third-highest volcano in the world. For those seeking a thrilling adventure, climbing Teide is an unforgettable experience.

Here’s a guide to help you plan your ascent.

Obtaining a permit

Climbing Teide on Tenerife requires a free permit. This is due to the protected status of Teide National Park.

The permits are limited in number, so it’s essential to apply well in advance. You can apply online through the official Teide National Park website.

The process is straightforward and involves providing your personal details and selecting your preferred date and time for the ascent.

How long does it take?

The duration of the summit climb depends on your fitness level and pace. The most common route, starting from the upper cable car station, typically takes between 2-4 hours round trip.

However, if you’re starting from the Montaña Blanca turn-off, the total hike can take up to 8-10 hours.

How much does it cost?

Although the permit is free, you’ll need to pay the cable car fare and any necessary equipment rentals. The cable car ticket prices vary depending on the time of year and whether you purchase a round-trip or one-way ticket.

Additionally, you might need to rent suitable hiking boots or other gear if you don’t have your own.

The summit climb: what to expect

The ascent to Teide’s summit is very strenuous, with a height gain of 1367m/4485ft. The terrain is rocky and uneven, and there is a possibility of altitude sickness.

There is no water en route, and no shelter (the only building en route is closed, as of October 2024). The weather can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in temperature and wind.

If you are planning to descend via the cable car, you might find it not running because the wind is too strong.

Take this walk very seriously: while previous climbing experience isn’t strictly necessary, a good level of fitness is essential.

Preparing for your climb

To ensure a safe and enjoyable ascent, it’s important to prepare adequately. This includes:

• Fitness: Train regularly to improve your cardiovascular fitness and leg strength.
• Acclimatization: If you’re arriving from a low-altitude location, spend a few days acclimatising to the higher altitude before attempting the summit.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable, layered clothing that can be adjusted to changing weather conditions. Waterproof and windproof jackets are essential.
• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are crucial.
• Equipment: Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, high-energy snacks and plenty of water.

Weather considerations

The weather on Teide can be unpredictable, especially at higher altitudes. Snowfall is possible, even during the summer months.

Check the weather forecast before your ascent and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary. The summit route may be closed due to adverse weather conditions – and the cable car won’t operate either.

Alternative ways to enjoy Teide

If you’re unable to summit Teide on foot, you can still enjoy stunning views by taking the cable car to the upper station.

From there, you can explore the surrounding area, especially the view over the crater (see photo above).

The summit experience

Reaching the summit of Teide is a truly unforgettable experience. The panoramic views of the island and the surrounding ocean are breathtaking.

Take your time to soak in the atmosphere and capture the moment with photos.

Descending from the summit

The descent from the summit is typically easier than the ascent, but it’s still important to take your time and avoid rushing. Use caution on steep sections and be mindful of loose rocks.

Climbing Teide on Tenerife is a challenging but rewarding adventure. With proper planning and preparation, you can enjoy a safe and unforgettable experience.

Buy our guidebook to walking on Tenerife.