Why Mount Teide is so special

Mount Teide is an active stratovolcano rising 3,715 metres above sea level — the highest point in Spain and one of the tallest volcanoes on Earth when measured from its base. Its geology shapes everything around it: vast lava fields, craters carved by past eruptions, and multicoloured rock formations that tell the story of millions of years of volcanic activity. This dramatic setting is the heart of Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited natural attractions in the world.

The landscape here feels almost lunar, with rugged volcanic ridges and wide open plains that create some of the most striking views in the Canary Islands. Many travellers say exploring Teide is like walking on another planet — a sensation intensified as you climb higher and the oxygen level drops by about 30% near the summit. Every Mount Teide hiking tour becomes a true high-mountain adventure: powerful, challenging, and unforgettable.

How to reach the top?  — Hiking or cable car or a combination?

There are two main ways to access the Teide summit area:

• On a guided Mount Teide hiking tour, valid different time of the day or night (summit access requires a permit).

• By cable car (Teleférico) up to 3,500 metres, followed by a guided walk to the crater rim.

For a more authentic adventure, many travellers choose a Mount Teide hiking tour, but the Teleferico cable car remains a great option for those who want spectacular views with less physical effort. The most common and the easiest tour, version is Cable car up and down combined with a small hiking.

Mount Teide tours — from easy to extreme

Version “A” Easy

This is the easiest option. During this version you will take the cable car up, walk from the upper station to the summit, and then return by cable car.

The program lasts approximately 2–3 hours, typically for example from 9:00 to 12:00, depending on cable car tickets and permits.

Version “B” – Moderate

You will take the cable car up and then hike to the summit. The descent, however, is done on foot without using the cable car: approximately 10 km with 1,400 meters of elevation loss.

The hike takes about 6 hours. This is a moderately difficult route but still achievable for most people.

Version “C” – Difficult

You will hike up to the summit on foot and descend by cable car. This option is recommended for hikers with experience who understand what it means to hike 10 km with 1,400 meters of elevation gain.

The hike takes around 6 hours. About half of the route is above 3,000 meters, where symptoms of altitude sickness (such as headache, dizziness, or nausea) may occur in sensitive individuals. The starting time may vary. The hike can be done as a daytime tour with an early morning start, or timed for sunrise.

Version “D” – Extremely Difficult

In this version, the cable car is not used at all. We reach the summit on foot and return on foot as well. The total distance is approximately 20 km, with 1,400 meters of elevation gain and

1,400 meters of elevation loss. The hike takes about 8 hours.

This version is mainly carried out when the cable car is not operating due to weather

conditions (for example, strong winds). Under normal circumstances, this option is not preferred and is only chosen when conditions require it.

“Other” Versions

During the spring and summer seasons, we also plan to reach the summit with a bivouac. When the Altavista Refuge is open, it can also be used.

Regarding routes, in about 90% of cases we ascend via the PNT07 route, known as the

Montaña Blanca trail. When daylight hours are longer, we sometimes descend via the PNT09 route, allowing us to see Pico Viejo as well — two volcanoes in one day.

This option is only offered to very well-trained hikers, as the PNT09 route is more demanding.

Key things to know when booking

Booking a Mount Teide hiking tour requires a bit of planning, because weather, altitude and permit regulations play a significant role in how your experience unfolds. Here are the most important points to consider before choosing your tour.

Timing & seasonality

Mount Teide can be visited all year, but conditions vary greatly by season.

• Winter can bring snow and ice near the summit, and temperatures drop well below zero.

• Summer is warmer, but temperatures still fall sharply at higher altitudes, especially at sunrise and sunset.

• Spring and autumn offer stable weather and excellent visibility.

Keep in mind that sunrise and sunset periods are extremely popular for a Mount Teide hiking tour, so booking early is essential.

What to include / look for in a good tour

When selecting a Mount Teide hiking tour, choose one that offers:

• Certified mountain guides familiar with Teide’s geology, routes and safety procedures

• Summit permits included, if your tour goes to the crater

• Small group sizes for a safer, more personalised experience

• Clear difficulty levels, from easy scenic tours to challenging summit hikes

• Proper equipment recommendations, especially for altitude, cold and wind

A high-quality tour also provides detailed instructions on what to bring, how to prepare, and what to expect during the hike.

Permits & restrictions

Access to the Teide summit (the final crater section) requires an official permit from the national park. These permits are limited, often selling out weeks in advance, which is why many visitors choose a guided tour that arranges the permits on their behalf.

Other important restrictions:

• During periods of high winds or extreme weather, the cable car may close, affecting tour logistics.

• Children, people with cardiovascular conditions or those sensitive to altitude may need to avoid certain routes.

• Staying inside the crater area without a permit is prohibited and strictly monitored.

A professional Mount Teide hiking tour ensures that all regulations are respected and that your hike is safe, legal and enjoyable.

How to choose the right Teide tour for you?

Choosing the right Mount Teide hiking tour depends on your fitness level, the type of experience you want, and how much time you have available on the island.

Here are the key aspects to consider:

Your fitness level

• If you prefer an easy route with stunning views and minimal effort, choose an easy or moderate Mount Teide hiking tour that uses part of the cable car route.
• If you enjoy physical challenges and want to reach the summit on foot, than moderate or difficult levels are ideal—just be prepared for altitude and steep climbs.

The time of day

• Sunrise tours offer magical light, cooler temperatures and fewer people on the trails. We hike during the early morning and night. Only possible if you are a regular hiker
• Day tours work best for families or travellers looking for a relaxed but informative visit.

Weather conditions

Weather changes quickly in high-altitude environments. A good tour operator will advise you about closures, wind, snow or extreme temperatures and suggest the best alternative if needed.

Your goals

Ask yourself what you want most:

• reaching the summit
• spectacular views
• an adventurous challenge
• a family-friendly activity

With these factors in mind, you can confidently choose the Mount Teide hiking tour that fits your expectations and ensures an unforgettable experience.

What to wear and what to bring with you? 

Obligatory on all of Teide hiking tours:

• hiking boots (available on request for sunrise and sunset tours)
• appropriate mountain clothing – underwear, warm hiking socks, hiking mask, gloves, hat, sunscreen (for day hikes)
• 2-3 litres of fluids
• food, energy snacks, chocolate, protein
• small backpack 20-30 l

Why join us for Teide hiking?

Joining our Mount Teide hiking tour means you experience the mountain with experts who prioritise safety, quality and authenticity. Here’s why travellers consistently choose our team:

✓ Experienced, certified mountain guides: Our multilingual guides know every trail, weather pattern and geological feature of Teide. They not only lead the route safely but also share fascinating stories about the volcano’s history and unique environment.

✓ Summit permits arranged for you: Permits to access the crater often sell out weeks ahead. We handle them on your behalf, so you can simply enjoy your Mount Teide hiking tour without stress or complicated paperwork.

✓ Small groups for personalised experiences: We focus on quality, not quantity. Smaller groups allow for a safer pace, more personal guidance and a more enjoyable atmosphere.

✓ Safety and comfort first: Altitude awareness, extra equipment recommendations, weather checks and emergency protocols are all part of our preparation. Your wellbeing is always our priority.

✓ Responsible and sustainable tourism: We respect the fragile volcanic environment of Teide National Park. Our tours follow strict guidelines to preserve the trails, protect wildlife and minimise impact.

✓ Tours for every level: Whether you’re a family with children, a casual hiker or an experienced mountaineer, we offer a Mount Teide hiking tour that matches your ability and expectations.

Choosing us means having an organised, safe and memorable adventure on one of the most iconic volcanoes in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth going to Mount Teide?

Absolutely. Mount Teide is one of Spain’s most impressive natural landmarks. Whether you take the cable car or join a Mount Teide hiking tour, the views, landscapes and volcanic environment make it one of Tenerife’s must-see attractions.

Can you go up Mount Teide on your own?

Yes, you can visit the national park independently, and many trails can be hiked without a guide. However, access to the summit crater requires a special permit, which must be obtained in advance. Most travellers therefore prefer a guided Mount Teide hiking tour, where the permit is included and logistics are handled for them.

What is the best way to visit Mount Teide?

For comfort and impressive views, the cable car is ideal. For an authentic adventure, a Mount Teide hiking tour—especially at sunrise or sunset—offers a deeper, more rewarding experience. For families or first-time visitors, a guided day tour ensures safety and a relaxed pace.

Can you drive up Mount Teide for free?

Currently, yes—driving into Teide National Park is free and there is no entrance fee. However, from January 2026, Teide National Park is expected to introduce a paid-entry system, meaning all visitors will need a valid ticket. In addition, access to the Teide National Park, the Teide summit and several hiking routes will require official permits or tickets.

Because of these upcoming changes, choosing a local provider is highly recommended. On our Mount Teide hiking tour, we organise all permits, tickets and logistics for you—ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience.