Mount Teide: Day Trips and Tours from Tenerife

Mount Teide is not merely a mountain, it is an active volcano that dominates Tenerife’s landscape. In fact, the island of Tenerife is the emerged part of this gigantic pyramid-based volcanic pile. Standing 3,718 meters above sea level, it holds the title as Spain's highest peak and the third largest volcanic structure on Earth.

More than a geographical marvel, Teide is steeped in myth and legend. The stunning blend of its raw, natural beauty and scientific significance has earned it a UNESCO World Heritage designation.

Day trips and tours to Mount Teide allow visitors a chance to unravel its intriguing geological features, unique biodiversity, and its impact on the cultural tapestry of Tenerife.

Our guide below include everything your should know about visiting Mount Teide, one of the most exciting day trips in Tenerife.

Where is Mount Teide located in Tenerife and how do I get there?

Mount Teide stands at the center of the Canary Island of Tenerife, a territory of Spain that lies to the west of the Moroccan coast. To ascend Mount Teide, you can take the Teide cable car (Teleférico del Teide) up to the upper station, which is near the summit.

Getting to Mount Teide by car

Renting a car and driving to the park along the TF-21 highway is one of the most flexible ways to reach Mount Teide. From the southern resorts like Playa de las Americas or Costa Adeje, it's roughly a 90-minute drive.

From Santa Cruz de Tenerife, it's about a 2-hour drive. Free parking is available for up to 200 vehicles at the base station of the mountain’s cable car.

Guided tours to Mount Teide

There are numerous tour operators on the island offering trips to Mount Teide. Most will pick you up from your hotel and these tours often include other sites within Teide National Park. An excursion to Mount Teide can last anywhere from 2 hours to a full day.

How much do tickets to Mount Teide cost?

If you are going to ascend Mount Teide by cable car, you can book your tickets from €40 per adult for a return trip, or €22 one-way. Children pay €20 each for a return trip. If you are a resident, prices for a return trip for adults and children are €16 and €10 respectively.

If traveling independently, you can also opt for a ticket that includes an audio-guide, or join a guided tour on arrival with an experienced guide. Tickets including a guided tour to Pico Viejo Viewpoint cost around €55 per non-resident adult and €32 for a non-resident child over the age of 5 years.

If you want to climb to the peak of the mountain, you will have to obtain a special permit. Access is limited and if done independently will need to be done several months in advance.

What is the typical itinerary?

A typical guided tour to Mount Teide usually with a pickup service from various locations around Tenerife, including popular resort destinations. Pickup time usually falls in the early morning to make the most of the day.

The drive to Teide National Park, depending on your pickup location, can take between 1 to 2 hours. Longer tours may include a stop at Vilaflor, the highest village in Spain, located on the way to the park.

Upon arrival at the park, you will get their first close-up glimpse of Mount Teide before taking a cable car ride up to the upper station near the summit. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views and even take a short walk to the summit if you have a permit.

Depending on the tour package, a lunch stop may be scheduled. You may also have time for additional exploration of the park, including sights like the Roques de García rock formations before returning to your accommodation on the island.

Tour lengths vary based on the specific tour operator, itinerary inclusions and the size of the group. Always check with your chosen tour operator for precise details and timings.

Guided tours to Mount Teide

Guided tours are a popular choice for those looking for a comprehensive, stress-free experience. These tours usually include hotel pickups, a knowledgeable guide, and scheduled stops at key sights. Some even include cable car tickets and lunch, providing a complete package.

Group sizes are dependent on the vehicles used, the type of tour and the day’s itinerary. If you are looking for a guide tour with a difference, a Sunset or Star Gazing tour at Mount Teide are just two of the out-of-the-ordinary types of tour available.

Private tours to Mount Teide

For a more personalized experience, private tours to Mount Teide offer customized options. Whether it's a romantic sunset tour, stargazing, or a tailored itinerary focusing on photography, private tours cater to specific interests and preferences, often providing an exclusive vehicle and guide.

Hiking tours to Mount Teide

For outdoor enthusiasts, guided hiking tours offer an immersive experience. Accompanied by a professional guide, you'll trek through pine forests and lunar landscapes, appreciating the natural beauty up-close. Some tours even include a hike to the summit, for which a special permit is needed.

Guided bike tours at Mount Teide

For the adventure-seekers, cycling tours are an exhilarating way to explore Teide National Park. Ranging from leisurely e-bike tours to challenging mountain biking, these tours cater to different fitness levels and often include equipment rental and a guide.

You can even take on the longest consecutive climb in Europe with a Teide road bike climb – a challenging 94 kilometer cycle from Puerto de la Cruz towards Teide National Park with 2400 meters of altitude.

Remember, it's vital to choose a tour that aligns with your interests, fitness level, and the time you have available

Mount Teide Observatory guided tour

This fascinating tour option takes you to the Mount Teide Observatory – the largest solar observatory in the world. At the observatory you will learn more about astronomy and solar observations, and how this powerful telescopic equipment can explore the universe and solar system throughout the night and day.

For a better understanding of the science behind the exploration of the vast expanses of space, this tour includes an astrophysics workshop and is a great tour option for participants over the age of 8 years.

Mount Teide plus other sights full day tour in Tenerife

Tenerife is a destination with a lot to offer the intrepid explorer. Full day guided tours that include the awe-inspiring Mount Teide, can be booked on a group, small group, or private basis. Other stops that may be included on the itinerary of this kind of tour include Icod, Garachico and Masca Valley.

What are the prices of day trips to Mount Teide from Tenerife?

With such a wide variety of experiences available, there are tours and excursions to suit almost everyone keen on visiting Mount Teide.

Guided tours to Mount Teide from Tenerife start from €40 per person. This price includes a round trip transfer from your hotel on the island and a return ticket on the cable car. Sunset and stargazing tours start at a similar price, but increase to around €80 per person if you’d like to include dinner or other activities.

Hiking tours to Mount Teide from Tenerife are full day activities and cost around €130 per hiker. For something special, you can combine a hike with stargazing on a private tour that starts from €130 per person. An extremely popular Teide National Park Night tour is a shorter option and costs €20 per person excluding transport to the starting point.

Private tours to Mount Teide from Tenerife start from around €140 per person for half day excursions. Costs increase if other destinations are included in the itinerary or if the tour lasts for a full day.

Guided bike tours to or at Mount Teide usually cost from €90 per cyclist. While bike hire is usually included in the cost, some tours will require you to bring your own helmet and cleats. Check with your tour operator for clarification.

Mount Teide Observatory guided tours start from €25 per visitor. This is the price for entry and the observatory tour only. For a more comprehensive experience including the observatory, expect to pay around €99 each.

Full day tours to Mount Teide plus other sights in Tenerife can start from as little as €40 per person on a coach tour. Quad bike or jeep tours cost from €80, while tours including wine experiences and other popular natural landmarks start at €140 per person.

What will you see and do?

On a tour to Mount Teide, you'll embark on a remarkable journey through diverse landscapes and have a chance to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Teide National Park. The park does its best to attract individuals, families and groups and caters to visitors of all ages, interests and fitness levels.

As you ascend towards Mount Teide, your transport will travel through contrasting landscapes. You'll pass through charming villages, pine forests, and eventually the unique volcanic landscape reminiscent of a lunar surface.

At Teide National Park you'll explore fascinating geological formations like the Roques de García, a collection of peculiarly shaped rocks formed by erosion. The park also boasts a unique biodiversity, with several endemic species of flora and fauna.

In the park, you'll behold the star of the tour, the majestic Mount Teide, an active volcano and Spain's highest peak. Many tours include a cable car ride up to the upper station near the summit. From here, you'll get panoramic views of the island and, on clear days, glimpses of the other Canary Islands.

For the intrepid explorer, there are several hiking trail options including a hike to the peak which can only be undertaken if you have booked a permit in advance.

If your tour includes a night-time component, you'll be treated to one of the best stargazing spots in the world. Some tours offer a telescope and guidance for you to explore the star-studded sky, thanks to Tenerife's low light pollution.

Throughout the tour, a knowledgeable guide will share interesting facts about the island's geology, history, and local culture, making your experience educational as well as enjoyable. If you are traveling as a family, several tour options are family friendly and will make sure that everyone has a great time.

Some tours also include a meal, which could range from a picnic lunch at the park to a traditional Canary Island meal at a local restaurant.

Overall, a tour to Mount Teide provides a comprehensive experience of Tenerife's rich natural heritage, whether it's your first visit or a return trip.

When does the cable car operate?

The cable car operates daily from 9 AM. Closing time ranges from 5 PM to 6:40 PM depending on the season.

Sunset and stargazing cableway journeys are possible for visitors who have chosen to upgrade their experience or joined a guided tour.

When is the best time to visit Mount Teide?

In Tenerife the weather is usually mild and pleasant all year round. Summers (June to September) are warm and dry, and present the higher temperatures. Mount Teide is a popular tourist destination, therefore it can get crowded during summer.

If you prefer a quiet experience and short queues for the cable car or hiking trails, consider visiting on weekdays during shoulder seasons - Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). This is the best time for outdoor activities, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Some hiking trails may be closed or have restricted access during certain times due to weather conditions or volcanic activity. It's advisable to check the official website or visitor center for up-to-date information before planning your trip.

Mount Teide is renowned for its clear skies and favorable conditions for stargazing. If you have an interest in astronomy, consider visiting during a new moon phase for optimal stargazing opportunities.

Travel tips

• Mount Teide is a popular attraction, so it's advisable to make reservations in advance for activities like the cable car ride or guided tours to ensure availability.
• The weather on Mount Teide can be unpredictable, so check the forecast before your trip.
• Mount Teide is a volcanic area, and while eruptions are rare, it's important to to check with the authorities or the visitor center for any alerts or restrictions regarding volcanic activity.
• Mobile phone coverage can be limited in some areas and as such it is advised to carry essentials such as a map, a flashlight, a first aid kit, and some snacks.
• Pack clothing suitable for changing weather, including a warm jacket, hat, and gloves.
• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
• At high altitudes, dehydration can occur more quickly so carry enough water and drink regularly.
• Remember to apply sunscreen, wear a hat and bring sunglasses.
• If you're not accustomed to high altitudes, it's important to acclimatize gradually and take time at each stop before going all the way up to the summit.
• Mount Teide is a protected natural area, so respect the environment by following the designated trails, disposing of waste properly, and avoiding disturbing wildlife or damaging vegetation.