Teide National Park
Canarias
Teide National Park, located on the island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Spain, is centered around Mount Teide, the highest mountain in Spain at 3,718 meters and the third tallest volcano in the world from its oceanic base. The park spans nearly 19,000 hectares and includes Pico Viejo, the second highest peak in the Canary Islands. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007, it is the most visited national park in Spain and one of the most visited worldwide, attracting over 4 million visitors annually. The park's volcanic landscapes feature extensive lava flows, calderas, and unique rock formations like the Roques de García. Its diverse flora includes 168 plant species, with many endemic to Tenerife, such as the Teide white broom and the Teide violet, the highest flowering plant in Spain. The park's fauna is notable for its endemic invertebrates. Visitors can explore the park via guided tours and hiking trails, with access to Teide's summit requiring a permit. The nearby Teide Observatory benefits from the park's clear skies and altitude, making it a key location for astronomical research.
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Tip: Visitors should plan their trip in spring or early summer to witness the peak flowering season of the park's unique flora. Advance booking is required for permits to access Mount Teide's summit, which is limited to protect the environment. Guided coach tours are available from southern Tenerife, offering convenient ways to explore the park. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups, so checking official sources before visiting is recommended. Early morning or late afternoon visits provide cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography.
Interesting facts
- •Mount Teide is the highest volcano in the Atlantic Ocean islands and the third highest volcano in the world measured from its oceanic base.
- •The park contains over 168 plant species, with 33 endemic to Tenerife, including the Teide violet, Spain's highest flowering plant.
- •Teide National Park is the most visited national park in Spain and among the top worldwide, with over 4 million visitors annually.
- •The Guanches believed Mount Teide was the home of Guayota, the devil, and that the volcano was a gateway to hell.
- •The Teide Observatory, located within the park, benefits from almost 3,500 hours of sunshine annually and clear skies for astronomical studies.
History
The area of Teide National Park held spiritual significance for the indigenous Guanches, who considered Mount Teide the gateway to the underworld, calling it Echeyde.
The park was officially established as a national park on January 22, 1954, becoming the oldest and largest national park in the Canary Islands.
It received the European Diploma of Protected Areas in 1989, renewed multiple times, and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.
The park's volcanic activity includes historic eruptions such as the 1798 eruption of Pico Viejo.
In 2007, it was also recognized as one of Spain's 12 Treasures, underscoring its cultural and natural importance.
Place Guide
Mount Teide Summit
The highest peak in Spain, offering panoramic views over Tenerife and the surrounding Atlantic Ocean. Access to the summit requires a permit due to environmental protection measures.
Pico Viejo1798
The second highest volcano in the Canary Islands at 3,135 meters, featuring the Narices del Teide lava formations from the 1798 eruption.
Roques de García
A group of striking rock formations that are iconic landmarks within the park, popular for hiking and photography.
Teide Observatory
Located on a ridge east of Mount Teide at 2,371 meters altitude, this observatory is a major center for astronomical research due to the park's clear skies and altitude.
Contact
Phone: 922 92 23 71
