Mt. Teide (El Teide) Tours and Tickets

Yes, Mt. Teide is the highest peak in the Canary Islands and Spain at 12,188 feet (3,715 meters) above sea level. Fun fact: Mt. Teide volcano measures 24,600 feet (7,500 meters) from the ocean floor, making it the third-highest volcanic structure in the world.

The easiest way to visit Mount Teide is to take a guided tour of Teide National Park that includes hotel pick up. These Mount Teide tours with cable car tickets and transfers are generally the best value. You can also reach the cable car station by car or bus from Puerto de la Cruz, Playa de las Américas, or Los Cristianos.

Finally, if you’re really ambitious, you can cycle. Many professional cycling teams train in Teide National Park. They stay at altitude in the national park’s finest hotel, Parador de Las Cañadas del Teide, and get bussed down to sea level to ride up.

You’ll find bike rentals at Bike Point Tenerife in Las Americas and El Medano. If you have a need for speed, you can also book tours such as this popular Quad adventure to Teide tour where you’ll ride up on quad bikes.

Yes, there are more than 30 hiking trails in Teide National Park, ranging from easy, short trails and family-friendly hikes to full-day treks. To summit Mt. Teide, follow the challenging Montaña Blanca and Pico de Teide trails. It takes approximately 6 hours.

Note: Because Teide is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, some hiking trails including those to the peak require permits (fees are applicable). You must apply for permits online, in advance. If you want to hike in the summer months, during high season, apply at least three months before your desired date. If you want to start your hike at the cable car upper station, La Rambleta, you can choose from at least three routes, all of which have spectacular views from their view points.

No, although you can drive through Teide National Park, driving to the top of Mt. Teide is impossible. Fortunately, Teide National Park has had a cable car system since 1971 to ferry tourists up to the top of Mount Teide. Today, there are two modern cable cars; each can carry up to 44 passengers.

The approximately 8-minute journey takes you to the upper station, 11,663 feet (3,555 meters) above sea level. From there, it’s a steep hike to the summit. It takes most people about 40 minutes.

Note: the cable car closes when weather conditions are unsafe. Check online in advance to see the status of the facilities and trails.

Yes. You can only buy Mt. Teide (El Teide) tickets for the cable car online, so you must book them before arrival. Tickets are limited for each time slot, so book early if visiting in peak season.

If you want to hike to the summit, you must apply for your permit in advance. Permits tend to sell out fast, so try to apply as soon as you have your trip dates.

Yes, a wide range of guided tours explore the Teide volcano and the surrounding Teide National Park. Most include the cable car ride as well as a stop at the picturesque Roques de García, unique rock formations that appear to defy gravity. Some guided tours also involve hiking or even cycling. Teide is a popular place to cycle and is where several professional teams train for the Tour de France.

If you’re a night owl, or someone who appreciates astronomy, consider booking after-dark guided tours. They usually include professional equipment including telescopes and cameras designed to capture the constellations.

Teide is a Starlight-certified destination because it boasts some of Europe’s darkest skies. Some of these evening tours include dinner, and most include hot drinks. If you’ll be drinking during dinner, it’s best to go with a guided tour that includes hotel pickup and drop off.