Tenerife Trekking

Tenerife – A Paradise for Nature Lovers and Hikers
Tenerife is a year-round hiking destination with an incredible variety of landscapes. It’s hard to mention all the natural wonders of this island, but our Tenerife for Hikers program takes you on trails that you simply must explore, showcasing the island’s rich and diverse nature.

Tenerife for Hikers and Ascent to Spain’s Highest Peak, Pico del Teide

There are no restrictions on who can join this Lifetrek adventure. If you enjoy being active and want to combine your vacation with outdoor activities, then the Tenerife hiking program is perfect for you. Whether you’re new to hiking or an experienced mountaineer, this trip is not designed to push your limits but to offer a perfect blend of relaxation and activity.

Tall palm trees swaying in the breeze and dry but pleasantly warm air welcome every traveler upon arrival in Tenerife. Eternal summer is what best describes the island. The Teide Volcano is undoubtedly the most iconic symbol of Tenerife.

Trekking in Tenerife

Many people associate the Canary Islands with sandy beaches, luxury resorts, and cocktails by the pool. But Tenerife is much more than that. It’s a hiker’s paradise, full of lush gardens, charming villages, towering cliffs, and remote lighthouses. If you thought that there’s nothing to do on the island besides sunbathing, you’re mistaken. Tenerife is incredibly diverse, offering endless opportunities for outdoor exploration of its volcanic landscapes.

Pico del Teide – The Heart of Tenerife

The crown jewel of Tenerife is undoubtedly Teide National Park, home to Spain’s highest mountain, Pico del Teide (3,718 m). It is not only the highest peak in the Canary Islands but also the highest volcano in the Atlantic Ocean.

Teide National Park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007 and is the most visited national park in Spain, attracting over 4 million visitors annually. A hike to the summit of Pico del Teide is a must for any hiking enthusiast. While many visitors take the cable car, the more adventurous can explore various hiking trails leading to the peak. Despite countless photos of the mountain, none can fully capture the stunning beauty of this volcanic landscape.

Sunrise on Spain’s Highest Peak

Teide rises so high that it casts the world’s largest sea shadow, stretching 40 km in the morning toward La Gomera and extending toward Gran Canaria in the evening. This phenomenon can be observed at sunrise or sunset from the summit.

Is Teide an active volcano? Yes, Teide is not classified as extinct. The last eruption of Teide itself is believed to have occurred around 850 AD, while the last recorded volcanic activity on Tenerife took place in 1909 at El Chinyero, a smaller volcano in the Teide region.

Ascent to Pico del Teide

The Montaña Blanca route is the most popular, scenic, and also the most challenging path to the summit. However, the breathtaking landscapes along the way make every step worth it.

• The trail starts at Montaña Blanca (2,350 m), where a well-maintained path gradually ascends.
• The first section leads to the Altavista mountain refuge (3,270 m).
• The second section continues to the La Rambleta cable car station (3,555 m).
• The final section requires a special permit to reach the very top of Pico del Teide (3,718 m).

Since obtaining an overnight permit requires booking months in advance, we will complete the ascent in one day.

February Ascent Schedule

• 00:00 – Wake-up call
• 00:45 – Departure from Puerto de la Cruz
• 02:30 – Start of hike (2,350 m)
• 05:15 – Arrival at Altavista Refuge (3,270 m)
• 05:55 – Continue hiking
• 07:30 – 07:40 – Summit of Pico del Teide (3,718 m)
• 07:40 – Sunrise at the top
• 08:00 – Descent to the cable car
• 09:00 – Cable car ride down (€21.50)

Participants should be in good physical condition, but no hike is overly demanding. A Lifetrek guide will be with the group at all times to ensure a comfortable pace.

Each day, we take our time to enjoy the landscapes rather than rushing. If you prefer a rest day, you can stay at the accommodation, relax, swim, or explore independently.

• Hiking distances vary from 8 to 16 km on different terrains.
• Some sections are more challenging, but most trails are moderate and well-maintained.
• The goal of the trip is to enjoy the stunning scenery and natural beauty of Tenerife.

Important Notes:

• Altavista Refuge has dormitory-style bunk beds (bring sleeping bag liner)

• Hotel alternative guaranteed if refuge unavailable

• Vehicle includes basic CDW insurance (excess reduction available)