The Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the heart of Tenerife and home to the majestic Teide volcano. Covering an area of nearly 19,000 hectares, the park offers countless opportunities for trekkers and nature lovers. Entrance to the park is free, making it accessible to all visitors.

One of the most popular trails in the park is the Sendero de Montaña Blanca, which leads to the summit of Teide. This trail, starting at an elevation of about 2,350 meters above sea level, offers incredible views of the Las Cañadas caldera and the surrounding mountains. The trail is well-marked and well-maintained, but requires good physical fitness due to the significant elevation gain and sparser air at high altitudes.

For those who prefer less demanding trails, the park offers many alternatives. You can take shorter walks around the rock formations of Los Roques de García or explore the educational trails that introduce you to the park's unique geology and ecosystem. It is worth remembering that weather conditions in the park can change quickly, so always be prepared for different scenarios.

Teide National Park is not only a place for the active. It is also a paradise for photographers and astronomy enthusiasts. With clean air and minimal light pollution, the park offers some of the best conditions for stargazing in Europe. Many people come here specifically to admire the night sky and take part in astronomy events held regularly.

It's worth noting that Teide National Park is perfectly equipped to receive tourists. The El Portillo information center offers valuable information on routes, safety and the park's unique nature. There are also food outlets and souvenir stores where you can stock up on essentials before setting out on the trail.

To reach the summit of Teide itself is a dream for many visitors to Tenerife. Rising 3,718 meters above sea level, Mount Teide offers an unforgettable experience and views that will take your breath away. However, before you head to the summit, it's worth knowing some key information.

First of all, climbing to the top itself requires a special permit, which can be obtained free of charge online. Due to the protection of this unique ecosystem, the number of people who can climb to the summit each day is limited. It's worth booking the permit several months in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the summer season.

For those who prefer a less demanding option, the Na Teide Cable Car is available. This state-of-the-art cable car takes tourists to an altitude of 3,555 meters in just 8 minutes. A round-trip ticket costs about 40 euros for an adult (as of 2023), but it's worth checking current prices on the official website. The cable car offers spectacular views during the ascent, but be aware that it may be closed in case of high winds or bad weather conditions.

If you choose to hike in, the most popular route is the Montaña Blanca trail. The hike takes an average of 5-6 hours one way and requires good physical preparation. It is advisable to start the hike early in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat and have enough time to return safely.

Regardless of the method chosen to reach the summit, the views from Teide are unforgettable. On a cloudless day, you can see not only all of Tenerife, but also the neighboring Canary Islands. This is the perfect place to watch the sunrise or sunset, which take on a magical character here.

For those looking for an alternative to the summit of Teide itself, consider a visit to Pico Viejo Vantage Point. This is a vantage point offering a panoramic view of the Pico Viejo Crater, the second largest volcano in Tenerife. The route to this point is less demanding than the ascent to the summit of Teide, but still offers spectacular views of the caldera and surrounding islands.

When planning a trek to Teide, there are a few key points to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

First, acclimatization is extremely important. A rapid change in altitude can lead to symptoms of altitude sickness, so it's a good idea to plan a few days to gradually get used to the altitude before attempting the summit.

Proper equipment is key. Even in summer, temperatures at the summit can drop below freezing, so warm clothing is essential, including a windbreaker jacket, hat and gloves. Sturdy trekking shoes with good traction are mandatory due to the rocky ground. Don't forget high UV sunscreen - the sun's radiation is intense at this altitude.

Water is at a premium when trekking on Teide. It is recommended to take at least 2-3 liters of water per person, as well as high-energy snacks. There are no drinking water sources in the park, so you must be self-sufficient.

The weather on Teide can be changeable. Check the weather prognosis before heading out and be prepared for sudden changes. Fog can appear unexpectedly, making orientation in the area difficult.

If you plan to trek at night to see the sunrise from the summit, be sure to bring a good headlamp and spare batteries. Night temperatures are much lower, so extra layers of clothing are essential.

Safety is a priority. Inform someone of your trekking plans and estimated time of return. There is a cell phone network in the park, but it is a good idea to bring a charged phone with a stored emergency number (112).

Respect the environment. Teide National Park is a unique ecosystem. Stick to designated trails, don't pick up plants or rocks, and take all trash with you.

If you plan to stay overnight at the Altavista hostel (the only hostel on the route), advance reservations are required. The hostel offers basic amenities and is an excellent place to acclimatize before the summit attack.

Remember that entry to the summit of Teide itself requires a permit. You can get them online at the official website of the national park. Without a permit, you can only reach the cable car station.

Finally, take your time. Trekking to Teide is not a race. Enjoy the views, take frequent breaks and listen to your body. This is an experience that will stay with you forever, so take the time to fully appreciate it.

An adventure on Teide is not only a physical challenge, but also an unforgettable aesthetic and spiritual experience. The majesty of the volcano, lunar landscapes and breathtaking views make every step of this journey worth the effort. Whether you choose to make a full ascent to the summit or opt for the shorter trails in the national park, Teide offers an experience you will long remember. Prepare well, respect nature and enjoy one of the most beautiful places Europe has to offer.