To the Summit

The Pico del Teide (3,715 m) is the highest mountain in Spain and the third highest island volcano in the world (after Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa in Hawaii). Standing on the summit and looking over the clouds, with the neighboring islands of La Gomera, La Palma, El Hierro, and Gran Canaria on the horizon — this is one of the most impressive experiences Europe has to offer.

Option 1: Cable Car + Summit Trail

The Teleférico del Teide takes you in 8 minutes from 2,356 m to 3,555 m — the La Rambleta station. From here, it's another 163 meters on foot to the summit. But beware: For the final section to the summit (Sendero Telesforo Bravo) you need a free permit, which you must reserve on the national park's website.

Detail	Info
Cable Car Price	39€ return (adults), 20€ children
Opening Hours	Daily 9 AM–5 PM (last ascent 4 PM)
Summit Permit	Free, reserve online (reservasparquesnacionales.es)
Reservation Lead Time	At least 2 months in advance! Spots are extremely sought after
Summit Trail	600 m, approx. 30–40 minutes, steep and rocky

Option 2: On Foot from Montaña Blanca

The royal tour: From Montaña Blanca (2,348 m) on foot to the summit. 8.5 km, 1,367 meters elevation gain, 5–6 hours ascent. For experienced hikers in good condition. The Refugio de Altavista (3,260 m) offers overnight accommodation — those who sleep here can reach the summit before 9 AM without a permit and experience the sunrise. The hut has 54 beds (mattress, no food) and costs 25€/night — reservation required.

Sunrise on Teide

The sunrise from Teide is one of the most incredible natural spectacles in the world: The shadow of the volcano — a perfect triangle — projects 200 kilometers across the Atlantic, while the sun rises behind the neighboring islands. The sea of clouds below you turns pink, orange, gold. Some people say they have never seen anything more beautiful.