Tour El Teide, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Los Gigantes from Las Americas/Los Cristianos

El Teide National Park , containing the 3,718 meter high Teide-Pico Viejo stratovolcano that rises 7,500 meters above the ocean floor, is the third highest volcanic structure in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It is a spectacular area to see , which is enhanced by the atmospheric conditions that create constantly changing textures and tones .

The Teide can be climbed from all 4 sides. This tour along the western and southern sides offers spectacular views with information boards providing explanations. In addition, we include Los Gigantes during the visit, as well as a visit to a spectacular natural swimming pool where the waves can break so hard that fatal accidents occur. Be warned...

The highest point is the Téléferico base station. This takes you to La Rambleta in 8 minutes at an altitude of 3,555 meters.

Start at the Los Cristianos ramp complex where the TF-28 from El Teide joins the TF-1.

We drive to Puerto Santiago to visit the Piscina Natural Acantilado de Los Gigantes, currently (2024) a forbidden place for swimming due to the dangerous but spectacular breaking waves. We also have a good view of the Acantilado de Los Gigantes from the Mirador de Archipenque.

On the way to the TF-38 we pass Chio where Restaurante El Rancho is worth a detour. From here the road climbs continuously. The Mirador de los Poleos and Mirador de Samara are photogenic places because of the enormous color combinations.

The Mirador de las Narices clearly shows the consequences of the last major eruption. The ride straight through the lava fields is breathtaking.

Furthermore, the Boca Tauce viewpoint is a popular filming location. We take the TF21 with stops at the Zapato de la Reina, Llano de Ucanca, Mirador Azulejos II and La Ruleta viewpoint. The Ermita de las Nieves chapel and a hotel are also located here.

It can be busy because many people do the walk to the Roques de García . Because it is impossible to park on the roadside, the following applies: parking lot is full. Those who want to avoid this and fancy a walk can park at Llano de Ucanca or Mirador Azulejos II and walk to La Ruleta and Roques de García , a 5 km walk.

The ride continues to the Téléferico base station. This takes you to La Rambleta in 8 minutes at an altitude of 3,555 meters. With a special permit you can walk from La Rambleta to the top of El Teide (Pico del Teide) at 3,718 meters. This walk offers a challenging but rewarding experience with spectacular views over the Canary Islands. The single trip takes about an hour.

We return to where the road splits at the Boca Tauce viewpoint and now take the TF-51 to Vilaflor de Chasna.

The Museum Juan Évora shows how the shepherds of Las Cañadas lived.

Just before entering Vilaflor, a stop at the Pino Gordo and Pino de las Dos Pernadas , the tallest trees in Spain, is a must.

Vilaflor de Chasna is worth a stop to visit the San Pedro sanctuaries.

The road now winds through the woods down to the starting point.

Be sure to consult the information about the sights once you are there . They explain what you will see!

03/2024