Teide National Park (Parque Nacional del Teide) is the largest national
park on the Canary Islands. It is a top choice for anyone interested in visiting craters, volcanoes, and terrain filled with petrified lava. Mount Teide dramatically looms 3,718 meters above sea level. This mountain is the third tallest volcanic landform and the highest peak in Spain. If you enjoy the outdoors, take a journey into one of nature’s special treasures—Teide National Park.
Since it is the most popular park in Spain, advanced planning is recommended. If you can handle jolting rides consider a jeep adventure. The scent of the towering pines and junipers is overwhelming. Drivers will stop at designated places for panoramic views. Quick photo shots are a snap from an open vehicle.
The tree-lined landscape eventually gives way to barren and rocky open spaces. The land is dotted with hearty vegetation that can withstand the extremes of this high altitude climate.
Some of the rock formations reveal different layers of colors and provide clues to the volcanic eruption history.
Main Attractions
Option 1— a cable car takes passengers to an area near the top of Mount Teide. Remember to make an online reservation for a cable car ticket and arrange for a permit to take the peak path. The park issues a limited number of daily permits for this premium view. Two other trails are available. Making reservations in advance can be a hit or miss situation. Weather conditions are unpredictable at higher altitudes.
Option 2—only individuals who are in excellent shape should consider hiking the steep incline to the top. Less fit individuals should opt for the cable car.
Option 3— to avoid excessive crowds and a long wait for the cable car, explore Pared de La Caldera de Las Cañadas. Las Cañadas Caldera was formed approximately 170,000 years ago after a landslide destroyed the top of Tenerife. Today, one can see a horseshoe shaped multi-layered depression with fascinating rock formations. It is one of the largest cauldrons in the world.
If Time Allows
Teide Observatory (Observatorio del Teide)— contact this observatory for guide tour times and general information.
Before You Go
Don’t forget that the climate on the coast is very different from the mountainous region. Be prepared for changing conditions and a rocky and lava-coated terrain. Remember to bring a lined water repellant jacket, a hat, sturdy shoes, sunglasses, and ample water.
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THE ABOVE ARTICLE WAS ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON NOVEMBER 4, 2015. IT IS BEING REPOSTED ON THIS SITE BECAUSE THE EXAMINER SITE SHUT DOWN EARLIER THIS MONTH.
BIO
Sandra Bornstein is the author of MAY THIS BE THE BEST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE. It is available on Amazon.
Sandra’s memoir highlights her living and teaching adventure in Bangalore, India. She is a licensed Colorado teacher who has taught K-12 students in the United States and abroad as well as college level courses. Sandra is married and has four adult sons.
The memoir was a finalist in the Travel category for the 2013 Next Generation Indie Book Awards, the 2013 International Book Awards, the 2013 National Indie Book Excellence Awards, 2013 USA Best Book Awards, and a Honorable Mention award in the Multicultural Non-Fiction category for the 2013 Global ebook Awards.
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