Climbing Teide - new rules. How to prepare to conquer the highest peak in Spain?
- Jan 15
- 8 min read
Updated: Feb 15
If you dream of conquering the majestic Teide volcano, you need to know that the rules for tourists and climbers have changed at the end of 2024. It's not just a matter of formality - these new regulations can mean the difference between a successful or disappointing expedition. That's why I've prepared this practical guide for you, which will not only explain the new rules, but also tell you how to best plan your ascent of this volcanic giant.
TABLE OF CONTENTS (click to go to section)
Why is Teide so popular?
There is no hiding the fact that climbing the Teide Volcano is one of the biggest attractions in Tenerife. Not only because it is the highest peak in Spain (3,715 m above sea level), but also because of the spectacular views that stretch from the top. An extraordinary lunar landscape, fields of solidified lava and a view of the entire island - this makes an impression on everyone.
Climbing Teide is also a challenge that visitors are eager to take on, but it turns out that it is a challenge that many tourists undertake without proper preparation.
Why is climbing Teide a challenge?
Conquering Teide is a dream for many, but it is not an easy task for the body. The altitude of over 3,000 m above sea level means thinner air and less oxygen, which can lead to dizziness, fatigue and even symptoms of altitude sickness. The temperature differences can be extreme - while on the coast it is a pleasant 25°C, on the summit it can be close to zero, and the wind additionally intensifies the feeling of cold. The changeable weather, demanding terrain and intense physical effort mean that many tourists take on this challenge without proper preparation.
That is why it is so important not to underestimate this volcano. Even if the cable car allows you to reach a height of over 3,500 m, the last part requires walking independently, appropriate clothing and fitness.
New safety rules.
The new regulations introduced by the National Park authorities aim to increase the safety of tourists and protect the environment. This decision is a response to recent incidents in which rescuers had to evacuate more than 130 people who attempted to climb the peak despite the closure of the cable car and unfavorable weather conditions. Many of them were not properly dressed, which further increased the risk of an accident.
New regulations – what do you need to know?
Mandatory registration
According to the new regulations, only 300 people per day will be allowed to reach the summit in three time slots: from 09:00 to 16:00, from 16:00 to 00:00 and from 00:00 to 09:00.
Each tourist must register before entering the trails and to climb to the top of the Volcano. Registration is possible through the Tenerife ON application.
To access the selected routes, it is necessary to print or save an electronic version of the document received in order to show it at the entrance control. You must also have an identity document with you confirming your data.
REMEMBER!
This permit applies to the S-10 – Telesforo Bravo trail, i.e. the ascent from the cable car to the summit. On this page you will find official information regarding permission for this route.
Currently (post updated on 10/01/25) these trails are also subject to control and a permit is required for them:
Trail 7 (Montaña Blanca-Pico del Teide)
Trail 11 (Mirador de la Fortaleza)
Trail 23 (Regatones Negros)
Trail Section No. 28 (Chafarí)
Trail 9 (Teide – Pico Viejo – Mirador de Las Narices del Teide)
It is best to make a reservation well in advance – even several weeks in advance.
REMEMBER!
!! The permit for these trails does not include the permit to access the Teide summit, which must be applied for according to the standard procedure.
!! It also does not include the ticket for the descent by cable car, which can only be booked from the mountain station using QR codes and provided that the cable car is operational. Therefore, please take into account that due to unfavourable weather conditions, technical reasons or other reasons of force majeure, the cable car may not be operating and that the return journey will have to be made on foot. We recommend checking the weather forecast 24 hours in advance to plan your hike safely.
!! Persons without a mandatory permit to descend on foot on one of the trails requiring a permit will be refused entry-only service: PNT 07 Montaña Blanca - La Rambleta, PNT 09 Teide - Pico Viejo - Mirador de las Narices del Teide, PNT 23 Regatones Negros, PNT 28 Chafarí). Source .
Entry times New regulations limit the number of people allowed on the summit at any given time. The permit is only valid for a specific time, so it's worth keeping an eye on the time so you don't miss your chance.
Cable car – what you need to know? For those who don’t want to or can’t walk the entire route, there’s the Teleférico del Teide cable car. Remember, however, that its operation is subject to weather conditions – in strong winds, the cable car may be closed.
IMPORTANT : As Check the news via the Tenerife ON app, trails may be closed due to weather conditions .
24/7 service on the route
The trail will be staffed by national park staff 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, meaning tourists will not be able to enter the volcano at night without permission, as was the case until now.
Special pool of permits for professionals
Associated climbers and licensed companies organizing climbing trips can count on special privileges. The condition for obtaining them is to present documents confirming appropriate qualifications and possession of the required equipment. Thanks to this, professionals can use the trails to a wider extent, if weather conditions allow it.
Penalties for non-compliance
Violating the new rules regarding the ascent to the Teide summit can be costly – if you ignore them, you may not only be fined 600 euros , but also be charged with the costs of any rescue operation . It is worth noting that such actions can cost from 2,000 to 12,000 euros , so it is better to take care of proper preparation and compliance with the applicable regulations.
Cable car – what is worth knowing?
For those who don't want to or can't walk the entire route, there's the Teleférico del Teide cable car . The base station is at 2,356 m above sea level, and the ride to the top station, at 3,555 m, takes about 8 minutes.
The cable car runs daily from 9:00 to 17:00, but the last entry is at 16:00. It is important to book your ticket online in advance, especially during the tourist season. You can buy your ticket here - on the official website of Teide National Park . Remember, however, that its operation depends on weather conditions – in strong winds the cable car may be closed.
Mandatory equipment for tourists on Teide – what do you need to safely reach the summit?
To comply with the new safety rules, anyone planning to climb Teide must have a mandatory set of equipment, which includes:
solid hiking boots
warm clothing that protects against wind and cold
thermal blanket
enough water
fully charged mobile phone,
headlamp or other flashlight.
There are checkpoints on the trails where park rangers check whether tourists are properly prepared. Lack of the required equipment results in refusal to enter the trail, which is to prevent possible dangers.
How to prepare for climbing Teide?
Book your permit in advance. Without it, you won't be able to reach the summit – even if you take the cable car to 3,555 m above sea level. The permit is free, but places are limited.
Dress appropriately. Remember that the weather at this altitude can be completely different than on the coast. Bring warm clothes, even if it's hot down there.
Bring plenty of water and food. The altitude and intense exertion can be a challenge, so it's a good idea to bring some energy snacks and water.
Check the weather forecast. Weather conditions change very quickly here, so be sure to check the current weather before heading out.
Remember to acclimatize. If you are not used to high mountains, it is worth giving yourself a day or two to acclimatize to avoid symptoms of altitude sickness.
Getting to the top - you have different options.
Climb to the summit with Volcano Teide Experience – without the stress of asking for permission!
If you dream of conquering Teide but haven’t managed to get a permit yourself, there’s a great alternative – using the services of Volcano Teide Experience . A portion of the daily permits managed by the National Park are reserved for official guides, so they can organize trips for tourists even if individual bookings are no longer available.
Volcano Teide Experience works with licensed guides who help dozens of tourists fulfill their dream of climbing Spain's highest peak every day. You will find one of the offers by clicking this link. There is also an option with a cable car ride + a walking part . This is the perfect solution if you want to avoid the stress of booking and formalities - the organizer will take care of everything for you!
How to book a permit to climb Teide yourself?
However, if you prefer to organize your own expedition, you can obtain the permit yourself via the Teide National Park website. The process is quite simple, but you must be prepared for the high demand and the availability of places.
To make a reservation, follow these steps:
Select the option Teide → Permit to access Mount Teide → Reservations → Público General (Public access) .
Choose your date and time – remember that permits are limited, so you'll need a bit of luck to find a spot on your chosen date.
Apply online at least 2 or 3 months in advance – availability is very limited during the tourist season.
Provide details of all participants – the permit is personalized and non-transferable, so each person must be registered.
Adjustments depending on weather conditions.
The rules for access to the Teide summit depend on current weather conditions, which can change dynamically. The park authorities apply three levels of access regulation:
Normal weather conditions – standard entry permit applies, as well as checks of mandatory equipment for tourists and climbers at selected points.
Unfavorable weather conditions – entry is prohibited between 4:00 PM and 9:00 AM. This is to ensure safety during potentially more difficult night conditions.
Weather warnings or alerts – when an official weather warning or alert is issued, the trails are completely closed and entry to the National Park is prohibited until the situation improves.
My advice for you.
Don't leave your reservation until the last minute - places fill up quickly, especially during the tourist season.
Consider staying at Refugio Altavista – if you want to summit at sunrise without having to book a permit, staying at the refuge is the perfect option.
Bring sunscreen and sunglasses – even if it’s cold, the sun is very intense at this altitude.
Check the current weather – conditions on the Teide summit can change from hour to hour. Below you can see the current weather on the Teide summit. Before you set off, check more detailed data, e.g. Windy.com .
Don't underestimate what experts say about weather changes, altitude changes, acclimatization. Often we don't want to believe it until we experience it ourselves. Although the volcano seems so close, it is really high and incredible phenomena can happen there, which are worth experiencing... but with your head :)
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