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Tajinaste Rojo (Echium wildpretii) is one of the most unusual plants in the Canary Islands archipelago. This endemic species occurs exclusively on Tenerife and has become its unofficial botanical symbol . It is distinguished by its intensely red, panicle-shaped inflorescences, reaching up to 2 meters in height. This plant blooms only once in its life – usually from May to June – and then dies, leaving seeds for future generations. Tajinaste Rojo is a biennial plant. In the first year, it develops as a dense rosette of long, narrow, blue-grey leaves covered with delicate hairs. Only in the second year does it sprout an impressive inflorescence shoot, which can reach up to 2 metres in height. It consists of thousands of tiny red flowers, rich in nectar and pollen – a real feast for bees and other pollinators. After flowering, the plant dies, leaving behind seeds for the next generation. Where can you see Tajinaste Rojo? The largest number of Tajinaste Rojo can be found in the Teide National Park, especially in the areas of Llano de Ucanca, Roques de García and Minas de San José . In spring, the landscape of the volcanic valley turns into a red wave of flowers against the background of black rocks and the snow cap of the volcano. It is an absolutely unique view and one of the most beautiful natural spectacles in Tenerife. Tajinaste can also be found in the town of Vilaflor – one of the highest towns on the island, the La Fortaleza region, and also in some highlands of the southern part of the island. The plant also grows at altitudes above 1600 m above sea level, most often on dry, rocky slopes. Importance for the island's ecosystem and culture Tajinaste rojo is not only an aesthetic symbol. It is also an important element of the local ecosystem – it attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies and birds. Bees play a key role in the reproduction of the plant – the flowers die after blooming, and thanks to pollination they can produce seeds. The nectar of this plant produces a creamy, delicate honey of high quality, covered by the Protected Designation of Origin (DOP). Tajinaste is also often used in campaigns promoting environmental protection on the island and is under partial species protection. When is the best time to admire the blooming tajinaste? The blooming season is in late spring. The best time to visit is in May, when the fields of red flowers create breathtaking views . At this time, the weather is mostly stable and tourist traffic has not yet reached its summer peak. However, it is worth paying attention to the weather conditions in a given year – as a result of climate change, spring is sometimes colder, which delays the start of vegetation. In addition, tajinaste blooms at different times depending on the altitude: the higher, the later the flowers appear. If you want to see this wonder of nature in exceptional conditions, plan a morning trip – early morning sunlight beautifully highlights the contrast between the red plant and the black volcanic ground. Regardless of the time of day, remember not to get too close to it and not to pick the flowers – it is a protected plant. How to prepare for a trip? When going to Teide Park, it is worth taking care of appropriate clothing (it can be cold at high altitudes) and hiking shoes. Don't forget sun protection and water. It is also a good idea to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and admire the flowers in the soft light. All the information on how to prepare for visiting Teide itself can be found in this post: Climbing Teide - new rules. How to prepare to conquer the highest peak in Spain? Entry to Teide National Park is currently free, but changes are planned – I will keep you updated. Interesting facts and other varieties of Tajinaste The name "tajinaste" comes from the Guanche language and means "needle", referring to the slender, pointed shape of the inflorescence (it reminds me of a dwarf's hat :)). The species was named after Hermann Wildpret, a Swiss-German botanist who directed the Acclimatisation Garden of La Orotava in the 19th century and contributed significantly to the documentation of the flora of the Canary Islands. Echium wildpretii is just one of several varieties of plants known as "tajinaste". There are about 15 species and subspecies endemic to the Canary Islands: Echium wildpretii subsp. trichosiphon – a pink variety from La Palma, Echium simplex – tajinaste blanco, a white variant from Tenerife, growing on the steep slopes of Anaga, Echium callithyrsum – a blue-flowered species endemic to Gran Canaria, Echium webbii – a shrubby form from La Palma, resembling a candlestick. Tajinaste Rojo is a true wonder of nature and one of the most emblematic natural phenomena of Tenerife. Its appearance in the landscape heralds the arrival of spring and is a celebration for nature lovers, photographers and all those looking for authentic experiences away from commercial attractions. Don't miss the opportunity to see this endemic wealth with your own eyes!

Edit: 6/05/2025 The Punta de Teno cape , the westernmost point of Tenerife, is located within the boundaries of the Parque Rural de Teno. It is a place of almost primeval charm - steep cliffs falling into the azure ocean and a characteristic lighthouse create a landscape that will stay in the memory for a long time. Due to the extreme sensitivity of this area, the authorities have introduced regulations on car traffic to protect the unique fauna and flora and ensure the comfort of visitors. On Punta de Teno, the historic lighthouse from 1897 is set to be renovated and transformed into a modern interpretation centre – therefore, the rules for access may change in the future (I will update them on an ongoing basis). You can find more information about this extraordinary cape, its beauty and planned projects in the entry: Punta de Teno | The untouched end of Tenerife . In the meantime, I invite you to familiarize yourself with the currently applicable rules for reaching the venue. How to get to Punta de Teno? By bus ~ Line 369 departs from Buenavista del Norte (terminal at the station) and takes passengers to the cape in about 20 minutes. ~ Timetables and current information can be found on the TITSA website Taxi ~ Possibility of arrival at any time of the day, also outside bus operating hours. Directions and bus times Winter schedule (October 1 – June 30) The bus runs daily from 10:00 to 19:00. Frequency : every 20–25 minutes. Summer schedule (July 1st – September 30th) The bus runs daily from 9:00 to 20:00. Frequency unchanged. Outside these hours access is only possible by taxi . Entry by private car, on foot or by bicycle is prohibited all week. The best starting point Start your journey from the bus terminus in Buenavista del Norte Bus: Line 369 goes to Punta de Teno. The journey takes about 20 minutes. The ticket price is €1 per person per ride. You can pay for it in cash or by card. More information about the timetable can be found at this link . IMPORTANT: The TF‑445 road may be temporarily closed due to maintenance, adverse weather conditions or other safety concerns. Be careful and plan ahead Check the current weather, for example on Windy.com . Please check the TITSA website for up-to-date information regarding route 369 before travelling. Please take into account the possibility of delays or suspension of courses due to adverse weather conditions. With these tips, your journey to Punta de Teno will be easy and relaxing, and you will be able to fully enjoy the wild, rugged beauty of this unique corner of Tenerife.

Punta de Teno is the westernmost part of the coast of Tenerife, located within the boundaries of the Parque Rural de Teno. It is also one of the lesser-known corners of Tenerife, which only adds to the charm of this remote place and for me it falls into the category of secret places on the island. This place captivates with its raw, almost primeval landscape: towering cliffs, azure sea and characteristic lighthouse. Thanks to current restrictions on car entry (no traffic from 10:00 to 19:00 in winter and from 9:00 to 20:00 in summer) , Punta de Teno remains one of the few places on the island almost completely free from crowds, making it an ideal destination for those looking for authentic, uncrowded views. The introduction of special rules for entering Teno undoubtedly helps protect the ecosystem, but preventing entry by bike or on foot limits the full enjoyment of the scenic route to the cape. In 2024, we were still able to enter by bike - that's when we explored this unique place. Punta de Teno Cape - History and Location Punta de Teno Cape lies in the western part of the Buenavista del Norte commune, on the edge of the Teno massif. The road connecting this place with the rest of the island was not built until the 1970s. Previously, residents of the village of Teno Alto had to walk a four-hour, narrow path to get to Buenavista del Norte. The isolation has helped preserve the original character of this area – vertical cliffs, laurel forests and lava fields have remained almost untouched by mass tourism . Punta de Teno Lighthouse At the very tip of the cape stands the famous red and white lighthouse from 1897, built of stone brought from neighbouring La Gomera, because transport by sea was easier than by land. In the past, two lighthouse keepers took turns looking after and managing the lighthouse, living there with their families. It has been entered into the Catalogue of lighthouses of cultural heritage value in Spain , run by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports. Today, it operates automatically, but the stone path to its foot still stirs the imagination – like a postcard view from the end of the world. The Cape's rugged nature Punta de Teno is located within the Parque Rural de Teno , a protected area for its unique geological and biological values . The cliffs drop steeply into the ocean, and below them stretches a narrow beach and a small cove, from where there is a panoramic view of the famous Los Gigantes and the island of La Gomera . Flora and fauna In the dry, windy climate of the cape, endemic species adapted to extreme conditions thrive. On the rocky shelves grow, among others , succulents Aeonium nobile and Aeonium lindleyi , and in the hollows - wild figs ( Ficus carica ) and olives. The narrow zone by the stream is overgrown with reed grass and laurel thickets (Laurus novocanariensis). Birds have also found their haven here: ravens (Corvus corax tingitanus), kestrels (Falco tinnunculus canariensis) and Barbary partridges (Alectoris barbara) are common sights. Thanks to the limited traffic, these birds are often fearless in the presence of tourists. How to get to Punta de Teno Currently, due to environmental protection and the narrow, winding road, individual cars have been banned from rush hour for several years (10:00–19:00 in winter; 9:00–20:00 in summer). The most convenient way is to take a bus from Buenavista del Norte, which runs every hour and takes about 20 minutes. You can find all the information in this entry Punta de Teno in Tenerife – current travel rules Hike to Cape Teno Alternatively, you can walk the route from Teno Alto. Remember, however, that you need to be prepared for mountain hiking. I haven't walked the route yet, but as soon as I do (and I definitely will), I'll describe it in detail. You can also take a boat trip along the Los Gigantes cliffs. The cruise shows Punta de Teno from the sea, which allows you to appreciate the rock formations and marine fauna. There are many places that offer cruises, you can use the Discover Teno website , for example. What to do in Punta de Teno At this moment, it is best to enjoy the beauty of the untouched landscape and contemplate the beauty of the world. The sunsets and the peace are unforgettable. In addition to seeing the lighthouse from the outside and from a distance, swimming in the wind-sheltered bay of Playa Punta De Teno , or visiting the rocky-volcanic cape leading to the lighthouse, there are no other entertainments. But this is the most beautiful thing in this land far from the hustle and bustle and tourists. It is also worth knowing that there are no public toilets here. This will probably change after the planned renovation. Punta de Teno – a virgin area facing change At Punta de Teno, the historic lighthouse (from 1897) is to be renovated and transformed into an environmental interpretation centre with a café, toilets and 40 parking spaces. The investment (EUR 1.6 million, financed by EU funds) is to improve the tourist infrastructure and allow for better public access. The project also includes resurfacing and creating a bus manoeuvring point. Disclaimers and environmental protection Ecologists (ATAN) warn that the project will increase tourist pressure on one of the last wild areas of Tenerife. Criticism mainly concerns the planned bar and the construction of toilets, despite the lack of existing water and sewage infrastructure. The creators of the project assure that the infrastructure will be adapted to environmental requirements, and its daily emptying is to limit the impact on the surroundings. Endangered species The guincho nests in the area, the most endangered bird of prey in the Canary Islands. Due to human pressure, these birds are often unable to raise offspring. The government has allocated 31,000 euros for its protection, but environmentalists are demanding decisive action to limit interference in its habitat. Geographer and ATAN spokesman Eustaquio Villalba also draws attention to Teno’s unique natural and archaeological assets, which he believes should be protected without the need for infrastructure expansion. He emphasizes that the existing lighthouse could play an educational role, explaining the significance of the site to visitors without the need for new buildings. He also points to the presence of shell mounds, remains of indigenous inhabitants, and exceptionally well-preserved local flora, including some of the largest concentrations of cardonales cacti and the endemic variety of tabaiba. The investment includes planting native plants, including sweet tabaiba, Canary Island cardamom, immortelle, and sea vine. The President of the Tenerife Island Council, Rosa Dávila, emphasises that the project is universal in nature – it brings cultural heritage back to life and gives it back to residents and visitors. The interpretation centre is to serve education, promote the cultural and social values of the Teno Rural Park, and transform the lighthouse into a local centre of economic activity. As always, any interference in the natural environment arouses emotions and creates controversy - including in me. On the one hand, it is hard not to appreciate the efforts to make this extraordinary place accessible to a wider group of visitors, but on the other hand, there is concern about whether it will be possible to preserve its unique, wild character. Let's hope that Cape Teno will remain what it is today - a place somewhat hidden, peaceful and full of natural beauty that attracts those who truly appreciate it. If you want to feel the atmosphere of true wilderness and raw charm of this corner, now is the best time to visit - before the changes become a reality.

Tenerife Essence - odkryj prawdziwą Teneryfę – autentyczne miejsca, niepowtarzalny kanaryjski klimat i bliskość dzikiej natury. Przewodnik po wyspie pisany z sercem przez jej mieszkankę. NATURE BEACHES TRAILS VOLCANOES AND MOUNTAINS FOR ACTIVE PEOPLE USEFUL INFORMATION SECRET PLACES CITIES AND TOWNS CULTURE AND TRADITIONS HISTORY ALL POSTS NATURE BEACHES TRAILS VOLCANOES AND MOUNTAINS FOR ACTIVE PEOPLE USEFUL INFORMATION SECRET PLACES CITIES AND TOWNS CULTURE AND TRADITIONS HISTORY ALL POSTS NATURE BEACHES TRAILS VOLCANOES AND MOUNTAINS FOR ACTIVE PEOPLE USEFUL INFORMATION SECRET PLACES CITIES AND TOWNS CULTURE AND TRADITIONS HISTORY ALL POSTS Blog FEED FEEL THE CANARY CLIMATE! BE CLOSER TO NATURE! Discover the island from a different perspective! More activities in Tenerife (4) 4 posts beaches (3) 3 posts cities and towns (1) 1 post culture (1) 1 post ekologia (1) 1 post fauna and flora (3) 3 posts fun facts (1) 1 post history (1) 1 post nature (9) 9 posts news from Tenerife (2) 2 posts secret places (1) 1 post trails (3) 3 posts useful information (9) 9 posts volcanoes (2) 2 posts Discover Authentic Tenerife with Tenerife Essence Tenerife is more than just popular resorts – it's an island filled with mysteries and breathtaking landscapes. On my blog, you'll find everything you need to uncover its true beauty. Explore the most beautiful beaches of Tenerife, from wild coves to black volcanic shores. Learn what to see on the island to experience unforgettable views and the genuine Canarian atmosphere. Nature lovers will discover inspiring stories about Tenerife’s unique environment, from the majestic Mount Teide to the lush forests of Anaga. Active nature enthusiasts will find scenic cycling routes, stunning hiking trails, and exciting activities far from the crowded resorts. Join us on a journey through the authentic side of Tenerife – a land of sunshine, magic, and local charm. Agnes

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