Hiking is one of the main attractions of Tenerife and ascending to the highest peak of the island (and Spain) is one of the most breathtaking experiences one can enjoy in life. Tenerife boasts an environment full of contrasts such as volcanic landscapes, laurel forests, black and white sandy beaches, and a summit crowned by Teide that leaves anyone who beholds it for the first time and has the chance to reach the very top of this impressive volcano speechless.
This is exactly how a group of young people experienced it a few days ago when they decided to climb the Telesforo Bravo trail (a trail for which you must request permission in advance) to reach the highest point on a nocturnal hike with the intention of enjoying a spectacular sunrise from the summit.
This group recorded their experience in a video shared on the @sofifit96 TikTok account, highlighting the effort required to reach the summit even though they climbed in spring, when temperatures are milder in the area.
They claim that around 06:30 hours, minutes before sunrise, “it seemed like there was nothing left”, but they were mistaken because “the toughest part was still ahead,” this user admits that, despite everything, “it has been one of the most spectacular experiences” of her life.
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The Teide National Park features 37 official trails with great biodiversity, making it one of the best places for active tourism on the island.
The ascent to the summit of Teide is done through the Telesforo Bravo route, which is dedicated to the distinguished Canarian geologist, widely regarded as the father of vulcanology in the Canary Islands.
The trail offers the opportunity to traverse a lava channel that skirts the crater, view the landscape from the canal viewpoint, and finally reach the peak by crossing a zigzag path from where small volcanic fumaroles emitting a sulphuric smell can be observed because, although this volcano is dormant, it still releases gases to the exterior.
The trail’s difficulty level is high because despite the short distance (614 meters), the altitude can lead to oxygen deficiency. Additionally, the trail has an accumulated elevation gain of 173 meters.
With all that being said, to ascend to the top of Teide for environmental conservation reasons, it is necessary to request a permit that can be applied for in advance here.
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Clothing for Teide Ascent
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One of the most important aspects to consider when planning a route through the Teide trails is knowing the best attire for the ascent.
Clothes to climb Teide / El Día
If you plan to ascend Teide in spring or summer, when daytime temperatures can exceed 25 degrees, Teide is a high mountain which means the climate has its own characteristics. Moreover, the weather can change significantly from one day to the next. However, as an approximate indication, we will tell you that the average maximum temperature at the summit of Teide is 18⁰ in these months.
Before your arrival, you should monitor the weather to know what to expect. It is advisable to check the temperature on the day you plan to ascend Teide, the week’s forecast, and the conditions of the trails and roads.
The essential garments to climb Teide. There is a significant temperature difference on Teide between the base and the summit, which can exceed 10 degrees, and the wind is stronger, so do not forget to wear comfortable hiking shoes, suitable trousers, a good coat, even if you decide to climb in summer. With high mountains, you never know what to expect. It is always advisable to carry enough water and some food, preferably fruit. It is also recommended to wear sunglasses and sunscreen.
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Above the mysterious sea of clouds covering the slopes of the Teide volcano, the spectacular sunrise awaits, witnessed by those brave ones who embark on this extraordinary adventure.
In Teide National Park, both in winter and summer, rainfall is always scarce, around 400 mm annually, with snowfall occurring for about fifteen days per year. Due to low temperatures and strong overnight frosts, the National Park remains snowy for several months a year. This lack of rainfall indicates a severe drought.
On the hottest days, temperatures can reach 34°C, which can sharply drop to -16°C at night during winter. Additionally, there are significant daily temperature variations, up to 12°C, possibly due to the intense radiation in the clear atmosphere. The average monthly temperatures range from 4.6°C (January) to 18.3°C (August), with an annual average of 10.9°C.
In addition to these extreme conditions, strong and gusty winds sometimes reach speeds of 200 km/h at the mountain peaks.
During the cold season, it is not uncommon to encounter a peculiar phenomenon called “cencellada” by the locals, consisting of large ice crystals up to 15 centimetres covering plant leaves.
The climate of Teide National Park is defined by extreme altitudes, intense sunlight, and thermal variations, classifying it as a subalpine continental climate, distinct from the prevailing climate in the lower and middle areas of Tenerife.
