Teide National Park
Spain’s most-visited national park, centered on Mount Teide—at 3,718 meters the highest peak in Spain and the third-highest volcano in the world when measured from the ocean floor.
At a glance
Teide National Park encompasses 18,990 hectares of volcanic landscape dominated by two peaks that rise above 3,000 meters. Mount Teide commands the landscape at 3,718 meters; Pico Viejo stands at 3,135 meters. The park receives roughly 4 million visitors annually, making it one of the world’s most visited national parks.
History
UNESCO designated the park a World Heritage Site on June 28, 2007. Since late 2007, it has held the distinction of being one of Spain’s 12 Treasures. The park’s significance extends beyond its natural geology to its role in astronomical observation—the Observatorio del Teide occupies a ridge to the east of Mount Teide.
What you see
The landscape is defined by two dominant volcanic peaks. Mount Teide rises to 3,718 meters, making it not only Spain’s highest mountain but also the third-highest volcano on Earth when measured from its base on the ocean floor (7,500 meters). Pico Viejo, the second-highest volcano in the Canary Islands, reaches 3,135 meters. These are the only two summits in the Canary Islands exceeding 3,000 meters in elevation. The park’s eastern ridge hosts the Observatorio del Teide, a major international research facility.
Cultural significance
Teide National Park represents Spain’s geological heritage and astronomical importance. The park’s volcanic terrain and extreme elevation make it both a natural laboratory for scientific study and a symbol of Spain’s natural diversity. Its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Spain’s 12 Treasures underscores its national and international value.
Key facts
- Location: Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain (municipality of La Orotava)
- Area: 18,990 hectares
- Mount Teide elevation: 3,718 meters (highest in Spain)
- Pico Viejo elevation: 3,135 meters
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: designated June 28, 2007
- Annual visitors: approximately 4 million (2023: 4,463,281)
- Coordinates: 28.263°N, 16.616°W
Practical information & getting there
Morning and afternoon coach trips depart from tourist towns in southern Tenerife, providing access through the park. To reach the peak of Mount Teide, you must obtain a free permit in advance—booking is required. The park’s volcanic terrain and high elevation demand appropriate preparation.
Sources & resources
Find it on the map
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