Description
This trail sets off along the Montaña Blanca track, an example of explosive volcanic eruptions that emit pumice stone.
The old footpath to the peak begins when you reach the slopes of Mount Teide. It climbs steeply, with a gradient of over 60% in some parts, via Lomo Tieso to the Altavista Refuge. Both the steepness of the slope and the high altitude make this route very tiring.
The trail continues to climb, less steeply now, over flows of young black lava that has not yet been colonised by vegetation, to end at La Rambleta next to the La Fortaleza viewpoint.
On this route you will notice the giant accretion balls at the foot of Mount Teide, fragments of magma ejected from the mouth of the volcano that rolled down the slope until they settled at the base of the mountain.
You will be accompanied on part of the ascent by Teide white broom or retama (Spartocytisus supranubius), until at an altitude of 3400 m the vegetation disappears almost completely, except for isolated cases of the park’s flora, including marguerites (Argyranthemum frutescens) and the Teide violet (Viola cheiranthifolia).
Tips
- Always stay on the marked trail and do not enter private property, hunting grounds, water galleries, wells or caves.
- Pay special attention when crossing or walking along trails used by bicycles, horses or motor vehicles and when walking in ravines with water courses.
- Avoid direct encounters with potentially dangerous animals, such as livestock, beehives, and dogs.
- Proceed with caution and watch for obstacles, loose rocks, uneven terrain or steep slopes to avoid accidents and falls.
- Check out our guide to hiking in Tenerife and, if necessary, contact the emergency services by calling 112.
