Mount Teide Cable Car: What to Expect + Tips 2024
Planning a trip to Tenerife and considering the Mount Teide Cable Car?
We’ve got all the info you need on the Mount Teide Cable Car. Finding concise details about this attraction can be tough, but we’re here to help.
During our month-long stay in the Canary Islands, we explored Tenerife extensively and spoke with locals to bring you the best tips.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, our guide will answer your questions about prices, tours, how to get there, parking, food, operating hours, hikes, what to wear, and more!
Let’s make your Mount Teide Cable Car adventure unforgettable!
What is the Mount Teide Cable Car?
The Mount Teide Cable Car is a popular attraction in Tenerife, Spain. It takes visitors up to the upper station, located at an altitude of 3,555 meters (11,663 feet).
The ride lasts about 8 minutes and offers amazing views of the surrounding landscape, including the Teide National Park.
At the top, you can see the peak of Mount Teide, Spain’s highest mountain, and on clear days, you might even spot other Canary Islands.
The cable car runs throughout the year, but it’s best to check the weather, as it can be closed during high winds or bad conditions.
From our visit, we can say it was a smooth and exciting ride. The staff was friendly and helpful, making sure everyone was safe and comfortable.
Once at the top, the view was incredible. It felt like being on top of the world!
We took a short hike from the upper station to a viewpoint where we could see the volcanic crater and the island’s unique landscape. It’s definitely a must-do if you’re visiting Tenerife!
Is Mount Teide Cable Car Worth it?
Yes, the Mount Teide Cable Car is definitely worth it!
The ride-up offers stunning views of Teide National Park and the island. It’s a unique experience to reach such a high altitude so quickly and safely.
For us, it was absolutely worth it. The views from the top were breathtaking, and the short hike to the viewpoint added to the adventure.
It’s a must-do activity if you’re in Tenerife, providing a memorable experience you won’t forget.
How to Get to the Mount Teide Cable Car
Mount Teide Cable Car by Car
If you have rented a car, you can drive directly to the Mount Teide Cable Car Station.
From Santa Cruz de Tenerife:
- Take the TF-5 highway towards La Laguna.
- Merge onto the TF-24, heading towards Teide.
- Follow signs for Teide National Park and the cable car. The drive takes about 1.5 hours.
From Costa Adeje:
- Head north on the TF-1 highway.
- Take the exit for TF-38 towards Chio and Teide.
- Follow the TF-38 until you reach the TF-21.
- Continue on the TF-21 to the cable car. The trip is around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
From Los Cristianos:
- Drive north on the TF-1 highway.
- Take the exit for TF-38 towards Chio and Teide.
- Continue on the TF-38 until it meets the TF-21.
- Follow the TF-21 to the cable car. The journey takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
From Puerto de la Cruz:
- Head southwest on the TF-31.
- Merge onto the TF-21 towards Teide.
- Follow the TF-21 to the cable car. This drive is approximately 1 hour.
Make sure to check road conditions and weather before your trip, as mountain roads can be challenging.
Mount Teide Cable Car Address
The Mount Teide Cable Car is located at Parque Nacional del Teide, Cañadas del, 38300 La Orotava, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.
Mount Teide Cable Car Parking
Parking at the Mount Teide Cable Car is convenient and straightforward.
There’s a free parking lot located right next to the cable car station’s lower station. The lot has a good number of spaces, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times and holidays.
To ensure you get a spot, it’s best to arrive early in the day. The parking area is safe and well-maintained.
If the lot is full, there are also some parking spaces available along the main road, but you might have to walk a bit to reach the station.
🚨 We strongly recommend giving yourself at least a 45-minute buffer before your Cable Car timeslot to make sure you get parking!
Mount Teide Cable Car by Bus
If you don’t have a car, getting to the Mount Teide Cable Car by bus is an option. TITSA, the local bus service, offers routes that take you close to the cable car station.
From Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos:
- Take bus 342, which leaves from Costa Adeje and stops in Los Cristianos. It heads directly to the cable car station.
From Puerto de la Cruz:
- Hop on bus 348, which travels directly to the cable car station.
Both routes offer scenic views as you travel through Teide National Park.
Mount Teide Cable Car by Tour
Be careful when booking Mount Teide tours, as not all of them include a cable car ride as part of the tour, like this one that couples the tour with the Masca Valley.
Picking a reputable company is so important! Below is the company we trust to give you the best experience:
Teneriffa-Kreaktiv
This 6-hour tour of Mount Teide is the best because it combines a relaxing cable car ascent with a hike to Spain’s highest peak.
You get to skip the line for the cable car and conquer the final 170 meters on foot – definitely the best experience!
The tour includes hotel pickup from popular southern Tenerife locations and a special permit to access the crater included in the price.
With breathtaking views of Tenerife and nearby islands, plus a small group setting, this tour offers the best experience.
There are also private tours available for your group of up to 8 people.
Or book a sunset tour of Teide National Park to experience an exclusive cable car trip up Mount Teide to marvel at the mountain’s shadow stretching to Gran Canaria. You will 100% enjoy stargazing with professional telescopes from the cable car lookout at the Teide Observatory.
Hiking at the Top of Mount Teide Cable Car
Once you reach the top of the Mount Teide Cable Car, there are two main hiking trails that lead to stunning overlooks in opposite directions. These trails offer spectacular views of Teide National Park and the surrounding landscapes.
La Fortaleza Overlook Trail
The La Fortaleza Overlook Trail heads north from the upper station. It offers incredible views of the northern part of Tenerife and the La Fortaleza rock formation.
The hike is relatively easy and takes about 25 minutes round trip. The ground is NOT even – we recommend sturdy shoes.
Pico Viejo Overlook Trail
This trail leads south from the upper station. It provides breathtaking views of the Pico Viejo crater and, on clear days, you can see other Canary Islands.
This hike is also moderate, taking about 30 minutes round trip.
Telesforo Bravo Trail (Permitted Trail)
Additionally, there is a trail that requires a special permit if you wish to hike further up towards the summit of Mount Teide.
This trail, known as the Telesforo Bravo Trail, leads to the highest point of the volcano at 3,718 meters (12,198 feet).
To hike this trail, you must obtain a permit in advance from the Teide National Park website, as the number of daily hikers is limited to protect the environment. As you can see in the photo above, there is a gate letting you know you need a permit.
Mount Teide Cable Car Opening Times
The Mount Teide Cable Car operates year-round, but the opening times and hours can vary depending on the season and weather conditions.
Regular Operating Hours:
- The cable car typically runs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
- The last ride up is at 4:00 PM, and the last ride down is at 4:50 PM.
Summer Hours:
- During the summer months (July and August), the cable car often extends its hours, operating from 9:00 AM to 5:40 PM.
- The last ride up is at 5:40 PM, and the last ride down is at 6:30 PM.
You will need to buy your ticket in advance – they sell out! We were there during off-season so we were able to wait until a few days before but we did not have many options for time.
When you buy your ticket, you will pick a time slot. You MUST be ready at your timeslot. They will not let you go outside of your time slot. Plan to arrive early to ensure you get parking and have time to check in before your time slot.
Best Time to Ride the Mount Teide Cable Car
The best time to ride the Mount Teide Cable Car is early in the morning. Arriving at 9:00 AM helps you avoid crowds and enjoy clearer skies.
The weather is usually calmer in the morning, reducing the chances of the cable car being closed due to wind.
Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends. We went on a Wednesday, and the crowds were not bad.
Mount Teide Cable Car Tickets
When purchasing tickets for the Mount Teide Cable Car, you must select a specific day and time slot. This helps manage the number of visitors and ensures a smoother experience for everyone.
It is highly recommended to buy your tickets in advance online from the official Teide Cable Car website. This ensures you get the date and time you prefer and helps avoid long lines at the ticket office.
Tickets can also be purchased at the base station, but this option can be less convenient during peak times or busy seasons when tickets may sell out.
Mount Teide Cable Car Price
The Mount Teide Cable Car ticket is cheaper than some Tenerife Theme Parks!
- Adults: Approximately €41 for a round-trip ticket.
- Children (3-13 years): Approximately €20.50 for a round-trip ticket.
Mount Teide Cable Car Height
The Mount Teide Cable Car reaches an altitude of 3,555 meters (11,663 feet) above sea level. We definitely noticed the change in elevation in our breathing at the top.
It travels a distance of 2.5 kilometers (1.55 miles) from the base station to the upper station.
This change in altitude also means a big change in weather – the temperature at the top is generally pretty cold so have a coat!
Mount Teide Cable Car Food
There is a small café where you can grab snacks, sandwiches, and drinks. It’s a good place to have a quick bite before or after heading up the mountain.
There are no food options at the upper station, so it’s best to bring your own snacks and water if you plan to spend some time exploring. Make sure to carry enough supplies to stay hydrated and energized during your visit.
Mount Teide Cable Car Facilities
At the bottom station of the Mount Teide Cable Car, you’ll find clean and well-maintained bathrooms and a small gift shop offering souvenirs, maps, and basic hiking gear.
There is also an information desk where staff can provide assistance and details about the cable car and Teide National Park.
The top station also has basic bathroom facilities, though they can be limited, so plan accordingly. There are no shops at the top station, so it’s best to purchase any necessary items at the bottom.
Where to Stay for Mount Teide
The only hotel close to the Mount Teide Cable Car is Parador de Las Cañadas del Teide, located 6,562 feet above sea level.
This hotel is the perfect base for exploring Teide National Park and offers guests two telescopes for stargazing.
The hotel’s restaurant provides meals, which is convenient since there are no other dining options in the area.
Tips for Mount Teide Cable Car
- Arrive Early: Get there when it opens at 9:00 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy clearer skies.
- Check the Weather: The cable car may close due to high winds or bad weather. Check the forecast and the official website before your visit.
- Dress in Layers: The temperature can be much cooler at the top. Wear layers to stay comfortable.
- Bring Snacks and Water: Food options are limited, especially at the top. Pack snacks and plenty of water.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: If you plan to hike at the top, sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must.
- Buy Tickets in Advance: To save time and ensure your spot, purchase tickets online ahead of time.
- Use Sunscreen: Even on cloudy days, the sun can be strong at high altitudes. Protect your skin with sunscreen.
- Plan for Altitude: The high altitude can affect some people. Take it easy and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Parking: Arrive early to secure a spot in the free parking lot, which fills up quickly during peak times.
FAQs for Mount Teide Cable Car
How long is the cable car ride on Mount Teide?
The cable car ride on Mount Teide lasts about 8 minutes.
Is it worth going to the top of Mount Teide?
Yes, it’s worth it! The stunning views and unique volcanic landscape make the trip to the top of Mount Teide unforgettable.
Can you drive to the top of Mount Teide?
No, you can’t drive to the top of Mount Teide. You can drive to the cable car base station, then take the Mount Teide cable car up.
Are there toilets on Mount Teide?
Yes, there are toilets at both the bottom and top stations of the Mount Teide Cable Car.
What do you wear to Mount Teide?
Wear layered clothing, as temperatures can vary. Bring a warm jacket, sturdy hiking shoes, and a hat. Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against strong sun at high altitudes.
In Conclusion: Mount Teide Cable Car
We hope you have a fantastic time exploring Tenerife and Mount Teide!
Make sure to include the Mount Teide cable car in your itinerary for an incredible visit to one of Tenerife’s most iconic landmarks. Safe travels and enjoy every moment!
We wish you the best travels and don’t forget to set your “Out of Office!”
🌟 Loving our content? Support the journey — buy us a coffee! ☕️
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Canary Islands Travel Planning Guide
🚙💨 Is it safe to rent a car in the Canary Islands?
Yes — Renting a car is a necessity in the Canary Islands if traveling between cities! If you want to go on day trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you can use public transportation, but we recommend renting a car. Discover Cars is our go-to choice for car rentals in the Canary Islands.
📲 Will my phone work in the Canary Islands?
Maybe, but it will be expensive— Depending on your provider, plans can charge you $10 per day while in Europe. To use your phone in the Canary Islands and save money, we recommend an eSim with Airalo. Airalo simplifies the steps and provides you with all the necessary data for convenient travel. There is not a lot of free WIFI in the Canary Islands, so you’ll need your phone for navigating.
🌐 Do I need a VPN when on the internet in the Canary Islands?
While abroad, we consistently prioritize our online security by using a VPN to appear as if we’re streaming from the US and protect ourselves from cybercrime. NordVPN serves as an incredibly convenient solution for both mobile phones and laptops, effortlessly ensuring our safety while browsing or streaming.
🏩 What’s the best way to book my the Canary Islands?
Our go-to for Canary Islands hotels is Booking.com. They offer the widest range of choices, and their filtering system simplifies the process of discovering the perfect accommodation for your needs.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy flights to the Canary Islands?
For finding cheap flights to the Canary Islands, we recommend Kayak. Their awesome multi-city flight search and handy price notifications help us save big, allowing us to splurge on other adventures once we arrive. Vueling and Iberia are usually our airlines of choice to get to the Canary Islands. Air Europa and Binter Canarias are the main inter-island airlines.
🚐 Should I book tours in the Canary Islands? Do the guides speak English?
We LOVE taking tours in the Canary Islands. We prefer to book our tours on Viator and GetYourGuide for easy searching, trusted reviews, and transparent pricing. We always filter for the tours that are offered in English. For free walking tours in English, we always book through GuruWalk.
🚑 Should I buy Canary Islands travel insurance?
100% YES! — Spain has a publicly funded healthcare system known as the Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS), which provides universal healthcare coverage to all Spanish citizens and legal residents in the Canary Islands! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. We recommend Safety Wing – they provide general travel coverage as well as medical!
💧Can you drink the water in the Canary Islands?
The water in the Canary Islands is safe to drink. In some rural or remote areas, or in older buildings with outdated plumbing systems, water quality might not be as high. For an extra layer of protection, we recommend always using a LifeStraw Go Series to stay safe and hydrated.
🎫 Do I need a visa for the Canary Islands?
Likely Not — US passport holders don’t need Spanish visas for travel less than 3 months. If you plan to stay for more than 3 months, you will be considered a resident and must have an entrance visa.
