Those who have stood at the mouth of the volcano El Teide, almost 4000 meters up, say the experience is like touching the sky. The volcano is evocative and powerful, bleak and majestic. Those who have reached the summit also tell how the immensity of the landscape imposes its own scale on things, wiping out petty thoughts. The ascent, in the Teide National Park, a World Heritage Site, is one long spectacle which takes the climber to another time, almost, it seems, to another planet. On foot, the climb can take up to eight hours, although there are shorter and easier hikes available. All of them offer the opportunity to admire and wonder at the textures of the wall-like cliff formations, the rivers of petrified lava in these black rock mountains where the flora and fauna is unique. Warm clothing is needed, and the walker must also be prepared for the intense sun. The ascent can also be made by cable car. Visitors wanting to scale the volcano must obtain a permit from the Park Office.

Getting there
The National Park is in the center of the island of Tenerife. The main access is from Santa Cruz or Puerto de la Cruz via the TF-21 and TF-24 roads. More info: Teide National Park.