Despite the harsh environmental conditions, Teide National Park supports diverse wildlife, particularly invertebrates, with over 1,400 species identified, including many endemic species. The Tenerife Lizard (Gallotia galloti) is commonly seen basking on rocks throughout the park. Notable bird species include the Berthelot's Pipit (Anthus berthelotii) and the Blue Chaffinch (Fringilla teydea), which is endemic to Tenerife. The park also hosts various species of bats, including the endemic Canarian Long-eared Bat (Plecotus teneriffae). Invertebrates include numerous endemic species of beetles, spiders, and the Tenerife Blue Butterfly (Cyclyrius webbianus).
The park hosts a remarkable collection of adapted plant species, with over 168 vascular plant species, 58 of which are endemic to the Canary Islands. The most iconic species is the Teide Violet (Viola cheiranthifolia), which grows at the highest altitudes. Other notable species include the Teide White Broom (Spartocytisus supranubius), the Teide Bugloss (Echium wildpretii) with its distinctive red tower of flowers, and the Canary Island Pine (Pinus canariensis). The vegetation is distributed in distinct altitudinal zones, each adapted to specific environmental conditions, from pine forests at lower elevations to high-altitude desert species.
The park showcases a remarkable volcanic landscape formed over multiple eruptions spanning 170,000 years. Mount Teide, a stratovolcano rising 3,718 meters (12,198 feet), is the highest peak in Spain and the third-largest volcano in the world from its base. The park features various volcanic formations including phonolitic lava domes, extensive lava flows, pumice deposits, and the distinctive Las Cañadas caldera, a 16km-wide crater formed by a massive collapse or explosion. The area continues to show signs of volcanic activity through fumaroles and thermal anomalies, with the last eruption occurring in 1909 from the Chinyero vent.
Teide National Park, established in 1954, holds profound cultural significance as a sacred site for the indigenous Guanches, who believed it was the gateway to hell and home to Guayota, the evil deity. The Spanish name 'Teide' derives from 'Echeyde,' meaning 'Hell' in the Guanche language. Following the Spanish conquest in the 15th century, the area became important for scientific research, attracting notable visitors including Alexander von Humboldt in 1799. The park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, recognizing its outstanding natural beauty and geological significance. Throughout history, the park has served as a crucial site for volcanic research and astronomical observations.
The park's most striking feature is Mount Teide itself, with its cable car providing access near the summit. The distinctive rock formation of Roque Cinchado, known as 'God's Finger,' has become an iconic symbol of the park. The Roques de García form a spectacular group of rock formations created by differential erosion. The Montaña Blanca trail offers views of unique geological features including obsidian flows and the Huevos del Teide (Teide's Eggs) - large spherical rocks formed during volcanic eruptions. The park's clear skies and high altitude make it one of the world's premier locations for astronomical observation, home to the Teide Observatory. The extensive network of hiking trails, including the Siete Cañadas path, allows visitors to explore these features while experiencing the park's diverse landscapes.
Teide National Park experiences a unique high-mountain climate characterized by significant temperature variations between day and night. Summer temperatures typically range from 20-25°C (68-77°F) during the day and can drop to 5-10°C (41-50°F) at night. In winter, daytime temperatures average 8-15°C (46-59°F), while nighttime temperatures often fall below freezing, with occasional snowfall above 2,000 meters. The park receives minimal rainfall and enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually, with extremely clear skies that make it an ideal location for astronomical observation. Visitors should be prepared for sudden weather changes and strong UV radiation due to the high altitude.
Spain
28.2720°, -16.6420°
1954
189.9
Teide National Park features Spain's highest peak and the world's third-tallest volcanic structure from its base. The park's lunar-like landscape contains unique geological formations and endemic species. Its clear skies make it one of the world's premier astronomical observation sites.