A New Era for Visiting Spain’s Highest Peak
Tenerife’s Island Council, led by President Rosa Dávila, has confirmed an unprecedented change for visiting Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Spain’s most visited natural treasures. From January 1, 2026, anyone wishing to ascend to the peak of Mount Teide will be required to pay an ecotax. This measure is designed to manage access and ensure the long-term conservation of the volcano.
Understanding the New Fee Structure
The new policy establishes that residents of Tenerife and children under 14 will have free access. Residents of the other Canary Islands will pay a reduced fee of between 3 and 6 euros. For tourists and non-resident visitors, the price will range from 10 to 25 euros. The final cost will depend on the chosen trail, the time of visit, and whether access is with an authorized guide. The maximum fee of 25 euros for non-residents will apply for the complete ascent to the crater or for those using the Teide Cable Car.
Mandatory Online Reservation System
A major innovation will be the launch of an online booking platform, which will be available from November 2025. All visitors must reserve their access in advance through this system. A limited quota of 100 people per time slot will be enforced, distributed across three daily shifts. To ensure the local population retains access, specific slots will be reserved for residents and seasoned hikers.
Protected Trails and Environmental Goals
The new regulations will apply to two specific trails that lead to the summit: the Montaña Blanca – La Rambleta route and the Telesforo Bravo – Pico del Teide path. Through this controlled access, the Island Council aims not only to protect the Teide’s fragile ecosystem but also to improve visitor safety and promote a more sustainable and responsible tourism model.
Responding to Unsustainable Growth
During a press conference, Dávila emphasized that the decision is a direct response to “unsustainable” growth in visitor numbers following the pandemic. Teide National Park has seen annual visits surge from 3.5 million to over 5 million, with tourists making up 88% of visitors and locals accounting for a mere 11%. This intense tourist pressure is creating a significant environmental impact that the new ecotax and improved access management seek to curb.
A Measure With No Turning Back
The Council President insisted this measure is “irreversible” and will mark a turning point in how the Teide is experienced. “This is an essential step to preserve nature, reinforce safety, and enrich the visitor experience. There are no precedents for this in other natural spaces in the Canaries,” she stated.
Enhanced Park Staff and Enforcement
The implementation of the new Management Plan (PRUG) will also include the addition of 16 new public employees to the National Park staff. This team will consist of 8 environmental officers and 8 specialized technicians, such as forestry and agricultural engineers. These officers will have the power to issue sanctions and report infractions to the Environmental Prosecutor’s Office, significantly strengthening control over the use of the protected space.
Broader Restrictions and Future Plans
Alongside the access fees, the new plan includes restrictions for sporting events and audiovisual filming to minimize their impact on the ecosystem. The Council is also studying the possibility of organizing shuttle bus services to the park, though it will not impose an absolute ban on private vehicle use for residents of Tenerife.
A Pivot Towards Sustainable Tourism
With these comprehensive measures, the Tenerife Island Council is betting on transforming the Teide visit into a more controlled, safe, and environmentally respectful experience. The era of mass tourism will gradually give way to a model where sustainability and the preservation of natural heritage are the top priorities, without sacrificing accessibility for the local population. As the highest peak in Spain and one of the most iconic natural sites in the Canary Islands, the conservation of the Teide is crucial for the future of tourism on the island, and this new ecotax is a decisive step towards achieving that goal.
