Day trip to Teno Park and Punta de Teno is a unique and wonderfull experience with a few rules to follow.
The “paradise on earth” feeling is guaranteed during a visit to the Parque Rural de Teno, located at an average altitude of 1,300 meters above sea level and almost entirely surrounded by the ocean. This northwestern tip of Tenerife owes its relative geographical isolation to the preservation of its rugged nature, biodiversity, and traditional customs, untouched by mass tourism. The protected nature park stretches from Los Gigantes to the northwestern corner at Puertito de Los Silos.
Limited Access
One of the most beautiful natural areas in Tenerife and one of the island’s most valuable ecosystems is bordered by the municipalities of Buenavista del Norte, Los Silos, El Tanque, and Santiago del Teide. The local population lives mainly in hamlets such as El Palmar (not to be confused with Palm-Mar), Teno Alto, Las Lagunetas, Las Portelas, Los Carrizales, Masca, and Erjos. Agriculture and livestock farming form the economic backbone of the region. The unique agricultural landscape supports the cultivation of products for local use. Over 8,000 hectares of natural wealth and ecological treasures owe their existence to the area’s restricted access.
The Lighthouse
The Teno Massif is one of the three large rock formations shaping Tenerife. Teno is an ancient volcanic massif, sculpted by erosion into its present-day landscape of deep valleys, dramatic ravines, and breathtaking cliffs, particularly prominent beyond Los Gigantes (known locally as acantilados).
At Punta de Teno, you’ll find the iconic Faro de Teno, one of the seven lighthouses marking the island. This idyllic and popular lighthouse, surrounded by volcanic rock formations, is a favorite spot for photographers who regularly capture stunning images here.
Nature Reserve
The nature reserve extends not only across land but also into the adjacent ocean, which serves as a thriving habitat for flora and fauna. Laurisilva forests flourish at this altitude, and plants such as tabaibas and butterfly flowers are prominent. The area is also adorned with dragon trees, junipers, wild olive trees, and various species of palm trees. The Teno region represents the diverse Canarian flora found in areas with a microclimate.
The region is also a sanctuary for fauna, including a rich bird population such as ospreys, endemic pigeons, sparrowhawks, and hawks. Notably, the speckled lizard inhabits the cliffs of Los Gigantes.
Hiking tourism is the most popular activity in the park, with numerous trails (senderos) crisscrossing the landscape, offering visitors a way to immerse themselves in nature and promote well-being. Offshore, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and whale watching attract tourists eager to explore the natural surroundings. These experiences are offered freely, requiring only the journey to the park.
Tradition and Culture
Beyond its natural treasures, the Teno region is culturally significant. It is the Tenerfian location with the best-preserved traditional architecture, and archaeological remains of settlements of the island’s original inhabitants, the Guanches, can also be found here.
The local communities and municipalities celebrate the joys of life through harvest-related festivities, historical celebrations, and cultural events. They also promote and sell local products such as cheese, wine, saffron, fruit, and honey, which are must-try delicacies.
If you want to enjoy stunning natural surroundings, traditional values, and impressive landscapes, the Parque Rural de Teno offers a day trip that will transport you to an endless dream world centered on flora and fauna.
Master Plan
As outlined in the master plan, access to the area is restricted. Only buses and authorized vehicles are allowed to use the Carretera de Teno. This measure primarily aims to protect the natural environment. A day trip to Punta de Teno requires proper planning.
The bus operates Monday through Thursday between 9:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. The access barrier remains closed from Friday at 9:00 a.m. until Monday at 9:00 a.m. Access is also restricted on public holidays. Only authorized vehicles, such as taxis, minibusses, and staff working in the area, are permitted beyond the barrier.
By Bus
Bus line 369 departs from the Buenavista bus station at 10:10, 11:05, 12:00, 1:00, 2:00, 3:00, 4:10, 5:05, and 6:05 p.m.
Return trips are available at 10:35, 11:25, 12:25, 1:25, 2:25, 3:25, 4:35, 5:25, and 6:25 p.m.
The fare is €1 per trip, and payment must be made with exact coins.
All day trips on Tenerife are collected [HERE]. Simply choose your next adventure.
Fernando and Luisa Wuyts-Deswert © Photography
Joke Schilperoord © Photography
Flickr © Photography
Day Trip to Teno Park ©
More EXCURSIONS can be read [HERE]
Interested in Tenerife?
Subscribe to our newsletter and always stay informed about the news on Tenerife.
Enter your first name and a valid email address below. Then click on Subscribe.
