This hike is mainly above 2,000m and offers panoramic views of the islands of El Hierro, La Gomera and La Palma. Much of this walk is in the lunar landscape of the Parque Nacional del Teide which was given UNESCO World Heritage status in 2007.
The hike will appeal to anyone interested in Tenerife’s natural beauty, geology, history and archaeology and the highlight of this walk is to see some of the lava tubes that were used by the Guanches.
These were very important spiritual places and also acted as high-altitude dwellings during the summer months whilst grazing their goats in this area. Some of the lower parts of the tubes have been found to contain the mummified remains of Guanches. Many caves have been discovered in the north-west and the National Park where Guanches lived and worshipped. Most researchers agree that the Guanches worshipped on open ground and Mount Teide was sacred to them as they believed it to be the abode of the devil called Guayota.
Throughout the hike, you will also see many strange geological rock formations and a huge array of colours in this moon-like landscape due to the rich mineral content in the soil and rocks.
Depending upon your ability it may be possible to walk an extinct volcano’s crater rim. This will be decided on the day following discussion with the group.