Key details
Why ride the Teide cable car?
The Teide cable car is one of the most spectacular experiences Tenerife has to offer. The ascent takes you from the base station (2,356 m) to the upper station (3,555 m) in just 8 minutes, crossing volcanic landscapes from another era. On clear days, you can see the islands of La Gomera, La Palma and El Hierro from the top.
The cable car has limited capacity and tickets often sell out, especially in high season. We manage tickets in advance to guarantee your spot on the chosen date, avoiding long queues at the ticket office.
One important note: walking up to the crater of Teide (3,718 m) requires a special National Park permit, separate from the cable car ticket. The guided ascent with that permit included costs €66.50 per person and €33.25 per child; with coach pick-up in the south it is €178 and €89.
Included
- Booking and management of cable car tickets
- Return transfer from South Tenerife (if booked)
- Free time at the upper station for photos and views
- Activity insurance
Not included
- Food and drinks (café at the base station)
- Crater ascent permit (optional, separate price)
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Teide cable car cost?
The up-and-down ticket is €37 per adult and €18.50 per child aged 3 to 13. With an audio guide, €39.50 and €18.50. And if you want the whole day sorted — coach from the south, guide, National Park and the cable car included — it is €85 per adult and €42.50 per child. Cabins start at 09:00 and you pick your time slot when booking: message us with your date and group size and we will tell you which slots are still free that day.
Do I need to book the tickets in advance?
Yes, strongly recommended. The cable car has limited capacity and tickets sell out, especially in summer and at Easter. In high season they can be gone days or weeks ahead. That is why we handle them for you.
How long is the ride and how long can I stay at the top?
The cabin takes about 8 minutes to climb from the base station at 2,356 m to the upper station at 3,555 m. You can stay at the top as long as you like, because cabins run up and down continuously; most people spend between 30 minutes and an hour. Including the drive from the south, allow half a day, about 4-5 hours.
Where is the base station and how do I get there?
On the road through Teide National Park, at 2,356 m of altitude, about two hours by car from the south. Public transport to the park is very limited — one bus a day from the south — so if you do not have a hire car, ask us for the option with transfer: you are picked up at your hotel and taken back.
Do I need warm clothing?
Yes. At 3,555 metres the temperature can be 10-15 ºC colder than on the coast and it is windy. Even in summer a jacket is recommended. In winter you need several layers and, at times, the cable car may close because of snow or wind.
Does the ticket take me to the summit of Teide?
No. The ticket leaves you at the upper station, at 3,555 m. To walk up to the crater, at 3,718 m, you need a National Park permit separate from the ticket, which must be requested well in advance and sells out. We can arrange it too, but tell us when booking, not the week of your trip.
Can I combine the cable car with a visit to the National Park?
Yes. You can visit the National Park in the morning (Las Cañadas, Los Roques, the Parador) and take the cable car in the afternoon, or the other way round. We can organise combined itineraries to make the most of the day.
Can children go up? What about people with health problems?
It is suitable for all ages and there is no walking involved. What you do need to bear in mind is the altitude: at 3,555 m there is less oxygen and you feel it. If you are pregnant, have heart or respiratory problems or travel with very young children, check with us before booking and we go through the cable car’s conditions with you.
What happens if the cable car closes because of wind?
It does happen, especially in winter. If it closes because of wind or snow on the day of your booking, we move your date or find you an equivalent alternative. For any other reason, free cancellation up to 48 hours before.
Is there a guide, and in which language?
The cable car ride itself has no guide: it is self-guided. If you book the full private tour, the guide works in Spanish, English or French; tell us which one you need when booking.
How is the booking confirmed?
Excursions Canaries checks availability, provider conditions and the traveller's level before confirming the experience.
Can you help me organise more than just the activity?
Yes. We can help with accommodation, car hire, spots, restaurants, cafés, recovery and complementary activities.