Special Access Measures for Teide National Park Amid Snowfall Forecast

This weekend, Teide National Park in Tenerife is set to implement a special access control initiative in response to the anticipated snowfall from Storm Emilia. This weather event is expected to draw a large number of visitors eager to experience the park’s stunning winter landscape.

Enhanced Access Control for Visitor Safety

The initiative, organized by the Cabildo of Tenerife, will take place from Friday, December 19, through Monday, December 22. Notably, there will be heightened monitoring on December 20 and 21, coinciding with the peak of the storm. The primary objective of this operation is to ensure the safety of all visitors, facilitate orderly movement within the park, and protect the delicate natural environment that Teide National Park is known for.

Rosa Dávila, the president of the island, highlighted the complexity of this operation, which requires meticulous coordination among various departments, including Natural Resources, Security and Emergencies, Mobility, and Roads. The focus remains on allowing both residents and visitors to access the National Park safely while minimizing risks and congestion in this ecologically sensitive area.

Transportation Adjustments and Shuttle Services

In light of the expected influx of visitors, access to the park via private vehicles will be restricted. To accommodate those wishing to visit, free shuttle buses will be provided by TITSA, operating from three designated locations: Vilaflor to the Cable Car, La Esperanza (Calle La Sardinera) to the Izaña junction, and Aguamansa to Portillo Alto.

Access to the park will be allowed from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with the last shuttle departures scheduled for 5:00 PM. Between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM, entry will be limited to ensure the orderly exit of visitors already in the park. The Cabildo emphasizes that utilizing public transport is the preferred method to reduce risks associated with heavy traffic and to protect the environment.

Traffic Management and Road Restrictions in Effect

To effectively manage the anticipated visitor capacity and prevent congestion, temporary traffic restrictions will be enforced at key access points. Specific sections of the TF-21 (Aguamansa and Boca Tauce) and TF-24 (Cruce de Los Loros) will be closed to vehicular traffic. Within the park itself, a strict speed limit of 50 km/h will be enforced, and the segment between Portillo Alto and the Cable Car will be closed to all vehicles.

However, discretionary passenger transport on the TF-21 (Vilaflor–Cable Car) will be permitted between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Visitors can ascend to the Cable Car from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, but all exits must occur after this time, ensuring a smooth flow of traffic and safety for all.

Commitment to Visitor Safety and Environmental Protection

Blanca Pérez, the councillor for Natural Resources, emphasized the extensive preventive measures being implemented by park teams to guarantee a safe and respectful experience for all visitors. Roads councillor Dámaso Arteaga urged everyone to exercise caution and adhere to the operational guidelines set forth during this period. Personnel from the Cabildo, along with the Red Cross and emergency services, will be on-site to assist visitors and ensure their safety.

Exemptions from the restrictions will be granted to essential service personnel, workers, and residents within the park, as well as individuals who possess specific authorizations. The Cabildo strongly encourages visitors to plan their trips in advance and make use of authorized public transport options to enjoy the snow while prioritizing the safety and conservation of Teide National Park.

Key points

• The Cabildo of Tenerife is implementing access control at Teide National Park from December 19 to 22.
• Increased monitoring will occur on December 20 and 21 due to expected snowfall from Storm Emilia.
• Free shuttle buses will operate from three locations to facilitate access.
• Private vehicle access will be restricted to manage visitor numbers and ensure safety.
• Temporary traffic restrictions will be in place on key roads leading to the park.
• Emergency services will be present to assist visitors during the operation.
• Visitors are encouraged to use public transport for safer access to the park.