Tenerife Teide National Park Implements Access Control for Snow Activities

In response to forecasts of snowfall linked to Storm Emilia, the Cabildo of Tenerife is set to enforce a special access control system at Teide National Park on December 20 and 21, 2025.

Safety and Mobility Management

The primary aim of this initiative is to ensure the safety of visitors, manage mobility effectively, and safeguard the natural environment of this protected area. Rosa Dávila, the President of the Cabildo, highlighted the extensive preparations that have gone into this operation, describing it as both complex and meticulously organized over several days.

Collaboration Among Departments

Key departments involved in this effort include those responsible for Natural Environment, Security and Emergencies, Mobility, and Roads. Dávila noted the challenges posed by the expected surge in visitors, which can lead to significant crowding in a sensitive natural setting. The strategy is designed to facilitate safe access to the park while minimizing risks and prioritizing public transport to manage visitor flow.

Mitigating Risks and Environmental Protection

This access control measure addresses the potential hazards associated with a high volume of vehicles and pedestrians at the park’s entry points. Concerns include traffic accidents, road blockages, and challenges for emergency services, as well as the environmental impact of uncontrolled visitation during snowy conditions. Blanca Pérez, the Island Councillor for the Natural Environment, emphasized the importance of these preventive actions, which not only regulate access but also protect the unique natural landscape of Teide National Park.

Access Control Details

The dynamic access control will be in effect from 18:00 on December 19 until 10:00 on December 22, 2025. This system will not completely close roads but will impose partial and temporary restrictions on vehicle traffic to manage attendance and prevent congestion.

Encouragement of Public Transport

Eulalia García, the Island Mobility Councillor, strongly urged the use of public transport, particularly the shuttle buses that will operate during this period. She stated that utilizing public transport is the most effective way to access the National Park, as it reduces the number of private vehicles, enhances safety, and helps avoid traffic jams while promoting sustainable mobility.

Shuttle Bus Services

During the access control period, private vehicle entry will be limited, with complimentary shuttle buses provided by TITSA departing from three designated locations:

• Vilaflor, arriving at the Teide Cable Car.
• La Esperanza (Calle La Sardinera), to the Izaña junction.
• Aguamansa (Caldera entrance), to Portillo Alto.

Public transport will be allowed between 10:00 and 14:00, with the last return service from the National Park scheduled for 17:00. From 14:00 to 17:00, vehicles will only be permitted to facilitate the departure of attendees.

Special Transport Provisions

Access for discretionary transport of passengers will be permitted between 10:00 and 18:00 via the TF-21, specifically from Vilaflor (PK 53+000) to the Teide Parador (PK 46+700). Passenger boarding will be allowed from 10:00 to 14:00, with subsequent transit only permitted to assist with departures from the park.

Traffic Control Points

During the operational period, certain access points will be closed to traffic:

• TF-21 (La Orotava), from PK 16+500 in Aguamansa.
• TF-21 (South), from PK 53 in Boca Tauce.
• TF-24 (La Esperanza), at the intersection with TF-523, PK 23+800, Los Loros junction.

Dámaso Arteaga, the Island Councillor for Roads, urged the public to exercise utmost caution and adhere to the instructions provided by the control measures and security personnel. He emphasized that cooperation from citizens is essential for the success of these safety initiatives.

Key points

• Access control at Teide National Park will occur on December 20 and 21, 2025, due to expected snowfall.
• The initiative aims to ensure safety, manage mobility, and protect the natural environment.
• Public transport is encouraged to reduce congestion and enhance safety.
• Complimentary shuttle buses will operate from three locations to the park.
• Access for discretionary transport will be allowed under specific conditions.
• Certain access points will be closed to traffic during the operational period.