Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
Guided climbing in Tenerife is a rock climbing session or day with a qualified guide who provides the equipment, sets up the routes and belays you. Options range from a taster session for those who have never climbed to trips for experienced climbers on long routes.
The island has more than a thousand routes spread across several areas, especially in the south-east, between Arico and Granadilla, and in Teide National Park. This page helps you choose a format and area for your level.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Rock climbing with a guide and equipment included |
| Levels | From taster sessions with no experience to advanced climbers |
| Main areas | Arico and the south-east; Las Cañadas del Teide; Anaga (traditional climbing) |
| Duration | Half day or full day |
| Equipment | Harness, helmet, climbing shoes, ropes; provided by the guide |
| Regulation | Climbing is regulated in Teide National Park |
| Price | Depends on the format, duration and group size |
Climbing areas
| Area | What it offers | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Arico and the south-east | Sport climbing in ravines, with many routes of different grades | Beginners and all levels |
| Las Cañadas del Teide | Sport climbing and bouldering in the Cañada del Capricho; long routes on La Catedral, at over 2,000 m | Beginners and experienced climbers |
| Anaga | Traditional climbing on rock pinnacles | Experienced climbers |
Most areas in the south-east are a few minutes’ walk from the car park, but almost none can be reached directly by public transport.
Climbing in Teide National Park
Climbing in the National Park is regulated. According to the information compiled in local climbing guides, bolting new routes is not allowed and some areas have restrictions at certain times of year to protect wildlife. A local guide knows which sectors are allowed at any given time.
Common formats
| Format | What it includes | Suits you if… |
|---|---|---|
| Climbing taster session | Introduction, basic technique and several easy top-rope routes | You have never climbed |
| Beginners’ course | Several sessions covering belaying, knots and abseiling | You want to learn to climb independently |
| Guided day | The guide chooses the area and routes for your level | You already climb but do not know the island |
| Long routes | Multi-pitch climbing, for example on Teide | You have experience |
| Private | Your group only | Families or couples |
What happens in a taster session
- Meeting at the climbing area.
- Handing out of equipment and safety briefing.
- Knots and basic belaying.
- Climbing easy routes on a top rope.
- Abseil or descent with assistance.
Who it suits
- Beginners who want to try climbing safely.
- Climbers visiting the island who want a local guide.
- Families with children, depending on the guide’s minimum age.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- Severe vertigo: you do not climb very high in a taster session, but you do climb.
- Shoulder, elbow or finger injuries.
- Altitudee on Teide: above 2,000 m it is colder and the effort is harder.
How to choose well
- What training does the guide have? Ask about a climbing sports instructor qualification or equivalent.
- Which spot, and why?
- What equipment is included?
- How many people per guide?
- Is insurance included?
- Minimum age?
- What happens if it rains or is very windy?
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Qualified guide | Included | Qualification |
| Harness, helmet, climbing shoes, ropes | Included | Climbing shoe sizes |
| Insurance | Common | That it is included |
| Transport | Rarely | How to get to the area |
Safety and good practice
- Always wear a helmet at the base of the crag and while climbing.
- Do not bolt routes or leave equipment in the National Park.
- Take your rubbish with you and keep noise down at the crags.
Weather
- The south-east is dry and sunny: in summer, go early or climb in the shade.
- On Teide it is cold outside summer and can be windy.
- After rain, volcanic rock may be loose.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure.
- Format and duration.
- Number of people per guide.
- Area.
What to bring
- Comfortable, flexible clothing.
- Approach shoes.
- Sun protection, a cap and water.
- A jacket if you are going to Teide.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| Abseiling in ravines | Canyoning in Tenerife |
| A via ferrata | Via ferrata in Tenerife |
| Height without effort | Tandem paragliding |
| A demanding hike | Guided ascent of Pico del Teide |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need experience to climb with a guide?
No. The climbing taster session is designed for people who have never climbed.
Where can you climb in Tenerife?
Mainly in Arico and the south-east, and in Las Cañadas del Teide. There is also traditional climbing in Anaga.
Can you climb on Teide?
Yes, in permitted areas and in line with the National Park’s rules.
What equipment do I need?
The guide usually provides the harness, helmet, climbing shoes and ropes.
Can children climb?
Yes, depending on the minimum age set by the guide.
How long is a taster session?
It is usually a half-day session.