Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
Volcanic caving means exploring lava tubes: tunnels that form when the surface of a lava flow cools while the lava keeps flowing inside until it drains out. Tenerife has many cavities of this kind, but most are in protected areas and are not freely accessible.
For a visitor, the clearest regulated and guided option is the Cueva del Viento, in Icod de los Vinos. This page explains what you can really do, what requires a permit and what alternatives exist.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Guided exploration of volcanic tubes |
| Main option in Tenerife | Guided visit to the Cueva del Viento, with helmet and light |
| Technical caving | Uncommon; requires specialised guides and, in many cavities, authorisation |
| Equipment | Helmet with light, hiking boots, long clothing |
| Age | Depends on the activity; at the Cueva del Viento, from 5 years old |
| Alternative on other islands | Volcanic tubes open to visitors on La Palma |
| Price | Depends on the activity |
How a volcanic tube forms
When a lava flow moves, its surface comes into contact with the air and solidifies, creating an insulating layer. The lava keeps running inside and, when it drains out, leaves a tunnel. This is how Turismo de Tenerife explains it in its information about caving on the island.
What options exist in Tenerife
1. Guided visit to the Cueva del Viento
This is the activity that Turismo de Tenerife presents as caving on the island. You walk through a section of the tube without artificial lighting, with a helmet with a light and a guide, in small groups. It has its own page: Cueva del Viento visit.
2. Technical caving activities
Some active tourism companies advertise caving or visits to volcanic tubes among their services. They usually involve sections with low ceilings, uneven ground and specific equipment. Always ask whether the cavity is authorised for tourist use and what permits the company holds: many caves in Tenerife are in protected areas.
3. Exploring on your own
It is not advisable. Besides the risk, many cavities are protected for their geological, biological or archaeological value.
Who it suits
- People interested in volcanic geology.
- Anyone who wants more than a walk, with an element of adventure.
- Families with children, at the Cueva del Viento.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- Claustrophobia.
- Knee, ankle or back problems: the lava floor is uneven and there are sections where you have to crouch.
- Under-18s: the minimum age depends on the activity.
How to choose well
- Which cavity is visited and is it authorised?
- What fitness level is required? Do you have to crouch or crawl?
- What equipment does the company provide? Helmet, light, gloves.
- What training does the guide have?
- Is insurance included?
- Group size?
Safety
- Never enter a cave without a guide or without telling anyone.
- Always wear a helmet with a light and hiking boots: lava is very abrasive.
- After heavy rain, some activities are cancelled because of water seepage or rockfalls.
Alternative on other islands
On La Palma there are recent volcanic tubes that can be visited with a guide, such as the Cueva de Las Palomas, formed in the 1949 eruption. If you are travelling to several islands, it can be a good complementary option.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure.
- Type of activity: regulated visit or technical caving.
- Duration and equipment.
- Transport.
What to bring
- Long trousers and clothes that can get dirty.
- Hiking boots.
- Light jacket: it is cool inside the caves.
- Water for before and after.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| The regulated visit to the volcanic tube | Cueva del Viento visit |
| Adventure in ravines | Canyoning in Tenerife |
| Climbing with a guide | Guided climbing in Tenerife |
| Volcanoes above ground | Group Teide excursion |
Frequently asked questions
Where can you go caving in Tenerife?
The clearest guided and regulated option is the Cueva del Viento, in Icod de los Vinos. Other technical activities exist, but they are uncommon.
Can I go into any cave?
No. Many cavities are protected and going in on your own is dangerous.
Do I need experience?
For the Cueva del Viento, no. For technical caving, it depends on the activity.
What equipment do I need?
Helmet with light, hiking boots and long clothing. The company usually provides the helmet.
Can children come?
At the Cueva del Viento, from 5 years old. For other activities, it depends on the company.