Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
Tenerife is a cycling training destination for a simple reason: you can climb from sea level to over 2,000 metres in a single route, on good tarmac and with mild temperatures almost all year round. A guided ride adds a local cyclist who sets the pace, chooses the route according to your level and, in many cases, a support vehicle.
This page helps you choose a route and format, whether you are looking for a challenge or want to ride at an easy pace.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Road cycling ride with a local guide |
| Best-known routes | Climbs to Teide National Park from the south or the north; Garachico–Erjos–Masca |
| Levels | From easy coastal routes to climbs of more than 2,000 m of elevation gain |
| Duration | From half a day to a full day |
| Support | Support vehicle in many offers |
| Hire | Road bikes available at local centres |
| Season | All year round; cold at the summit in winter |
| Price | Depends on the route, hire and support |
The benchmark routes
| Route | What it means |
|---|---|
| Climb to Teide from the south | One of the longest climbs in Europe; requires fitness and pacing |
| Climb from the north | The other side up to the National Park, with different gradients |
| Garachico – Erjos – Masca | Demanding route in the north-west, with hard climbs and technical descents |
| Coastal and mid-altitude routes | Less elevation gain, good for an easy ride or the first day |
Turismo de Tenerife classifies the routes by difficulty, from easy rides for beginners to climbs and technical sections for experienced cyclists.
What a guide adds
- Choosing the route according to your level and the day’s wind.
- Support vehicle with water, food and spare parts on many rides.
- Safety on roads with traffic and on long descents.
- Local knowledge: where to stop, where there are water fountains, which sections to avoid.
Who it suits
- Cyclists in training who want to make the most of the island’s elevation.
- Enthusiasts who want to try a long climb with support.
- Groups travelling without bikes who need to hire.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- Low fitness: the climbs to Teide are long and steady. Consider an e-bike.
- Fear of long descents: the descents last a long time and there are bends.
- Summer heat: it is better to set off very early.
How to choose well
- Which route, how many kilometres and how much ascent?
- Is there a support vehicle?
- Which bike is hired and in what size?
- How many cyclists per guide and at what pace?
- Is food and drink included?
- What happens in strong wind or rain?
- Is insurance included?
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Cycling guide | Included | Language and pace |
| Hire bike | Optional | Size, brand, pedals |
| Helmet | Compulsory | If they provide it |
| Support vehicle | Common | What it carries |
| Food and drink | Variable | Water and food |
Safety
- Helmet compulsory, and lights in poor visibility.
- On descents, keep your distance and do not overtake the guide.
- Bring light warm clothing: it is cold at the summit even in summer.
- Follow the traffic rules: these are open roads.
Weather and season
- Mild weather all year round on the coast; cold at the summit in winter.
- The trade wind can make exposed sections difficult.
- In summer, set off early: the heat in the mid-altitude areas is intense.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure.
- Route and duration.
- Bike hire.
- Support vehicle and food and drink.
- Group or private.
What to bring
- Jersey and bib shorts, plus a light jacket for the descent.
- Gloves and glasses.
- Sun protection.
- Water bottles and food, if there is no support.
- Your own pedals, if you use them.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| Dirt tracks and trails | Mountain bike route |
| Help on the climbs | E-bike route |
| Going on your own | Bike hire |
| Going up Teide without effort | Group Teide excursion |
Frequently asked questions
Can you cycle up Teide?
Yes. It is one of the longest climbs you can do in Europe, with more than 2,000 metres of elevation gain from the coast.
Do you need to be an experienced cyclist?
For the long climbs, yes. There are easier routes along the coast and in the mid-altitude areas.
Is a bike included?
Many centres hire them out. Confirm size, model and pedals.
Is there a support vehicle?
On many guided rides, yes.
What is the best time of year?
All year round. In winter it is cold at the top and in summer it is best to start early.