Volcán Chinyero
Explore Tenerife's last volcanic eruption site, a surreal landscape of black sand dunes and lava fields. Hike around the Chinyero crater for an unforg...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild temperatures, blooming flowers
Volcán Chinyero
Best Time
Mild temperatures, blooming flowers

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Tenerife's last volcanic eruption site, a surreal landscape of black sand dunes and lava fields. Hike around the Chinyero crater for an unforgettable natural adventure.
"Amazing walk from Montana Negra and ring around Chinyero. Couple completely different natural landscapes, peace and quiet."
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating volcanic sand and rocky terrain. Protect your ankles and enjoy the hike more!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no facilities on the trails. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Chinyero Volcano Crater
Central Chinyero area
Walk the circular path around the last erupted volcano in Tenerife. Experience the stark beauty of black lava fields and volcanic sand.

Montana Negra
Adjacent to Chinyero
Explore the contrasting landscapes of pine forests meeting otherworldly lava fields. A truly unique natural spectacle.

Volcanic Sand Dunes
Chinyero lava fields
Trek through vast expanses of fine black volcanic sand, a surreal experience that feels like walking on another planet.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respect the Trails
Car Security Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating volcanic sand and rocky terrain. Protect your ankles and enjoy the hike more!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no facilities on the trails. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
🚗 Secure Your Vehicle
Be cautious of car break-ins. Never leave valuables visible when parking.
🗺️ Stick to Marked Paths
Protect the fragile ecosystem and ensure your safety by following designated trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating volcanic sand and rocky terrain. Protect your ankles and enjoy the hike more!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no facilities on the trails. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
🚗 Secure Your Vehicle
Be cautious of car break-ins. Never leave valuables visible when parking.
🗺️ Stick to Marked Paths
Protect the fragile ecosystem and ensure your safety by following designated trails.
📸 Capture the Contrast
The black lava against blue skies or a snow-capped Teide is stunning. Don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique and otherworldly landscapes of Volcán Chinyero, highlighting the stunning contrast between lava fields and pine forests. The hiking trails are praised for their beauty and relative ease, offering a magical experience for nature lovers. However, some visitors caution about car security in parking areas.
"Amazing walk from Montana Negra and ring around Chinyero. Couple completely different natural landscapes, peace and quiet. pine forest and lava fields are out of this world. Would love to come back"
Jerzy Wypych
"Beautifull place. Real nice se view. Absolutly amazing landscape. Must see everyone who likes nature. Magical place on Tenerife."
Laytek
"Very beautiful hiking area with many trails and very little elevation."
Andre Kuhlemann
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Tenerife South Airport (TFS), the most convenient way to reach Volcán Chinyero is by renting a car. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via the TF-1 and TF-38 highways. Public transport is limited, so a car is highly recommended for flexibility.
Direct public transport to Volcán Chinyero is scarce. You might be able to take a bus towards Santiago del Teide and then arrange a taxi or a long walk to the volcano area, but this is not ideal for most visitors. Renting a car is the most practical option.
There are informal parking areas along the TF-38 road near the trailheads for Chinyero and Montana Negra. However, be aware of potential car break-ins and avoid leaving valuables unattended.
Yes, there are several hiking routes that can lead you to Volcán Chinyero, including longer trails from areas like Las Arenas. These can be multi-hour treks, offering a more immersive nature experience.
The TF-38 road leading to the Chinyero area is generally accessible year-round. However, it's always a good idea to check local road conditions, especially during winter months, in case of any unexpected weather-related closures.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Volcán Chinyero is a natural reserve and hiking area, so there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit. You can explore the trails freely.
Volcán Chinyero is an outdoor natural area and is accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the landscape.
There is no admission fee for the hiking trails around Volcán Chinyero. It's a free natural attraction for visitors to enjoy.
While not mandatory, guided tours are available for Volcán Chinyero, offering insights into its geology and history. Many local tour operators in Tenerife provide these services.
The main restriction is to stay on marked paths to protect the fragile volcanic environment. Avoid disturbing the flora and fauna.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The most popular is the circular route around the Chinyero volcano itself, approximately 7km. Another great option is combining it with a hike to Montana Negra for diverse landscapes.
The circular hike around Volcán Chinyero typically takes about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos.
The terrain is mostly volcanic sand and rock. While there isn't significant elevation gain on the main circular route, the sand can be challenging. Sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended.
Expect dramatic black lava fields, vast expanses of fine volcanic sand, pine forests, and unique geological formations. On clear days, you can also see the majestic Teide volcano.
No, there are no facilities directly at Volcán Chinyero. It's a natural park, so come prepared with water, snacks, and anything else you might need.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for the volcanic landscapes. Midday can be harsh, but the stark contrast of black lava against a blue sky is also striking.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the lava fields. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or capturing distant views of Teide. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the sky and reduce glare.
The rim of the Chinyero crater offers panoramic views. The transition zones between the pine forest and the lava fields provide interesting textural contrasts. Look for unique rock formations.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check the latest rules for flying drones in protected natural areas in Tenerife before your visit. Always fly responsibly and respect the environment.
The stark black volcanic sand, the rugged texture of the lava flows, the vibrant green of the pine trees against the dark ground, and the distant silhouette of Mount Teide are all highly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Bring plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities. Ensure children wear sturdy shoes, as the volcanic sand can be tricky. Discuss the importance of staying on marked paths to protect the environment. The stark, almost alien landscape can be a fantastic backdrop for memorable family photos.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
Solo traveler advice: While the area is generally safe, be aware of your surroundings and inform someone of your hiking plans. The car security concerns mentioned by some Reddit users are particularly relevant for solo visitors. Enjoy the opportunity for quiet contemplation and stunning photography.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips: Aim for golden hour for the most dramatic light. Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the vastness of the lava fields and telephoto lenses for details or distant views of Teide. The textures of the volcanic sand and rock are also highly photogenic.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Volcán Chinyero
The geological formations here are a fascinating study for anyone interested in volcanology. You'll find various types of volcanic rock, from porous scoria to solidified lava flows. The fine volcanic sand, a result of the eruption's ash, creates a unique and somewhat challenging hiking surface. The contrast between the dark, barren volcanic terrain and the surrounding pine forests is striking and a key feature of the Chinyero landscape.
Exploring Chinyero offers a tangible connection to the powerful forces that shaped the Canary Islands. It’s a living geology lesson, providing a stark reminder of the island's dynamic volcanic nature. The area is a protected natural reserve, emphasizing the importance of preserving these unique geological features for future generations.
Hiking and Trail Experiences
Many visitors combine the Chinyero hike with a visit to Montana Negra, offering a chance to experience different natural environments within a short distance. The trails are generally well-marked, but it's crucial to stay on them to protect the fragile ecosystem. The stark beauty of the black lava fields juxtaposed with the green pine forests is a recurring theme in visitor accounts.
For those seeking more adventure, trail running is also a popular activity here, as highlighted by some content creators. The varied terrain and stunning scenery make it an attractive spot for runners. Regardless of your activity, remember to wear appropriate footwear and carry sufficient water, as there are no facilities along the routes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit