Can You Drive to Teide in a Campervan? Tips, Routes and What to Expect

Mount Teide isn’t just Tenerife’s most iconic landmark — it’s the highest peak in Spain and one of the most dramatic drives you can do in a campervan.

But many travellers wonder:
Can I actually drive up there with my van? Will it be safe? Can I stay overnight?

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• Whether campervans are allowed in the Teide National Park
• The best roads to take depending on where you are
• What to expect in terms of weather, altitude and road conditions
• And the truth about sleeping near the volcano

Spoiler: Yes, you can drive to Teide with a campervan — and it’s an unforgettable experience.
You just need to go prepared.

Is It Legal and Safe to Drive a Campervan to Teide?

Yes, it’s completely legal

There are no restrictions for campervans or motorhomes driving in Teide National Park.
You don’t need a special permit, and you can use any of the main access roads.

But it comes with challenges

The road to Teide climbs to over 2,300 metres above sea level — so expect:

• Long, winding mountain roads
• Sudden changes in temperature and air pressure
• Less oxygen = slightly reduced engine performance
• No petrol stations once you enter the park

That said, the roads are well-paved, signed and safely driveable with any modern van.

Just keep calm, drive slowly, and enjoy the views — they’re spectacular.

When should you avoid going?

• After heavy snowfall (usually January–March)
• On very windy days, especially in a high-sided van
• If your van has mechanical issues (brakes, engine cooling…)
• Tip: Always check the official Teide Park website or use Google Maps for road closure alerts before heading up.

Best Routes to Drive Up to Teide by Campervan

There are three main ways to access Mount Teide, each offering a unique landscape and driving experience.

1. From the North – via La Orotava

• Route: TF-21 from La Orotava to El Portillo
• Features: Dense forest, foggy sections, stunning viewpoint transitions
• Notes: Road is curvy but in excellent condition

Recommended for scenic lovers and those starting from Puerto de la Cruz or La Laguna.

2. From the South – via Vilaflor

• Route: TF-21 from Vilaflor to the Teide cable car
• Features: Gradual climb, drier landscape, volcanic fields
• Notes: Very popular, especially at sunset

Ideal for campers coming from El Médano, Costa Adeje or Abades.

3. From the West – via Chío

• Route: TF-38 from Chío to Boca Tauce
• Features: Wild, remote and less crowded
• Notes: Epic sunset and star-gazing route, watch for wildlife

Best done during the day or early evening — very limited lighting at night.

Fuel, Altitude and Road Conditions – What to Know

No petrol stations above 1,400 m

• Last fuel stops before entering the national park:
  • La Orotava (North)
  • Vilaflor (South)
  • Chío (West)

Always fill your tank fully before heading up. The climb consumes more fuel than usual.

Altitude = thinner air + cooler weather

• Expect a 10–15°C drop in temperature
• Pack warm clothes, even in summer
• Braking downhill can overheat — use engine braking (low gear) instead

Can You Sleep Overnight at Teide in a Campervan?

This is one of the most common questions — and here’s the honest answer:

Camping is not allowed in the Teide National Park

• No setting up tables, chairs, or opening awnings
• Sleeping in the van is technically not permitted inside the park boundaries

BUT…

Overnight stays are tolerated in certain areas, especially if you:

• Park discreetly (no signs of camping)
• Arrive late and leave early
• Don’t create noise or mess

Common spots used by vanlifers:

• El Portillo Visitor Centre (check signs)
• Parking near the cable car base station (overnight stay often tolerated)
• Las Lajas recreational area (just outside the park, allowed and recommended)

Alternative: Sleep just outside the park

If you want to see sunrise or stars, sleep in a nearby spot and drive up early:

Tips for a Smooth and Scenic Drive

• Do a loop route: go up from one side, down the other — each side is different
• Start early: parking at the cable car fills up fast
• Avoid night driving in the park: no lighting, steep curves, risk of animals
• Take it slow and enjoy the stops — Mirador de La Ruleta and Roques de García are unmissable

Final Thoughts: Teide by Campervan Is Possible — and Worth It

Driving up to Teide is not only doable in a camper — it’s one of the most iconic road trips in the Canary Islands.
You’ll pass through pine forests, lava fields and lunar landscapes in a single morning.

With some planning, full fuel and warm clothes, you’ll have a safe and unforgettable journey above the clouds.

Rent your campervan with AJJ Vans and drive to the top of Tenerife — one curve at a time.