Tenerife is much more than its conventional tourist image. The island is home to volcanic landscapes, ancient forests, starry skies, and a unique cultural heritage that, when explored consciously, can become a transformative experience.

However, the growth of tourism has posed challenges to the conservation of its biodiversity and cultural identity. This has created the need to adopt a sustainable tourism model that allows visitors to enjoy its wonders without compromising its future. In this article, we invite you to discover Tenerife responsibly, connecting with its natural spaces and cultural heritage through a sustainable and authentic approach.

Join us on this journey through six fascinating places that showcase the most sustainable and surprising side of the island.

Teide National Park: The Volcanic Soul of Tenerife.

Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most breathtaking natural spaces in Europe. Its impressive volcanic landscape and endemic biodiversity make it an ideal destination for those seeking responsible nature experiences.

How to enjoy it sustainably.

• Choose designated hiking trails instead of driving up to the summit.
• Wear appropriate technical clothing to minimize impact on vegetation.
• Avoid touching or removing volcanic rocks, as they are part of the ecosystem's balance.

Eco-friendly tip

The best times to visit Teide without crowds are at sunrise and sunset. The light is magical, and the environmental impact is lower.

Stargazing at Teide: A Journey to the Cosmos Free from Light Pollution.

Tenerife boasts some of the clearest skies in the world for astronomical observation, thanks to the Canary Islands’ light pollution protection laws.

How to enjoy it sustainably.

• Choose certified astrotourism tours that use responsible lighting.
• Wear warm clothing and use red-light flashlights to avoid disturbing nocturnal wildlife.
• Respect the silence of the environment and leave no waste in observation areas.

Responsible tip.

Teide National Park is a Starlight Reserve. Respecting the nighttime environment is key to maintaining its status as a top astrotourism destination.

The Ancient Drago Tree: A Symbol of Tenerife’s Identity.

The Ancient Drago Tree in Icod de los Vinos is an emblematic Canarian tree with over 800 years of history. Its presence serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the island’s natural and cultural heritage.

How to enjoy it sustainably.

• Visit Drago Park, which works to preserve the tree and its ecosystem.
• Support the local economy by purchasing sustainable products from the town.
• Follow park rules and avoid touching the tree or its roots to prevent damage.

Sustainable curiosity.

The latex of the Drago tree, known as "dragon’s blood," was used by the Guanches, the first inhabitants of the island of Tenerife, for medicinal purposes.

Masca Village: A Deep Dive into Rural Tenerife.

Masca is one of the most beautiful and authentic places in Tenerife. This small village, nestled in the mountains, represents the connection between nature and the island’s rural traditions.

How to enjoy it sustainably.

• Use public transportation or organized hikes instead of driving, as the narrow roads and traffic affect the local community.
• Respect the natural environment and stay on designated trails.
• Dine at family-run restaurants that promote local products and farm-to-table cuisine.

Eco-friendly tip.

If hiking in Masca, bring a reusable water bottle and avoid generating waste in the area.

Laurisilva Forest in Anaga: Tenerife’s Enchanted Forest.

Anaga Rural Park is home to one of Europe’s oldest ecosystems. The laurisilva forest, a subtropical woodland filled with moss and giant ferns, is a natural treasure that requires protection.

How to enjoy it sustainably.

• Use public transportation or join organized tours to minimize your carbon footprint.
• Wear proper trekking shoes to avoid damaging the soil.
• Avoid excessive noise to prevent disturbing the forest’s wildlife.

Fun fact.

Laurisilva forests are remnants of woodlands that once covered Europe millions of years ago. Tenerife is one of the few places where they still survive.

Pico del Inglés: A Natural Tunnel to the Past.

Pico del Inglés is one of the most magical corners of Anaga Rural Park. A path lined with moss-covered walls and intertwined roots creates a fairytale-like setting that has remained almost untouched over time.

How to enjoy it sustainably.

• Choose guided hiking tours to learn about the ecosystem.
• Leave no trace and take all your waste with you.
• Respect the flora and avoid touching the moss-covered walls.

Photography tip.

Use natural light to capture the beauty of the place without resorting to artificial flashes that could disrupt the environment.

Sustainable Tourism in Tenerife and Its Connection to the Sustainable Development Goals.

Tenerife reminds us that traveling can be an opportunity to connect with nature without harming it. From its volcanic landscapes to its ancient forests, every corner of the island invites us to reflect on the importance of conservation and the impact of our actions.

The island is part of the Biosphere community and holds the Biosphere Certified distinction, ensuring that sustainable tourism practices aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are being implemented.

By visiting Tenerife responsibly, you contribute to the following SDGs:

• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – by choosing accommodations and activities that minimize environmental impact.
• SDG 13: Climate Action – by reducing your carbon footprint through sustainable transportation and resource conservation.
• SDGs 14 & 15: Life Below Water & Life on Land – by protecting the island’s marine and terrestrial environments.

Every decision counts in building a more balanced tourism model. Exploring Tenerife sustainably not only allows you to enjoy its extraordinary beauty but also ensures that future generations can continue marveling at this natural paradise.