Volcán El Chinyero

Chinyero is the last volcano to erupt on Tenerife, in 1909. Located in the Corona Forestal Natural Park, on the northwestern slope of Teide, it offers a circular hiking trail through a landscape of black lava and pine forests. Its relative accessibility and recent history make it a tangible volcanic observation site, away from the crowds of Teide.

Quick Facts

• Access: trailhead from the TF-38 road, between Santiago del Teide and El Portillo; parking available at the marked trail.
• Admission: free.
• Recommended duration: 2 to 3 hours for the complete circuit.
• Gear: hiking boots are mandatory — the lava surface is uneven and sharp.
• Accessibility: not accessible, rugged volcanic terrain.

What to See

The trail crosses a basaltic lava field frozen since 1909. Vegetation slowly reclaims the terrain: Canaries pines (Pinus canariensis) grow directly from rock fissures. The main crater remains clearly visible, with rust and ochre-tinted interior walls. On clear days, views of Teide and the island's northern and southern coasts are unobstructed.

History and Context

The Chinyero eruption began on November 18, 1909, and lasted eleven days. It is the last recorded volcanic activity on Tenerife. The lava flows reached several kilometers, destroying farmland but sparing nearby villages. The event remains embedded in the local memory of Santiago del Teide. The site is now integrated into the Corona Forestal Natural Park and the Teide National Park perimeter.

Highlights of the Visit

The Crater and Lava Flows

The high point of the circuit is approaching the crater. The aa lava flows (fragmented and rough lava) contrast with areas where the rock solidified with a smooth surface. Observing the texture difference provides a concrete understanding of the 1909 eruptive dynamics.

The Pioneering Pine Forest

The Canaries pine is one of the few species capable of recovering after a fire or lava flow. On Chinyero, moderately sized trees have taken root in the black rock, illustrating vegetation recolonization still underway more than a century after the eruption.

Panoramic Views of Teide

From the high points of the trail, Teide stands out clearly to the northeast. The perspective from Chinyero, at a lower altitude, allows you to visually measure the height of the main stratovolcano and appreciate the scale of Tenerife's volcanic massif.

Photography Tips

Morning light is ideal: it accentuates contrasts between black lava and green pines. The crater photographs well from the marked trail edge. Avoid midday in summer, as the dark rock absorbs heat and shadows are harsh. Clouds often accumulate late afternoon on the north side, which can create dramatic atmospheres around Teide in the background.

Location and Access

Chinyero is located in the municipality of Santiago del Teide, in western Tenerife. The marked trail start (trail no. 27 in the official Canaries network) is accessible by car from the TF-38. There is no regular public transport to the trail parking. Car rental remains the most practical way from the south or north of the island.

Nearby

• Teide National Park — Tenerife's main volcanic massif, UNESCO World Heritage site, a few kilometers to the northeast.
• Santiago del Teide — quiet mountain village, practical starting point for the hike.
• Masca — perched village in the Teno Gorge, accessible from Santiago del Teide, known for its descent trail to the sea.