As snowfall returns to Teide this weekend and thousands of residents are expected to head to the National Park to enjoy the winter landscape, the Cabildo of Tenerife has activated a special operation to regulate access, ensure safety and protect the natural environment. The plan will be in force throughout Saturday and Sunday, 20 and 21 December 2025, coinciding with the new snowfall forecast linked to Storm Emilia.
Why a Special Operation Is Necessary
The heavy snow expected over the weekend is likely to attract a massive influx of visitors. The Cabildo warns that uncontrolled access could lead to:
- Traffic jams and road blockages
- Delays for emergency services
- Accidents on icy roads
- Environmental damage to the National Park
For this reason, a dynamic access control system will operate from 6 p.m. on Friday 19 December until 10 a.m. on Monday 22 December. The aim is not to close the roads entirely, but to regulate capacity and avoid congestion at peak times.
A Complex Coordination Effort
Cabildo president Rosa Dávila stressed the scale of the operation, which has required days of coordination between several key departments: Environment, Security and Emergencies, Mobility and Roads.
“Snow attracts thousands of people in just a few hours, and we are dealing with an extremely fragile environment,” Dávila explained. “Our objective is clear: to guarantee safe and orderly access so that everyone can enjoy the National Park without unnecessary risks.”
Blanca Pérez, Councillor for the Environment, highlighted the work of the teams preparing the area and implementing preventive measures to ensure a safe, responsible and environmentally respectful experience.
How the System Will Work: Buses, Closures and Timetables
To prevent the collapse of the access roads, private traffic will be restricted and free TITSA shuttle buses will operate from three strategic points:
1. Vilaflor → Cable Car
2. La Esperanza (C/ La Sardinera) → Izaña junction
3. Aguamansa (La Caldera) → Portillo Alto
Shuttle bus schedule
- Ascents: 10:00–14:00
- Last departures from Teide: 17:00
- Service: Free of charge
Between 14:00 and 17:00, the buses will operate exclusively to take visitors back down from the National Park.
The Cabildo strongly encourages the public to use these shuttle services. Reducing private vehicles is considered essential for safety and fluid mobility.
Additional Transport Measures
On an exceptional basis, discretionary passenger transport (private buses) will be allowed between 10:00 and 18:00, but only on the TF-21 section between Vilaflor and the Cable Car.
Road Closures and Controlled Access Points
Certain points on the access roads will be closed during the operation:
- TF-21 (La Orotava): PK 16+500 (Aguamansa)
- TF-21 (south): PK 53 (Boca Tauce)
- TF-24 (La Esperanza): intersection with TF-523 (PK 23+800, Los Loros)
The Roads Councillor, Dámaso Arteaga, urged drivers to follow instructions carefully, plan their trips and avoid manoeuvres that may block the roads.
Rules Inside the National Park
The Cabildo has established several safety measures:
- Speed limit: 50 km/h
- Closure of the section between Portillo Alto (PK 34+000) and the Cable Car (PK 43+000)
- Compliance with existing restrictions on trails, recreational areas, forest tracks and other protected zones
Personnel and Emergency Coordination
The operation will involve coordinated teams from:
- The Roads Department
- Teide National Park staff
- Firefighting, security and civil protection units
- Red Cross personnel
These services will work together to ensure safety and support visitor management.
Who Is Exempt from the Restrictions?
Access restrictions do not apply to:
- Cabildo employees and officials working in the Park
- Emergency and security services
- Workers at facilities inside the Park
- People with specific authorisations issued previously
Final Recommendations for Visitors
The Cabildo urges the public to:
- Plan visits in advance
- Use public transport whenever possible
- Respect all instructions from operational staff
- Prioritise safety and environmental protection
The authorities remind residents that these measures aim to ensure that everyone can enjoy the snow responsibly, without compromising safety or damaging the fragile ecosystem of Mount Teide.
