Wind Cave

Things to do in Tenerife

Cueva del Viento Wind Cave

Many thousands of years ago, when Tenerife was still being formed by volcanic eruptions, lava streamed from one of the mountains and into the sea. The surface of the lava hardened in the cooler air, but beneath it the bubbling molten lava continued to flow.

Then it stopped.

And after it drained away it left behind a 10-mile network of underground tubes, tunnels and caves that have become a volcanic wonder of the world. Only Hawaii has more lava tubes than Tenerife.

The Cueva del Viento, or wind cave, in the north-east corner of Tenerife has become a big tourist attraction. Entertaining guided tours take about two hours and include walks over the forested lava field, along ancient paths and historic hillsides.

Visitors get hard hats with lamps before they start a 45-minute underground exploration.  Numbers are limited to protect the natural habitat.  There are bilingual information panels in the park and the visitor centre. Your guide will speak English.

You need to wear long trousers and good shoes. The tunnel gets its name because the persistent draught that blows through it. Children under five aren’t allowed. Booking is essential and can be done via Cueva del Viento web site.