Cueva del Viento
The Cabildo Insular de Tenerife (Tenerife Island Government), through the Organismo Autónomo de Museos y Centros (OAMC - museums), has been gradually clearing part of the Cueva del Viento in Icod de los Vinos, one of the longest volcanic tunnels in the world. 18 km of underground passages require special protection to guarantee the conservation of their natural values, while receiving small groups of guided tours. A natural attraction unique to Tenerife.
The Cueva del Viento
The underground complex known as Cueva del Viento – Sobrado is the longest volcanic tunnel in the European Union and one of the longest in the world. It was caused by lava flows from Pico Viejo Volcano, located alongside Mt. Teide. The cave is a complex labyrinth of volcanic tunnels that cover the subsoil of the mid-altitude region of Valle de Icod. Underground, a marvellous maze of tunnels, potholes and huge chambers reveal a wide variety of geological forms.
Visiting Cueva del Viento helps us to understand the role of lava flows in volcanism and allows us to contemplate the whimsical shapes made by lava in the bowels of the earth. It is an example of geological complexity. Three levels of different passages and beautiful geomorphological phenomena, such as potholes, terraces and other lava formations, stretch out for over 17 km.
Los Piquetes Visitors’ Centre
In addition to the bi-lingual panels displayed at the Visitors’ Centre and inside the cave, an expert guide will explain the features of this exceptional volcanic cavity. The visit departs from the centre in a vehicle that will take the group (15 persons at most) close to the mouth of the cave. At this point, visitors will be given standard-issue helmets and torches, essential for entering the tunnel. The route, which takes around ten minutes on foot, borders a cultivated area at mid-altitude and a pine grove, and follows an old road.
Visitors will then continue for around an hour viewing the panels and listening to the guide’s explanations. They will learn how and why this exceptional immense tunnel was formed. They will find out about its geological features, and current and past biology—the remains of lizards measuring a metre and a half, and of rats double the size of today’s have been found here. There are also 170 species of invertebrates, as well as tunnels of stalactites and other extremely interesting geological formations. The route ends at a pothole measuring around 20 metres.
You are advised to wear suitable footwear, preferably boots.
Difficulty: Average.
Total distance on foot: 1,200 metres
Total surveyed distance: 17,032 metres
Duration: 1 hour 50 minutes, including the journey by vehicle.
Opening times (from Tuesday to Saturday):
Visitors’ Centre: From 9.00 a.m. to 4 p.m.
VERY IMPORTANT: Online booking is essential: www.cuevadelviento.net/
info@cuevadelviento.net
