The island of Tenerife hides beneath its surface a unique natural treasure in the world: the Wind Cave, the most extensive lava tunnel in Europe and the sixth largest in the world. This geological marvel, formed over 27,000 years ago by eruptions of the Pico Viejo volcano, offers an unforgettable experience for adventure and nature lovers.
In this article, we will explore in detail what makes this cave special, how it was formed, what the experience of visiting it is like, and everything you need to know to plan your visit. Additionally, we have gathered opinions from real visitors to provide you with a more authentic view of what you can expect on this fascinating underground journey.
1️⃣ What is the Wind Cave and why is it so special?
Located in the municipality of Icod de los Vinos, in the north of Tenerife, the Wind Cave is a system of lava tunnels with more than 18 kilometers of explored galleries. Its name is due to the air currents that form inside it because of the pressure difference between its multiple entrances and exits.
🔥 What makes this cave unique:
✔ Extension: It is the largest volcanic tube in Europe.
✔ Natural Formation: It originated 27,000 years ago after an eruption of Pico Viejo, a neighbor of Teide.
✔ Complex Structure: It has several interconnected levels and branches.
✔ Unique Biodiversity: It is home to endemic insect species that have evolved in total darkness.
✔ Archaeological Value: Fossil remains of prehistoric animals and traces of the Guanches, the ancient aborigines of Tenerife, have been found.
📌 Interesting Fact: Unlike other volcanic caves, the Wind Cave features a labyrinthine structure with different heights and galleries, making it more complex and fascinating for speleologists.
2️⃣ How it Was Formed: The Secret of the Lava Tunnels
The Wind Cave was created when the Pico Viejo volcano, thousands of years ago, expelled large quantities of lava. As the outer part of the lava flows cooled and solidified, the interior continued to flow, creating underground channels.
🌋 Most Striking Geological Features:
🔸 Three Levels of Tunnels: A peculiarity of the cave is that it has several overlapping levels.
🔸 Lava Stalactites: Unique formations originated by the solidification of volcanic gases.
🔸 Collapses and Cracks: Spaces where the cave ceiling has collapsed over time.
🔸 No Water Rivers: Unlike limestone caves, erosion here is purely volcanic.
📌 Curious Fact: The Wind Cave is still being explored, so new galleries may be discovered in the future.
3️⃣ The Experience of Visiting the Wind Cave
What is it like to enter the cave?
According to visitors, the feeling when descending into the Wind Cave is a mix of awe and adrenaline. The tour is guided by experts, and access is only possible with a prior reservation.
🔦 What can you expect during the visit?
✔ Total Darkness: At one point in the tour, guides ask to turn off flashlights to experience complete darkness.
✔ Adventure Feeling: It is not a typical tourist walk; it requires walking on uneven terrain and low ceilings.
✔ Scientific Explanations: Guides provide fascinating geological and biological details.
✔ Natural Beauty: Despite being a lava cave, there are impressive formations and unique details.
🗣 Real Visitor Testimonials:
💬 “I had never felt so much darkness in my life. It was an unforgettable experience and different from any other cave I have visited.” – Javier R.
💬 “The most impressive thing was knowing that we are walking inside an ancient lava river. Tenerife never ceases to amaze me.” – Laura G.
💬 “It’s not for claustrophobic people, but if you like adventures, it’s a must-visit. Worth every euro.” – Marcos T.
4️⃣ Practical Information for the Visit
If you want to experience this, it’s important to plan your visit in advance.
📍 Location: Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife
⏳ Duration of the Tour: Approximately 2 hours
🎟 Price: Around €20 per person
📆 Schedules: Daily guided tours (prior reservation essential)
👨👩👦 Recommended Ages: 5 years and older
📌 How to Book: Through the official Wind Cave website
5️⃣ Tips to Make the Most of the Experience
🔹 Appropriate Clothing and Footwear: Wear hiking boots and comfortable clothes.
🔹 Not Suitable for Claustrophobic Individuals: There are narrow sections and low ceilings.
🔹 Flash Cameras Not Allowed: To protect the cave’s fauna.
🔹 Book in Advance: Tours have limited spots.
🔹 Bring a Jacket: The temperature in the cave is cool even in summer.
📌 Important: Access without a guide is not permitted due to the complexity of the tunnel system.
6️⃣ Fun Facts That Not Everyone Knows
✔ Home to Unique Species: Insects living in the cave have evolved without eyes.
✔ The Guanches Used It as a Shelter: Remains of ancient ceramics and tools have been found.
✔ It is Larger Than Expected: New galleries are still being explored.
7️⃣ Experiences from Visitors
To provide you with a more complete view, we have gathered comments from travelers who have explored the Wind Cave:
🗣 “It’s a very different experience. Don’t expect a tourist cave with lights and walkways, here it’s pure nature.” – Sara L.
🗣 “Super interesting. The guides explain very well and make you feel safe at all times.” – Pedro M.
🗣 “If you visit Tenerife, this is a mandatory activity. Impressive to know that you are walking through ancient lava rivers.” – Elena C.
8️⃣ Why the Wind Cave is an Unforgettable Adventure?
The Wind Cave is much more than just a cave. It is a unique opportunity to explore the depths of Tenerife, learn about its volcanic origin, and live a different adventure.
If you are a nature lover, a geology enthusiast, or simply looking for an original activity in Tenerife, this visit is a must.
Do you dare to discover the Wind Cave?
