Tag Archives: teide national park

Tenerife’s Scorched Valley

Scorched Valley, Teide National Park, Tenerife

In July 2012 there was a large forest fire on Tenerife that threatened to engulf Teide National Park. Fortunately it was stopped just in time. This was the first of many photo stops we made on the journey to the summit of the great volcano, and you can see the effects of the fire. To the left of the shot are the sparse trees designating the area decimated by the flames, and to the top right those that were saved.

It’s a fascinating contrast, and a great testament to the power of nature. I was surprised to find many trees at all in this kind of desolate landscape. But apparently volcanic soil is incredibly fertile and therefore great for plant life. From this point on in our journey the views became more and more otherworldly. Volcanic islands must be some of the most incredible landscapes that exist on earth!