There’s a reason why the southern part of Tenerife, especially near El Médano, is the world capital of windsurfing and kitesurfing. That reason has a name: the wind.
For cyclists, the constant wind blowing on the south coast can be a refreshing blessing or, more often, a grueling opponent. And then there’s the Calima, a unique weather phenomenon that can radically change your bike ride.
Understanding Tenerife’s wind is fundamental for planning your rides and ensuring a dream tour doesn’t turn into a nightmare. Here is our practical advice on how to face it, what to wear, and how to protect yourself.
Understanding the Wind: The Trade Winds
The “standard” wind in Tenerife is the Trade Wind (Aliseo). These winds blow constantly from the northeast. In the southern part of the island, they tend to funnel along the coast, especially in the areas of El Médano and Granadilla.
What does this mean for a cyclist?
It means that if you ride east from Los Cristianos (e.g., towards the airport or Poris), you will most likely have a very annoying crosswind or headwind. On the way back, however, you might enjoy a formidable tailwind.
The Altitude Advantage:
The good news is that these winds tend to lose strength as you gain altitude. Often, once you pass 500-800 meters (for example, climbing towards Vilaflor or Granadilla), you’ll leave the coastal wind behind and enter a calmer climate, only to perhaps encounter different winds above 2,000 meters in Teide National Park.
The Special Phenomenon: What is a Calima?
The Calima is not the normal wind. It is a weather event that occurs when hot, dry winds from the Sahara Desert (from Africa, just a few hundred kilometers away) blow towards the Canary Islands.
This phenomenon brings two things:
- Very Hot Air: Temperatures can rise suddenly, even in winter, exceeding 30°C.
- Dust and Sand: The air fills with fine Saharan dust, which drastically reduces visibility and air quality.
Riding during a strong Calima is not recommended. The dry, dusty air can cause eye irritation and respiratory problems. If the Calima is light, you can ride, but with specific precautions.
Practical Advice: Clothing and Protection
Whether it’s the Trade Winds or a Calima, the right gear makes the difference between suffering and managing the situation.
1. Against the Wind (Trade Winds):
- Windproof Gilet (Vest): This is the most important item in your Tenerife wardrobe. It’s lightweight, fits in a pocket, but blocks 90% of the discomfort. It’s essential for long descents or windy coastal sections.
- Arm Warmers: Even if it’s warm, the constant wind (wind chill) can cool the body quickly. Arm warmers are an excellent way to regulate temperature without wearing a full jacket.
- Sunglasses: Not just for the sun. The constant wind can dry out your eyes. Wraparound sunglasses are essential.
2. Against the Calima:
- Mask or Buff: During a Calima, it’s advisable to wear a light scarf (like a “Buff”) or a mask to filter the dust and avoid breathing it in directly.
- Massive Hydration: The Calima is an incredibly hot and dry wind. It causes dehydration much faster than normal. Start with two full bottles and plan stops to refill them.
- Wraparound Glasses: Even more important than with normal wind. The fine dust is very irritating to the eyes.
- Sunscreen: During a Calima, even if the sky looks milky, the UV rays are extremely strong. Use 50+ protection.
Route Strategies to Avoid the Wind
The best way to beat the wind is to avoid it.
- Start Early: The wind is generally calmer in the early morning hours and tends to pick up during the day.
- Climb Immediately: Plan your routes to leave the coast as soon as possible. Choose a route that takes you uphill quickly (e.g., towards Arona, Adeje, San Miguel). Once at altitude, you’ll be more protected.
- Check the Forecast: Use apps like Windy.com or check local forecasts (AEMET). If they predict strong south-westerly winds (rare but possible), the climb from Chío to Teide becomes prohibitive.
- Trust a Guide: This is the most important tip. A local cyclist or an experienced guide knows the “sheltered roads.” They know which canyon is protected, which slope is leeward, and how to design a 100km route that minimizes the hassle.
Don’t let the wind or a Calima ruin your experience. Plan ahead, dress smart, and if you’re not sure, join one of our guided tours. We’ll take care of “reading” the wind for you.
➡️ Discover our Guided Tours (and let us handle the wind plan)