If you arrive in Tenerife with a milky sky, fine dust on terraces and reduced visibility, it may be very fine mineral dust from the Sahara — called calima in Spanish. This guide explains what it is, how to check official sources, and what may change for Teide, beaches and trips.
For choosing your travel month: when to visit Tenerife.
What calima is
It is not a sandstorm: it is very fine mineral dust suspended in the air. Duration is highly variable — hours to several days. In the Canaries, Saharan intrusions are generally more frequent in winter; at Tenerife South, episodes reducing ground-level visibility are particularly common in February and March. In summer, significant intrusions often occur at higher altitudes.
How to check for calima
- AEMET — Saharan mineral dust intrusions (official maps for the Canaries).
- Gobierno de Canarias — air quality network (PM10, PM2.5 by station).
- Canary Islands health advisories during significant episodes.
Teide and cable car
Calima can hurt views but does not automatically close the cable car. Visibility differs by altitude. Check Teide Hoy for cable car status, weather and webcams; service stops for wind and operational weather — the word "calima" in a forecast is not enough to assume it is closed. For the trails, though, opening and closing are the responsibility of the Cabildo and are published on Tenerife ON: the operator warns on its own page that its trail information is indicative and may be out of date. Climbing Teide.
Beaches and sea
You can often still swim in light calima. Snorkelling visibility depends mainly on sea state, not calima alone. Dust concentration varies by zone and episode — not automatic "north better / south worse". Best beaches.
Whale watching and boats
Calima may flatten horizon views; departures depend on sea conditions, safety and the operator. Check your booked trip directly. Whale watching.
Health
Effects depend on episode intensity and individual sensitivity. Authorities recommend extra care for children, older people and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions: limit prolonged outdoor exposure and exertion, stay hydrated, follow official advisories. Tenerife with children.
Plan B
In moderate calima, cut back scenic plans and consider indoors, museums or spa; check air quality where you are before travelling elsewhere on purpose.
Where TPCard fits in
Calima cannot be booked away. TPCard helps if you shift to partner activities — check participation and terms first.
