Today started in the most delicious way with a visit of a small producer of mojos, chutneys, chili pastes and fruit spreads. After a quick tour through the production facility (i.e. the kitchen), we could sample ourselves through the various products – of course there was also an opportunity, to buy some first souvenirs and Christmas gifts.

From here we continued to (and through) the town of Santiago de Teide, leaving the bus at a viewpoint just down (or rather up) the road – with great views of the Teide Mountain. We were now in the Teno mountain range, separating the Northern part (known for its milder and wetter climate) of the island from the dry South.

Today’s hike was going along the ridge of the mountain range, back and forth between the North and the South – giving us a feel of the differences of the two sides. After three hours (including breaks) and about 8.5km (plus one lost hiking boot sole) we made it to the village of Masca, where some grilled cheese, cactus icecream and the first of many barraquitoes were waiting for us.

Back at base the Atlantic Ocean was ready for us – followed by some rather tasty (and potent) cocktails, fusion cuisine (Canary / Japan / Latin America), a superb ceviche desert and a holy chihuahua.