What to do in the Canary Islands? 12 activity ideas
Among the Canary Islands, Tenerife is without doubt the most touristic and lively throughout the year. The island is packed with activities for the family, to do alone or with friends, and some entertainments are devised with travellers in mind. However, Tenerife also contains its fair share of natural wonders. This volcanic island has the power to surprise you once you distance yourself from the seaside resorts and theme parks. Follow the coast in search of marine life, explore the beautiful countryside terrain or discover the island’s fascinating culture. There is so much to do in Tenerife that it is often difficult to choose. In order to help, here are the 12 best activities for your trip to the Canary Islands .
-
CultureEl DragoAdmiring a century year-old tree in El Drago Park
In the north of Tenerife, you can find El Drago, an icon of the island. This Dracaena tree is several hundred years old and is revered by the local population who believe its red resin has numerous health benefits. Visiting the park to which it is dedicated, you can learn more about its history and this unusual species. You can find it in Icod de los Vinos.
-
CultureCarnaval de TenerifeOne of the most beautiful carnival in the world
The Carnaval that takes place every February in Tenerife is one of the largest in the world (after Rio). Arriving on the island during Carnaval will guarantee you an incredible spectacle of coloured costumes, dancers and parades while the warm atmosphere of the street parties will make you want to return.
-
CultureLa GomeraExploring La Gomera, the neighbouring island
Venturing through La Gomera is a little like travelling back in time. On an excursion from the south of Tenerife, you can take the opportunity to visit this fascinating and unspoiled island. It is certainly less touristic than the other Canary Islands, but it is full of treasures to discover. Covered with forests and national parks, the island’s vegetation is a wonder to behold. Take in the local culture too and in particular “Silbo Gomero” the whistled language of the island.
-
RelaxationMasca valley with your familyExploring the island and sharing activities with your family
Tenerife is a family destination where young children can easily enjoy discovering the island with their parents. Some package holidays include various activities such as tours around a volcano, trips out to sea or adventure days among the trees. You can also visit Cueva del Viento in Icod de los Vinos and venture through a lava flow. A multi-activity holiday is a great way to experience a complete change of scenery while keeping the young ones entertained.
-
RelaxationStarry sky of TenerifeObserving the star in a truly unique setting
El Tiede boasts an exceptional altitude of 3,718 metres. Surrounded by vast unspoilt spaces and far from any town, there is no light pollution when night falls. For this reason, it is one of the best places in the world to see the stars. Take a guided tour with an astronomer who will share their enthusiasm as you observe the constellations and shooting stars.
-
RelaxationPlage de Las TeresitasRelaxing on a paradisiacal beach
It is perhaps the simplest but nevertheless the favourite activity of visitors to Tenerife. How can you pass up the most beautiful beaches in Tenerife which promise such superb settings in which to relax? Additionally, several of Tenerife’s beaches are kept free from development and retain their natural aspects. From north to south, passing by the “giants” of the south-west, you can take advantage of a peaceful environment in which relaxation should be easy to find.
-
RelaxationSiam ParkEnjoying theme parks
Tenerife has several theme parks which will appeal to the young and old. Among them, Siam Park in Adeje is the best known. It is a huge water park with a Thai theme. There are several pools and flumes for a day of fun and laughter with the family. Don’t miss Aqualand with its Kidzworld area where the children can play in the water surrounded by knights and dragons.
-
RelaxationSortie bateau pour observer les animaux marinsObserving marine animals in their natural habitats
Tenerife is the ideal place to observe marine life in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean. There are numerous species to see along the length of the island’s coast. Particularly in the south-west, you can take a boat out for several hours to see dolphins and whales. Some companies offer diving and snorkelling to discover the marine life. A magical memory to take home with you.
-
SportEl Medano beachDiscover nautical sports
Tenerife is also known a paradise for water sports. With its hundreds of miles of coastlines and exposure to the wind, surfing and windsurfing can be done on several of the island’s beaches including El Medano. The southern beaches are often well- equipped and you will always find somewhere to parascend or jet-ski. Tenerife is also the ideal place to take your maiden dive to explore the sea bed in search of sharks and turtles. Often expensive elsewhere, the lower cost of living makes Tenerife the perfect place to practise these sports.
-
SportRando dans le parc del TeideHiking in Teida National Park
At 3,718 metres, overlooking the surrounding lunar landscape from El Tiede promises an experience that will never leave you. Classified as a UNESCO world heritage site in 2007, El Tiede National Park offers walks and hikes of varying difficulty. El Tiede attracts over three million visitors per year which may be enough to make you take one of the marked routes to avoid the crowds. The Roques de Garcia trail, for example, is an hour long circular walk accessible to all.
-
SportTrekking dans les montagnes d'AnagaReach Anaga's summits on foot
To the north of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, is the region of Anaga where miles of verdant scenery and natural conservation areas await you. Anaga is, without doubt, a paradise for walkers and hikers passing through Tenerife. The Canary Islands are well known to travellers who love the beautiful countryside and long walks. Inevitably, you will be tempted to explore this volcanic island. Why not start in Anaga?
-
SportKitesurf et windsurf sur la plage d'El Medano, TenerifeSurf on one of the world's best spot
Tenerife is the ideal destination to learn how to surf or to improve your technique. The Atlantic waves which wash the rocky shores are relatively small and the currents aren’t too strong. You have the opportunity to use your board at numerous venues across the island. The best known spots are Puerto de la Cruz and Las Americas. There are a significant number of surfing schools on the island. You can choose according to your level and needs. Tenerife could be the place for a new sporting experience!