Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is a highly sought-after holiday destination year-round. Apart from the pleasant weather and sandy beaches, its diverse landscapes are a standout feature. From majestic volcanic landscapes to lush forests and imposing cliffs, not to mention picturesque colonial villages steeped in history, Tenerife has something for everyone.
The top six activities and excursions in Tenerife:
1. Splash around at Siam Park
Siam Park, hailed as one of the world's best water parks, is a major attraction in the Canary Islands. This Thai-themed water park offers a wide variety of attractions suitable for all ages. For thrill seekers, Tower of Power and Singha are a must. Looking for a more chilled plan? Jump into a float and navigate the Mai Thai River or soak up the rays at Siam Beach. There's something for everyone here.
2. Explore Teide National Park
A trip to Tenerife is incomplete without visiting Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2007. Home to Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak at 3718 meters, and one of the tallest volcanoes globally, the park boasts incredible landscapes reminiscent of another planet. Think cones, lava flows, and intriguing caves. The Roques de García's peculiar rock formations and rich plant life, including the red bugloss and Teide Violet, are just a few of the surprises awaiting you.
3. Visit Teno and Masca
The rural park of Teno, with its diverse landscapes like laurel forests and steep ravines, is one of Tenerife's most iconic natural spaces. Among the popular villages is Masca, a unique settlement nestled among green cliffs. Besides offering spectacular views of the surrounding ravines, it also preserves fantastic examples of traditional Canarian architecture.
4. Take a trip to La Gomera
The island of La Gomera, just a short ferry ride from Tenerife, is a must-visit. Be sure to explore Garajonay National Park, also declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Most excursions include a stop in San Sebastián, the island's capital, where Christopher Columbus made a stop before heading to the New World. You might even get to hear the Gomeran language, a unique form of communication used by the locals.
5. Discover the beauty of its villages
Beyond natural landscapes, visitors to Tenerife are captivated by the charm of iconic towns like San Cristóbal de La Laguna. The picturesque pastel-coloured mansions in this colonial city are truly enchanting. Another must-see is Garachico, the town that rose from the ashes after the eruption of the Trevejo volcano in 1706. And then there's Icod de los Vinos, home to the famous, 800-year-old Drago Milenario – a symbol of the Canary Islands.
6. Enjoy a cruise or boat trip
Catamaran excursions and boat rides are fantastic ways to explore Tenerife's coastline, with various options available depending on your preferences. If you dream of spotting dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, the southwest coast is the perfect place to do so. For a more relaxed plan, opt for a boat excursion to enjoy a day of sunbathing and refreshing dips in the Atlantic Ocean.
