Tenerife: Where Volcanoes Meet the Magic of Marine Life!

• Mount Teide is the highest peak in Spain and the third-tallest volcano in the world from its base on the ocean floor.
• Teide National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most visited national parks in Europe.
• The park’s landscape is often compared to that of Mars due to its otherworldly appearance.

• Siam Park is one of the largest water parks in Europe and is known for its Thai-inspired architecture and lush landscaping.
• It features the world’s largest man-made wave pool, creating waves over 3 meters high.

• Loro Parque is a popular animal theme park that houses a diverse collection of animals, including parrots, dolphins, orcas, and penguins.
• The park is renowned for its conservation efforts and dedication to raising awareness about endangered species.

• Cueva del Viento is one of the longest lava tubes in the world, stretching over 18 kilometers beneath the surface of Tenerife.
• Guided tours take visitors through the underground passages and reveal the geological history of the island.

• The towering Los Gigantes Cliffs rise to heights of up to 800 meters and are a stunning natural landmark on the western coast of Tenerife.
• These cliffs are often frequented by whales and dolphins, making it a popular spot for boat tours.

• The Pyramids of Güímar are a set of six step-pyramids believed to have been constructed by the indigenous Guanche people for agricultural purposes.
• The exact origin and purpose of these pyramids are still a subject of debate and mystery.

• Garachico is a charming coastal town with a historical port that was once a major trading hub in the Canary Islands.
• The town’s natural pools, formed by volcanic activity, offer unique swimming spots amidst picturesque surroundings.

Held each February or March, the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife ranks among Europe’s largest and most spectacular celebrations. This vibrant street festival bursts with extravagant costumes, glittering parades, and infectious Latin American rhythms—often compared to the legendary Carnival of Rio de Janeiro.

Once suppressed under the Franco regime for its playful irreverence, the celebration now unfolds with full exuberance. Festivities begin with the election of the Carnival Queen and build toward a grand procession on Shrove Tuesday. The revelry concludes on Ash Wednesday with the quirky and much‑loved “funeral” of a giant mock sardine, marking the symbolic end of the season.

• La Orotava is a charming town known for its well-preserved historic center and beautiful colonial architecture.
• The Casa de los Balcones, a historic mansion with ornate wooden balconies, showcases traditional Canarian architecture.

• Anaga Rural Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its lush laurel forests, deep ravines, and picturesque hiking trails.
• The park offers breathtaking viewpoints where visitors can witness stunning panoramas of the coast and mountains.

• La Laguna, also known as San Cristóbal de La Laguna, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was the first city established in the Canary Islands.
• It features well-preserved historic architecture, charming courtyards, and a vibrant arts and cultural scene.

• Masca is a picturesque mountain village nestled within a deep gorge in the Teno Mountains.
• The village is renowned for its stunning views, narrow streets, and challenging hiking trails that lead to the coast.

Barranco del Infierno, translating to “Hell’s Ravine,” is a natural gorge located in Adeje.
It’s a protected nature reserve with a guided hiking trail leading to a waterfall and beautiful surrounding landscapes.

• Tenerife is a prime location for whale and dolphin watching due to the rich marine biodiversity off its shores.
• Bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales, and other species are commonly spotted during guided boat tours.

Particularly fascinating is the Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre—the Museum of Nature and Man—housed in the historic Palacio Insular. Here, Guanche mummies peer out from their glass cases, offering a rare glimpse into the island’s ancient past. The museum also displays the cannon said to have blown off Admiral Nelson’s arm during his failed assault on Santa Cruz in the late 18th century.

In the morning, visit the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África, which blends the feel of a traditional bazaar with a bustling food market. Outside, vendors sell everyday household goods, while the inner halls brim with an eclectic mix of live chickens, fragrant spices, and vibrant cut flowers.