The Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago closer to Africa than Europe, offer a unique blend of Canarian culture distinct from mainland Spain. With no bullfights or flamenco, tourists flock to the islands like Tenerife and Gran Canaria for their legendary beaches and year-round spring-like climate.
English is widely spoken due to the islands' popularity with British and northern European vacationers. The Canaries boast a variety of activities, from water sports and hiking to art and colonial towns. The islands share a volcanic origin, which has created stunning natural attractions, including two national parks and three UNESCO World Heritage sites.
1. Teide National Park, Tenerife
Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the world's third-highest volcano. Visitors can explore the vast crater and take a cable car up Teide's cone for panoramic views. The park features a variety of volcanic formations and an informative visitor center.
2. Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote
Timanfaya National Park showcases Lanzarote's recent volcanic history with its otherworldly landscapes and active geothermal demonstrations. Visitors can dine on food cooked using geothermal heat and explore the park's unique volcanic features.
3. Beaches of Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria's southern coast is dotted with golden sand beaches, including the lively Maspalomas with its nearby dunes and camel rides. The island also offers diving, water sports, and family-friendly beaches like Playa de las Teresitas.
4. Admire the Works of Cesar Manrique on Lanzarote
Cesar Manrique's art and architecture are integrated with Lanzarote's natural beauty, including his home, Jameos del Agua, and other attractions that celebrate the island's environment.
5. The Beaches of Tenerife
Tenerife's south coast boasts developed beaches with amenities and natural beaches for surfing and relaxation. Playa de las Teresitas is ideal for families, while El Medano caters to surfers.
6. The Beaches of Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura's beaches range from tourist-friendly to nearly empty, with surfing hotspots and the expansive Playa Sotavento.
7. Go Dolphin & Whale Watching in Tenerife
Whale and dolphin watching tours off Tenerife's coast are a hit with families, offering close encounters with marine life.
8. Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Santa Cruz de Tenerife features the iconic Auditorio de Tenerife and museums showcasing the island's history and art.
9. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria offers a glimpse into the island's colonial past with historical sites like the Cathedral of Santa Ana and Casa de Colon.
10. Meet Animals at Loro Park, Tenerife
Loro Park in Tenerife is a family-friendly wildlife park with a large collection of parrots, a dolphinarium, and an aquarium.
For more information, visit the official site: www.loroparque.com
11. San Cristóbal de la Laguna, Tenerife
La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and historical churches.
12. La Orotava, Tenerife
La Orotava is a historic town with beautiful homes and gardens, reflecting its past wealth and importance.
13. Explore Cueva de los Verdes, Lanzarote
Cueva de los Verdes offers a unique opportunity to explore a volcanic tube with guided tours.
14. Puerto del Carmen, Lanzarote
Puerto del Carmen is a vibrant tourist town with beaches, festivals, and a strong Canarian culture.
15. Santa Cruz de la Palma
Santa Cruz de la Palma is a historic town with a well-preserved seafront and colonial architecture.
16. Hike to Roque Nublo, Gran Canaria
Roque Nublo is a natural crag offering hiking trails with stunning views of Gran Canaria.
17. Join the Fun at the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a vibrant festival with parades, costumes, and parties.
18. Parque Nacional de Garajonay, La Gomera
Garajonay National Park on La Gomera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a pre-glacial laurel forest.
19. Go Stargazing on Mt. Tiede, Tenerife
Mt. Tiede is a prime location for stargazing, with clear skies and minimal light pollution.
20. Caldera de Taburiente National Park, La Palma
Caldera de Taburiente National Park on La Palma features a diverse landscape with forests, cliffs, and waterfalls.
Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to the Canary Islands
Touring Teide National Park:
- Explore Teide's crater with a half-day trip, including cable car access and hotel transportation.
Touring Tenerife:
- Discover Tenerife's history and landscapes with a tour that includes Mt. Tiede and the ancient capital of La Laguna.
Touring Gran Canaria
- See Roque Nublo and Pico de las Nieves on a full-day tour from Las Palmas, with stops in mountain villages.
