We will not be running excursions from August 10th to 16th due to the holidays. Eclipse Guide
10 must-see things in Tenerife
Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is a destination full of contrasts. From volcanic sand beaches to lunar landscapes, charming villages, and a vibrant local culture. If you're planning a visit, here's a list of 10 things you can't miss in Tenerife to make the most of your trip.
Main image: Wojciech Portnicki
Anaga, an enchanted forest
The Anaga Rural Park, UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is a natural treasure in northwest Tenerife, with a unique landscape of laurel forests, endemic biodiversity and contrasts between green peaks and rocky coasts.
Immerse yourself in its laurel forest, one of the best preserved in Europe. This ancient ecosystem, covered in moss and giant ferns, will transport you to a fairy tale, to a verdant past of the planet.
Anaga is a unique biodiversity hotspot, home to the highest number of endemic species in Europe, including the laurel pigeon and numerous invertebrates. Its varied landscapes will amaze you, from deep ravines and towering cliffs to secluded black sand beaches. The contrast between the lush vegetation of the peaks and the rocky coastline is simply spectacular.
Don't miss its spectacular viewpoints like Cruz del Carmen, Pico del Inglés, or Jardina, which offer breathtaking views. Also, drive through the Fairy Tunnel, a magical road winding through rocks and lush vegetation.
Anaga is ideal for hiking, with routes for all levels, from the easy Sendero de los Sentidos (1.3 km) to the Camino viejo al Pico del Inglés or El Pijaral (the latter requires authorization).
On the coast, you'll find pristine black volcanic sand beaches like Benijo or Almáciga, perfect for enjoying the sun and sea. Also, discover its traditional hamlets such as Taganana or Chinamada, where local architecture and cuisine are preserved.
Practical tips: Wear appropriate footwear, warm clothing, water and respect the environment. Visit the Cruz del Carmen Visitor Center for information.
Anaga is a must-see destination for nature and adventure lovers! It combines nature, culture, and relaxation, perfect for exploring the wildest side of Tenerife.
La Laguna, a World Heritage Site
San Cristóbal de La Laguna, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, is an essential stop in Tenerife.
La Laguna is a pioneering city, the first unfortified Spanish city with a grid layout, which served as inspiration for American cities like Old Havana. Its historic center is unique, a true architectural gem with cobblestone streets, stately homes with wooden patios and balconies, and colorful facades that will transport you centuries back in time.
Its architectural heritage is remarkable: the Cathedral of La Laguna, with its impressive sacred art; the Church of the Immaculate Conception, with a tower offering panoramic views; and palaces such as the Salazar Palace and the Lercaro Palace, which houses the History Museum. La Laguna has a vibrant university atmosphere as it is home to the University of La Laguna, giving it a youthful feel with numerous cafes, bookstores, and a lively nightlife.
As the former capital of the Canary Islands, it boasts a rich cultural and religious heritage. Its pedestrianized center is ideal for strolling and exploring its charming squares and hidden corners on foot. You can also enjoy its gastronomy and shopping, with artisan shops, Canarian restaurants, and the nearby guachinches where you can sample delicious homemade food.
La Laguna is a journey through the history and culture of Tenerife, with a vibrant atmosphere that blends past and present. A destination with soul!
Teno Rural Park
The Teno Rural Park, in the northwestern corner of Tenerife, is an ancient and diverse natural space, ideal for exploring the wildest Tenerife, as it is one of the areas of the island that emerged first.
Its geological landscapes are unique, shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity, with ravines, ridges and imposing cliffs, such as the Los Gigantes Cliffs. The biodiversity is exceptional, housing varied ecosystems, from laurel forests to coastal vegetation, home to endemic flora and fauna.
The picturesque village of Masca is a gem of the park, with its stone houses and the famous Masca Gorge Trail (reservations required; it's an out-and-back hike). The park offers an extensive network of well-marked trails for all levels, ideal for exploring its diverse landscapes. Popular routes include the one leading to the Punta de Teno Lighthouse, the lush Monte del Agua forest, or Teno Alto, a peaceful hamlet where you can sample local cheeses.
Traditional hamlets like Teno Alto and El Palmar preserve their rural architecture, shepherding practices, and goat cheesemaking, offering an authentic experience. The Cliffs of Los Gigantes, volcanic formations up to 600 meters high, are visible from the park or on boat trips.
Finally, Punta de Teno, with its westernmost lighthouse, offers unparalleled views of the sea and sunsets, ideal for finding tranquility.
Teno combines nature, adventure, rural culture and peace, making it an essential destination to discover the wild essence of Tenerife.
Masca Hamlet
The hamlet of Masca, in the Teno Rural Park, is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful areas of Tenerife. It is a must-see if you are looking for spectacular landscapes, an authentic traditional experience, and the opportunity to undertake one of the most iconic and challenging hikes on the island.
This hamlet retains a traditional charm with its stone and wood houses, which evoke an authentic journey to the rural past.
Masca is famous for hiking in the Masca Gorge, a challenging 5 km (about 3-4 hours) route that descends from the village to a black sand cove by the sea. It's important to note that advance booking is currently required.
The TF-436 road to Masca is an adventure in itself: winding and with incredible views from its various viewpoints, such as Cherfe. This place is ideal for those seeking tranquility, offering a complete escape from the hustle and bustle and a deep connection with the Canarian nature.
Tip: Wear appropriate footwear, allow time for the trail, and drive with caution.
Masca is a gem for lovers of nature and authenticity!
Cliffs of the Giants
Located on the west coast of Tenerife, the Cliffs of Los Gigantes, which are part of the Teno Rural Park, are imposing volcanic walls with heights of 300 to 600 meters.
Known as the "Wall of Hell" by the Guanches, these cliffs plunge dramatically into the Atlantic, offering a breathtaking natural spectacle. You can admire them from the Archipenque viewpoint, Los Guíos beach, or on boat trips from the marina for an unforgettable perspective.
In addition, in the area, you can do whale watching activities, as the deep waters are ideal for seeing pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat during boat trips.
Water Adventures: Kayak, paddleboard, dive, or snorkel to explore underwater caves and the rich marine biodiversity. Also, enjoy natural pools like the Charco de Isla Cangrejo.
Los Gigantes combines spectacular nature, adventure, and relaxation, perfect for lovers of the sea and unique landscapes. Don't miss it!
Teide National Park
You can't visit Tenerife without exploring the Teide National Park. With a volcanic landscape unique in the world, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, it will transport you to another planet.
Furthermore, it is home to Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak, offering spectacular views and the option of ascending by cable car, while you admire the Roque Cinchado and the Roques de García, iconic rock formations that seem to defy gravity. Stargazing is unparalleled, with both dark and clear skies perfect for viewing a blanket of stars, and it allows you to explore flora and fauna adapted to extreme conditions, including endemic species of great scientific interest.
We have a special page for Teide, you can access it by clicking here: Teide
Orotava Valley
The La Orotava Valley is one of the jewels of Tenerife. It extends from the coast to the foothills of Teide, offering spectacular panoramic views of the ocean, towns, different crops and mountains. The combination of the blue of the Atlantic with the green of the valley and the majestic profile of Teide in the background is simply impressive.
Charming villages with traditional architecture: The valley is home to three main municipalities with a rich historical and architectural heritage.
La Orotava, with its historic center, is a Historic-Artistic Site and a Site of Cultural Interest. It is famous for its stately homes with carved wooden balconies, its interior courtyards, and its steep cobbled streets.
Don't miss the House of Balconies, the Church of Our Lady of the Conception (known as the "Cathedral of La Orotava"), and the Taoro Lyceum. Every year, its streets are adorned with carpets of flowers and volcanic sand for the Corpus Christi festivities.
Puerto de la Cruz is a coastal town with a unique charm that combines history, beaches, and a lively atmosphere. Stroll through its old town with cobbled streets, visit the Church of Our Lady of Peña de Francia, or relax on Playa Jardín, designed by César Manrique, with its black sand and lush gardens. Enjoy its promenade, bars, and restaurants overlooking the Atlantic, ideal for immersing yourself in local life.
Los Realejos,with a more local atmosphere, offers coastal and mid-altitude landscapes, as well as being famous for its pyrotechnics tradition and its two main churches, Santiago Apóstol and La Concepción, which compete in festivities.
Take the opportunity to explore its coastline, with routes along Rambla de Castro or take a dip at Socorro beach.
Coast of the Rambla de Castro. Image by Eleazar Glez.
Thanks to its orientation and the influence of the trade winds, the valley enjoys a pleasant climate and lush vegetation, with palm trees, dragon trees and a wide variety of flowers that make it exuberant.
Furthermore, it is the gateway to Teide: from here some of the most picturesque roads that ascend towards the National Park start, offering spectacular views that change as you gain altitude.
The area is also a paradise for lovers of local gastronomy and wines, with its authentic "guachinches" where you can try homegrown wine and homemade food, and an outstanding selection of restaurants, especially in La Orotava.
In short, the Orotava Valley invites you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty, history, culture and traditions of Tenerife, offering a serene and authentic counterpoint to the vibrant life of other areas of the island.
Cueva del Viento, in Icod de los Vinos
If you're looking for a fascinating underground adventure in Tenerife, your destination is the Cueva del Viento.
This geological wonder, located in the municipality of Icod de los Vinos, is not just a cave, but one of the largest volcanic tubes in the world. Exploring its depths is an experience that immerses you in the geological history of the island in a unique way.
With over 18 kilometers of explored galleries, the Cueva del Viento (Cave of the Wind) is a labyrinth of passageways formed some 27,000 years ago. On a guided tour, you'll marvel at the diverse lava formations: waterfalls, stalactites and stalagmites, side terraces, and "lakes" of petrified lava.
It is a tangible testament to the intense volcanic activity that gave rise to the island, offering a very different perspective from the surrounding landscape. The visit is a living lesson in volcanology, where expert guides will transport you through the geological ages.
Learn more at this link: Museums of Tenerife Cueva del Viento
Although the Cueva del Viento (Cave of the Wind) is the main attraction, Icod de los Vinos is also home to the iconic Drago Milenario (Millennial Dragon Tree), a monumental dragon tree that represents the longevity and natural wealth of Tenerife. The presence of this ancient specimen complements the narrative of the island's antiquity that the cave reveals, offering a contrast between subterranean and terrestrial life.
In short, while Icod de los Vinos and the Drago Milenario are attractive in themselves, the Cueva del Viento stands out as one of the most outstanding and unique experiences in Tenerife for lovers of geology and adventure.
Costa Adeje
Costa Adeje, in the south of Tenerife, is the epicenter of sunny tourism, with golden sand beaches, crystal clear waters and a vibrant atmosphere.
Relax on the exclusive Playa del Duque or the family-friendly Playa Fañabé, perfect for sunbathing or enjoying water sports like jet skiing or paddle surfing. From the port of Puerto Colón, you can embark on exciting excursions to see dolphins and whales.
But if you're looking for adrenaline and top-notch water fun, you can't miss Siam Park, considered one of the best water parks in the world, with impressive slides and attractions for all ages.
In addition, the Costa Adeje area offers a vast selection of high-quality restaurants, luxury shops and a lively seafront promenade, ideal for enjoying the warm weather all year round.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Here you'll find a fascinating blend of history and modernity, with historic buildings coexisting with contemporary architecture and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. The city is ideal for shopping enthusiasts, with a wide range of options from large shopping malls to local boutiques and traditional markets.
Enjoy the cultural and artistic life of Santa Cruz. Don't miss the avant-garde Auditorio de Tenerife, the diverse museums such as TEA (Tenerife Espacio de las Artes) or the Museum of Nature and Archaeology, and important events like the famous Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival, declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest.
Relax on Las Teresitas Beach, one of the island's most iconic beaches, with its golden sand brought from the Sahara and its swaying palm trees. García Sanabria Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city, invites you to stroll among fountains and sculptures. And the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África "La Recova" (Our Lady of Africa Market) is the perfect place to immerse yourself in local flavors and aromas, with fresh produce and a lively atmosphere.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is also an important seaport, with a lively port atmosphere and the constant arrival of cruise ships that give it an international touch.
From the majesty of Mount Teide to the historical charms of San Cristóbal de la Laguna, passing through the wild nature of Anaga and the vibrant Santa Cruz, every corner of the island offers a unique experience, perfect for adventurers, culture lovers and those looking to relax by the sea.
Plan your trip and let yourself be surprised by the magic of Tenerife!
