Practical Guide: Tenerife

The island of Tenerife emerged over 10 million years ago from volcanic eruptions. Its current form was shaped by the merging of three mountain ranges: Anaga, Teno, and Valle de San Lorenzo, all created by the eruption of the Teide volcano. This massive crater is visible from nearly every part of the island.

Mount Teide towers above the Atlantic as the third largest volcano globally. For the indigenous Guanches, it is sacred. They believe the devil Guayota resides within, trapped by the sun god. Eruptions are said to be attempts by the devil to escape.

The last eruption took place in 1909. Since then, Teide volcano has been dormant, offering a diverse landscape for hiking.

Tenerife is one of the seven Canary Islands and a top holiday destination. Located west of Morocco's southern coast, the Atlantic Ocean washes its black shores.

>>> Are you an active family? Check out this article for popular cycling routes for families across Europe.

All-inclusive resorts in Tenerife

Most tourists head to the island's south, known for its warm, dry climate and developed resorts. Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos are famous for their vibrant nightlife.

The Canary Parliament has passed a law supporting ecological initiatives, allowing only 5-star hotels to be built. Adeje boasts the highest concentration of these in Europe.

The island is a haven for water sports enthusiasts and whale watchers. Costa Adeje's deep waters are home to several species.

To fully appreciate Tenerife's beauty, venture beyond the bustling bars and all-inclusive resorts.

Best time to visit

Tenerife, known as the island of eternal spring, enjoys a varied climate. Expect scorching sun in dry areas and coolness in the high mountains. July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures reaching up to 30 °C.

In autumn, the island feels like your private paradise as beach crowds thin out and accommodation prices drop.

The island is well-connected, with two international airports. Los Rodeos is in the north near the capital, while the larger Reina Sofia is in the south, one of Spain's busiest airports.

How to get around the island

Renting a car is the best way to explore. Prices are low, around 50 euros per week, and can be even less off-season.

Be aware that extending your rental by a day can double costs. It's wise to book in advance from home. Most rental companies are near the airport, but note that many services close on Mondays.

Tenerife also offers a good public transport system, with buses covering much of the island.

Most beautiful places in Tenerife

This volcanic island offers wild mountains, laurel forests, and unforgettable panoramic views. Your itinerary might be perfect, but the most interesting moments often surprise you.

Santa Cruz – the capital of Tenerife

Home to nearly a million people, about half reside in the capital, Santa Cruz, in the north. The colonial area features colorful architecture.

The Auditorio de Tenerife, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is a coastal masterpiece. It's near the Palmetum botanical garden and the sandy Playa de las Teresitas beach.

In early spring, the city hosts the world's second-largest festival, Carnival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

Masca Valley

The quaint village of Masca is a paradise nestled among high rocky outcrops in the northwest. The wild landscapes on the way there are captivating. Spend a night to fully absorb its atmosphere.

Teide National Park

All eyes in Tenerife are drawn to Mount Teide, Spain's highest point. The surrounding area is a National Park with numerous hiking trails offering close encounters with the volcanic landscape.

Trails lead through volcanic formations and wide panoramic views. You'll pass pine and laurel forests, arid landscapes, and surreal rusty-red rocks. The park offers easy walks and challenging hikes around volcanic outcrops Roques de García and lava flows Pico Viejo.

Reach the summit by cable car or hiking trail.

Starry sky of Teide National Park

Tenerife is ideal for stargazing due to its distance from light pollution. The Starlight Foundation named Teide National Park a "Starlight Destination." At night, you can see 83 of the 88 recognized constellations and the Milky Way with the naked eye.

Garachico – natural pools

For a taste of authentic Canarian life, visit Garachico on the northwest coast. In 1706, a volcanic eruption partially destroyed the town, creating natural pools at El Caletón.

Los Gigantes – basalt cliffs

The area west of Mount Teide is known for ocean life excursions. Spot various species of whales and dolphins, and predatory barracudas in volcanic caves. Los Gigantes is surrounded by cliffs rising up to 800 meters, battered by the Atlantic waves. These are the Acantilados de los Gigantes.

Puerto de la Cruz – town

Puerto de la Cruz is filled with volcanic bays and tropical gardens. It houses one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Canary Islands. Jardín Botánico, established in 1788, cultivates and acclimatizes plants from around the globe.

The gardens feature 3,000 plant species, including tropical and subtropical varieties. Beyond aesthetics, it's a hub for botanical research and education.

Rainforests in Anaga

Yes, Tenerife has rainforests, a fascinating feature. The northeastern mountain range is known for its wild, untouched nature. The Anaga area contains some of the last remnants of the original Canary Islands rainforest.

Laurisilva, a type of laurel forest, once spread across the Mediterranean's warm, humid areas. Today, it's found in few places, including Tenerife.

Lush vegetation and dense forest thrive here, home to several endemic animal species. Since 2015, UNESCO has protected this area as a biosphere reserve.

Traditional food

Small boiled potatoes, Papas Arrugadas, are served with spicy Mojo sauce, a favorite in Tenerife. Tourists often enjoy them with wine, once highly sought after in Europe. Even Shakespeare mentioned it in his works. The island's volcanic history has enriched the soil, providing excellent conditions for grape cultivation.

Conclusion

Tenerife is affordable and full of adventure. Plan your visit to explore beyond the resorts. Here, you can observe marine mammals, swim on black beaches, and conquer high mountains in a landscape shaped by volcanic activity over millions of years. Its influence is evident everywhere you look.