{"id":43215,"date":"2024-10-18T09:44:15","date_gmt":"2024-10-18T09:44:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ajjvanscanarias.com\/?p=43215"},"modified":"2024-10-18T10:23:55","modified_gmt":"2024-10-18T10:23:55","slug":"guide-tenerife-what-see-do","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ajjvanscanarias.com\/en\/guide-tenerife-what-see-do\/","title":{"rendered":"The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Tenerife: What to See and Do"},"content":{"rendered":"
Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is a destination that offers an astonishing variety of landscapes, experiences, and activities. <\/span><\/p>\n From its towering volcano, Teide, to its historic towns, rugged cliffs, and sun-soaked beaches, Tenerife is a place where every traveler can find something to love. <\/span><\/p>\n Whether you\u2019re here for a week or just a few days, this guide will help you discover the best of what Tenerife has to offer.<\/span><\/p>\n One of the most iconic sights in Tenerife is undoubtedly the Teide National Park. <\/span><\/p>\n Home to Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain at 3,715 meters, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. <\/span><\/p>\n The park\u2019s volcanic landscapes are otherworldly, offering visitors the chance to explore lava fields, craters, and rock formations that seem like they belong on another planet.<\/span><\/p>\n The Roques de Garc\u00eda is a popular starting point, featuring a relatively easy hike that offers stunning views of Mount Teide and the surrounding landscape. For those looking for a challenge, the hike to the summit of Teide is an unforgettable experience. You can reach the summit by taking the Teide Cable Car to La Rambleta, followed by a short but steep hike to the peak. Remember, a permit is required to reach the very top.<\/span><\/p>\n Teide National Park is also one of the best places in the world for stargazing. The park\u2019s high altitude, clear skies, and lack of light pollution make it a prime spot for observing constellations and planets. Consider booking a guided stargazing tour, where experts can point out celestial sights you might otherwise miss.<\/span><\/p>\n Hidden in the south of Tenerife, near the town of Adeje, lies the Barranco del Infierno, or Hell’s Gorge. This nature reserve is known for its dramatic landscapes, lush greenery, and a waterfall that is a rare sight in Tenerife\u2019s otherwise dry climate.<\/span><\/p>\n The trail through Barranco del Infierno is about 6.5 kilometers round trip, making it accessible for most hikers. Along the way, you\u2019ll be surrounded by steep cliffs and vibrant vegetation, with the sound of the rushing stream guiding you towards the waterfall at the end of the trail. The hike typically takes about three hours to complete, and it\u2019s advisable to start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat.<\/span><\/p>\n The gorge is home to a variety of plants and animals, including several species of birds that are native to the Canary Islands. It\u2019s a place where nature enthusiasts can enjoy the tranquility of Tenerife\u2019s wilder side.<\/span><\/p>\n In the town of Icod de los Vinos stands one of Tenerife\u2019s most famous natural monuments, the Drago Milenario. This ancient dragon tree is said to be over a thousand years old, though estimates vary. It\u2019s a symbol of the island and a must-see for anyone interested in the natural history of the Canaries.<\/span><\/p>\n The Drago Milenario is located in Parque del Drago, a small botanical garden where you can also see other examples of Tenerife\u2019s flora. The park offers a peaceful setting to admire the tree and learn more about its significance in local culture and mythology.<\/span><\/p>\n After visiting the Drago Milenario, take some time to explore Icod de los Vinos. This charming town is known for its wine production, particularly its sweet Malvasia wine. A visit to one of the local wineries or a stroll through the historic streets will complete your experience.<\/span><\/p>\n Just a short drive from Icod de los Vinos is another of Tenerife\u2019s natural wonders, the Cueva del Viento. This extensive lava tube system is the largest in Europe and the fifth largest in the world, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island\u2019s volcanic origins.<\/span><\/p>\n Exploring the Cueva del Viento is only possible through a guided tour, which takes you through a portion of the cave system. The tour offers insights into the geological processes that formed the caves, as well as the unique flora and fauna that inhabit this underground world. Highlights include the intricate lava formations, fossils, and the eerie silence of the subterranean environment.<\/span><\/p>\n The tours are both educational and engaging, making them suitable for visitors of all ages. It\u2019s an experience that not only showcases the raw power of Tenerife\u2019s volcanic activity but also highlights the delicate ecosystems that exist underground.<\/span><\/p>\n The cliffs of Los Gigantes are one of Tenerife\u2019s most breathtaking natural attractions. These massive rock formations rise up to 600 meters from the ocean, creating a dramatic coastline that is awe-inspiring to behold.<\/span><\/p>\n There are several viewpoints around the town of Los Gigantes where you can take in the grandeur of the cliffs. The Mirador de Archipenque offers one of the best panoramas, especially at sunset when the cliffs are bathed in golden light.<\/span><\/p>\n To truly appreciate the scale of Los Gigantes, consider taking a boat tour. Many tours depart from the marina in Los Gigantes and offer the chance to see the cliffs from the sea, where they appear even more imposing. These boat trips often include opportunities to spot dolphins and whales, making it a memorable experience for nature lovers.<\/span><\/p>\n Anaga Rural Park, located in the northeastern part of Tenerife, is a protected area known for its lush landscapes, deep ravines, and ancient laurel forests. It\u2019s one of the island\u2019s most picturesque regions and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.<\/span><\/p>\n Anaga is crisscrossed with hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness. Whether you\u2019re looking for a short walk through the forest or a challenging hike up steep ravines, Anaga has something for everyone. The trails offer stunning views over the ocean and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the island\u2019s endemic flora.<\/span><\/p>\n Scattered throughout the park are small villages like Taganana, where you can experience traditional Canarian life. The park also boasts some beautiful, secluded beaches such as Playa de Benijo, which is known for its wild waves and stunning sunsets.<\/span><\/p>\n The Pyramids of G\u00fc\u00edmar are one of Tenerife\u2019s more enigmatic attractions. These six step pyramids, located in the town of G\u00fc\u00edmar, have sparked much debate about their origins. Some believe they were built by ancient civilizations, while others suggest they were simply agricultural terraces.<\/span><\/p>\n Today, the pyramids are part of the Ethnographic Park and Botanical Garden, which was established by Thor Heyerdahl, the famous Norwegian explorer. The park offers an interesting museum where you can learn about the theories surrounding the pyramids, as well as explore the botanical gardens that feature plants from around the world.<\/span><\/p>\n The park also hosts exhibitions on the ancient civilizations that once inhabited the Canary Islands and other regions of the world. It\u2019s a place where history, archaeology, and botany intersect, making it a unique stop on your Tenerife itinerary.<\/span><\/p>\n Located in Puerto de la Cruz, Loro Parque is one of Tenerife\u2019s most popular attractions. Originally established as a parrot park, it has since expanded into a full-fledged zoo, known for its high standards of animal care and conservation efforts.<\/span><\/p>\n Loro Parque is home to a wide variety of animals, including orcas, dolphins, gorillas, and penguins. The park\u2019s shows, particularly the orca and dolphin shows, are a major draw for visitors. However, the park also focuses on education and conservation, with exhibits designed to raise awareness about endangered species and habitats.<\/span><\/p>\n In addition to the animal exhibits, Loro Parque features beautiful botanical gardens, with thousands of tropical plants, orchids, and a cactus garden. The combination of wildlife and lush vegetation makes for a truly immersive experience.<\/span><\/p>\n Tenerife is famous for its annual carnival, held in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This vibrant event is the second-largest carnival in the world, only behind Rio de Janeiro, and it\u2019s a must-see if you\u2019re visiting the island in February.<\/span><\/p>\n The carnival is known for its spectacular parades, where participants don extravagant costumes and dance through the streets to the sounds of live music. The opening parade and the \u201cCoso\u201d (closing parade) are highlights of the event, drawing thousands of spectators.<\/span><\/p>\n In addition to the parades, the carnival features a variety of contests, including the election of the Carnival Queen and performances by \u201cmurgas\u201d (satirical singing groups) and \u201ccomparsas\u201d (dance troupes). Themed nights and street parties ensure that the celebration continues well into the night.<\/span><\/p>\n The energy and atmosphere of the Tenerife Carnival are infectious. Even if you\u2019re not usually a fan of large crowds or parties, the sheer scale and spectacle of the event make it an unforgettable experience.<\/span><\/p>\nTeide National Park: A World of Wonders<\/span><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\nHiking and Exploration<\/b>:<\/span><\/h3>\n
Stargazing<\/b><\/h3>\n
El Barranco del Infierno: A Remarkable Expedition<\/span><\/h2>\n
The Trail<\/b><\/h3>\n
Nature and Wildlife<\/b><\/h3>\n
El Drago Milenario: The Ancient Dragon Tree<\/span><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nVisiting the Tree<\/b><\/h3>\n
Icod de los Vinos<\/b><\/h3>\n
Cueva del Viento: A Subterranean Adventure<\/span><\/h2>\n
Guided Tours<\/b><\/h3>\n
Educational Experience<\/b><\/h3>\n
Los Gigantes: A Spectacular Sight<\/span><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nViewing Points<\/b><\/h3>\n
Boat Tours<\/b><\/h3>\n
Parque Rural de Anaga: A Hiker\u2019s Paradise<\/span><\/h2>\n
Hiking Trails<\/b><\/h3>\n
Villages and Beaches<\/b><\/h3>\n
Pyramids of G\u00fc\u00edmar: A Mysterious Attraction<\/span><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nEthnographic Park<\/b><\/h3>\n
Cultural Insights<\/b><\/h3>\n
Loro Parque: A Surprise at Every Turn<\/span><\/h2>\n
Animal Exhibits<\/b><\/h3>\n
Botanical Gardens<\/b><\/h3>\n
Tenerife Carnival: A Festival Like No Other<\/span><\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nParades and Events<\/b><\/h3>\n
Thematic Nights and Contests<\/b><\/h3>\n
Experience the Atmosphere<\/b><\/h3>\n
Santa Cruz de Tenerife: A City Made for Leisurely Strolling<\/span><\/h2>\n