Canary Islands Travel Guide

Discover all the must-visit places, best activities, delicious food, and local culture of the Canary Islands. Learn about transportation options, safety and health, and more.


Introduction to Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of Africa. Comprising of seven main islands, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, El Hierro, La Gomera, and Fuerteventura, each island has its unique characteristics and attractions to offer.

From stunning natural landscapes, historical landmarks, exciting outdoor adventures, and vibrant cultural scene, the Canary Islands offer something for every traveler. In this travel guide, we will explore the must-visit places, best activities, delicious food, and local culture of the Canary Islands.

List of Places to Visit in Canary Islands

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cueva Pintada Museum in Gran Canaria: a museum dedicated to preserving the pre-Hispanic heritage of the Canary Islands.
  • Casa de Colón Museum in Gran Canaria: a museum showcasing the history of the Canary Islands and their relationship with Christopher Columbus.
  • Pyramids of Güímar in Tenerife: a set of mysterious stepped pyramids that have been a subject of much archaeological speculation.
  • San Cristóbal de La Laguna in Tenerife: a beautifully preserved colonial city that has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Castillo de Santa Bárbara in Lanzarote: a historical fortress built in the 16th century to protect the island from pirates.

Natural Attractions of Canary Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Teide National Park in Tenerife: a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the third-largest volcano in the world, Mount Teide, and breathtaking landscapes.
  • Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote: a unique volcanic landscape where visitors can experience geysers, lava flows, and volcanic deserts.
  • Garajonay National Park in La Gomera: a lush and green park with dense forests and hiking trails.
  • Siete Picos in La Palma: a set of seven beautiful peaks overlooking the ocean that is popular amongst hikers and bird-watchers.
  • Maspalomas Dunes in Gran Canaria: a natural reserve of beautiful sandy beaches and sand dunes that are a must-visit for beach lovers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are a dream destination for hikers and bikers, with a vast network of hiking and biking routes offering breathtaking landscapes and stunning views. Some of the best hiking and biking routes include:

  • Ruta de los Volcanes in Lanzarote: a challenging yet rewarding hiking trail that takes you through the stunning volcanic landscape of Timanfaya National Park.
  • Barranco de Masca in Tenerife: a popular hiking trail that takes you through the scenic Masca gorge and ends at Masca Beach.
  • Roque Nublo in Gran Canaria: a relatively easy hiking trail that takes you to one of the iconic landmarks of Gran Canaria, the Roque Nublo.
  • La Gomera National Park in La Gomera: a beautiful park with several hiking trails that take you through lush forests, waterfalls, and beautiful viewpoints.
  • Betancuria Rural Park in Fuerteventura: a scenic hiking trail that takes you through quaint villages, beautiful valleys, and stunning landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Canary Islands: Activities and Tours

The Canary Islands offer a wide variety of activities and tours that cater to all kinds of travelers. Some of the best things to do in the Canary Islands include:

  • Whale and dolphin watching in Tenerife: a chance to observe these beautiful marine creatures in their natural habitat.
  • Surfing in Fuerteventura: a popular destination amongst surfers, Fuerteventura offers some of the best surfing conditions in Europe.
  • Sailing in Gran Canaria: explore the beautiful coastline of Gran Canaria on a sailing tour.
  • Paragliding in Lanzarote: experience the thrill of flying over the stunning volcanic landscape of Lanzarote.
  • Scuba diving in La Palma: discover the rich marine life and beautiful underwater landscapes around La Palma.

Week-Long Itinerary for Canary Islands

If you are planning to visit the Canary Islands for a week, here is a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1-3: Tenerife - Explore the natural landscapes of Teide National Park, Masca Gorge, and the Anaga Mountains. Visit the Casa de Colón Museum and the Botanical Gardens.
  • Day 4-5: Gran Canaria - Discover the beautiful dunes of Maspalomas, explore the Cueva Pintada Museum and hike to the Roque Nublo.
  • Day 6-7: Lanzarote - Visit the Timanfaya National Park, go paragliding over the volcanic landscape, and explore the Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes.

Food and Drink Scene of Canary Islands

Must-Try Dishes

The Canary Islands have a unique culinary scene with a blend of Spanish and African influences. Some of the best dishes to try during your visit include:

  • Papas arrugadas: small wrinkled potatoes boiled in salt water and served with homemade mojo sauce.
  • Gofio: a flour made from roasted corn or wheat, used in cooking and as a staple food.
  • Puchero Canario: a hearty stew made with different meats, vegetables, chickpeas, and gofio dumplings.
  • Bienmesabe: a sweet almond dessert made with sugar, egg yolks, lemon juice, and almond cream.
  • Mojo picon: a spicy red sauce made with peppers, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar that is used to flavor different dishes.

Local Beverages

The Canary Islands have a rich tradition of wine-making, with many vineyards producing high-quality wines. Some of the best beverages to try during your visit include:

  • Ronmiel: a sweet rum made with honey, a popular drink in the Canary Islands.
  • Tropical fruit juices: the Canary Islands are known for their delicious tropical fruits such as mango, papaya, and guava, which are used to make refreshing fruit juices.
  • Malvasía: a sweet white wine made from the Malvasia grape, which is grown extensively on the island of Lanzarote.

Where to Stay in Canary Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Canary Islands offer a wide range of accommodation options, catering to all kinds of travelers. Some of the best places to stay include:

  • Hotel Botanico in Tenerife: a luxurious hotel with excellent facilities and a beautiful botanical garden.
  • Casa Tomaren in Lanzarote: a charming boutique hotel with traditional architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Hotel Santa Catalina in Gran Canaria: a historical hotel with an excellent location and a beautiful pool area.
  • Parador de la Gomera in La Gomera: a hotel with unbeatable views overlooking the ocean and the mountains.
  • Pension Alameda in Fuerteventura: a budget-friendly guesthouse with a central location and friendly staff.

What to Buy in Canary Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

The Canary Island is known for its unique handicrafts and local products, which make excellent souvenirs. Some of the best items to buy include:

  • Aloe vera products: the Canary Islands are known for their high-quality aloe vera-based skincare products.
  • Gofio: the traditional Canarian flour, available to buy in most supermarkets and local shops.
  • Pottery: handmade ceramics and pottery are popular in the Canary Islands, with many artisans producing unique and beautiful pieces.
  • Canary Islands wine: the islands produce excellent wines, with many vineyards offering tours and tastings.
  • Handcrafted jewelry: the Canary Islands are famous for their unique and beautiful jewelry made with local materials such as lava stone, shells, and pearls.

Local Culture and Customs of Canary Islands

The Canary Islands have a unique culture and customs with a blend of European and African influences. Some of the interesting cultural aspects of the Canary Islands include:

  • Carnival celebrations: the Canary Islands are famous for their vibrant and colorful carnival celebrations, with many parades and parties.
  • Silbo Gomero: a whistling language used by the people of La Gomera to communicate over long distances.
  • Traditional folk music and dance: the Canary Islands have a rich tradition of folk music and dance, with many festivals and events throughout the year.
  • Siesta: it is customary in the Canary Islands to take a nap after lunch, and many shops and businesses close during this time.
  • Religious festivals: the Canary Islands have many religious festivals throughout the year, commemorating different saints and events.

Best Time to Visit Canary Islands

The Canary Islands have a subtropical climate, which means that the weather is mild and sunny throughout the year. However, the best time to visit depends on your preferences and activities:

  • Summer (June - August): the busiest time of the year, with many tourists and higher prices. Ideal for beach lovers.
  • Winter (December - February): cooler temperatures but still warm enough for outdoor activities. Ideal for hiking and biking.
  • Spring (March - May) and autumn (September - November): less crowded and cheaper, with pleasant temperatures. Ideal for cultural trips and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Canary Islands

Do:

  • Respect local customs and culture.
  • Try the local food and beverages.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
  • Take the necessary precautions when hiking or participating in outdoor activities.
  • Take some time to relax and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the islands.

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables unattended.
  • Buy souvenirs made from endangered species or items that might be illegal back home.
  • Disturb the natural environment or wildlife.
  • Overindulge in alcohol or drugs.
  • Swim in restricted areas or beaches with strong currents.

Safety and Health

Safety in Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are generally a safe destination, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, visitors should take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety:

  • Avoid leaving valuable items unattended.
  • Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transportation.
  • Follow the safety instructions when participating in outdoor activities.
  • Use common sense when driving on unfamiliar roads.

Health in Canary Islands

The Canary Islands have a modern healthcare system with many hospitals and clinics. It is recommended to have a comprehensive travel insurance to cover any medical expenses. Visitors should also take the necessary precautions to avoid health risks such as:

  • Drinking bottled water or boiled water.
  • Using mosquito repellent to avoid mosquito bites.
  • Taking precautions when sunbathing to avoid sunburn and heatstroke.

Getting to Canary Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Canary Islands

The Canary Islands have several airports that serve both domestic and international flights. The main airports are:

  • Tenerife South Airport (TFS)
  • Gran Canaria Airport (LPA)
  • Lanzarote Airport (ACE)
  • Fuerteventura Airport (FUE)

Bus Stations Near Canary Islands

The Canary Islands have a comprehensive bus network that connects the main cities and tourist attractions. Some of the main bus stations are:

  • Tenerife - Intercambiador in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
  • Gran Canaria - Global Bus Station in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
  • Lanzarote - Arrecife Bus Station
  • La Palma - La Palma Bus Station
  • Fuerteventura - Puerto del Rosario Bus Station

Other Options

The Canary Islands also have ferry services that connect the main islands and offer a scenic way to travel between them. Visitors can also rent a car or motorbike to explore the islands at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Canary Islands

The best way to get around the Canary Islands depends on your preferences and activities:

  • Car rental: the most convenient way to explore the islands independently and at your own pace.
  • Bus: a cost-effective way to travel around the islands, with regular services connecting the main cities and attractions.
  • Taxi: a more convenient option for short distances or when traveling with luggage.
  • Bicycle/motorbike rental: a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the islands.

Where to Go Next from Canary Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Morocco: a short flight away, Morocco offers a fascinating cultural experience with its bustling medinas, souks, and vibrant food scene.
  • Portugal: the historical city of Lisbon and the charming coast of Algarve are only a few hours away from the Canary Islands.
  • Madeira: a nearby island known for its natural beauty and wine-making traditions.
  • Mainland Spain: explore the vibrant cities of Madrid, Barcelona, or Valencia, or soak up the sun on the beaches of Costa del Sol and Costa Brava.

Conclusion

The Canary Islands offer a unique and diverse travel experience, with something for every type of traveler. From stunning natural landscapes and exciting outdoor activities to rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine, the Canary Islands are a must-visit destination. Follow our comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip to the Canary Islands and make the most of your visit.

''Papas Arrugadas'' with ''mojo verde'' ''Papas Arrugadas'' with ''mojo verde''


    El Hierro
    Fuerteventura
    Graciosa
    Gran Canaria
    La Gomera
    Lanzarote
    Tenerife