Things to do in tenerife: The BEST Tenerife Tours and Excursions in 2022 – FREE Cancellation

25 Best Things to Do in Tenerife, Canary Islands

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Tenerife is one of the most popular places to visit in the Canary Islands. Tourists are drawn to the unique black sand beaches, numerous activities, and sunny year-round weather. While everyone’s idea of a vacation is different, there is something in Tenerife for every type of traveler. Whether you want to lounge on pristine beaches, surf, hike, or enjoy a lively night scene and historical sites, it’s all here! We here at Road Affair don’t want you to miss out on any of it, which is why we’ve carefully crafted a list of the best things to do in Tenerife to help you create your ultimate itinerary for your Canary Islands vacation. 

So what are you waiting for? Start scrolling and planning! 

Related: 15 Best Airbnbs in Tenerife, Canary Islands

Explore Nature in Parque Nacional del Teide

Tenerife has a uniquely stunning landscape, and one of the best ways to experience the island’s beauty is by immersing yourself in its nature. Parque Nacional del Teide offers particularly great opportunities for outdoor adventures.

The best way to explore the park is by going on a hike. One of the most popular hikes in the area is the Roques de García route, a 3.5-kilometer loop trail that leads to impressive natural monuments like the Roque Cinchado. Another popular hiking trail is the trek through Montaña de la Botija and Montaña de Sámara. This 5-kilometer loop trail starts at Mirador de Sámara and takes just under two hours to walk. 

If you’re a first-time hiker or nervous about navigating trails on your own in a foreign country, consider booking a guided hiking tour. There are plenty of options, including this six-hour guided tour up Spain’s highest mountain peak, Mount Teide. You can also ascend the mountain on your own, but you’ll need a permit to hike to the summit, and you’ll have to book your cable car ticket in advance. 

If hiking isn’t your idea of a relaxing vacation, maybe a four-wheeler tour will spark your interest. This quad tour of Parque Nacional del Teide is a perfect way to get a kick of adrenaline and explore at a faster pace. You’ll need a driver’s license to operate the quads, but those without a license can ride as a passenger. 

If you’re interested in astronomy, definitely consider booking a tour of the largest solar observatory in the world. This guided excursion of Mount Teide Observatory will take you on a journey beyond our planet, letting you explore the night sky through telescopes.

Walk in the Enchanted Forest of Parque Rural de Anaga

Towering mountain peaks, ravines, and lush forests await explorers at Parque Rural de Anaga. This is a great park for outdoor activities in Tenerife that showcase the island’s incredible nature. In fact, one of the most beautiful places on the island is Bosque Encantado, also known as the Enchanted Forest, an ancient laurel forest rich with magical viewpoints and scenic walks. 

This hike is so popular that the park issues a permit for it to only 45 people per day, charging a fine to those in the area without a permit. You can order one of these free permits up to 15 days in advance online. However, because of the forest’s popularity, permits are usually gone within minutes of them opening up online, so get in the queue early. 

If you don’t get a permit, a nice alternative to the Enchanted Forest is Sendero de los Sentidos. Another great trail is the Roque de Taborno route, a 4-kilometer trek that takes about 1.5 hours to complete. This isn’t exactly a well-marked path, so you’ll need a GPS map. 

Tour Cueva del Viento

Strap on your hard hat and explore Europe’s largest volcanic tube at one of the best tourist attractions in Tenerife, Cueva del Viento. 

On this tour, you’ll journey into the earth to see part of the world’s fifth-largest volcanic tube while learning about lava fields, volcanoes, and geology. The tour will start with an introductory module at the Visitor Center, then you’ll set off through the lava fields toward the entrance of the cave with your guide.  

Once you get to the cave, you’ll strap on your hard hat equipped with a flashlight, as there is no artificial lighting in the cave. You will learn all about the geological formations that took place here over 27,000 years ago and about the surrounding farm areas. The tour lasts roughly two hours and is not suitable for children under 5 years old. 

Learn the Theories Surrounding the Pyramids of Güímar

One of the most mysterious must-see attractions in Tenerife is the Pyramids of Güímar. Located on the east side of the island, these ancient structures are the subject of many theories, as their origin is highly debated. 

The Pyramids of Güímar are made of lava stones, and no one is quite sure who built them or when. Some researchers claim that they’re just a series of stone mounds left behind by farmers clearing the land, but others have their theories. One of the most notable theories is that the pyramids were built by the Guanches, possibly with the help of sailors from Egypt and Central America, as they resemble the pyramids in those areas. Another theory is they are linked to the Freemasons. 

There is much more to do here than simply seeing the structures. You can also learn all about the history and relics of the pyramids at the museum or take a stroll through the leisure area. 

Visit the Penguins at Loro Parque 

If you’re wondering what to do in Tenerife with the whole family, check out Loro Parque on the west side of the island. This zoo is a great place to spend a day with little ones, and it offers some unique attractions. 

If you book the Discovery Tour, you and your family will get a 90-minute guided experience to learn more about the animals and go behind the scenes in the park. Loro Parque also offers immersive experiences, like Planet Penguin, where you can stand in front of massive windows and view the icy sanctuary where these lovable creatures live. You can also explore the Grotto (home to bats), the Oceania area, and AquaViva (the aquarium), which puts on a show to give you a closer look at hundreds of colorful jellyfish, sharks, and fish. You can book your tickets to the park in advance here. 

If you enjoy animals, we also recommend checking out Jungle Park and Monkey Park in Arona. 

Take a Dip in a Natural Pool

If you’re sightseeing in Tenerife and need a cooldown, why not go for a refreshing dip in one of the island’s naturally formed swimming pools? These natural pools are a great way to enjoy a relaxing swim in calmer waters. 

One of the more popular pools is the Piscinas Naturales de El Caletón in Garachico. Here, you’ll find a large inlet pool with rocky steps leading into the water. A great spot to go for a dip with kids is Piscina Natural de Bajamar, where toilets and showers are available. If you’re looking for a less popular spot that’s still fun for kids, head to Piscina Natural de Jóver, where you’ll find outstanding views and little waterfalls. There is a lifeguard on duty here, so you can relax while the little ones splash around.  

Another good swimming hole is Charco de Isla Cangrejo by the Cliffs of Los Gigantes. This is a perfect spot to swim on a windy day, as the concrete wall acts as a sturdy barrier to take the brunt of the crashing waves. 

Olena Tur / shutterstock.com

Spend a Day Sunbathing on the Beach

Tenerife being an island, it has no shortage of awesome beaches where you can spend the day swimming and lounging on the sand. 

If you want to spend the day at one of the best beaches on the island, haul your swimming gear to Playa de La Tejita, Tenerife’s largest sand beach, or Playa de Las Teresitas, where you’ll find 1.5 kilometers of pristine imported yellow sand. If you’re looking for a more remote beach where the waves are ideal for surfing, check out Playa de Benijo. 

Another popular beach in Tenerife is Playa del Duque, where the water has a stunning turquoise hue. If you need a break from sunbathing here, you can pop into one of the nearby bars for a bite to eat – or even join in on beach yoga! 

Visit the Town of La Orotava

A great place to visit in Tenerife for a more local feel is the quaint village of La Orotava, where you can stroll through the beautiful Old Town.

One of the more notable streets in the Old Town is La Casa de los Balcones, a series of balcony homes built in the 17th century that is now home to shops selling souvenirs and local art. Other attractions you can’t miss in the village include Hijuela del Botánico, a beautiful botanical garden behind the city hall, and the Museo de Artesanía Iberoamericana de Tenerife (Latin American Craft Museum of Tenerife), where you can learn about local artwork and crafts. 

After cruising around to the town’s museums and attractions, you’ll probably get a little peckish. We recommend lunch at Guachinche La Casona. It has some seriously delicious local dishes, like ropa vieja and papas arrugadas, plus a great selection of local wines! That brings us to our next itinerary item . . .

Eat at a Guachinche Restaurant

Guachinches are Canarian establishments with a familial feel where groups can enjoy local wine and traditional food. You can find these establishments all over Tenerife, particularly in the northern part. 

Guachinches started out in the 17th century, when local vineyard owners would host English traders for wine tastings in hopes of them selling the wine in England. What makes guachinches so unique is that they are normally hidden in random places such as under banana trees, in garages, or in the middle of the mountains. For this reason, you’ll need a car to reach most of them. 

Eating at one of these establishments is a unique experience, as the dishes are all homemade and the small space makes a more intimate setting. However, the guachinches focus more on the wine than the food. This is because they pay taxes on the dishes but not the wine, so don’t be surprised if there isn’t a huge selection of meals. In fact, most guachinches are only open around grape harvest time, which lasts roughly from October to March. 

Some of the top guachinches we recommend visiting in Tenerife are Bodegón El Primero, Guachinche El Parralito, Guachinche los Gómez, Guachinche Romance, and Guachinche La Huerta de Ana y Eva.  

Marvel at the Cliffs of Los Gigantes

Acantilados de Los Gigantes, the massive rock cliffs on the island’s west coast, are one of the most popular Tenerife attractions. Guanches (the Indigenous people of the Canary Islands) considered these 600-feet-high cliffs a sacred place and nicknamed them “the Wall of Hell.” 

There are a few ways to experience the cliffs, as they stretch from Punta de Teno to the port of Los Gigantes. One way is from Playa de Los Guíos, where you can look up at the massive rock formation while swimming or lounging in the sun. To appreciate them from a distance, head to the Mirador de Archipenque for a breathtaking view of the city with the cliffs as a backdrop. 

You can also go on a boat cruise to see how the cliffs seemingly erupt out of the ocean. We recommend this five-star cruise from the port in Los Gigantes. During the excursion, you’ll have time to marvel at the cliffs, snorkel, and enjoy a drink and lunch.  

Explore the Capital City of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Tenerife’s capital city has plenty of activities for tourists, and it’s well worth a day or two to explore and see it all. 

Start your visit with a stroll through the Historic Quarter, where you’ll find churches and other buildings dating back to the 15th century. Take a walk down Calle de La Noria to see street performers and traditional restaurants and bars. 

Once you’ve got your bearings, head over to the Mercado Nuestra Señora de Africa. Located in a salmon-colored building with Moorish-style arches and two stories of stalls, this massive market is a great place to browse for local goodies like wine and fresh produce. It’s open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day except Sunday, when its hours are 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 

One of the buildings that you should see in Santa Cruz is the Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín, an impressively designed auditorium similar to the Sydney Opera House in Australia. If you feel like going for a dip during your visit to the city, you should also check out the Parque Maritimo César Manrique. This water park is a great place to take the kids for a few hours of fun in the sun. It has a relaxing setting with palm trees, waterfalls, pools, and (of course) waterslides. 

A trip to the capital isn’t complete without a visit to the Museum of Nature and Archaeology (MUNA), where you can browse local artifacts and learn more about the history of the Canary Islands and its people. Other notable attractions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife include the Plaza de España, the city’s largest square, and the Palmetum, a botanical garden displaying Europe’s most impressive collection of palm trees. 

Drive or Hike Through the Masca Valley

A drive through the Masca Valley is easily one of the best free things to do in Tenerife. The road winds around the mountains and lush surrounding forests, offering an ideal cruise for taking in the island’s beauty. A few stops along the way have incredible panoramic views, so keep an eye out. 

It’s worth noting that this isn’t your typical leisurely drive, as the roads are extremely narrow and busy with traffic, including large tour buses. If you’re uncomfortable with these driving conditions or not renting a car during your trip, consider booking this full-day tour of Masca and the Cliffs of Los Gigantes. 

Another great way to experience the landscape of Masca Valley is with a hike. The most popular hike in the area is the Masca Gorge Trail, an 8.5-kilometer, out-and-back trek that takes roughly 4.5 hours. However, hikers are only allowed on weekends and holidays, and you will need to purchase a permit in advance to hike the trail. 

Discover the Quaint Towns of Garachico and Icod de los Vinos

These two beautiful small towns are often overlooked by tourists, which is exactly why you should visit them! You’ll not only get to explore without crowds slowing you down, but also get a taste of a quieter local culture.  

Garachico is a coastal town where you can swim, enjoy local delicacies and cocktails, and see some old architecture and historic churches. It’s also home to a pretty incredible natural swimming pool, as mentioned above. 

Icod de los Vinos is equally beautiful and only a 15-minute drive from Garachico. Here, you can visit one of the most famous trees in the Canary Islands, the Drago de Icod de los Vinos. This 1,000-year-old dracaena (or dragon) tree is the oldest of its kind in the world. It looks like something straight out of Avatar and is well worth a stop, followed by a drink or local dish at one of the nearby restaurants. 

Get Your Adrenaline Pumping at Siam Park

Is there anything better than a water park on a hot day? We think not! Siam Park is a unique Thai-themed water park offering fun for the young and the young at heart. 

The park features plenty of adrenaline-pumping water rides, including the Tower of Power. You’ll fly down this 28-meter-high slide at speeds up to 80 kph, through an aquarium full of stingrays and sharks. The park also has a beach, pools, a lazy river, and plenty of tamer rides for those who don’t want to bring an extra pair of undies for the big waterslides (no judgment here)! It even has a cool floating market where you can shop for souvenirs or grab a snack. Make sure to purchase your ticket to the park in advance so you don’t have to wait in line. 

Another fantastic water park to consider visiting is Aqualand Costa Adeje. It has just as many high-thrill rides as Siam Park, along with a dolphinarium.

Watch the Sunset at Punta de Teno 

If you want to escape the tourist-packed attractions, we recommend making the journey over to the western tip of the island. Punta de Teno is a remote area that not many people visit, offering the perfect spot to enjoy some solitude or romance. 

The area is home to a fantastic observation deck overlooking the ocean and the neighboring island of La Gomera. If you look out the other side, you’ll also get some pretty great views of the Cliffs of Los Gigantes. For the best experience, we recommend you arrive no later than 30-40 minutes before sunset.

Tour San Cristóbal de La Laguna

This bustling town is an excellent place to spend the day, with plenty of attractions and spots to visit. 

Start your tour of the town with a walk through the historic center of La Laguna, where you’ll see beautiful old buildings and churches as well as shops and restaurants. Make your way to the Museum of History and Anthropology of Tenerife, showcased in a 16th-century residential building, to learn about the island’s culture. Another fantastic museum to check out is the Museum of Science and the Cosmos (MCC), home to interactive exhibits that are perfect for kids. 

Experience the Tenerife Carnival

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting in February, take advantage of the famous Tenerife Carnival! 

Watch the streets of Santa Cruz de Tenerife come alive with vibrant outfits and parties in a carnival that would be worthy of Brazil. Lasting an entire month, the festival celebrates the time right before Lent. It includes drag queen contests, street parties, and parades that you can join or observe, along with the ceremonial burying of a sardine. In Spanish culture, a sardine represents the past, so the significance of burying one is to forget about events that have passed and that you cannot change, bringing hope and optimism for the future. 

If you aren’t visiting in February but want a taste of what the festivities are like, check out the Casa del Carnaval gallery in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This is where you can view the annual costumes and learn more about the festival. 

Hike the Barranco del Infierno

Even if you only speak un poco Spanish, you might notice that the name Barranco del Infierno translates into something a little daunting. Hell’s Ravine, or Hell’s Gorge, is one of the most popular hikes on the island for a good reason. This stunning trek offers incredible views, leading you through a lush ravine to the island’s highest waterfall. Unfortunately, you can’t swim in the waterfall’s pool, but it’s still a spectacular reward. 

Access to Barranco del Infierno is limited, with only about 300 people per day allowed to hike, so you should reserve your permit in advance. The 6.3-kilometer out-and-back trail takes roughly three hours to complete. No dogs are allowed. 

Enjoy Breathtaking Views From a Mirador

While vacationing in Tenerife, you have to visit one of the many miradors (or viewpoints) scattered across the island. 

Tenerife’s landscape is quite rocky, with many impressive mountain ranges and valleys. To get the most out of your visit, stop at one of the observation decks. A couple of the most noteworthy are Mirador de Aguaide, which overlooks the ocean, and Mirador de Chipeque, which overlooks Mount Teide and the Orotava Valley. 

Other viewpoints worth checking out include Mirador de la Atalaya, Mirador El Asomadero, Mirador de La Garañona, Mirador de Jardina, and Mirador de La Ruleta. Whichever one you visit, make sure your phone is charged up so you can take lots of pictures! 

Fly High on a Paragliding Excursion

We’ve all had that dream, right? The one where you’re a careless bird flying through the sky, enjoying incredible views and the freedom of flight? Well, if you don’t find that terrifying, it’s time to make your dreams come true! 

This tandem paragliding flight will take you on a gentle ride 700 meters high over the southern part of Tenerife. Your adventure starts from Costa Adeje, where hotel transfer to and from the paragliding site is included in your ticket. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your instructor and undergo some training and preparation for your brief experience of being a bird. 

As you take off from the ground, you’ll enjoy incredible panoramic views, and you can even take a turn at piloting the glider! The flight lasts about 20 minutes and lands on Playa de La Enramada. 

Go on a Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise 

Seeing as you’ll be on an island, surrounded by the ocean and all its critters, why not go on a whale and dolphin watching tour? 

This three-hour tour on a luxury sailing yacht is the perfect way to spend an afternoon with your family or partner. The boat has a maximum of 11 guests on board, so you’ll have plenty of space to lounge and get a good spot to see some wildlife. The cruise includes complimentary snacks and drinks, and you’ll even get to snorkel with turtles! 

Kayak With Dolphins

If you’re looking for a unique water excursion, consider booking this three-hour kayak and snorkeling trip out of Los Cristianos.

The tour will take you on an adventure out at sea, where you’ll be able to see turtles and dolphins in an eco-friendly, non-intrusive way. Watch as dolphins jump through the air and curious turtles swim up to the kayak. After paddling for a bit, you can go for a snorkel in a secluded bay that turtles frequent (wetsuits and snorkeling equipment are provided). 

Go on a Canyoning Adventure

If you’re looking for a fun thing to do in Tenerife on dry land, check out this five-hour canyoning adventure in Los Arcos. 

On this fun excursion, you’ll get to rappel down the ravine walls of Los Arcos Canyon and explore hidden parts of the island that other tourists can’t access. You’ll learn the ins and outs of canyoning and a bit about the island’s geological history. This makes a great activity for families with older children (as the tour is not suitable for those under age 12 or over 80). 

Experience a Submarine Dive

The Beatles may have said we all live in a yellow submarine, but how many of us have actually been in a submarine? If you haven’t, you can change that easily with this incredible 50-minute submarine dive excursion. 

This unique tour gives you the chance to dive deep and see the ocean floor from a new perspective. The submarine dives about 30 meters down, where you’ll get to watch octopuses and flutemouth fish swim past the massive windows. The submarine will then descend to the ocean floor and actually rest on the bottom, allowing you to take pictures. 

© Pawel Kazmierczak / shutterstock.com

Take a Day Trip to La Gomera

Last on our list of the top things to do in Tenerife is a day trip via this La Gomera island tour. The excursion includes all transport by bus and ferry to and from the island, as well as lunch and entry to Garajonay National Park. 

La Gomera is one of the least visited islands in the Canaries, so if you’re looking to get into nature and away from people, this is the place to go. The tour will take you to some of the island’s most notable places, such as Roque de Agando and El Cedro, and includes a demonstration of the local whistling language, Silbo Gomero. You’ll have a live tour guide the whole day, so ask questions! 

That brings our list of the best things to do in Tenerife to an end. Now that you know the best places and attractions, all you have to do is figure out how many of them you can squeeze into your itinerary. Good luck!

15 things to do with your kids in Tenerife – You need to visit

As well as year round sunshine and warm temperatures Tenerife offers plenty to keep children occupied during your holiday.

You just need enough time and planning to tick off as many of these great places off your bucket list when visiting the island.

Take a look at 15 of the favourite things to do while you’re in Tenerife with your children.

1. Cool off at Siam Park

We have visited some of the world’s best water parks in Dubai and Florida but little did we know that the top rated water park in the world according to Trip Advisor was in Tenerife.

Siam Park is one impressive water park that your kids will love so much that one visit won’t be enough – expect lots of fun from the wide range of slides which cater for water babies to thrill seeking children and adults.

As you walk through the gates you feel as though you have been transported to Thailand, the Thai-inspired landscaping and architecture is so impressive – it’s one beautiful water park with the flumes blending in with the lush surroundings.

The highlight of which is the Tower of Power, a 28m vertical plunge in a slide past sharks and stingrays.

Kids will love playing on the huge white sandy beach, a rare sight in Tenerife with its typical black volcanic sand and swimming in the stunning turquoise lagoon or relaxing on the world’s longest lazy river.

Web – https://www.siampark.net/index.php/en/siam-park-en/attractions

2. Stop off at Teide National Park

On our drive from the west coast along the winding, twisting mountain roads towards Mount Teide was incredible.

We passed banana plantations, gorgeous traditional Canarian towns, pine forests until eventually we reached the dramatic lunar landscapes of Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Driving through the park was such a memorable experience passing craters, its dramatic ochre-coloured volcanic dust and rocky terrain with lava flow formations and vents.

It really did feel as though we had left the beaches of Tenerife and arrived on an alien planet, it was a surreal experience like nothing we had seen before – we learned that NASA tested their Mars rover here and I can see why.

There were so many places to stop en-route taking in the sights and photographing parts of Tenerife that lots of visitors miss.

3. Walk at the top of a volcano at Mount Teide

No visit to Tenerife would be complete without a trip to its most famous and iconic landmark, Mount Teide, the huge volcano that makes up the core of Tenerife.

Visiting Teide National Park and taking the excursion at the top of Mount Teide is highly recommended, it was one of the highlights of our trip to Tenerife.

At an impressive 3,718 metres high it’s the world’s third highest volcano after Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea in Hawaii and the highest point in Spain.

We could see it clearly from our hotel but nothing can prepare you for when you get close to this magnificent location.

Many visitors just take the 8 minute cable car ride to the summit for a few photos and then catch it back down to the visitor centre, but they are missing out on so much more of what Mount Teide has to offer.

I highly recommend booking a “Mount Teide for Families” excursion for a private 2 ½ hour guided tour of the volcano to one of its most dramatic viewpoints of the Pico Viejo crater.

web- https://www.volcanoteide.com/en/volcano_teide/special_activities/mount_teide_for_families 

4. Get closer to nature at Loro Parque

Loro Parque is one of the most beautiful zoos we have visited and I can see why it has recently been voted the best zoo in Europe by Trip Advisor.

The 13.5 hectare park is home to the world’s largest collection of parrots but over the years it has evolved to become a world class zoo and birds now only represent a small part of what is on offer.

The spectacular shows at Loro Parque are really informative and are not to be missed.

web – https://www.loroparque.com/index.php/en

5. Experience the wonder of the Pyramids of Guimar

Kids and adults will love the adventure of visiting the mysterious pyramids at Guimar located towards the north of the island.

The origins of the site remain unknown but it has been linked to the ancient civilizations of the Mayans and Egyptians.

Similar to its more famous relatives the pyramids are perfectly aligned and astronomically oriented according to the winter and summer solstice.
Web – http://www.piramidesdeguimar.es/en

6. Have fun in the trees at Forestal Park

If you are fans of Go Ape in the UK then you will love Forestal Park located just outside Teide National Park.

In the pretty surroundings of pine forests you ascend into the treetop canopy 100ft above the ground where you move from tree to tree via rope bridges, ladders, swings, wooden ledges.

There is also the longest zip-line in the Canary Islands at 230 metres long to zoom down – it’s great fun for older children and adults.

Younger children are also catered for with another course much closer to the ground, suitable for children aged six an over.
Web – https://www.forestalparktenerife.es/en/

7. Have fun at Lago Martianez

Whilst Siam Park and Aqualand get all the attention when it comes to water parks it’s also worth checking out the lesser known Lago Martianez on the north coast of Tenerife.

This huge man made saltwater lake was built in the 70’s and is one of the most impressive water complexes you will visit.

With seven swimming pools to suit all the family, lots of sun terraces to relax, restaurants and beautifully landscaped grounds it’s a place that all the family will love and it’s different .

Don’t forget to check out the huge geyser it’s like being in Iceland minus the snow and ice.

Web – https://ociocostamartianez.com

8. Monkey Park – the biggest little zoo in the world

As an alternative to the brilliant Loro Parque check out Monkey Park which boasts an impressive 20 different types of monkeys and apes.

It is advertised as the biggest little zoo in the world and there is plenty to keep the kids entertained at this family-friendly zoo. It’s not just monkeys here you will also see iguanas, crocodiles, turtles, lemurs and snakes.

You can also purchase dried fruit and nuts to feed some of the lemurs, monkeys and parrots.
Web – http://monkeypark.com/en/

9. Learn about Space at the Museum of Science and the Cosmos

Fans of space will love visiting the Museum of Science and the Cosmos. With over 70 interactive exhibits on the earth, sun and the universe as well as a planetarium it’s great for the children to learn about space in a fun hands-on way.

Web – https://www.museosdetenerife.org/mcc-museo-de-la-ciencia-y-el-cosmos

10. See the animals at Jungle Park

This large natural wildlife park is set in 19 acres of jungle and is home to over 500 animals including tigers, leopards, alligators, sea lions and tropical birds.

Along with seeing the animals there are several shows throughout the day are informative and engaging. Don’t forget to check out their toboggan run and the ropes, bridges, caves and tunnels of the jungle area – kids won’t want to leave.

Web – https://www.junglepark.es/en/

11. Hike in the Jurassic like world of Anaga Rural Park

What we love about Tenerife is the contrast between each part of the island. This is evident in the Unesco-protected Anaga rainforest park in the north west of the island.

This stunningly beautiful landscape of volcanic mountains and giant flowers – it is like stepping into a Jurassic world without the dinosaurs especially as some of the laurel forests here have been around for more than 40 million years.

For families the most accessible trails in the Anaga reserve is the Sendero de los Sentidos and you have a guide who takes you on the three hour hike around the Anaga Mountains in this amazing part of the island.

web – https://www.volcanoteide.com/en/volcano_teide/hiking/visit_to_anaga

12. See the dolls at Artlandya

ARTlandya will be one of the most unique and interesting museums that you will visit. Set in beautiful countryside this museum is a hidden gem in Tenerife with over 300 dolls and teddy bears on display which kids will love seeing.

The museum also has an onsite workshop so you can see and learn how these amazing porcelain dolls are made.web – http://www.artlandya.com

13. Aqualand Costa Adeje

Although not as impressive as Siam Park, Aqualand is a great option for younger kids as many of the attractions are better suited to younger children with a huge family section with themed pools, small slides and even a kids wave pool.

For adrenaline seeking older children and adults you are catered for with slides including the Twister and Kamikaze.

The other benefit of Aqualand is that the queues are typically shorter here than Siam Park.

Along with the water park there is also a dolphin show to see during your visit.

Web – https://www.aqualand.es/costa-adeje/en/

14. Go underground at the Cave of the Wind

Having scaled the top of the volcano at Mount Teide go underground at the Cave of the Wind.  You set off on a guided tour to check out the 18km of lava tunnels which were formed 27,000 years ago from the nearby Pico Viejo volcano.

It’s the fifth largest lava tube in the world with the other four being in the Hawaiian islands and this is one unique experience as you walk towards the centre of the earth.

web – https://www.cuevadelviento.net

15. Set Sail and go Whale and Dolphin Watching

You can set sail on a family boat trip from the South Coast of the Island to spot pilot whales, turtles and bottlenose dolphins that live off the coast of Tenerife.

There are several companies who offer various packages and typically last around 3 hours.

Many companies will offer drinks and snacks in your package and will have an informative and knowledgeable crew.

If you are feeling brave then some trips even give you the chance to go swimming in the Atlantic Ocean.

For a fun twist that kids will love you can go on the lookout for dolphins and whales on an actual pirate ship.

web – https://www.freebirdone.com

Bonus – Visit the Volcanic Sand Beaches

You can’t come on holiday without taking the kids to the beach and you are spoilt for choice in Tenerife with an abundance of family friendly beaches to choose from.

With many of the beaches in Tenerife having dark volcanic sand like ours in the west of the island at the beautiful and peaceful Guía de Isora it added a unique twist of visiting the beach with the kids.

How to book your tickets

Many of these activities are available to pre-book before your holiday either direct on the attractions website or via a UK company such as AttractionTix or 365 tickets before your holiday and will often be cheaper than the “on the gate” price.

Online travel magazine – Things to do in Tenerife

Tenerife is the largest and perhaps the most interesting island in the Canaries, there is something to do at any time of the year, 24 hours a day! We offer you to get acquainted with the best entertainment on the island:

1. Wake up on top of the volcano

If you have been to the island of Tenerife and have not visited the Teide volcano, we can say that you went in vain. Few people know that you can not only go to the volcano, but also spend the night on it! nine0009 The Teide volcano is the highest mountain in Spain (3718 meters) and it looks amazing, and near the volcano you can find a place to sleep, it’s a sin not to spend the night enjoying the incredible starry sky and no less magnificent sunrise in the morning!

2. Visit the village of Taganana

Taganana is the oldest village on the island, founded in the 15th century, famous for its fantastic views and amazing opportunities for hiking and walking along the mountains and beaches. It is not crowded here, especially on working days, and you can achieve unity with nature and enjoy the most beautiful landscapes

If you live in the south of the island, then a trip to Taganana can be combined with a visit to the capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife by ordering an excursion or renting a car. We advise you to stop by the famous beach with golden sand “Playa-de-Las-Teresitas” and at the same time look at the first capital of Tenerife – La Laguna and relic laurel forests.

If you are coming from the northern part of the island, this is an ideal place for a full day walk or hike, you can even get here by bus. nine0003

3. Taste a dish of national cuisine in Tenerife

We advise you to try real Canarian cuisine not in a cool restaurant overlooking the sea, but in “Guachinche” – these are local taverns that are named after the people who lived on the islands before coming colonists. These establishments do not advertise, do not lure tourists, but they have large portions and truly delicious “Canarian” food. As a rule, this is a simple meal served with delicious homemade wine. The signature dish is papas arrugadas (like our “jacket potatoes”, only with local sauces). nine0003

Finding these hidden local places is not easy, but the Guachapp mobile application will help you with this, which can be downloaded from the official website

4. Visit the carnival on the island cities and gathering up to 250 thousand people. The festival is held in the capital of the island – Santa Cruz de Tenerife annually, in February, lasts for a week and is the second largest carnival in the world, after the Brazilian in Rio. nine0003

Teide, La Orotava and Isla Baja

El Teide and La Orotava

This route starts from Mount Teide, where several roads lead from the north and south. You can walk through the vast Ucanca Valley, formed from volcanic lava, and take beautiful pictures of the Roques de Garcia with the Teide in the background. Roques has an observation deck that offers a magnificent view of Las Cañadas. If you wish, you can climb to the top, but for this you need to obtain permission from the administration of the National Park. A modern and safe funicular will take you up. You will have to walk 200 meters along the trails to the top. At an altitude of 3,718 meters, impressive views open up. nine0003

North of Teide. You can start your tour by visiting La Orotava, a city with many attractions. Be sure to visit the churches of the Immaculate Virgin Mary and San Agustin, the Casa de los Balcones and the city hall. Here you can also buy products of the island’s traditional handicrafts.

Isla Baja

This area is located in the northwestern part of the island and is home to charming towns such as Los Silos, Garachico and Buenavista del Norte. The road that passes through them will lead you to the Rural de Teno Park. This unique place will surely amaze you with its amazing landscapes. nine0003

Day 2. Santa Cruz, La Laguna, Las Teresitas and Laurel Forest

Santa Cruz and La Laguna ends connected. Lively and cheerful city of La Laguna and more majestic and solemn Santa Cruz. Be sure to visit the Auditorio Concert Hall and walk the streets next to the Church of the Immaculate Virgin Mary in Santa Cruz.