Tenerife - Our travel - Guide and tips
When people think about Tenerife, they often think of Playa De las Amèricas and Los Cristianos which are charter tourist places in South West of the Canary Islands. Playa de las Amèricas is the centre of nightlife in Tenerife. The sandy beaches which are the best in Tenerife are imported sand from Africa due to the darkness of the native volcanic sand, which you find other places like Puerto de la Cruz in the North of the Island.
But Tenerife is so much more than Your ordinary "Sunny vacation". We've traveled to Tenerife several times and that - because of a reason. To explore all the places average tourists usually do not see - or know about. And this has made us keep Tenerife close to our hearts. We hope you enjoy this post and if so, please let us know.
Tenerife Airport
The island of Tenerife has 2 airports.
1) Tenerife South Airport - which is located In San Miguel and Granadilla de Abona, was built as a consequence of North Airport not being able to meet the technical conditions sufficient due to the weather in the area.
2) Tenerife North Airport - is located in the municipality of San Cristobal de La Laguna.
Together these 2 airports meet the highest passenger movement in the Canary Islands with 12,5 million passengers a year.
When you travel to Tenerife, you should check the location of your hotel, so you know which airport is closer to your destination. You can of course pre order a buss transfer to your hotel. But what we always do is pre order a rental car, which is much more convenient since we like to explore the Island on our own. But if you want to take a taxi, landing on the wrong Airport would make the ride more expensive.
Car rental
There are of course many car rental companies in Tenerife. The one we always use in Tenerife is GOLD CAR RENTALS. A piece of advice - Try getting the smallest car possible. Many of the roads and villages have narrow streets. A smaller car is much more easy to park and drive. We have always been very happy with Gold Car Rentals. Last thing you should know, is that when you pre order the car, you get it much cheeper. And what they try to do to make some extra money, is when you get the car - they will try to convince you that you need more insurance. They will show you a chart and tell you about all the damages that your "pre ordered" insurance do not cover. My advice : Just say NO thank you. You just saved your self a quick 70 Euros.
Taxi fares:
Taxi drivers are usually honest and polite in Tenerife. You can recognise Official licensed Taxis because they are white with a blue stripe in the front doors and they have a green light in the roof that indicates if they are free or if not, the number of passengers they are carrying.
There are two different fares, one for nights, weekends and holidays and one for day time weekdays. The airport supplement is €1.65.
Day time Fare (from 06:00 to 22:00, weekdays): all or fraction of each kilometre: €0.47 minimum fare: €2.68; price per hour waiting, €12.79 and fractional rate for every 15 minutes €3.20.
Night time and holidays (from 22:00 to 6:00 and all day weekends and holidays): all or fraction of each kilometre: €0.58 minimum fare: €3.21; price per hour waiting €12.79 and fractional rate for every 15 minutes, €3.20.
Telephone: (+34)922 759 009
Radio Taxis: (+34) 922 641 112
Parking in Tenerife
I think it is important to write shortly about parking. It is extremely important to know that it is prohibited to park on yellow or white line. Don't take a chance. They will tow the car immediately. Tow trucks work 24 hours a day - 7 days a week. And in places like Puerto de La Cruz, it is difficult to find parking place in the city center during evenings. Also remember that blue lines indicate restricted parking zone, usually where you are required to pay to park.
Attractions
There are of course a lot of things to see in Tenerife. A quick search on Google or Tripadviser will give you a long list of things to see and to do. These are Our favorite attractions in Tenerife.
Mount Teide "Pico del Teide"
Nikon D800 Nikon 24-85mm ISO 100 f/22 1/50 sec The road to Teide
Nikon D800 ISO 100 24mm f/22 1/160sec
Teide with its 3,718m - Is as I mentioned earlier, is the number 1 sight you have to see when you are in Tenerife. As you get close to Teide, the national park is truly amazing, with landscape that makes you feel you have landed on the moon. The lava formations and the cliffs make great photos. The road to Teide has many viewpoints where you can stop and take photos. Of course - every where in Tenerife you will be able to find guided tours that take you there. But don't spend your hard earned money on tours. Renting a car even for just one day is less expensive then tours. And it gives you the freedom to see many places.
Nikon D800 ISO 100 Nikon14-24mm f/22 1/60 Teide National Park - on the way to Teide
About 5-10 min before you reach Teide (where the cable car is), there is a viewpoint with a small church and restaurant where you can rest and eat. They have now also build in sleeping accommodation now fairly new. There are a lot of tourists at this viewpoint to take picture of the scenery and specially the odd shaped rock. See picture below
The rock formation which is very popular
Different angle, taken at night with ISO 2000
Also taken during low light with high ISO. The Church and the restaurant to the far left
In the middle of the day this place is crowded
The restaurant
About 5 min drive from this point, is the entrance to the parking lot - and there is the cable car.
Picture from www.telefericoteide.com
Parking lot taken from inside of the cable car
view from the top
To get the permit:
Office of the National Park
Opening hours: from 09:00 hours to 14:00 hours, Monday to Friday
C/ Emilio Calzadilla, no 5 - Floor 4
Telf. 922 290129 - 922 290183
Fax: 922 244788
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
400mm zoom of people walking up the trail
People in bad shape shouldn't try this
The cable car
Almost on top
When the cable car reaches its highest point. The view is breathtaking. This is as far as you can go. But it is also possible from this point to take the trail to the top of the volcano. For this trip you need a written permit which you must get from the Office of the National Park which is only valid for a certain date. It is no problem getting this, and you will get it on the spot as long as you have your passport with you.. They just want to control the crowds going up there and to prevent people with heart conditions to do so. It is actually hard do breath up there.
The most important thing to remember, is that you must have warm jacket and clothes on. There are so many tourists that take the cable car wearing shorts and T-shirts. The second they get out of the cable car, they want to go back down again. It is FREEZING up there.
The start of the trail
After taking down the cable car again, there is fast-food restaurant and a gift shop. What I recommend is that you take the route back through the beautiful city of Puerto de La Cruz after experiencing Teide.
This is the way down from Teide. There are so many beautiful views. This is from a time when it rained and was so much fog that we only could se 3 meters in front of our car. Beautiful when the weather changes like this.
The clip above is taken with my iPhone, on the road to Teide in heavy rain and fog
Altitude signs along the road
Beautiful dark colors even at ISO 2000
The danger of driving to Teide in the rainy weather
One of the things I find interesting is how quickly you can get to 2100 m by just driving 5-10 minutes.
I never get tired of Teide
The national park - road to Teide at sun set. It feels as if the back side of the mountain is on fire..
I love the way mountain fires up at sunset
When driving down from the Mountain, you get a feeling of how hight you actually are - since the clouds are beneath you.
Taken from above the clouds
Fantastic colors. A surreal experinece to drive there at night
It is sad that tourists always go to sightseeing places like Teide during the midday. The most fantastic time to enjoy scenery is at sunrise or sunset, or in rainy foggy weather.
Photographer's paradise:)
The fog adds drama to the picture. It feels like you're on another planet
Puerto de La Cruz
Ermita de San Telmo - This small church is by the water in the middle of Puerto de La Cruz.
To get here from South Airport By car
If you choose to rent a car in Tenerife South Airport, you have to take the motorway,Autopista del Sur for 53km. Then take exist 6A to Sta María del Mar (ATTENTION!!! This exits is quite tricky and if you miss it, you could end op in Santa Cruz). Continue straight onto Autopista TF-2. Then follow the signs for TF-5 La Laguna/Puerto de la Cruz and merge onto Autopista del Norte (TF-5), continue straight for 27 km, then you can take exits 32, 35 or 36 to Puerto de la Cruz.
By taxi
A taxi from Tenerife South Airport can cost around €100.
By bus
* Bus no. 343: goes directly to Puerto de la Cruz
* Bus no. 111 to Santa Cruz bus station and there change to bus no. 102 or 103 to Puerto de la Cruz.
Before traveling, we advise you to check their web for timetables at: www.titsa.com
Good to know:
– Approximate duration of drive from the airport is 85 minutes.
– Bus drivers will not accept €50 notes, they only accept €20, €10 or €5 notes or coins.
Puerto de La Cruz is Tenerife's oldest tourist destination. The town was originally founded in the beginning of 17th century. It was the center of north coasts fishing and maritime activities. You will be surprised on just how significant the difference in daytime temperatures is to the more familiar resorts on the south. Do not expect brilliant blue skies every day. However clouds and Teide in the background gives fantastic pictures.
The streets of the old Town are very narrow. And its one way system makes finding a convenient parking space very difficult if not impossible. For an inexperienced driver, this is a true nightmare.
The heart of the resort is undoubtedly the Plaza del Charco de los Camarones. In the early evening this place attracts both tourists and locals to sit and enjoy a quick drink whilst watching the street entertainers who also gather here.
East of the plaza which is referred to as the "new town" is where you find the best selection of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. West of the plaza is the Old Town. Here you find many buildings over 200 years old. And one "the Casa de la Real Aduana" dating back almost 400 years back to 1620.
Beaches around the Puerto de la Cruz are not the towns strongest attractions. But a short distance away from the center of the town, there is a 1 km coastline running from the San Felipe Castle, through to the Punta Brava district that has been developed in to the Playa Jardin by the excavation of around 200.000 cubic meters of black volcanic sand from the sea bed. It has been awarded the internationally recognized Blue Flag for both water quality and its facilities.
picture from www.linternaute.com
Sunsets in Puerto de la Cruz are amazing
Evening walks
Visanta is an electronic chain who can help you with any equipment you should need. The service was fantastic and they are very helpful.
I strongly advise you not to go to "indian shops". I write about those later in the guide.
But Visanta you can trust. Original electronic equipment and camera gear.
Puerto de la Cruz C/ La Hoya (Esq. Sargento Cáceres) -TLF: 922 38 41 89
Early evening
Always interesting to see the town in sunset
Visanta is located in the heart of the town.
Sunsets are truly magnificent in Tenerife
Things to do in Puerto de la Cruz
Loro Park:
We are primarily against keeping animals in captivity. It is sad to see.But in order to be able to write reviews we have to know and see what we are writing about. Loro Park is proximally 7-10 min taxi drive away from the city center. There is a free train from outside Mc Donald's. Do not expect to get back with the train if you are planning to take the last train back.
Behind bars
Beautiful animals, sadly in captivity
water shows
Overall beautiful animals, and at the end it is everyone's own opinion that matters.
I for my self don't like to see animals in captivity.
Free train to Loro Park from outside of Mc Donalds
Children will have a blast here. We have been to many zoo's around the world but this one is one of the better ones.
La Orotava Acclimatiasation gardens
Built in 1788 - with major collection of tropical and subtropical plants with special emphasis on varieties of palms such as Bromeliacea, Araceas and Moracea.
There are many plants and trees that are interesting because of their size, beauty, age, rarity or remote place of origin.
It is a scientific institution. And the gardens carry out international germo-plasm exchanges.
It has a herb garden which specializes in native Canary flora, with more than 30,000 files and develops research programs on the flora and vegetation of the Canaries.
I highly recommend this place and do not forget to bring a camera. If you want beautiful plant pictures or even portraits with fantastic background. This is the place.
picture from www.therealtenerife.com
Picture from google pictures
Our lady le Pena de Francia
Picture taken by Gary Forrest. Click image for his site.
This beautiful church built in 1684, lies in Plaza de La Iglesia, which is one of the prettiest squares in town. The best thing about it is that the restaurants surrounding the church have fantastic food.
There is a large bakery near this church. You can't miss it - Pasteleria Conditorei - so when craving of something sweet knocks on your door, you know where to go:) They have all sorts of delicious looking cakes and all types of pies and cookies. Mouthwatering;)
I ate a lot of these
souvenir shops are to be found everywhere
The Pasteleria Conditorei
Good to know:
The 10th of July is one special day in Puerto de la Cruz. The fishermen of the city celebrate on this day the Holy Virgen del Carmen who is their patron saint. At 5.30 pm, the statue of Carmen is carried from the church ‘Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia’ by the people of Puerto de la Cruz in a big procession to the small fishermen harbour. From there, the statue is lifted out to the sea by boat to bless the water and the fishing.
Moreover, this festivity is also called the festival of water pistols. The inhabitants of the city pour water over the public from the balconies and windows of their houses or fire water with their pistols at people in the street. After the procession the visitors and inhabitants celebrate dancing in the streets which finishes with a great firework. If you are here in July, don't miss this.
A video of “embarcación”:
Fishermen harbour
Candelaria
Candelaria Nikon D800 24mm ISO 100 f/22 1/320sec - (7 pictures merged to panorama)
About 20km southwest of St. Cruz, lies the religious beautiful town of Candelaria. If you are planning a trip to Tenerife, I highly recommend a visit to this town. Candelaria is the principal Catholic center of pilgrimage of the Canaries , and one of the most important ones of Spain.
A little history:
It is told that around 1390-1392, 2 natives who were leading cattle, saw some goats come to the mouth of the ravine in a beach near to Candelaria. They found on a rock, the Holy image of the Virgin of Candelaria. The Image was moved to palace of the King of Güímar.
Later the same guanches moved her to Cueva de Achbinico in Candelaria and there, it has been venerated since then. The Christian conquerors explained that the image was the Virgin Mary.
The image goes out in procession every February 2 (day of Candelaria) and August 15 (day of the Patron of Canaries). It is believed that the Virgin Mary appeared on these dates.
Basilica of Candelaria
Basilica - Nikon D800 ISO 100 40mm f/22 1/80sec
On one side of the square are statues of the nine kings who ruled the nine aboriginal guanches menceyatos (pre-Hispanic kingdoms) of Tenerife.
Different perspective
Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias (Square of the Saint Patron of the Canary Islands)
Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias is a meeting place of pilgrims and festivities celebrating the most important of the municipality.
In this square there are also various bars and cafes serving fantastic refreshing Sangria. Here you can find different souvenir stores, religious items and crafts.
The street runs parallel to the coast and the promenade of the city to the Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias and the Basilica of Candelaria. It is not a typical shoppers paradise, but interesting for craft-lovers.
When sitting in one of the many restaurants on this square, Enjoying a fantastic paella and cooling down with ice cold Sangria. I remember thinking that this is what heaven must feel like. I can still taste the paella.
I remember Gordon Ramsey once said: «If you are on holiday in a foreign country and you want to eat, find a restaurant which the LOCALS eat at. And stay FAR AWAY from restaurants that have pictures on their menu». I must admit that I always live by this rule and it amazes me every time how fantastic the food is.
Calle Obispo Pérez Cáceres Shopping street
Delicious Paella
Masca "The hidden lost city"
Nikon D4S ISO 100 24mm f/22 1/100sec (18pictures-panorama murge)
Every where on the internet, you can read about how narrow the road to Masca is and so on. It is narrow, but there is no danger. It is not smaller then village roads in Italy or Spain. Do rent a car and enjoy.
Located at north west side of the Island
Masca
I love taking picture of signs
Masca
Its been said that Masca have originated as a pirate hideout. But in reality this small settlement was the last and only refuge of Tenerife's original inhabitants. They held against conquest in the caves and its steep cliff walls, unreachable. A small community farmed here for centuries.
When the road connecting Teide to Buenavista was constructed in the 1970s, the rest of the world found Masca. Until then - this place was unreachable by car.
When Masca finally revealed it self, it was a breathtaking view. See how well hidden this small town is.
From Masca you can hike your way down fantastic majestic scenery down to the sea. This will take about 3 hours, with normal pace. This beautiful trail will lead you to the Atlantic Ocean, through remote landscapes of unique beauty.
There is several ways to visit Masca. Either by buss, rental car, or by taxi. If you want to walk down the trail to the shore, the chances are that you will not walk back up again. 3 hours climbing is no joke. But here is the trick. if your are gonna walk down the trail, you should order a taxi boat to pick you up when you get down, and take you back to Los Gigantes. If you don't, chances are that you will be waiting by the shore - for hours before a boat taxi can take you back. The restaurants in Masca have the number for taxi.
What we did - was to get to Masca by rental car and parked the car there to explore the town. Then, after eating a nice meal, started walking down the trail. Our pre-ordered boat taxi was waiting for us when we got down. And took us to Los Gigantes. From here we took a cab back to Masca to get our car. It is a 35-40min cab drive, but its only because of all the curves. it would probably only take 10 min if the road was straight. We always carry a lot of camera gear. So for us this was the best way to experience the trail also.
Restaurant with a viewpoint with one of the most spectacular views in Tenerife, Just before you reach Masca
The sigh indicating where the restaurant is
Locals selling fruit
Restaurants
Small church in Masca
Inside of the church
Cactus ice cream, cactus wine and even cactus lemonade are sold here. No wonder- cactus is everywhere you look:)
Restaurants and souvenir shops
Many of the Village houses are converted into restaurants. I talked to some tourists there and they all said the food were good.
Masca Lomo wich is the upper side of the village, there is a small museum in a small sized cottage. It is set out exactly as it would have been before tourism started. The whole village relies on tourism. Every thing from hand crafted jewelry, to hats and other souvenirs can be bought here. And by buying souvenirs that are made in Masca, tourists help keeping the village alive.
Taken on the road back from Masca. I had to do a little climbing to be able to take this picture. That is why we recommend a rental car.
I truly love Tenerife.
Santa Cruz
Auditorio de Tenerife - consert and opera house designed by Santiago Calatrava.
Santa Cruz is tenerife's Capital. It is a vibrant city, offering great cultural activities and great for shopping. Its port is very important, a crossroad between Europe, Africa and America, visited by ships of every nationality.
Beautiful modern buildings, next to streets of a typical Canarian style. Here you find Museums, art exhibitions and different types of shows taking place throughout the year. There are gardens, squares and avenues with permanent sculpture exhibitions that are considered to be among the best in the world.
Symphony Orchestra (Orquesta Sinfònica de Tenerife) is considered to be among the most prestigious in Europe.
Santa Cruz is the nerve centre of Tenerife´s internal communications and transport system and its connections with other islands makes it a perfect starting point for excursions to see and understand the diversity of the rest of this beautiful island.
Huge bus terminal, with connections throughout the Island.
Santa Cruz has a very good shopping area where you will find many duty-free shops selling a variety of things including electrical goods, cameras, jewellery, perfume, spirits and tobacco (including the famous Canarian cigars). And of course all the well known shops like "Zara, Bershka" and etc. The colourful Mercado de Nuestra Senora de Africa sells a range of fresh products. Also visit El Corte Inglés, which is a monster-sized department store. It also has a restaurant and an excellent, pricey, supermarket with interesting imported goodies.
The address is: Avenida Tres de Mayo 7
Santa Cruz Flea Market (Sun, Avda Jose Manual Guimera)
When in Santa Cruz, do not miss the Sunday flea marked. This flea market is held along two parallel streets leading from the covered market to the coast. it is huge and here you can find anything you want. On Sundays surrounding the African Market you will find El Rastro Flea Market. Look out for some high quality leather, hardware and crafts at bargain prices.
This flea marked is huge
Do not forget sunscreen
Santa Cruz African Market (Everyday, C/ San Sebastián)
Clock tower
Otherwise known as the famous Mercado Nuestra Señora de Africa, this is the main market in the Santa Cruz and offers a dazzling bazaar of over 300 stalls selling fresh local produce. It is held in a courtyard with a very distinctive pink(ish) clock tower building and is just a short walk from the bus station. Here you’ll find everything from the freshest and best fruit, vegetables, flowers, meat, dairy produce and herbs and spices.
Huge selection
Cheap and fresh
Fresh every day
Herbs from all over the world
The public transport is very good in Santa Cruz
Modern new trams
Other interesting sights
“The Castillo de San Juan Bautista (Castle of John Baptist), also called Castillo Negro (Black Castle), in the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the Canary Islands of Spain, was the second most important fort in the defense of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
It is set in the heart of the capital, behind the Auditorio de Tenerife. It was built in 1641 and is located near the Parque Marítimo César Manrique. It has a round tower facing the sea. Each year in July a re-enactment of the Battle of Santa Cruz de Tenerife of 25 July takes place, which commemorates the unsuccessful attempt by the British Admiral Horatio Nelson to invade the city and the archipelago.”
Castillo de San Juan Bautista, also known as Castillo Negro
Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre
This is one of the best Museums in all the Canary Islands.This is a former civil hospital that has been transformed into a brain-bending amalgam of natural science and archaeology. Among the highlights are the Guanche mummies and skulls. There are many displays on the geology and wildlife of the islands. And also many sorts of interactive displays with big screens. There is also a Cafe and gift shop of course. A must see for all ages in my opinion.
Address: Calle Fuente Morales s/n
Website: www.museosdetenerife.org
Castillo de San Cristóbal
Underneath Plaza Espana are the fragments of the castle that once sat there. You can access these by an entrance on the side of the plaza. History of the castle is displayed in the museum there. And the most famous item is El Tiger. This is the cannon that blew off Admiral Nelson’s arm when he attacked Santa Cruz in 1797. Be sure to take a picture of the cannon.
Address: Plaza España Opening hours: 10am-6pm Mon-Sat
Santa Cruz de Tenerife Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
It may sound lame, but A hop-on Hop-off is an excellent way to explore the most interesting part of a city. It will set you back approximately 15 euros, but it is worth it in my opinion.
Picture from www.isango.com
You can hop on and off as many times as you like aboard these open-top double-decker buses. There are 11 stops in total, and the entire route takes approximately one hour. The bus departs every 25 minutes from each stop and tickets are valid for 24 hours from first use.
Stone painting art
When visiting Auditorio de Tenerife, be sure to see the stone-paintings along the seaside. All the famous caters, singers etc are to be found. See if you can find your idol there:)
As far as eye can see
Micheal Jackson
Playa de las Americas & Los Cristianos
Playa de las Americas beach, all the way to Los Christianos
As i mentioned in the start, Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos are the number 1 places that tourists want to stay at, due to the climate, sun, large selection of fabulous sandy beaches with imported sand from Africa ( as I mentioned earlier), best nightlife in Tenerife, best shopping in Tenerife, numerous selections of cafe and bars, of which many offering live entertainment and cabaret every day, and so on. Families will love it here. There are so many activities for children and teenagers. Just relax on the beach and order a refreshing drink and enjoy life.
Los Cristianos, formerly a fishing village, is situated at the south of the Island. It is close to Tenerife South Airport. The climate as I mentioned is warm with clear skies nearly all year round. This is the reason why it is a famous centre for winter tourism. The hotels and tourist services have undergone a spectacular development. It is possible to travel to the nearby Island of Gomera by ferries, which make 2 journeys a day.
Los Cristianos has a nice smattering of crafts, fashion and jewelery shops in the streets behind the promenade which are always good for a browse.
Los Cristianos’ shores at night
Marked tip:
On Sunday mornings (9am-2pm) the largest market in the south takes place alongside the Arona Grand Hotel at the southern edge of the resort. You'll find crafts, clothes and artifacts galore.
Playa de las Americas is the absolute most popular tourist area in Tenerife. Since most of the beaches are man made, they are protected from erosion by breakwaters making the coast effectively a series of small protected coves. They have been awarded by blue flags, official symbol of optimal beaches in the EU.
This is where you will find most of the water activities including surfing, jet-skiing, diving, snorkeling, windsurfing and hang-gliding. Playa de las Americas is also warm all year around as it is surrounded and protected by the Teide mountain.
Shopping areas in Playa de las Americas.
Beautiful and high standards
The best shopping area around Playa de Las Américas and Los Cristianos is at the CC Safari(open Mon-Sat 10am-3pm, 5-9pm; Sun 7-9pm) opposite the Mare Nostrum Resort in the heart of Las Américas where you'll finddesigner outlets sitting alongside Spanish high street names. After dark, dancing fountains at the front of the centre provide a colourful spectacle (displays at 8pm, 9pm and 10pm) . Next door, the newer Américas Plaza is also worth a browse.
Taken with the "big stopper" - Lee filter system 2 min exposure in midday - Los Cristianos
MAGMA Arte Congresos de Tenerife
Surfing:
The first option for beginners to start out is the area around Bajamar up right north of Tenerife, which is suitable at all tides with lefts and rights and a nice point-break.
Right in the centre of Bajamar, Escuela Canaria de Surf is worth a visit if you are looking for a surf course or board rental.
Just on the western side of Bajamar you can find a nice left point break at El Lobo and a beach break at El Arenal on the eastern side of Bajamar.
Regarding starter locations in the South, you should mark El Conquistador and La Fitenia -close to Las Americas- on the map.
You don’t have a board yet or still need some advice on how to catch a wave?
The crew of the Ripper’s Surf Shop in Las Americas offers the all you need from surf lessons to rental boards! If a left break is preferred, El Médano in the Southeast might be the right place to be. ATTENTION: this spot can also get Wind- and Kite Surfers enthusiastic! In any case, Cabezo Surf Shop provides the full range. And last but not least, Los Gigantes in the western part of the island offers the opportunity to enjoy a decent left beach break.
Beautiful ships are to be seen occasionally
Siam Park
Web picture from top of the TOWER OF POWER
We visit Siam park each time we're in Tenerife and never get tired of this place. It is in our opinion the best water park in Europe. The rides make even «cool guys» scream. I can go on and on about this place, but watch the video below from Youtube and it says more than 1000 words.
But first some must know facts from Wikipedia:
The park has 5 world records:
- The statue of the world's largest Dragon
- Increased elevation within the lazy river (up to 8 meters (26 ft)).
- The largest man-made wave in the world (about 3 meters (9.8 ft)).
- Increased diversity in slides.
- The world's largest Thai building outside Asia
- Vulcano: a four-person ProSlide Behemoth Bowl slide with a laser inside which produces a flashing image of a dragon
- The Dragon: a ProSlide Tornado with a light show inside the 20-meter (66 ft)-wide funnel.
- Wave Palace: a wave pool with an artificial white sand beach. At 3 meters (9.8 ft) high, its waves are the highest of any wave pool in the World. The park's surfing school will give surfing lessons at the Wave Palace.
- Naga Racer: a six-lane racing slide
- The Giant: twin ProSlide Cannon Bowls, one moving clockwise and one moving counterclockwise
- Tower of Power: a vertical, transparent slide which sends riders through an area with sharks and stingrays.
- Mai Thai River: the world's longest lazy river, which also has the highest elevation of any lazy river at 8 meters (26 ft).
- Jungle Snakes: four twisting slides which follow the park's terrain
- Lost City: a children's play structure with 120 games
- Mekong Rapids: a river rapids ride
- Kinnaree: A new four-person 200-meter (660 ft) long ProSlide for 2012.
Icod de los Vinos
Panoramic picture of the Dragon tree
According to legends, when dragons die, they become dragon trees. And it is obvious why this is one of the symbols of the Canary Islands and in my opinion the greatest treasure of Canarian flora. The largest and most famous dragon tree is in Icod de Los Vinos. It has a diameter of 10 meters and 17 meters high. It weighs approximately 150 tons ( not including the roots). Some say it may be over 5000 years old, but recent estimates suggest that the tree is no more than 800-1000 years old.
Dragon tree house ( La Casa del Drago )
Entering the house is like entering a tourist shop full of souvenirs. Behind the house is a small garden with view of the Tree, just beyond the garden wall. The garden has additional interesting trees, fauna and views.
Dragon tree taken with 400mm
Saint Marcos Church (Iglesia de San Marcos)
Saint Marcos Church ( Iglesia de San Marcos )
The tree can be viewed for free from the square near to the 16th century parish church,Iglesia de San Marcos. The church has an interesting Baroque interior, look for the wood ceiling, the silver filigree 2 metre high cross, the 18th century alta and valuable works of arts.
There are plenty of places to eat with varied cuisines to suit every national palate from fish and chips to excellent local cuisine.
Granadilla De Abona - Tip for bird watchers/photographers:
Nikon D4S ISO 100 80mm f/20 1/125sec
Over 100 bird species - most of them migrants - have been observed at this coastal strip. They come in winter months, but also in spring and autumn, while on their migratory journey. They can be seen in the maretas, typical Canarian natural or man-made waterbodies, in the shallows, and in rocky tidal platforms, where they feed, rest and find shelter. This is a fantastic spot. well worth a visit.
Horse riding in Tenerife
Horse riding is an activity i highly recommend. Horse riding is not only a great adventure for the experienced riders. But it is also fantastic for those who have never done it before. You don’t have to know anything about horse riding. These horses walk in perfect lines, as the guides lead the way. It is an absolute fantastic way to enjoy nature and to bond with a horse. First time I did this, I simply fell in love with horses. And I have been taking «horse riding excursions» everywhere I travel to. People often think that because they have no experience with horses, this activity is not for them. They can’t be more wrong.
Tenerife information center has full information about all the horse riding places in Tenerife. Just follow the link: http://www.tenerife-information-centre.com/horse-riding-in-tenerife.html
Markets in Tenerife:
Whether you are looking to buy souvenirs, fruit and veg or just grab yourself a bargain you will be spoilt for choice at the variety of markets all over Tenerife, especially in the south of the island. Most of the below mentioned markets are open from 9am until 2pm and can get very busy (and hot).
Torviscas Market (Thurs and Sat opposite cc El Duque)
This along with Los Cristianos is one of the biggest markets in the south of the island and is generally geared to tourists. There are masses of stalls selling a variety of clothing, electrical items, sunglasses, home-made jewelry, leather goods, pottery, tablecloths and much more…
Los Cristianos Market (near the Hotel Arona Gran)
As well as all the above you will find that there is a fashion show here with the opportunity to buy the items modeled. Also to be found are many unusual souvenirs including banana shaped bottles of banana liqueur, dolls in national costume or items made from palm leaves and other natural materials.
El Medano Market ( in the main Plaza near the beach front)
This market has a great arts and crafts focus, with a bohemian edge you’d expect from this top windsurfing location.
Los Abrigos Night Market (Tues 5pm – 9pm in the Square in front of the church)
Though there are not so many stalls to browse through you may still pick up some interesting silver jewelry or a gift or two. After the market its worth wandering down to the sea front and maybe sample the fresh seafood at one of the many little restaurants there.
Guaza Market/Car Boot (next to BP garage on road to Las Galletas)
This is more of a car boot than a market so you can expect to find all sorts of second hand bits and bobs: books, clothes, dvd’s etc. Get there early to grab yourself a bargain.
Santa Cruz African Market (Everyday, C/ San Sebastián)
Also known as the famous Mercado Nuestra Señora de Africa, this is the main market in the Tenerife Capital and offers a dazzling bazaar of over 300 stalls selling fresh local produce. It is held in a courtyard with a very distinctive pink(ish) clock tower building and is just a short walk from the bus station. Here you’ll find the very freshest and best fruit, vegetables, flowers, meat, dairy produce and herbs and spices.
Santa Cruz Flea Market ( Avda Jose Manual Guimera)
I wrote about this marked earlier. See the Santa Cruz chapter
Cuisine
picture from silverpointresorts.com
The cuisine of the Canaries is heavily influenced by Spanish cuisine. Fish dishes are often the best choice and are traditionally served with boiled wrinkly potatoes (papas arugadas) and a green herby sauce. Drinks originating from the Canaries include honey-rum (ron miel) and wines which thrive in the volcanic soil.
The gastronomy in Tenerife is quite simple, although the variety of local products (vegetables, fruits, fish, meat, cheese, wine…) surprises for its unexpected rich of taste. The local cuisine is probably one of the most unknown areas by tourists, but highly appreciated by locals and foreigners living in Tenerife most of the year.
This cuisine reflects the historical influences within the country, as the Canary islands served as an important provision stop for Spanish ships that sailed between Spain, Africa and the New World.
– Gofio. A locally produced product that is used in many Canarian dishes. It is a flour created by grinding roasted sweetcorn, wheat and other grains. It can also be added to milk for breakfast.
– Papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes). This is a popular dish in Tenerife, which are unskinned potatoes boiled in seawater, and served with mojo. Mojo is a sauce that can be orange, red, or green depending on its ingredients, which are typically heavy in garlic, oil, chili peppers and paprika.
– Sancocho. Another popular dish in Tenerife, it is fish served mojo and sweet and plain potatoes.
– Conejo al Salmorejo (Rabbit in salmorejo sauce). A succulent dish based on rabbit meat and red hot pepper sauce.
– Ropa vieja. This Canarian dish is composed of different meats, potatoes and garbanzo beans.
Tip: The best way to taste these dishes is going to one of the guachinches in the North of the island.
Of course, Canarians also eat food typical from the Spanish mainland, like the Spanish paella and tortilla. The olive oil is frequently prevalent in many dishes.
Follow the link for more information: http://www.donquijote.org/culture/spain/society/food/guachinches
La Laguna
Picture from www.spain.info
La Laguna is the old island capital and has an atmospheric colonial-style centre; nearby the Anaga Mountain range is a largely unexplored area of outstanding beauty. It was declared a world Heritage Site on December 2, 1999. Several streets of historical significance have been closed off due to automobile traffic.
La Laguna view point from the main highway. Nikon D4S ISO100 24mm f/22 1/100sec
La laguna is also called the «Florence» of Canary Islands. This because of the large number of church - and convents, besides its old town and historic buildings.
Follow the Link for more information:
http://internacional.ull.es/know-la-laguna-city/
Garachico
Garachio on our way to Masca from Puerto de la Cruz
Beautiful lava stones
Santa Ana church in Garachio
Once the wealthiest town on Tenerife, Garachico was engulfed in lava by an eruption in 1706. Today it is one of Tenerife’s most popular day-trip destinations, where swimming in rock pools hewn from the lava is a unique experience.
Cueva del Viento
The largest volcanic tube in the European Union – and the fourth-largest in the world – the Cueva del Viento runs for 11 miles in a three-tiered labyrinth of tunnels beneath Icod de los Vinos. There are guided tours with an excellent commentary in English.
Address: 51 Calle Los Piquetes, Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife
Contact: (00 34 922 815 339; cuevadelviento.net)
Opening times: Tues-Sat, 9am-4pm; guided tours take place at 10am, 11am, 1pm and 2pm. Group size is restricted to a maximum of 16 people, so advance booking is essential
Picture from: www.codigosanluis.com
Admission: adults, €16(£13); children aged 5-14 €5(£4); credit cards are not accepted
Banana tree
Diving:
Clear, warm waters year-round and underwater volcanic columns teeming with marine life make Tenerife an excellent destination for divers. The best places for diving are Las Galletas, Los Gigantes, Los Cristianos and Puerto de la Cruz.
Contact: Tenerife Scuba, Las Galletas (00 34 922 785 584;divingtenerifescuba.com); Atlantik, Puerto de la Cruz (00 34 922 362 801; tenerife-diving.eu); Ocean Dreams Tenerife, Los Cristianos (00 34 922 752 362;oceandreamstenerife.com); Los Gigantes Diving Centre (00 34 922 860 431;divingtenerife.co.uk)
Prices: A single dive costs between €32-€50 (£27-£42)
Be aware:
-Just about everywhere you go in these southern resorts you'll find the illegal hawkers selling watches, sunglasses and handbags. They are generally good fun and go away with a firm refusal but if you're tempted to buy from them, don't be surprised if the Rolex you got such an amazing deal on stops working before you've even landed back home.
I managed to take this picture on the right of one of the pushy illegal sellers on the beach. I had to pay her 2 Euros though. ----------->
One of the pushy sellers
Tenerife Tourist Scams – Don’t Be Bullied!
-As I mentioned earlier, stay far away from «electronic/camera shops». They are con artists. I have read a lot of sites listing people who have been conned. I have never experienced such thing my self, but they are experts and go after old or middle aged people who have no clue about electronics. As they stand outside their shops, they will try to get your attention by talking to you or ask you about your camera and lure you in. Just say no and walk away. I guaranty you, you will NEVER make a bargain in these shops.
Follow this link for more information about methods etc: Tenerife Tourist Scams
Beside the mentioned things, Tenerife is a safe place for tourists. But use common sense. Do not be walking in a dark alley in the middle of the night with expensive camera around your neck. And don’t leave your purse or phone in the car. Having said that, just enjoy and have a great time.
STAY AWAY FROM "JUNGLE PARK"
We went to this park only once, just to know what we are writing about. As an animal lover, I HIGHLY recommend you NOT to visit this Park. We have read many negative things about this park and had to see it for our selves in order to inform our readers.
The day we got there, it was raining. Just look at the pictures of the majestic birds, tied up, chained, forced to sit on the same spot for hours and hours during the rain or sun, With no shelter. Heart breaking. I don't want to go to details, but the conditions are heart breaking. We rushed to take some pictures with our phones as evidence - in order to tell the story, and got out of there as quickly as we could. This is a shout out to all animal lovers reading this, DO NOT VISIT THIS PARK. The Loro Park in Perto de la Cruz is much better in that case.
only 1,5 - 2 meters from the path
bird after bird
I can’t get rid of the feeling this guy gave me with his sad empty look in the eyes. I felt sick all day
This is their life . Chained every day
Just simply cruel
So sad
Animal Park's main goal are to make money. Some parks go to great length to make sure animals have large space to live in, and as natural as possible to their own environment. This park in particular was horrible. The birds as you can see from my phone pictures, are sitting chained up in the rain with no shelter - only 1,5 meters from the path that visitors walk through with no wall in between. If they get scared, there is no where for them to fly to. They are forced to sit on the same log for hours. The sad empty look on the monkeys faces. The small glass walled cage of the lion etc...
The Overall feeling we got was absolute sickness to our stomach. Animals should be seen in Africa, in their own natural environment. Check out our travel-guide to South Africa.
Tourist information
Tenerife Tourist Board
Plaza de España, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Tenerife
Tel: (+34) 922 239 592.
Website: www.turismodecanarias.com
This is not a photoshop picture. I made the jump 4 times before it was perfect. Thank you Tenerife
When you travel to Tenerife, whether to explore - or to just enjoy the sun, you are guaranteed a great time. This island has every thing a vacation can offer. And there is so much more to see, than you can read here. Great untouched outdoors with tremendous beauty and the hospitality of the natives, fantastic beaches, great cuisine, and the climate make this destination one of our favorite destinations. After all, we keep coming back here time after time.....
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