The Canary Islands, wedged between Africa and Spain, offer a mountain of experiences for the average traveller. With 4 national parks, 5 UNESCO-rated Biosphere Reserves and one of the largest volcanoes in the world, there is much to see and do.
To maximise your trip, we strongly suggest you take advantage of the numerous boat trips passing between the islands daily. Pass your time in central Gran Canaria; artistic Lanzarote; popular Fuerteventura; nature-rich La Palma and sustainable El Hierro.
Here are the top 17 things you cannot miss in Europe’s sunshine centre:
National Parks
The subtropical climate and varied landscape make the Canaries the best place to appreciate the great outdoors.
Gran Canaria is even referred to as a miniature continent for its staggeringly contrasting plains of sand dunes, cliffs and forests.
With 5 out of the 7 islands being named a Biosphere Reserve, 4 national parks and a showcase of volcanic and evergreen terrain, you can never grow tired of this archipelago.
We highly recommend a trip to La Palma, which is in itself entirely a UNESCO Reserve. The breathtaking area of Caldera de Taburiente on Isla Bonita (a Beautiful Island) shows off the staggering volcanic peaks and dramatic plunges.
Meanwhile, La Gomera’s UNESCO Garajonay is the biggest forest of its kind and is packed with endangered and native species.
And do not miss for the world, the deserts of Maspalomas, Gran Canaria and Las Dunas de Corralejo in Fuerteventura. Thousands of locals and tourists voyage here in ferries on a daily basis to witness the constantly-evolving sand dunes and the nature they attract.
Mount Teide, Tenerife
Naturally, the most famous national park in the Canary Islands has to be Teide, home to one of the largest volcanoes on the planet.
You probably recognise this UNESCO World Heritage Site from the Dorada beer bottles, or maybe you spotted it from Gran Canaria or La Palma and are hoping to see it up close. Mount Teide is one of the best places you can go for an all-around experience.
You can travel to the top of Mount Teide by cable car, for mesmeric views of the other islands across the ocean and sights of Tenerife on the way up.
To get the most out of your visit, call in the El Portillo visitor centre where you can wander the museum and botanical garden and prepare yourself for the vistas along your hike.
The best way to experience this nature reserve is from the crater, which at 19km, is practically a mini Earth. Follow the walking trail through volcanic boulders, lava fields and the moon-like cones of Vilaflor.
And to complete your visit, stay for the stars.
Timanfaya, Lanzarote
Another UNESCO attraction is Timanfaya, where you can find, climb (and do so much more to) the only active volcano in Lanzarote.
Formed through 7 consecutive years of eruptions during the 1700s, this was the beast that transformed the once-lush island into the volcanic massacre it is today.
At the top of the rouge, Timanfaya is Islote de Hilario, where you can dine at the volcano restaurant and experience the heat of the lava under your feet. Where else can you get your chicken or vegetables chargrilled over the open heat of a volcano?
From the restaurant, you can admire the surrounding hundreds of mountains and volcanoes that go on as far as the eye can see. When you have had your fill, make your way to one of the nearby volcanic coves to soak up the rest of this unusual setting and explore the volcanic tunnels.
Beaches
No one is judging you for wanting to spend all your time on Canarian sands. There are hundreds of miles to choose from and such jaw-dropping diversity from one to the next.
Choose a beach according to your interests. Be it sporty, adventurist, practical or even one where you can catch the sun – all over. Or maybe you find more pleasure in spontaneity.
In the Canary Islands, all roads lead to the beach!
Head to the smaller sands for extra privacy; those that back onto shops and restaurants make unforgettable family days out. Many of the wider stretches even have banana boats and pedalo hire.
As a bonus, the proximity to Africa means much of the sand is Saharan. This is why bone and golden beaches like Lanzarote’s Papagayo and Fuerteventura’s Sotavento exist.
For something a little different, look out for the rare volcanic beaches where the sand is as black as coal. They are perfect for afternoons hunting semi-precious olivina stones and cave-exploring!
Windsports
The gusty gales of the trade winds that blow from the northeast make the eastern Canaries a top destination for wind sports.
Take up sailing, surfing or paragliding whilst on your stay and make the most of the ideal temperament. Though particularly strong during the hot summer months, you can almost always get your board out in Fuerteventura (Strong Wind) and northern Lanzarote.
Being a sporty archipelago, there are countless spots to learn new skills, rent equipment and have a go. And with so many beaches to choose from, you will easily find something to match your level.
A handful of best spots for all abilities include Playa de Famara in Lanzarote, El Cotillo in Fuerteventura and Tenerife’s Izquierda de Las Palmeras.
Snorkelling and Diving
The extent of marine life goes on and on in the Canary Islands. Recognised for their clear water and tropical fish, which differ from island to island, there is a whole world to explore in the Canarian waters.
Diving equipment can be hired in resort towns and snorkelling equipment can be found in most shops. There are heaps of diving centres dotted around and private groups can be arranged to a variety of spots.
Don’t miss Europe’s only underwater museum, Museo Atlántico, in the depths of Playa Blanca, Lanzarote.
César Manrique
You cannot ignore the fascinating designs by local legend, César Manrique. Born in Lanzarote, he is the genius who saved the captivating landscape from being turned into another tourist district.
His work amplifies the natural beauty of the Canaries and embodies sustainability. And you can find it all over!
From opera houses to his notorious miradores (viewpoints) and of course, the recognisable geometric spinning Wind Toys that adorn roundabouts and coastlines. Don’t miss a visit to his home in Lanzarote, Taro de Tahiche, which is now a museum featuring some of his best work.
Native Food
Never say no to a trip to a guachinche. Though the mismatched furniture, limited menu and language barrier may be offputting to some, trust your nose and be open to trying the wonderfully traditional picks of the day.
Look past the tempting resort restaurants and opt for these local hideouts that serve only the freshest local produce, sourced by an expert. The more traditional the better for an authentic meal.
Choices often include grilled meats and fish, grilled goat’s cheese and locally sourced veg dishes like salty Canarian potatoes with vibrant mojo sauces. All washed down with a cup of house wine.
If you come across an opportunity to see where the cheese or wine is made, don’t skip out. The Canarians have their own processes for preparing the cuisine which is deep-rooted in their culture.
Volcanic Landscape
In addition to the extinct Mount Teide and the steamy Timanfaya, you can witness volcanic destruction all over the Canary Islands.
Being formed millions of years ago in a series of eruptions, the Canaries are centred around their volcanic heritage. Everything from farming techniques to the native species of birds is reflected in the landscape.
There are thousands of mountains to climb and look out over the views, which in themselves were formed during the eruptions
Grand Canaria has received the most impact, as the most central of the 7. See its canyons, craters, cliffs and waterfalls that surround the most recent strike, Pico and Caldera de Bandama.
Over on Lanzarote, its makeup is mainly lava fields. Most of which are protected and unwalkable, though remarkable to walk or drive alongside.
On the opposite side, El Hierro is famed for its cinder toffee rocks. Sculpted by the wind into weird and wonderful shapes, there are endless opportunities for photographers here.
To witness the aftermath of this spine-chilling destruction, Las Palmas’ panic ended on Christmas Day 2021 and the villages are still in volcanic ash and rubble. Though visiting has been marked safe, refrain from visiting areas where poisonous gasses could be trapped.
Volcanic Tunnels
You might think that the effects of the disturbances are only present where the eye can see. If you look closely, you will find many underground tunnels formed by flowing lava rivers.
Whether you get lucky at the beach or pay for a tour of a recognised site, do not miss the opportunity to explore the underground world created by lava.
For instance, one of the most important visits to the volcanic island of Lanzarote is its Cueva de Los Verdes up north, which is the longest in the world. It has practically been left untouched, besides the walkways and lights installed for safety.
Over in Gran Canaria, Barranco de Guayadeque is a place where the situation has been turned into a way of life. Call in for a tapa at the restaurant and, most fascinatingly, spot the homes built into the mountain walls!
Viewpoints (Miradores)
It is important to find the best viewpoints to admire these heavenly isles. Fortunately, the architects of the Canaries have strategically placed plenty of ‘miradores’ around, taking the work out for you. So you can just stand back and enjoy the view.
From Teide, you can gawp at the surrounding Canary Islands. The view of Las Cañadas ridge and Pico Viejo are particularly inspiring, making you feel you are on top of the world.
Mirador del Rio on northern Lanzarote lets you look out over the great Atlantic and send you dreaming of visits to La Graciosa. With a restaurant built into a volcanic bubble, this is one of Manrique’s finest works.
Similarly, over on La Gomera, Mirador del Palmarejo is another of the artist’s creations and peers out into a sensational valley.
Find more on roadsides, mountaintops and dangling out over sheer drops. Mirador de Abrante in La Gomera is a nail-biting glass skywalk that should not be missed.
Stargazing
Thanks to the large open spaces these islands boast, their stargazing conditions have brought them fame.
There are three UNESCO Starlight Reserves in the Canaries, two of which are the entire islands of La Palma and Fuerteventura.
The other is Tenerife’s Teide peaks which are above the clouds and feel so high you could almost touch the stars! And Mount Teide Canyon, where you can see 83 out of the 88 constellations!
Get to the higher altitudes, particularly above cloud level, away from light pollution. The Islands have put in place a Sky Quality Law which means no planes can fly over the islands after a certain time at night obstructing the conditions.
You can see the stars however you like, by either looking up from where you are, camping in permitted areas or tagging along with an astronomy group to use their equipment!
Dolphins and Whales
Cetaceans can be seen frolicking in the waters around the Canary Islands. They love the climate just as much as we do and have made this their home.
If you get lucky, you can sometimes catch them through binoculars from above the coast. Your best option is to catch a cruise or glass-bottom boat from one of the harbours and keep your eyes peeled for the elegant creatures.
There are numerous styles of boats, so shop around and book according to your preference.
You may want to enjoy the dolphins and whales at sunset with a cocktail in your hand. If you’re feeling adventurous, some boats come equipped with a slide and life jackets for snorkelling and swimming breaks.
Lucha Canaria
Take advantage of as much of the culture as possible while you have the opportunity. Forget the mainland’s bullfights (which are illegal in the Canaries!). You won’t find Lucha Canaria outside of the archipelago!
Inherited from the indigenous Canarians, Lucha Canaria (Canarian Wrestling) is thrilling to watch since it takes more skill than strength. And the atmosphere at the fights is immense.
See it in local villages, larger towns or at cultural festivals. The bigger the town, the huger the atmosphere! Keep an eye out for festivities like Día de Canarias in Fuerteventura, La Laguna in Tenerife and Fiesta de San Gines in Lanzarote.
Markets
A trip to the market is one of the best things you can do, culturally, to pass the time. It doubles as an exciting way to get to know the towns, their people and their interests. And it can be as cheap or expensive as you want.
You can even just window shop, as there is no entry fee if you are stopping by after lunch or don’t want to overfill your suitcase!
With everything from handmade clothes and souvenirs to fruit and veg and everything in between.
Visit the market to stockpile memorabilia and local produce to gift and prepare a Canarian feast!
Every big town in the Canaries has one, typically occurring on a weekly or monthly basis.
Siam Park, Tenerife
Regardless of your age, everyone will love a trip to the world’s best waterpark for 7 years running!
There is no better way to cool down from the heat of the day than with a visit to Siam Park in Tenerife. Worth a visit to the island just for this, it is less of a waterpark and more of a village.
There is an enormous artificial beach to relax on, the world’s biggest fake wave, the largest Thai building outside Thailand and tons of rides. This is bound to be the most awarded waterpark you have ever visited.
Island-Hopping
Don’t just limit yourself to one island. Their close proximity and variety in landscapes and culture mean no two islands are the same.
Of course, travelling between the 7 main islands is possible from every main port, like Fuerteventura’s Corralejo and Playa Blanca in Lanzarote. But the mystic charm of the smaller, unspoiled islets should not go amiss!
Be sure to head over to La Graciosa off of Lanzarote to see the third of the three UNESCO marine reserves. Chinijo is possibly the best place in the archipelago to immerse yourself in nature.
Pack light if travelling for the day; be sure to bring a swimming costume, snorkelling equipment and binoculars to make sure you’re prepared for anything! Or book a hotel and bring the car on the boat to get the most out of your visit.
