Tenerife is the largest island in the Canary Islands, and it offers so much more than just a beach vacation. Here, a 3,718-meter-high volcano stands alongside UNESCO-designated subtropical forests; Europe’s best water park sits next to wild coves perfect for surfing; and a medieval Spanish town is surrounded by villages perched on the edge of sheer cliffs. This guide will help you make sure you don’t miss the highlights.
Table of Contents
- Teide National Park
- Siam Park—The World’s Best Water Park
- Loro Parque—a world-class zoo
- Whale and Dolphin Watching
- The Village of Masca and the Gorge
- Los Gigantes Cliffs
- Anaga Park and the laurel forests
- La Laguna (UNESCO)
- Garachico and the Natural Pools
- Water Sports
- The Starry Sky of Teide
- Carnival in Santa Cruz
- FAQ
Teide National Park — A Volcano and a Lunar Landscape
Teide (3,718 m) is Spain’s highest peak and the third-tallest volcano on Earth, measured from its base (including the submerged portion). In 2007, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The cable car takes you up to 3,555 m in 8 minutes. Ticket price: adults €27+, children €14+. Admission to the national park is free.
Siam Park — The Best Water Park in the World
Siam Park in Costa Adeje has been ranked number one in the world by TripAdvisor for 13 consecutive years. Price: adults ~€45, children ~€30.
Main attractions: Tower of Power (28 m, 80 km/h), Wave Palace (waves up to 3 m), Dragon, Lazy River, and the Mai Thai River children’s area.
Loro Parque — a world-class zoo
Loro Parque in Puerto de la Cruz is one of the best zoos on the planet. Price: adults ~€39, children ~€26.
Exhibits: Orca Ocean, mountain gorillas, Planet Penguin (penguin exhibit), tigers, the TenerOcean aquarium, and over 3,000 parrots.
Whale and Dolphin Watching
The strait between Tenerife and La Gomera is one of the few places in Europe with resident populations of pilot whales and sperm whales. Sightings occur on ~95% of trips. Cost: €25–40 per person for 2–3 hours.
The Village of Maska and a Hike Through the Gorge
Maska is located at an elevation of 650 m in a ravine of the Teno mountain range. Hike through the gorge to the sea: 4–5 km, 3–4 hours downhill. Return by boat (€8–12).
Los Gigantes Cliffs
Volcanic cliffs up to 600 m high that plunge straight into the ocean. They’re best viewed from the water—boat tours depart from Los Gigantes.
Anaga Park — UNESCO Laurisilva Forests
A relict laurel forest (laurisilva) and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Trails: Cruz del Carmen, Chinamada, Pico del Inglés, Benijo Beach.
La Laguna — UNESCO Colonial City
The first walled city in the Canary Islands (1496). Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. A student town with a vibrant cultural scene. Accessible from Santa Cruz by tram.
Garachico and the Natural Pools
The Charco El Ancla natural pools were formed from solidified lava following the 1706 eruption. Swimming is free.
Water Sports
Surfing—north coast. Windsurfing and kitesurfing—El Medano (PWA World Cup stop). Diving—Roca Negra, Los Gigantes.
Starry Skies on Teide
One of the best places in Europe for stargazing. Telescope tours: €40–60 per person.
Carnival in Santa Cruz
The second-largest in the world after Rio de Janeiro. Held in February–March. Carnival Queen pageant, street parades, live music.
FAQ
What to see in Tenerife in 3 days?
Day 1: Teide. Day 2: Siam Park + Los Gigantes. Day 3: Puerto de la Cruz + Garachico + La Orotava.
Do I need to book the Teide cable car in advance?
Yes, especially during peak season. Tickets are available at telefericoteide.com.
