Tenerife - Do & See
Tenerife is a great holiday destination and has everything that you need for a relaxed vacation. Enjoy the lovely beach, the blend of historical and modern architecture and amazing scenery.
Puerto de la Cruz
During the colonial era a port was created at a wild spot amongst the boulders of lava. Puerto de la Cruz, at the bottom of the beautiful Orotava valley, has the same charm now as it had then. Stroll amongst the stately 18th century houses with their wooden balconies and enjoy the seawater swimming pools at Lago Martiánez. Also see dolphins and parrots in Loroparque!
The Teide Region
There are many tours from both south and north of Tenerife that head for the Teide National Park and there are of course many fascinating places to visit around the Teide. Permits to climb the actual peak must be obtained at the Administration office of the Tiede National Park in Santa Cruz. But if that is not your intention you can visit the viewpoints Fortaleza and Pico Viejo. Paths go from Rambleta.
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is the capital of Tenerife and is a vibrant city with a mixture of historical and modern architecture. Here you will find pedestrian shopping areas, museums, pretty gardens and many other cultural events.
Masca
Anyone who does not suffer from vertigo travels to the village of Masca. The road has so many twists and turns that it makes your hair stand on end. Masca was cut off from the outside world until the late 70's, as there were neither roads nor communications and is today one of the best preserved towns on Tenerife. The Masca ravine is one of the most spectacular in the island. The organised excursions often end down at the beach, at the bottom of the ravine, where a boat takes you back to one of the coastal towns.
The Pyramids at Güimar
Do you remember Thor Heyerdahl? Since 1994, the adventurous Norwegian lived in the east of Tenerife. He had been drawn there by the pyramids at Güimar. Before he passed away in Italy in the year of 2002, he had created a visitor centre next door to the ruins. Local archaeologists believe that the stepped pyramids, which Heyerdahl’s theories are based on, are of the same kind as those in Egypt, Mexico and Peru.
Aqualand Costa Adeje
This family water park is unique in the Canary Islands, with superb dolphin shows and with two parks in one. This is a place to spend a whole day.
Jungle Park
75,000 square metres of jungle and over 500 animals together, creates this dazzling eco system in the south of Tenerife.
La Laguna
La Laguna was declared a World Cultural Heritage Sit by UNESCO in 1999, it is the former administrative capital of Tenerife and today, still its religous centre. Monuments and other important buildings line the streets and is a fascinating contrast to the surrounding landscapes. Ideal for a day of strolling and a late night out!
Surfing
Tenerife is known as a surfing paradise. The island has perfect sea and wave conditions and one of the best volcanic reefs in the world. Even if you never have tried standing on a board here is a chance to make that first try. You can choose from several different schools and after only one day you will see the progressions.
Natural and Human History Museum
This museum is one of the top attractions on the island. They have collected the most important historical and archaeological treasures from around the island and they also show an exhibition about the pre-Hispanic man.
The Orchid Garden Sitio Litre
If you love flowers and especially orchids this is a place for you. This garden dated to 1730 displays the largest collections of orchids on the island. Here is a small café and a souvenir shop where you can buy plants to take home.
Teno Rural Park
This might not be easiest part to reach on the island but it will be worth the effort. Teno Rural Park is said to be the most beautiful area on Tenerife. With a rich wildlife and being home to the Osprey it is declared a protected area for birds. From the giant cliffs, dropping 600 metres down to the sea, you also have a fantastic view.
Parque Marítimo César Manrique
Over 22,000 square meters this park gives you swimming pools, recreation areas, restaurants and sports facilities. Being designed by the famous architect César Manrique it has a unique style.
Granadilla Moonscape
With a good level of fitness you can follow the path "PR-TF 72" into the astonishing moonlandscape of the Corona Forestal Natural Park. The well-signed and safe footpath lies upon parts of the, 500 years old,Chasna Trail. On your way you'll also pass Canarian pine forests.
Carnivals and Festivals
Through the year Tenerife celebrate a lot of festivals most of them in connection with important religious dates. The most important and famous one is the well-visited carnival. It lasts for more than three weeks during February and March and during this time there are a lot of happenings with dancing, music and amazing costumes. The main celebrations take place in Santa Cruz de Tenerife but wherever you are on the island you will notice the festivities.
Siam Park
This Asian inspired waterpark on the south of Tenerife offers something for everyone, either you are young or old or feeling for an adventure or want to relax. There are rides that will give you an adrenaline rush and a calm golden beach with a stunning view. If you feel like trying how to surf there is also a surf school and a spectacular swimming pool in which artificial waves of up to three metres can be made.
