Tenerife

Tenerife is crisscrossed by a large number of canyons, so it is no surprise that canyoning grows in popularity each year. There is also a rare chance to explore underground caverns hidden beneath our feet. Embark on a dry canyoning adventure by venturing into the riverbeds of Vilaflor. Descend the canyon with professional guides via rappelling, and enjoy the picturesque hills, dense pine forests, and breathtaking vistas. Los Carrizales is another opportunity to engage in thrilling activities like sliding, jumping, and rappelling down to discover natural waterfalls and serene pools. After a descent of 15 metres, you'll find a unique, natural water park. Los Arcos canyons are a rock formation of warm orange and green colours due to the erosion over the years. This dry canyon welcomes experienced canyon enthusiasts as well beginner ones, making ideal for families.

A truly unique experience awaits those who venture to explore a lava tube, a singular opportunity found nowhere else. In the picturesque town of Icod de los Vinos, you will discover La Cueva del Viento, a cave that stretches a remarkable 17 kilometres, making it the longest in all of Europe. This remarkable underground expanse provides an unforgettable journey deep into the Earth's depths, unveiling the intriguing volcanic history of the island.

With some of the clearest skies in the world, Tenerife is perfect for stargazing and bird watching. The Canary Islands and Tenerife are the first places you can see birds on their annual migration to Equatorial Africa. As for stargazing, Tenerife's high altitude and little pollution offer the best spots to see the cosmos. Some of the most popular ones are The Masca Viewpoint in Teno Rural Park, The Mountains of Guajara in Teide National Park and The Mirador de la Ruleta in La Orotava. Birdwatching on the other hand, is something you can do anywhere in Tenerife, as the island is home to many species, some of which are completely endemic. The northwest region is its most remote area, where the infamous Bolle's Pigeon and the elusive White-tailed Laurel Pigeon live. Other regions for birdwatching are the northeast and the south of the island.

Deep-sea fishing, sailboat trips, windsurfing, kitesurfing, kayaking and diving are just some of the activities on offer in Tenerife. The crystal-clear waters of La Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos, combined with the rich diversity of marine life, make it a veritable treasure trove for all who enjoy diving, as well as those who wish to try this exciting sport for the first time.

Tenerife is emerging as a top destination for language learning, due to its climate and leisure options. Those travellers interested in learning or improving their Spanish can find language schools to cater to all levels. These centres offer group and individual classes, intensive courses and complementary activities for language learning.

Tenerife is rich in history and vibrant culture. It boasts an array of fascinating museums across the island that will expand your knowledge on nature and natural history. The Museum of Nature and Mankind, the Museum of Science and the Cosmos, the Museum of History and Anthropology, and the Centre for Canarian-Latin American Documentation are all worth a visit.

Located in the southeastern part of Tenerife, these curious, rectangular pyramid-shaped structures are a curious aspect of Tenerife's landscape. Archaeologists dispute why and when they were created. Most theories lean towards Aborigines and local farmers, although some believe these structures are the result of contact between the Tenerife natives and the Aztecs. This archaeological park consists of six distinctive stepped pyramids of lava stone, standing at approximately four meters in height. The museum serves as both an educational journey and a tribute to the traditions and culture of ancient civilizations.

Although its real name is La Orotava Climatisation Garden, it is commonly known by the locals as Jardín Botánico. This 18th-century botanical garden is home to a large number of tropical & subtropical plants. Visitors can wander through a luscious green jungle which may lead you to the famous 200-year-old fig tree.

La Rambla de Castro is a 2-kilometre coastal path that goes through a nature preserve. Starting at sea level at the beach of Los Roques, this path takes in wonderful ocean views, craggy cliffs, and palm groves. Historic landmarks on the route include the Casona de Castro, Saint Peter’s hermitage, and the 18th century San Bernardo's Fort. The walk is not strenuous and public transport is available at the end of the route.

Its white and beige tones provide stark contrast to the bronze Menceyes, which are statues of ancient pre-Spanish kings. These statues are standing alongside the basilica and the black volcanic sands of the beach at its feet. The religious value of this building is greatly enhanced by the treasure of incalculable spirituality housed within. The exquisite statue of the Virgin of Candelaria, Patroness of the Canary Islands, is highly revered by the islanders.

Designed by the Spanish architect and structural engineer Santiago Calatrava, this work of art initially seemed like an impossible building to erect, since a part of its structure is hanging in mid-air as if by magic. The exterior radiance of the Tenerife Auditorium reflects the beauty which it emanates. It is a must-see for all visitors to the Island, not to mention the regular concerts, operas or musicals, which are the ultimate experience.