Tenerife, the island with a thousand faces
Between volcanoes, laurel forests and suspended villages, Tenerife reveals its contrasts along winding trails and roads.
Duration
8 days
From
€782/pers.
Ideal seasons
Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov
Style
Self-drive tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
At dawn, facing the Teide which rises its 3,718 meters toward the sky, the frozen lava flows tell the volcanic history of the island. The natural pools of Garachico sparkle in the morning sun, while the terraces of Masca cling to the slopes of the Teno massif, cultivated with avocados and mangoes by the descendants of the first settlers.
From Teide National Park to the cliffs of Los Gigantes, passing through the primary forests of Anaga and the banana plantations of the south, each stage reveals a different face of Tenerife. The villages of Santiago and La Laguna unveil their Canarian architecture with colorful facades, witnesses to the colonial era, while at sea, pilot whales and dolphins evolve in waters classified as whale heritage.
This land was first inhabited by the Guanches, a Berber people who came from North Africa, before the Castilian conquest of the 15th century which shaped the mixed identity of the archipelago. Even today, the centuries-old Canarian pines and perched villages keep the memory of this thousand-year history, between the Atlantic and volcanoes.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Tenerife!
Aéroport De Ténérife Sud → Granadilla De Abona
Upon arrival at the airport, you collect your rental car before driving to your rural hotel located in Granadilla de Abona. A gentle first stop to begin your discovery of the island at your own pace.
Discovery of Teide National Park
Granadilla De Abona → Parc National Teide
You head towards Teide National Park, one of the most representative sites in Tenerife. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007 in the Natural Property category, it reveals volcanic landscapes that immediately capture your discovery of the island. Even by car, traveling through this area is already an experience in its own right, given how much the panoramas vary depending on your viewpoints. To appreciate it better, we recommend taking different roads on the way there and on the way back. The contrast is particularly striking between access routes from the north and those arriving from the south.
Las Cañadas del Teide form an immense caldera, that is to say an ancient crater, approximately 17 kilometers in diameter, on which rests Pico del Teide, reaching 3,718 meters. It is the highest peak in Spain and the third highest volcano in the world. The snow at the summit, mixed with the lava flows present on its slopes, creates a very distinctive landscape that is part of the most striking images of Tenerife.
Approximately 2 hours of hiking
We also suggest a short hike to Roque de García, on trail #3. This route, lasting approximately 2 hours, allows you to discover a unique volcanic environment. Our agency will provide you with a detailed description of this hike.
To Centre D'Accueil D'El Portillo
As you continue exploring the park, make a stop at the El Portillo visitor center.
Discovery of El Portillo Visitor Centre | Approximately 30 to 45 minutes visit
You will find plenty of information about the origin of Teide as well as the species that live in the park. The site also allows you to observe the interior of a lava tunnel. Open every day from 9am to 4pm. Free admission.
Important: it is possible to reach the summit of the volcano by cable car. Since this is managed by a state-owned company holding a monopoly, travel agencies are not authorized to sell tickets. If you wish to make this ascent, please book your tickets directly yourself via the link provided for this purpose.
Centre D'Accueil D'El Portillo → Granadilla De Abona
After this immersion in the heart of Tenerife's volcanic landscapes, you take the road back towards Granadilla de Abona, taking advantage one last time of the spectacular panoramas of the national park.
Marine excursion to meet whales and dolphins
From Granadilla De Abona
After discovering Tenerife's terrestrial landscapes, you head towards the port of Los Gigantes to board your ship.
Today, you board an eco-friendly hybrid vessel, presented as the quietest on the island, to explore the waters and wildlife off the west coast of Tenerife, classified as a whale heritage site in 2021. This area is particularly renowned for whale and dolphin watching throughout the year.
The excursion takes place in a small group, with a maximum of 8 people, for a more enjoyable and immersive outing. The boat is equipped with a hydrophone and a 360-degree camera to best support cetacean observation. You are accompanied by an experienced skipper and marine biologist, who share their knowledge of whales and dolphins with you.
The cruise also allows you to sail along the impressive cliffs of Los Gigantes, in a particularly pleasant setting. Refreshments and local gourmet snacks are provided on board.
2h30 by boat
To Granadilla De Abona
After this sea outing to encounter cetaceans, you head back to Granadilla de Abona to enjoy a peaceful end of day.
Free visit of the pearls of Tenerife
Granadilla De Abona → Masca
Today, discover some of the most beautiful treasures of Tenerife, between Canarian and colonial architecture, local agriculture and island lifestyle. You begin this day in the picturesque village of Masca, nestled in the Teno massif. Between chains of volcanic mountains plunging towards the Atlantic Ocean and winding road, arrival at Masca is already part of the journey. Legend has it that Masca beach served as a secret refuge for pirates. This hamlet was once inhabited by the Guanche, an aboriginal population that came from the African coast, before being occupied at the end of the 15th century by peninsular conquerors.
On site, you take time to wander through the small paved streets of the village, surrounded by cultivated terraces where avocados, mangoes, papayas and guavas grow in particular.
Approximately 1 hour on foot.
For lunch, we recommend the restaurant Blanky Casa Fidel, located in the heart of the village.
You then continue along the small Masca road towards the village of Santiago del Teide, where a stop allows you to discover its beautiful Canarian-style church.
Santiago Del Teide → Garachico
The day ends in Garachico, where you discover the natural seawater pools, the military fort and the small botanical garden of this village with rich heritage.
Take time to wander through the alleyways of this former port town, admire its natural pools carved into the lava and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of one of Tenerife's most beautiful villages.
Approximately 1h30 on foot
Garachico → Granadilla De Abona
Hiking in the Chinyero Volcano Nature Reserve
Today, you set off on a circular hike around the Chinyero volcano, a site marked by Tenerife's last volcanic eruption, which occurred in 1909. Throughout the route, you move between Canarian pine forests and mineral and volcanic expanses, in a setting where the color contrasts between the green of the pines, the lava and the blue sky accompany your walk. A wonderful immersion in one of the island's most characteristic landscapes. 3 hours of hiking Elevation gain: +400 meters / -380 meters
From Granadilla De Abona
Today, you take the road towards the Chinyero volcano, site of the last volcanic eruption of Tenerife, which occurred in 1909.
On site, you begin a loop hike in the heart of a preserved volcanic landscape. The trail alternates between Canarian pine forests and frozen lava flows, creating a striking contrast between plant life and black rock. With every step, light plays with the reliefs and reveals the different layers of the island's geological history. An accessible walk but deeply immersive, in one of Tenerife's most emblematic environments.
Approximately 7 to 9 km – 3 hours of hiking
To Granadilla De Abona
Banana Plantation in Las Galletas and Hiking at Montaña Roja
Today, we invite you to discover a banana plantation at Finca Margaritas, located in Las Galletas. This visit allows you to learn more about banana cultivation, a fruit closely linked to agriculture in the Canaries. The banana grown in the archipelago benefits from a favorable climate, volcanic soil conducive to plantations, and the care provided by farmers throughout its cultivation. Tenerife is the largest island producer of this fruit, recognizable by its bright yellow color dotted with black spots. The visit is conducted with an English-speaking guide and concludes with a tasting of local banana-based products.
After this discovery, we suggest you have lunch at the restaurant El Cordero, located near the plantation.
Finca Las Margaritas (Las Galletas) → El Medano Tenerife
In the afternoon, you then set off for the climb up Montaña Roja, at El Médano. This short 2-hour hike allows you to end the day on a pleasant note, with a clear view from the summit over the entire south coast of the island. 2 hours of walking – elevation gain: 200 m – linear route with return by the same path. Our agency will provide you with a detailed description of this hike.
Free visit to Anaga Natural Park and La Laguna
Granadilla De Abona → Bocacangrejo
You head towards the northern tip of Tenerife, in the direction of Anaga rural park. Along the way, we recommend a stop in the unusual village of Bocacangrejo, a small authentic seaside enclave known for the paintings that decorate its floors and walls. This place captivates with its singular charm and the originality of its artistic expressions, which evolve with the inspirations of its inhabitants.
Bocacangrejo → Taganana
You then continue your itinerary through the Anaga massif until the village of Taganana, marked by its terraces cultivated with avocados, mangoes and papayas. We suggest you have lunch at the Casa Bibi y Mana restaurant, to enjoy a meal featuring local specialties.
From Taganana
After lunch, you will stop at the Cruz del Carmen viewpoint to admire the view of Teide volcano. We also suggest a short walk from the viewpoint, through a forest of giant laurels, taking the Path of the Senses. Duration: approximately 30 minutes.
You finish the day in the streets of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, whose atmosphere and colorful facades make the visit particularly enjoyable.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flights
- Lunches and dinners
Included
- A rental car cat.A type Fiat 500 / comprehensive insurance / unlimited mileage.
- 7 nights at the rural hotel Senderos de Abona in a double room with breakfasts.
- A sea excursion to discover whales and dolphins / 3 hours / meals and drinks served on board.
- English-speaking assistance on site 7 days a week.
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below applies to travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada traveling to the Canary Islands for tourism purposes. Entry rules may change, so we recommend you verify the information with official authorities before departure.
Passport and ID card
The Canary Islands are part of Spanish territory and the European Union. EEA nationals can enter the Canary Islands with a valid passport or national identity card.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Swiss nationals can also enter the Canary Islands with their valid identity card or passport, under bilateral agreements between Switzerland and the European Union.
Canadian nationals must hold a valid passport for the duration of their stay.
Tourist stay without visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area and Switzerland are subject to no restrictions on length of stay in the Canary Islands as EU territory.
Canadian nationals benefit from visa exemption for tourist stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen area, which includes Spain and the Canary Islands.
ETIAS System (Canadian nationals)
From the implementation date set by European authorities, Canadian nationals will be required to obtain a travel authorization ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) before traveling to the Canary Islands or any other Schengen area country.
This electronic authorization must be requested online before departure and will be valid for multiple stays over a three-year period, up to 90 days per 180-day period. We recommend checking the status of this system with official authorities before your departure.
Customs particulars of the Canary Islands
Although part of the European Union, the Canary Islands are located outside the EU customs territory and the European VAT zone. Specific rules apply regarding customs exemptions when returning to an EU country (alcohol, tobacco, goods):
the same exemptions as for a third country apply when returning to the European Union,
it is advisable to check the applicable limits with the customs authorities of your country of residence before departure.
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid travel document (passport or, for EEA nationals, national identity card).
In some countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to leave the territory may be required according to the regulations of their country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should inquire at the embassy or consulate of Spain in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have evacuation assistance and overseas medical expenses coverage.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer'Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy document detailing all coverage and claim declaration procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with claim declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy document with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
To stay in the Canary Islands, you simply need to have a valid identity card or passport. No special entry formalities are required. The currency used is the euro and the main language spoken is Spanish. Before traveling, check with the consular authorities of your country of residence for the entry conditions applicable to your nationality, as rules may vary depending on your country of origin.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 160 and 260 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and activities. Direct flights from Paris (150-400 euros return) are additional. The Canaries offer excellent value for money, with reduced VAT.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor every itinerary to match our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, educational and fun activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate stories and anecdotes.
It's straightforward. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You refine every detail together until you have the perfect version. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST guarantee (Associaton Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Tenerife
Nature guide to volcanic islands, based in Tenerife (Costa del Silencio)
The Canary Islands are far wilder and more varied than people imagine. Sometimes you just need to venture a little off the coast to discover a completely different world.
— Marcos
