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Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Tenerife, Canary Islands

Nearby Destinations for Day Trips

La Orotava: This historic town in the Orotava Valley is known for its beautifully preserved traditional Canarian architecture. Explore Casa de los Balcones and Victoria Gardens.

Icod de los Vinos: Home to the ancient "Drago Milenario," a massive dragon tree. Visit Drago Park and consider the Cueva del Viento volcanic tube.

Garachico: A picturesque coastal town, famous for its natural volcanic rock pools, El Caletón. The historic center has a tranquil atmosphere.

Travel & Highlights

  • Transportation: Frequent TITSA buses (e.g., lines 345, 348) from Puerto de la Cruz. Car travel is straightforward.
  • Time: Half-day to full-day for each town, depending on exploration depth.
  • Santa Cruz de Tenerife: The island's capital. Marvel at Auditorio de Tenerife, stroll Plaza de España, and explore Mercado Nuestra Señora de África.
  • Booking: Day trips can be booked via GetYourGuide.

Natural Wonders & Cultural Gems

Tenerife's natural landscapes invite exploration, while historical sites offer cultural dives.

Mount Teide National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site and home to Spain's highest peak, Teide. This park presents dramatic lunar landscapes and unique geology.

Experiences

  • Take the Teide Cable Car for spectacular views (book in advance).
  • Explore the Roques de García, iconic rock formations.
  • Numerous hiking trails are available (summit access requires a permit).

Anaga Rural Park

Located at the northeastern tip of Tenerife, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve features ancient laurel forests, deep ravines, and dramatic coastal cliffs.

Experiences

  • Walk the Sendero de los Sentidos (Path of the Senses), an accessible trail.
  • Visit Mirador Cruz del Carmen for panoramic views.
  • Explore the charming village of Taganana and its remote beaches.

More to Explore

Coastal & Rural Attractions

  • Beaches (South Tenerife): Golden sand beaches and lively resorts like Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, and Playa de Las Américas.
  • Siam Park: A large and popular water park in the south.
  • Rural Masca: A remote, picturesque village in a stunning gorge. Note: Masca Gorge trail frequently closes for safety. Check status.
  • Masca Transportation: Drive is challenging on winding roads; organized tours are common and recommended.

Cultural Excursions

  • Candelaria: Coastal town famous for the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, housing the patron saint.
  • Rural Areas: Drive through the Orotava Valley to see banana plantations, vineyards, and traditional farmhouses.
  • Pilgrimage Sites: The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria is a significant pilgrimage site, especially during religious festivals.
  • Always confirm opening hours and accessibility for specific sites and trails.

Essential Travel Facts

  • Santa Cruz Capital:30-45 mins by bus from Puerto de la Cruz
  • Mount Teide Drive:~1 hour from Puerto de la Cruz
  • Anaga Drive:~1 hour from Puerto de la Cruz
  • Masca Drive:~1.5 hours (challenging roads)
  • South Beaches Drive:~1 hour from Puerto de la Cruz
  • La Orotava Bus:15-20 mins from Puerto de la Cruz
  • Icod de los Vinos Bus:45-60 mins from Puerto de la Cruz
  • Garachico Bus:60-75 mins from Puerto de la Cruz

Important Tip

Book tours and permits for popular attractions like Teide or the Masca Gorge (if open) in advance. This prevents disappointment, especially during peak season.

Multi-Day Explorations

Consider extending your trip for a island experience or to discover neighboring islands.

South Tenerife & Siam Park

Dedicate 1-2 days for the large water park and the lively beaches and nightlife of the south. This is a different kind of resort experience.

La Palma - The Beautiful Island

Known for lush landscapes and exceptional stargazing. 2-3 days for hiking in Caldera de Taburiente National Park and visiting observatories. Take a ferry from Santa Cruz.

La Gomera - Laurel Forests

A smaller, greener island with Garajonay National Park (ancient laurel forest) and unique whistling language. 1-2 nights for exploration. Accessible by ferry from Los Cristianos.

Other Canary Islands

Each island has a distinct character. Gran Canaria diverse, Lanzarote volcanic, Fuerteventura stunning beaches.

Travel Options

  • Inter-island flights: Binter Canarias and Canaryfly from Tenerife North (TFN) to other islands.
  • Ferry services: Fred. Olsen Express and Naviera Armas from Santa Cruz de Tenerife (for eastern islands) or Los Cristianos (for western islands).
  • Explore diverse landscapes, from sand dunes to mountains.

Mainland Spain

Fly from Tenerife to Madrid or Barcelona for a contrasting urban and cultural experience on the mainland.

Transportation

  • Direct flights available from Tenerife South (TFS) or North (TFN).
  • Experience cities, art, and history.
  • Easy connections to wider European travel.

Connections

Tenerife North (TFN)Inter-island flights
Tenerife South (TFS)International flights
Santa Cruz Ferry PortEastern Canary Islands
Los Cristianos Ferry PortWestern Canary Islands
Binter CanariasInter-island flights
Fred. Olsen ExpressInter-island ferries

Local Landmark

  • The ancient Drago Milenario tree in Icod de los Vinos is a natural monument, estimated to be hundreds of years old.