24 Things To See And Do In The Canary Islands

Dreaming of volcanic landscapes, sun-drenched beaches, and adventures aplenty? Look no further than the Canary Islands, an enchanting Spanish archipelago off the coast of Africa. Each of the seven main islands offers a unique charm, promising an unforgettable escape. To help you plan your perfect Canarian adventure, we’ve compiled a list of 15 must-do activities, complete with price ranges and activity levels.

Nature & Adventure:

1. Hiking in Teide National Park (Tenerife): Ascend Spain’s highest peak or explore the otherworldly volcanic landscapes. Cable car to near the summit: ~€37 round trip. Hiking permits for the very top are free but need to be booked in advance. Activity Level: Moderate to Strenuous (depending on the trail).
2. Exploring Timanfaya National Park (Lanzarote): Witness geothermal demonstrations and marvel at the dramatic volcanic scenery. Guided bus tour included in the entrance fee: ~€12. Activity Level: Easy (bus tour), Optional moderate walks available.
3. Discovering Garajonay National Park (La Gomera): Wander through ancient laurel forests, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Free entry. Guided hikes available from ~€30. Activity Level: Easy to Strenuous (depending on the trail).
4. Stargazing on La Palma: Known as “La Isla Bonita” (the beautiful island), La Palma boasts incredibly dark skies perfect for observing the cosmos. Guided stargazing tours from ~€40. Activity Level: Easy.
5. Visiting Masca Valley (Tenerife): Hike down the breathtaking Masca Gorge to a secluded beach (requires pre-booking boat back or challenging uphill return). Hiking is free, boat trip back ~€10-€15. Activity Level:Strenuous (downhill and especially uphill).

Water Activities:

6. Whale and Dolphin Watching Tours (Tenerife, La Gomera, Gran Canaria): The waters around the Canaries are home to diverse marine life. Tours from ~€30-€60. Activity Level: Easy.
7. Scuba Diving or Snorkeling (All Islands): Explore vibrant underwater ecosystems with diverse marine species. Introductory dives from ~€50-€80, snorkeling tours from ~€30-€50. Activity Level: Moderate (diving), Easy (snorkeling).
8. Surfing or Windsurfing (Fuerteventura, Lanzarote): Catch some waves on the islands renowned for their consistent winds and breaks. Surf lessons from ~€40-€60, board rentals from ~€20-€30 per day. Activity Level:Moderate to Strenuous.
9. Sailing Trips (Various Islands): Enjoy the stunning coastline from a different perspective. Catamaran trips with food and drinks from ~€50-€80. Activity Level: Easy.
10. Kayaking or Paddleboarding (Various Islands): Explore coves and beaches at your own pace. Rentals from ~€15-€25 per hour, guided tours from ~€35-€55. Activity Level: Moderate.

Culture & Leisure:

11. Exploring Historic Vegueta (Gran Canaria): Wander through the charming old town of Las Palmas, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its beautiful architecture and the Columbus House museum (€4 entry). Activity Level:Easy.
12. Visiting Jameos del Agua (Lanzarote): Discover César Manrique’s artistic integration of lava tubes with a stunning underground lake (€15 entry). Activity Level: Easy.
13. Relaxing on the Beaches of Corralejo (Fuerteventura): Enjoy the seemingly endless white sand dunes and turquoise waters. Beach access is free. Activity Level: Easy.
14. Experiencing Loro Parque (Tenerife): A world-renowned zoo and botanical garden with incredible animal shows (€42 adult ticket). Activity Level: Easy (walking).
15. Tasting Local Wines in La Geria (Lanzarote): Explore the unique volcanic vineyards and sample the distinct Canarian wines. Wine tasting tours from ~€25-€45. Activity Level: Easy.

Important Notes:

• Prices are approximate and can vary depending on the provider, season, and duration.
• Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
• Always check the weather conditions before planning outdoor activities.
• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for your chosen activities.

The Canary Islands offer a diverse range of experiences to suit every taste and budget. So, start planning your adventure and prepare to be amazed by the beauty and charm of this Atlantic paradise!