There’s never a dull moment in the Canary Islands, with endless things to do to pass the time. This is a destination catering to trekkers, surfers, culture vultures, beach bums, epicureans, and nature enthusiasts. Depending how you want to spend the day, there’s a vast array of tour operators on hand to make sure you get the most out of these fascinating islands.
Water activities are popular and provide visitors with the chance to either get up close and swim with dolphins in the fringes of the lapping Atlantic Ocean or learn how to windsurf. A coach tour to the awe-inspiring Timanfaya National Park, an intriguing landscape carved out by an 18th volcanic eruption, is also not worth missing.
The strong breeze off the east coast of Fuerteventura and year-round good weather makes the Canary Islands an ideal destination for kitesurfing and windsurfing, attracting enthusiasts from all over the world, not only because of the perfect conditions, but the added bonus of the phenomenal scenery. Flagbeach Watersports Centre not only rents boards and other required equipment, but provides courses for newcomers.
Trekking in Lanzarote’s volcanic countryside makes a change from baking on the beach and offers a different perspective of this diverse island. The climate makes it easy to discover lava fields, creeks, and craters, and admire a landscape that has barely changed in the last 300 years. Canary Trekking offers numerous guided routes and is happy to pick you up from your hotel.
A number of boat trips are available from the islands and offer visitors the opportunity to witness dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. While you’re more likely to spot a whale in the distance, dolphins often swim close to boats. Trips usually depart from Los Cristianoss port and Puerto Colon in Tenerife, and can be booked through Tenerife Excursion.
Embark on a Canary Islands tour dedicated to the late, great Lanzarote artist Cesar Manrique with Lanzarote Experience Tours. The tour takes you on a trip of the artist’s celebrated architectural and sculptural feats, stopping at a museum dedicated to his work and former residence, set on volcanic bubbles and now the center of a foundation in his honor.