What's the perfect vacation destination, in winter and summer alike? The Canary Islands! This Spanish archipelago, off the coast of Morocco, enjoys remarkably stable temperatures — between 68°F and 82°F (20–28°C) year-round. A dream come true for sun-seekers and those craving a laid-back getaway.
Made up of 7 volcanic islands, it offers strikingly varied landscapes: lunar terrain, mountain ranges, golden and black sand beaches, and traditional whitewashed villages.
Follow our Canary Islands travel guide to get the most out of Lanzarote, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, or Fuerteventura.
⚡ Key highlights to help you plan your trip to the Spanish archipelago:
- Climate: mild temperatures year-round, with notable variations depending on the island and the season.
- 7 islands: Tenerife and Gran Canaria for variety, Lanzarote for volcanic landscapes, Fuerteventura for beaches and water sports.
- Must-sees: Mount Teide, the Maspalomas Dunes, Timanfaya National Park…
- Activities: hiking, swimming, diving, water sports, and cultural discoveries.
- Getting around: rent a car to explore each island, and hop between them by ferry.
- Entry requirements: U.S. citizens must travel with a valid passport to enter the Canary Islands.
Table of Contents: everything you need to plan your trip to the Canary Islands
- 🌋 Canary Islands: must-see sights
- 🎒 Canary Islands: ideas tailored to your travel style
- 🧭 Canary Islands itineraries by trip length
- 🌿 Discovering the Canary Islands off the beaten path
- ☀️ Best time to visit the Canary Islands
- 🚗 Getting around the Canary Islands
- 💰 Budget for a trip to the Canary Islands
- 📋 Practical info: entry requirements, health, safety, and insurance
- ❓ FAQ: Traveling to the Canary Islands
Canary Islands travel guide: must-see landmarks and hidden gems
Seven islands, seven compelling reasons to visit — and it can feel a little overwhelming. We're here to help you figure out what not to miss and how to venture beyond the tourist trail.
What to do in the Canary Islands: 10 unmissable experiences
- Mount Teide: Spain's highest peak, celebrated for its ever-shifting play of shadows as the sun moves across the sky.
💡 Did you know? This volcano casts the largest shadow ever recorded over the ocean.
- The Maspalomas Dunes: one of the most spectacular landscapes in the Canary Islands, with a nature reserve spanning nearly 1,000 acres (400 hectares). Wind-sculpted sand dunes, palm groves, lagoons, and an oasis.
- The Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival: a major popular celebration that draws thousands of visitors who come to dance to the sounds of murgas (musical ensembles) from late January through March.
- The Marquesa Botanical Garden: a tranquil green retreat built in the 19th century, nestled in the hills above Arucas and offering sweeping views over the town. Home to 500 international plant species waiting to be discovered.
- Pueblo Canario: a village with traditional architecture featuring a square lined with whitewashed buildings and craft shops where you can discover local artisan work.
- Lanzarote: volcanic landscapes designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which give this island its distinctive character. Wild scenery and deliberately limited development.
The must-see spot? The charming port of Puerto del Carmen.
- Swimming in a natural pool in El Hierro: a paradise island where natural pools have formed at the foot of caves.
Not to be missed: the Tamaduste and Charco Manso sites.
- Timanfaya National Park: an almost otherworldly volcanic landscape of solidified lava fields, craters, and colorful terrain. Walking through it feels like stepping onto another planet.
- The César Manrique House Museum: a defining artist who helped shape Lanzarote's reputation and worked to keep the island wild.
Worth a visit: his studios in the village of Haria, set in the heart of a beautiful palm grove.
- The Janubio Salt Flats: a remarkable site developed in a lagoon formed by a volcanic eruption, where the art of salt-making has been passed down from generation to generation.
Where to Go in the Canary Islands? 5 Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path
- Playa del Risco in Lanzarote: a stretch of sand that rewards the effort in the north of Lanzarote. Accessible after an hour's hike over steep hills.
- Isla Graciosa: the most remote island off the western coast, offering great tranquility. Golden beaches, volcanoes, and cliffs.
- Ermita de Guara in La Gomera: a stunning little chapel that captivates visitors with its striking location, perched above a dizzying gorge. A beautiful hike to reach it.
- Pozo Negro in Fuerteventura: on the east coast, a small fishing village with excellent fish restaurants and breathtaking scenery of palm trees and jagged coastlines.
- Firgas Village: a charming whitewashed town known for its large fountain covered in ceramic tiles that cascades down the steps of the Paseo de Canarias.
❤️ Our favorite pick: unpack your bags in the Sur suite at the Buenavista Lanzarote hotel, nestled within Timanfaya National Park. Its expansive floor-to-ceiling windows blur the line between indoors and out. Housed in a former wine press, this light-filled suite with its one-of-a-kind architecture offers a truly unforgettable stay.
What to Do in the Canary Islands? Activities for Every Interest
The best part of any trip is following your own interests! Whether you're into sports, culture, food, or family-friendly fun, here are our ideas for making the most of the Canary Islands your way. Browse our selection and put together your perfect itinerary.
Outdoor Sports and Activities in the Canary Islands
From volcanoes to the ocean floor, the Canary Islands are a fantastic playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are a few ideas for exploring the archipelago's landscapes in a different way.
- Rock climbing: the volcanic rock formations offer a wide range of sites, with routes suited to beginners and experienced climbers alike.
- Hiking: Tenerife is full of marked trails, especially around Mount Teide, in the La Orotava valley, near Garachico, along ancient lava flows, or through the Anaga mountains.
- Scuba diving: Gran Canaria offers beautiful reefs and underwater landscapes for divers. Among the top-rated sites: Amadores, Tufia, and La Catedral.
- Windsurfing: with its steady winds, Fuerteventura is a top destination for this sport. Costa Calma, Corralejo, and El Castillo are among the must-visit spots.
- Snorkeling: in Lanzarote, the crystal-clear waters are ideal for exploring the underwater world. All you need is a mask and snorkel to get started.
- Golf: in the south of Tenerife, mild temperatures make it possible to play golf year-round in a particularly pleasant setting.
❤️ Our favorite activity: dive into the extraordinary world of the Atlántico Underwater Museum in Lanzarote. At 40 feet (12 meters) below the surface, you'll discover the monumental sculptures of artist Jason deCaires Taylor — an immersive work that prompts reflection on our society and its impact on the environment.
Museums, Heritage, and Culture in the Canary Islands
Beyond its volcanic landscapes and beaches, the archipelago has a surprisingly rich cultural heritage. Museums, historic homes, and unique sites each tell a piece of the Canary Islands' story.
- Mundo Aborigen Museum: on Gran Canaria, an open-air site at the foot of the Fataga cliffs. It recreates the life of the aboriginal people, the first inhabitants of the archipelago.
- LagOmar Museum: on Lanzarote, a one-of-a-kind destination where an architectural work conceived in part by the renowned César Manrique is built into the Nazaret volcano. A lush garden adds a refreshing touch to the space.
- Pyramids of Güímar: on Tenerife, the origin of these mysterious structures has never been fully explained. An invitation to embrace the unknown.
- La Casa de los Balcones: in La Orotava, a magnificent 17th-century mansion converted into a museum. A testament to the architecture of the era, defined by its elaborately carved wooden balconies.
- CAAM Museum: the Atlantic Center of Modern Art is dedicated to contemporary art. Its standout feature? Showcasing the artistic vision of 3 continents: Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
- Muna Museum: on Tenerife, the Museum of Nature and Archaeology offers a window into the fascinating history of the archipelago and its heritage.
💡 Did you know? The Casa Colón on Gran Canaria is a colonial house where Christopher Columbus reportedly stopped during his voyage that led to the "discovery" of the Americas.
Canary Islands Food: Everything You Need to Taste
Each island has its own specialties, standout ingredients, and traditional recipes. Here's what you should try to truly experience Canarian cuisine:
- On Tenerife: the barraquito, a rich layered coffee drink made with condensed milk, liqueur, and a hint of lemon. Best enjoyed after a meal.
- On La Palma: the Príncipe Alberto, a generous cake made with chocolate, almonds, sponge cake, and cream.
- On Gran Canaria: vieja sancochada, a traditional fish dish, typically made with parrotfish, served with potatoes and seasoned with green pepper.
- On La Gomera: watercress soup, made with potatoes and pork ribs. A surprising specialty, traditionally served with fresh cheese and chopped onions.
- On El Hierro: quesadillas, delicious small pastries made with fresh cheese. The island is also known for its goat and sheep cheeses.
- On Fuerteventura: palm honey, made from the sap of the palm tree and prized for its distinctive flavor in Canarian desserts.
- On Lanzarote: volcanic wines*, produced from vines grown in the island's volcanic soil, sheltered from Atlantic winds by small stone walls.
❤️ Our top restaurant pick: Kamezi, Lanzarote's first Michelin-starred restaurant, celebrates the island's local products and flavors through refined gastronomy.
* Drink responsibly. Excessive alcohol consumption is harmful to your health.
Canary Islands with Kids: Family-Friendly Activities
With their beaches, parks, and varied landscapes, the Canary Islands offer plenty of activities to enjoy as a family. Here are a few ideas that kids and adults alike will love:
- Siam Park water park: this water park on Tenerife features a wide range of attractions, including spectacular slides and one of the largest artificial wave pools in the world.
- Whale watching: in southern Tenerife, many full-day excursions are available to get up close with these magnificent marine mammals.
- Giant Lizard Recovery Center: a species unique to the Canary Islands (reaching up to 60 cm, or about 24 inches), currently endangered and protected at a center on El Hierro that is open to the public.
- La Palma declared a Starlight Reserve, it's the perfect spot for stargazing.
Best spots: Roque de los Muchachos, Montaña de San Bartolo, and the Mirador del Molino.
- Poema del Mar: the largest aquarium in Europe, featuring a wide range of marine species and activities focused on ocean ecosystems.
❤️ Our favorite family activity: the sand dunes of Corralejo, on Fuerteventura, are perfect for a fun-filled family outing. Try sliding down them — ideally early in the morning, before the sand gets too hot.
Canary Islands itinerary: how many days do you need to explore the archipelago?
Going with the flow is great but it has its limits when traveling. Here are some well-planned itinerary ideas to help you make the most of your Canary Islands stay, based on how much time you have.
📌 Note: ferry connections make it easier to get between certain islands, but check schedules and crossing times before building your itinerary.
What to do in the Canary Islands in 3 days? Tenerife for a long weekend
With three days on the ground, Tenerife is an excellent choice for exploring several sides of the Canary Islands: volcanic landscapes, historic villages, and rugged coastline. Here are the must-sees to include in your itinerary:
- Day 1: Teide.
Head to Teide National Park and take in the volcanic scenery, with its otherworldly, lunar-like landscapes.
- Day 2: La Laguna and the north of the island.
Stroll through the historic streets of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, then make your way
to Taganana and the wild landscapes of the Anaga massif.
- Day 3: Masca and the northwest coast.
Discover Masca, a spectacular village tucked into the mountains, then stop at one of the natural pools along the coast.
💡 Good to know : with only three days, it's better to focus on Tenerife rather than trying to island-hop between multiple destinations.
What to do in the Canary Islands in 5 days? Gran Canaria for a first-time visit
Gran Canaria is a great option for a five-day stay if you want to explore a single island while enjoying a wide variety of landscapes.
- Day 1: Las Palmas
Start with the island's capital and take your time exploring its historic center and iconic neighborhoods.
- Day 2: the southern landscapes
Head to the dunes and beaches of the south coast, then continue toward the more arid interior of the island.
- Day 3: the mountains
Explore the area around Fataga, one of Gran Canaria's most beautiful mountain villages, then continue on to Roque Nublo, a spectacular volcanic formation.
- Day 4: Pico de las Nieves and the west
Reach new heights at Pico de las Nieves, the island's highest point, then discover the rugged western landscapes and the rock formations of Fuente de los Azulejos.
- Day 5: an off-the-beaten-path escape
If you love untouched nature, head out to the remote beach of Güi Güi.
What to do in the Canary Islands in 1 week? A multi-island itinerary
With a week, you can combine several islands and take in very different landscapes.
💡Our tip: to avoid spending your entire trip in transit, it's best to limit yourself to two or three islands.
Start with Tenerife, ideal for discovering Teide, the northern villages, and volcanic landscapes. Then head to Gran Canaria to mix things up with beaches, mountains, and arid scenery.
If you'd like to add a third stop, Fuerteventura or Lanzarote offer a chance to round out the trip with a completely different vibe.
What to do in the Canary Islands in 15 days? The grand tour of the archipelago
With two weeks, you can take your time exploring several islands while keeping a few days to simply relax. An itinerary could combine Tenerife, La Gomera, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and La Graciosa, each offering its own distinct atmosphere and scenery.
Alternate between volcanic discoveries, hikes, beaches, and villages without trying to see everything. Ferry or flight connections make it easy to move from island to island, while a rental car is the most practical way to explore each one once you arrive.
💡Our tip for travelers: use this extended stay to discover La Graciosa, the smallest inhabited island in the Canaries. At just 29.05 km² (about 11.2 sq mi) with around 700 residents, it captivates visitors with its wild landscapes, beaches, and peaceful atmosphere — far from the bustle of more popular destinations. The perfect place to truly unplug.
Experiences in the Canary Islands: how do you connect with local culture?
Want to explore the Canary Islands beyond the major tourist attractions? Get to know the locals, their traditions, and their craftsmanship through traditional festivals and local artisan culture.
6 Traditional Festivals and Events You Can't Miss in the Canary Islands
Carnivals, local celebrations, and cultural gatherings shape life across the archipelago throughout the year. Here are six events to discover Canarian traditions.
- Las Palmas Carnival – Gran Canaria
One of the most popular carnivals in the archipelago, with traditions dating back to the 19th century. Don't miss the Cabalgata, its grand parade.
📅 When? January through February.
- Fiesta de La Rama – Agaete, Gran Canaria
This popular festival draws on an ancient tradition of the indigenous inhabitants, who invoked the gods to bring rain.
📅 When? Early August.
- Craft Fair of the Patron Saint of the Canary Islands – Candelaria, Tenerife
A celebration dedicated to the traditional craftsmanship of the archipelago, featuring pottery, ceramics, and embroidery.
📅 When? Late July – early August
- Festival Internacional Canarias Jazz & Más – Multiple Islands
This music event brings together Canarian and international artists at venues across the archipelago.
📅 When? July
- Fiesta de los Cestos y Bollos – Santa Bárbara de Tenerife
This traditional festival celebrates the harvest with processions ending at the city's cathedral.
📅 When? The last Sunday of August.
- Fiesta del Cacharro y la Castaña – Tenerife
On Saint Andrew's Eve, locals parade through the streets banging pots and old kitchen utensils, creating a uniquely noisy celebration.
📅 When? The night of November 29 to 30.
Canarian Crafts: What Souvenirs Should You Bring Back?
Canarian craftsmanship celebrates local materials and traditions passed down through generations. Perfect for tucking a few meaningful souvenirs into your suitcase for your loved ones, or maybe just for yourself!
- Basketry and La Graciosa Hats: artisans work with palm fiber to create baskets, lampshades, and rugs. On La Graciosa, hat makers keep an ancient craft alive with their handwoven hats.
- Traditional Pottery: these volcanic clay pieces are recognizable by their earthy brown tones. They are shaped using an ancient coiling technique inherited from the archipelago's indigenous peoples.
- Lanzarote Salt: nicknamed the "white gold" of the Canary Islands, it is harvested from the salt flats of Lanzarote and stands out for its fine crystals.
- Volcanic Wines: on Lanzarote or La Palma, discover wines from vineyards grown on volcanic soils. While on La Palma, take the opportunity to visit some of the island's wineries.
💡 Did you know? The cochineal is a small insect from which carmine is extracted a natural dye used in food, cosmetics, and textiles. In the Canary Islands, its production holds a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO).
What Is the Best Time to Visit the Canary Islands?
"Welcome to the world's best climate!" So says the Canary Islands Tourism Board and it sets the tone perfectly. With mild temperatures year-round, the archipelago is worth visiting in any season. That said, depending on what you're looking for, some times of year are better suited for beach days, hiking, or avoiding the crowds.
🌺 Spring: Mild Weather and Nature in Bloom
Temperatures are pleasant and crowds remain manageable. It's a great time to hike, explore the islands, and enjoy the first swims of the season.
☀️ Summer: Sunshine and a Lively Atmosphere
Contrary to popular belief, temperatures stay reasonable, around 82°F (28°C) with very little rain. It is also the busiest time of year. For a quieter experience, consider heading to La Gomera or El Hierro.
🍁 Fall: Warmth With Fewer Crowds
With temperatures around 75°F (24°C), a sea that's still warm, and fewer visitors, fall strikes a great balance between swimming and sightseeing.
🌴 Winter: Mild and Sunny
With temperatures around 68°F (20°C), the Canary Islands offer a welcome escape in winter. Days remain bright and rainfall is generally light. The season is especially well suited to walks, sightseeing, and hiking. The most adventurous visitors may even take a dip in the ocean!
What to Do in the Canary Islands When It Rains: 5 Indoor Activities
Rain is no reason to stay cooped up in your room! Here are five ideas to enjoy the Canary Islands even when the weather isn't cooperating:
- Take the yellow submarine in Tenerife: an experience 30 meters (about 98 feet) underwater, completely weather-proof!
On the agenda: observing marine life from the cabin.
- Enjoy a medieval dinner show: at Castillo San Miguel, step into a Middle Ages atmosphere filled with knights, combat, and live entertainment.
- Discover the volcanic wines of La Geria sheltered from the rain! Make the most of a rainy day by visiting the wineries of this iconic wine-growing region in Lanzarote.
- Visit the Cueva Pintada de Gáldar: on Gran Canaria, this covered archaeological site houses paintings created by the island's earliest inhabitants.
- Let loose at Urban Planet Jump: this trampoline park in Tenerife is a great way to move and have fun even on a gray day. A must-try with or without kids!
💡 Good to know! The Canary Islands benefit from many microclimates: it can be raining in town or inland while the sun is shining on the coast. A smart habit: check the weather for your specific destination before planning your day.
Getting Around the Canary Islands: Transportation and Car Rental
To explore the Canary Islands, you can combine ferries, flights, buses, rental cars, and taxis. The best choice largely depends on your itinerary and which islands you want to visit.
How Do You Get from One Canary Island to Another?
Two main options allow you to travel between the different islands of the archipelago:
- Ferry: the most convenient option for traveling between islands. Several companies offer regular daytime departures, with the option to bring your car on certain routes. Travel time varies by island, ranging from about one hour to several hours or even a full day!
- Flight: the fastest option for covering long distances. Inter-island flights (which can be fairly pricey) connect several islands, though not all have an airport and frequency varies by route.
How Do You Get Around Within the Canary Islands?
- Rental car: the best choice for exploring the islands at your own pace.
It gives you easy access to villages, beaches, and more remote natural sites. Roads are generally well maintained, though some mountain roads can be narrow and winding.
- Bus: an affordable and reliable option. The network serves major cities and tourist areas well. Service is less frequent, however, in rural or less-traveled areas.
- Taxi: convenient for one-off trips. It's a great option for getting to a hotel or airport, or for getting around town without renting a car.
- Bicycle: ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. It's a great way to take in the scenery at a different pace, even if cycling infrastructure remains limited depending on the island.
💡 Our tip: if you're staying in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria or Telde, try to avoid driving in the city center as much as possible. Traffic can be heavy and parking difficult. A rental car will be most useful for exploring the rest of the island.
Travel Budget for the Canary Islands: Accommodation, Meals, Transportation, and Activities
The budget for a trip to the Canary Islands varies depending on the island, the season, and your preferred level of comfort.
Estimated Prices and Budget for the Canary Islands
| Expenses | Indicative Price | Example / Details |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | < 30 € to > 90 € / night | Double room, from youth hostel to comfortable or upscale accommodation |
| Meals | 5 to 8 € 8 to 25 € > 40 € |
Tapas – sandwich Lunch menu, traditional restaurant Upscale restaurant |
| Bus | From 1.50 € to 15 € | Urban ticket to long-distance journey |
| Car rental | 25 to 45 € / day | Generally more affordable rates after 3 days |
| Ferry | 30 € From 40 € From 70 € |
Fuerteventura–Lanzarote Tenerife–Gran Canaria Lanzarote–Gran Canaria |
| Activities | 10 to 15 € 40 to 70 € 50 to 120 € |
Museum Teide cable car, whale watching, water park Catamaran, introductory diving |
4 Things to Know Before Planning Your Canary Islands Budget
- Your choice of island affects prices.
Lesser-known destinations like El Hierro or La Gomera are generally less expensive than Tenerife or Gran Canaria.
- Season affects rates.
Winter, especially around Christmas, is peak travel season. Prices tend to be higher during this period.
- Book your transportation early.
Inter-island flight and ferry prices depend on the route and how far in advance you book. The earlier you plan, the better your chances of finding good rates.
Budget roughly $30 to $150 for an inter-island flight, depending on the route and time of year.
- Fuel is generally cheaper.
Thanks to a special tax regime, gas tends to cost less in the Canary Islands than on the mainland. That said, prices are still subject to fluctuations in the international market.
5 Tips for Traveling on a Budget in the Canary Islands
You don't have to cut back on the good stuff to keep costs under control. A few smart habits can help you spend less without missing out on the best the archipelago has to offer.
1. Travel off-season: aim for March through May or September through November, when prices are generally lower.
💡 The week after Easter and the first half of June are also great options for budget travelers, with flights and accommodation often priced more affordably.
2. Take advantage of free activities in the Canary Islands:
- Garajonay National Park on La Gomera, offering beautiful hikes through its forest and valleys
- Teide National Park on Tenerife. Only the cable car requires a fee.
- Casa de Colón in Las Palmas, a historic mansion tracing Christopher Columbus's voyages.
- The Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival, held in February, is another spectacular free event not to be missed.
3. Eat like a local: for an affordable lunch, step into a guachinche. These family-run restaurants, a Tenerife staple, serve simple, generous home cooking. Don't miss the papas con mojo, a must-try dish of Canarian cuisine.
4. Shop at local markets: local markets are a great way to pick up fresh fruit, vegetables, and local specialties at reasonable prices.
💡 In Las Palmas, check out the Mercado de Vegueta. On Tenerife, the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África is also well worth a visit.
5. Choose budget-friendly transportation: depending on your itinerary, cycling can be an interesting alternative to renting a car. On Fuerteventura, certain coastal paths and roads let you explore the area around Corralejo Natural Park while taking in the scenery.
❤️ Our favorite free experience: don't miss the Abrante Viewpoint on La Gomera. Its glass-floored terrace offers a breathtaking view over the Agulo Valley and the ocean a stunning experience with no admission fee.
Planning your trip to the Canary Islands: safety, entry requirements, and practical tips
A few helpful things to know before you go: required documents, health, safety, and best practices for making the most of your time in the Canary Islands.
Entry documents and requirements for the Canary Islands
For U.S. citizens, a valid passport is required to travel to the Canary Islands, which are part of Spain, the EU, and the Schengen Area.
👉 AXA is here for you: depending on your nationality or situation, find out what you need to know before traveling to Spain.
Health in the Canary Islands: vaccines, precautions, and insurance
No specific vaccinations are required to travel to the Canary Islands. Just make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date.
Standard precautions against mosquito bites are also recommended.
⚠️ IMPORTANT!
Even with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), some costs may not be fully covered — particularly in the event of medical evacuation.
Supplemental travel insurance is strongly recommended by authorities to protect you and your loved ones throughout your stay in Spain.
👉 AXA is with you every step of the way!
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Safety in the Canary Islands: key precautions to take
A few simple habits can help you avoid the most common issues:
- Theft and scams: keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in tourist areas and when traveling by car. Theft attempts can sometimes involve staged breakdowns or fake accidents.
- Wildfires and weather: during hot weather, check for any wildfire risk and current weather conditions before heading out on a hike.
- Volcanic activity: volcanic activity is one of the defining features of the archipelago. Check official sources before visiting any affected area.
- Swimming and water activities: follow local guidelines and any restrictions related to sea conditions.
- Useful contacts and resources:
- To monitor weather risks and wildfires, check the information provided by AEMET.
- To track volcanic activity, refer to the data published by the Spanish National Geographic Institute.
- The AlertCops app also allows you to contact Spanish authorities in an emergency.
- Safe swimming tips for the sea and natural pools of the Canary Islands are available on the official Canary Islands tourism website
👉 AXA at your side: check out our tips on scams and key safety risks in Spain.
Rules and good practices to follow in the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands have a strong cultural identity. A few simple gestures go a long way in showing respect for the locals and the places you visit:
- Greet locals when entering a shop, restaurant, or any establishment.
- Protect natural spaces: leave no litter behind, and do not take volcanic rocks or shells from protected areas.
- Respect local festivals and traditions, especially during religious celebrations, by dressing and behaving appropriately.
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FAQ Canary Islands Travel Guide
Which Canary Island is the warmest in winter?
Gran Canaria ranks among the warmest of the Canary Islands in winter. It generally enjoys plenty of sunshine, and some areas are well sheltered from the wind. Water temperatures can reach around 70 °F (21 °C).
Which Canary Island should you choose if you don't like wind?
Fuerteventura is the windiest island, largely due to the trade winds, making it a popular spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Lanzarote is also quite breezy. For more shelter, look to certain areas of Tenerife or Gran Canaria.
What is the worst month to visit the Canary Islands?
There is no real "worst month" to visit the Canary Islands. That said, if you want to avoid large crowds, steer clear of the Christmas holidays, Carnival season, and the months of July and August. In winter, particularly from January to March, calima episodes can occur: this Saharan dust can reduce visibility and make the atmosphere less pleasant.
Which Canary Island should you choose for a first trip?
Tenerife is an excellent choice for a first trip to the Canary Islands. The island combines beaches, mountains, volcanic landscapes, and charming villages, with Teide National Park as a must-see highlight.
What is the difference between Tenerife and Gran Canaria?
Tenerife and Gran Canaria both offer a remarkable variety of landscapes. Gran Canaria is a better fit for travelers who love beaches and coves, while Tenerife stands out for hiking and volcanic scenery, especially around Teide. Ultimately, the choice comes down to the type of trip you are looking for.
How do you get your insurance certificate after purchasing an AXA plan?
After you purchase your plan, your insurance certificate will be sent to you by email. Save it on your phone or print it out so you can present it easily, particularly at healthcare facilities, to help streamline your care.
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