The Canary Islands are one of the best places in the world for year-round whale watching. In the southern waters of Tenerife, several whale species are frequently sighted, including pilot whales and humpbacks. They live here permanently so you will have a good chance of an encounter.

Among the best Tenerife tours are the whale cruises from Los Gigantes, which come with bonus views of the dramatic sea cliffs. Many boat tours also offer dolphin watching, and you may even spot a sea turtle or two. Choose from sailing excursions, motorboat trips and private boat tours depending on your budget.
 

Mount Teide is Tenerife’s most famous volcano, and a visit is included on many tours in Tenerife. Teide is still active but hasn’t erupted since 1909. 

You can take the Teide Cable Car up to the summit station for far-reaching views across the island. There are a couple of free hiking trails up here which allow you to explore deeper into this unusual volcanic landscape. Sturdy footwear is essential to navigate the lava fields.

Stargazing is another fun diversion and takes place at the Mount Teide Observatory. This area is described by NASA as a “window to the universe” thanks to the dark skies and dramatic backdrop.
 

Another popular destination on Tenerife tours is the northern port city of Santa Cruz, which is the island’s capital. The historic center is best explored on foot with a local guide, so you can learn about the city’s fascinating past.

These Tenerife walking tours begin in the photogenic Plaza España, which is home to many ornate buildings. Then you’ll check out the ruins of San Cristóbal Castle and hear terrifying tales of plundering pirates and foreign invaders. 

Other walking tour highlights include the ancient Church of the Immaculate Conception and the Our Lady of Africa Market. The latter is a great spot for souvenir shopping.
 

If you’re traveling with family and want to keep the kids entertained, Loro Park ticks all the boxes. This zoo is one of the best child-friendly attractions in Tenerife, with everything from gorilla viewing to flamingo encounters on the cards. 

Swing by the meerkat enclosure to meet the cheekiest creatures on the planet. Then see if you can spot the sleepy sloths hanging out in the trees. Sea lion shows and dolphin displays are also on the agenda.

Another popular visitor attraction is Siam Park. This Thai-themed land of water flumes and wave pools is the perfect place to cool off on a hot afternoon. 
 

What could be more relaxing than lounging about on the deck of a luxury sailboat as you cruise around the Tenerife coast? You can admire the rugged coastline and keep your eyes peeled for whales and dolphins while soaking up the Canarian sun. Life doesn’t get much better than this!

These Tenerife tours often take place on board a catamaran, although motorboats and even Viking ships are also available. Opt for a private Tenerife cruise for the ultimate day out.

At lunchtime, you’ll tuck into a delicious feast of local delicacies while watching the world go by. Refreshing glasses of fizz help to wash it all down.
 

Snorkeling with turtles has to be one of the most serene tours in Tenerife. There’s just something about swimming alongside these elegant creatures that helps you feel truly connected to the sea. It’s the experience of a lifetime and one that you’ll never forget.

You’ll head out by boat to where the submerged volcanic shelves have created the perfect turtle habitat. Then it’s time to jump overboard to meet these oceanic icons.

Ramp the adventure up a notch by booking a kayaking tour – sometimes the turtles will come and swim alongside your boat! Scuba diving with turtles is another option for those with experience. 
 

One of the best day trips from Tenerife is to the nearby island of La Gomera. Smaller than Tenerife and even more dramatic, La Gomera is a tropical paradise for hikers and explorers. This wild territory is home to Garajonay National Park, which boasts spectacular geology and unique plant life.

You’ll head across on the ferry before venturing out to discover the lush interior. You can hire a car and drive yourself, but most people prefer the ease of guided jeep tours on La Gomera. These excursions will take you deep into the wilderness, stopping at all the best viewpoints along the way.
 

For a change of scenery and a bit of an adventure, make your way up to Anaga Rural Park in the north of the Island. This mountainous backcountry carpets the upper corner of Tenerife with ancient laurel forests that have an air of enchantment. 

Several hiking trails wind their way through the park, offering secret glimpses of the coast through the moss-cloaked trees. Guided Tenerife tours around this unique biosphere reserve are the easiest way to explore without getting lost. You’ll visit farming communities, discover cave houses and encounter wildlife during a mini expedition in Anaga Rural Park. 
 

Some of the most thrilling tours in Tenerife involve bouncing around the rugged island interior on a quad bike. Beginners are welcome, although you will need a driver’s license if you want to take control of the ATV. Choose between forested hills or other-worldly volcanic landscapes as you explore far off the beaten track. 

On quad bike trips and buggy tours, you’ll get to see the less accessible corners of Tenerife. Feel the adrenaline surge as you power along remote trails through the heart of the national park. These excursions expertly combine nature and adventure, while revealing some of the island’s most secret spots.
 

The ultimate Tenerife tours for couples take place at sunset when day turns to night and the island is bathed in a golden glow. Stargazing on Mount Teide is a popular option, with the celestial skies twinkling above the dark volcanic park. The Milky Way is often visible and adds another layer of magic to the evening.

Combine the stars with a sumptuous dinner and you have all the ingredients you need for a romantic night out in Tenerife. Toast the day with a glass of sparkling Spanish Cava before tucking into a traditional Canarian feast at a nearby mountainside restaurant.