Canyoning in Tenerife

Thrill seekers and nature enthusiasts will love going canyoning in Tenerife. It’s a great way to get up close with the unique landscape of the island while having a blast at the same time.

Tenerife canyoning tours take place far away from the crowds, giving you a privileged glimpse into a secret side of the island. All you need to take part is a sense of adventure and a head for heights.

Our guide includes all the information and details you need know about canyoning tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Tenerife.

What are the most popular canyoning tours in Tenerife?

Small group canyoning tour in Los Arcos

Most canyoning in Tenerife takes place in Los Arcos. Also known as the Valley of the Arches, this remote ravine is one of the most beautiful on the island. It’s up in the north of Tenerife, not far from Teide National Park and just south of La Orotava.

Your adventure starts at the entrance to the canyon, so you’ll need to make your own way there. Taxis or a rental car are your best options. This is where you’ll meet your guide and get kitted up with all the necessary canyoning safety gear.

Next, you’ll hike through the forest to the canyon – this usually takes around 45 minutes on a gentle trail. Then it’s time for your first rappel into the gorge itself. The first drop is about 22 meters, and your instructor will show you exactly what to do so you’ll always be in safe hands.

As you descend, you’ll come face to face with the volcanic rock formations that make this region so famous. Take a moment to appreciate your surroundings, with moss-clad cliffs and endemic flora all around.

There are eight rappel sections in total, and by the time you finish, you’ll feel like a pro! Each drop offers a different experience, and there’s always something new to discover as you head deeper into the ravine. Your Tenerife canyoning excursion finishes with a short hike back to the starting point.

What are the prices of canyoning excursions in Tenerife?

Canyoning tours in Tenerife cost around €60 per person for a 5-hour adventure. These trips run on a small group basis and usually have a maximum of seven participants. Cheaper €40 excursions are available with around eight people on each trip, but these only last about four hours.

If you prefer a more intimate setting, some tours operate with just four participants. This gives you more time with your instructor which is ideal for those who haven’t been canyoning before. These trips are priced at €120 per person for a 6-hour experience.

What does the price include?

Tenerife canyoning tours come with all necessary safety equipment, so all you need to bring is yourself. You’ll be given a harness and helmet, and an expert guide will accompany you throughout the experience. Accident insurance is usually provided too, for peace of mind.

Note that hotel pickups and drop-offs are not offered so you’ll need to arrange transport to reach the starting point. Self-driving is best, although you can book a taxi too.

Where do Tenerife canyoning tours start?

Hotel transfers are not generally provided with canyoning tours in Tenerife. Each operator will have a designated meeting place near the canyon, details of which will be provided on booking.

Popular locations include the parking lot at Zona Recreativa La Caldera, and the Mirador de la Bermeja. Both of these places are easily accessed from La Orotava via the TF-5 and TF-21 roads.

How long do canyoning tours in Tenerife last?

Canyoning in Tenerife typically lasts between 4 and 6 hours, with most tours coming in at the 5-hour mark. This includes the time it takes to hike over to the ravine, complete your safety briefing and get kitted up. You’ll spend at least a couple of hours rappelling in the canyon itself.

When is the best time to go canyoning in Tenerife?

Most Tenerife canyoning excursions take place in the morning, to make the most of the cooler part of the day. Trips start at around 9:30 AM or 10 AM, leaving a bit of time in the afternoon for other adventures. Perhaps you’ll be able to fit in a Tenerife dinner tour with bonus stargazing at the Mount Teide Observatory?

Try to time your trip for a day at the beginning of your visit to the island. This way, you’ll be able to rearrange should bad weather prevent the tour from going ahead.

Is it safe to go canyoning in Tenerife?

Canyoning tours in Tenerife are operated by respected providers, with experienced professional instructors leading the group. You will be in safe hands at all times!

These excursions are not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems or anyone who suffers from vertigo. To ensure the safety of participants, there is often a weight limit of around 127 kilograms, and participants must be at least 120 centimeters tall.

Can children join canyoning tours in Tenerife?

Children can go canyoning in Tenerife, but there is a minimum age of 12 or 13 years on most trips. Check with your tour provider if you are traveling with family and are unsure of the requirements.

What happens in case of bad weather?

For safety reasons, canyoning trips in Tenerife do require good weather to operate. If your experience is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

What other outdoor activities can you do in Tenerife?

• Hiking tours in Tenerife
• Paragliding tours in Tenerife
• Scuba diving tours in Tenerife
• Kayaking tours in Tenerife
• Boat tours in Tenerife

Travel tips

• Bring warm clothing, long pants and rain gear for adequate protection within the canyon.
• Sturdy, water-resistant hiking shoes with good grip are essential. Make sure you also wear a helmet, harness and gloves.
• Pack enough water and high-energy snacks to keep you going. Canyoning can be physically demanding, so you want to be well-fueled and hydrated.
• Canyons are fragile ecosystems. Avoid littering, damaging vegetation, or disturbing wildlife and stick to the established routes.