Tenerife is a beautiful island located in the Atlantic Ocean, off the northwest coast of Africa. Sandy beaches, warm climate, and diverse marine life are the main defining features of Tenerife. It also happens to be one of the best places in Europe to visit during winter. The beauty of Tenerife in winter is that this is high season to visit. With only 14 rainy days a year, the temperatures in December and January can soar to 27°C here. This is the perfect weather to enjoy the pool and the beach and get some winter sun☀️
The volcanic island is not very big but boasts with a stunning national park, the biggest water park in Europe, black sand beaches, and so much more! Here is everything not to miss when you are visiting this island, particularly during the winter.
🗻 Visit Teide National Park
If there is one thing you do on your trip to Tenerife in winter, then it has to be this. Put away a full or a half day to fit in a day trip to this UNESCO World Heritage Site and you will absolutely not regret it.
Teide National Park is located in the very middle of Tenerife. It is also the largest and the oldest park in the whole of the Canary Islands! With a very diverse volcanic landscape, and very easy access from most European countries, Teide is quite unique. The park is also home to a diverse and unique array of flora and fauna.
There are several reasons to visit Teide National Park. In addition to the incredible scenery and natural beauty, the park offers a range of outdoor activities. These include hiking, climbing, and birdwatching. The park is also a popular destination for stargazing, as the clear skies and lack of light pollution make it an ideal spot for observing the night sky.
Your choice of activities will determine the time of year you choose to visit the National Park. If you are planning to do a lot of hiking and outdoor activities, the spring and fall months are generally the best time to go, as the weather is cooler and less humid. If you are visiting Tenerife in winter, the perfect activity to do stargazing. This is when the skies are clearer and the temperature is more comfortable for observing the stars.
If visiting in winter, you may even get lucky to have it covered with snow! This makes the landscape look even more beautiful. You may also witness as the locals gather at the small patches of snow for a chance to build snowmen and wear their warmest jackets.
Mu number one tip for this place would be to go with a guide. There is so much more that they can show you and take you to spots you may miss otherwise. If you also have a specific picture in mind, make sure to show it to them and they can help you re-create it!
There is also a cable car you can take to get to the very top of Mount Teide. It goes up to 3,718 meters! This is the tallest peak in Spain. This view is absolutely incredible, but make sure to book tickets well in advance and wrap up warm as it can get very cold up there.
💦 Siam park
Next on the list of things to do in Tenerife in winter is Siam Park. Voted the people’s favourite water park in the world for the 8th year in a row in 2022, Siam Park is not to be missed in Tenerife. As the largest water park in Europe, it has a huge wave pool, a sandy beach, a floating market, and seals! And yes, it is just as cool as it sounds, making it the perfect activity in Tenerife in winter.
One of the biggest draws of Siam Park is its stunning location. The park is set in a lush, tropical environment with palm trees, waterfalls, and colourful flowers. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax in a beautiful, natural setting.
In addition to its gorgeous surroundings, Siam Park is also home to some of the most exciting water rides in the world. The park’s signature attraction is the Tower of Power. This is a 28-meter tall slide that propels riders through a series of loops and curves at high speeds. Other popular rides include the Dragon, a roller coaster-style water slide, and the Mai Thai River, a lazy river ride that winds through the park.
If you’re planning a trip to Siam Park, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. The park can get very hot, especially during the summer months, so it’s important to stay hydrated and protect your skin.
It’s also a good idea to arrive at the park early to avoid long lines for the rides. You can purchase tickets in advance online, which will save you time at the gate. It costs €40 to enter and I would suggest getting a fast pass for €18 extra. Finally, be sure to bring a swimsuit and a towel.
⛰ Masca
This hidden gem is a must-visit for anyone looking to escape the tourist crowds and experience the beauty and tranquility of the island’s rural landscape. Although unfortunately this comes at a cost of driving on very narrow roads to reach the village.
One of the main reasons to visit Masca is for its stunning natural surroundings. The village is nestled in a valley surrounded by towering cliffs and lush green forests. From Masca, you can embark on hikes through the breathtaking landscape. The trails lead to secluded beaches, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints.
In addition to its natural beauty, Masca is home to a rich cultural history. The village was founded by the Guanche people, the indigenous inhabitants of Tenerife, and many of the houses and buildings in Masca are built in the traditional style of the Guanche. Visitors can learn about the history of the village and the Guanche people by visiting the Masca Ethnographic Museum.
There are also plenty of activities to enjoy in and around Masca. The village is known for its artisanal crafts. You can find handmade pottery, baskets, and other traditional crafts at the local markets. You can also visit the Masca Castle, a 16th-century fortress that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
If you’re looking for a bit of relaxation, Masca has several small beaches where you can sunbathe and swim in the crystal-clear waters. The village is also home to several restaurants serving delicious Canarian cuisine, featuring dishes made with locally grown ingredients.
Overall, Masca is a must-visit for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience the natural beauty and rich culture of Tenerife. From hiking and beach-going to exploring local history and trying traditional cuisine, there is something for everyone in this charming mountain village.
When visiting, make sure to leave plenty of time to get there. The road are very narrow and you do not want to be driving here in the dark!
🌊 Los Gigantes Cliffs
Los Gigantes, or the Giants, is a small town located on the northwest coast of Tenerife. The stunning cliffs are the defining feature of the town. They rise dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean and provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
There are several reasons why the Los Gigantes cliffs are a must-see destination during winter in Tenerife.
First and foremost, they are an extraordinary natural wonder. The cliffs tower over the ocean, reaching heights of up to 800 meters (2,625 feet). They are made up of volcanic rock and have been shaped over millions of years by the forces of nature, including wind, waves, and erosion. The result is a series of rugged, craggy cliffs that are truly magnificent.
Another reason to visit the Los Gigantes cliffs is the opportunity they provide to enjoy outdoor activities. The area surrounding the cliffs is home to a number of hiking trails, which offer breathtaking views of the cliffs and the surrounding landscape. There are also several beaches in the area, where you can relax and soak up the sun, or go swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic.
The Los Gigantes cliffs are also a great place to watch wildlife. A variety of birds have made home here, including pelicans, kestrels, and ospreys, as well as dolphins and whales. These can often be seen swimming in the waters below the cliffs.
Finally, the Los Gigantes cliffs are a great destination for anyone who loves photography. The dramatic views and rugged beauty of the cliffs provide endless opportunities for capturing stunning photos. Whether you’re an amateur photographer or a professional, the Los Gigantes cliffs are sure to inspire your creativity and provide the perfect backdrop for your next photoshoot.
🐬 Dolphin & whale watching
Did you know that Tenerife is home to up to 21 different species of whales and dolphins? Some of the most commonly seen species include bottlenose dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins, and pilot whales. It is a perfect place to go dolphin and whale watching as you are very likely to see those here.
Tenerife has several locations where you can go dolphin and whale watching. The most popular spot is Los Gigantes. Other options include the town of Los Cristianos, located on the south coast, and the island of La Gomera, which is just a short ferry ride away from Tenerife.
To have the chance to see them, be sure to book with a reputable tour operator who follows all necessary safety guidelines and has a good track record of responsible whale and dolphin watching. There are many tours to choose from, from smaller groups to big ones – here is the exact one we did. It was done in a big group of about 100 people but we still managed to see lots of dolphins and whales from the boat.
🏎 Go Karting
If you’re planning a trip to Tenerife, be sure to add karting to your list of things to do.
One of the best things about karting is that it is a relatively affordable activity, especially when compared to other high-adrenaline sports like skydiving or bungee jumping. Plus, karting is a great way to bond with friends and family, as you can race against each other and see who comes out on top.
In addition to being a fun and affordable activity, karting is also a great way to get some exercise. Racing around the track will get your heart pumping and your adrenaline going, making it a great way to burn off some extra energy.
Another reason why karting is a great activity to do in Tenerife in winter is because of the beautiful weather all year round. Tenerife is known for its sunny and warm climate, which is perfect for karting. You’ll be able to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery as you race around the track.
Karting is also a great way to add some excitement to your trip to Tenerife. Whether you’re an experienced racer or a beginner, you’ll be able to enjoy the thrill of speeding around the track and competing against others.
🏝Visit a beach
There are loads of beaches in Tenerife – after all, it is an island! Tenerife in winter does get hot so the beaches are the perfect place to cool down.
Some beaches to visit are:
- Playa de las Américas: Located on the south coast of Tenerife, Playa de las Américas is a man-made beach. It is popular with tourists and locals alike. It is known for its golden sands, crystal clear waters, and a wide range of water sports activities.
- Playa de Los Cristianos: This is another popular beach on the south coast of Tenerife. It is known for its calm waters and is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
- Playa de Castro: located on the other side of the island, closer to Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This is a black sand beach with a waterfall!
- Playa de la Arena: Located on the west coast of Tenerife, Playa de la Arena is a long, wide beach, black volcanic sand being its main feature. It is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing and is also home to a number of restaurants and cafes.
- Playa El Medano: Located on the south coast of Tenerife, Playa El Medano is a long, wide beach that is known for its crystal clear waters and strong waves. It is a popular spot for surfing and windsurfing and is also home to a number of restaurants and cafes.
Overall, Tenerife in winter really has a lot to offer. From paradise beaches to a water park, there is really nothing that you will be missing if you choose to spend your winter vacation here.
