Your guide to the Canary Islands archipelago

Unveiling the secrets of the Canary archipelago

Situated off the African coast, this Spanish archipelago captivates travelers with its year-round subtropical climate, dramatic volcanic geology, and a rich cultural heritage blending European history with indigenous Guanche roots.

Distinct characters of each volcanic Island

Each island offers a unique personality for every type of traveler, from adventure seekers to those craving relaxation.

Tenerife dominates with Teide’s summit hiking trails, while Gran Canaria is a miniature continent of microclimates. Lanzarote captivates with lunar terrain from past eruptions. Fuerteventura offers endless sandy shores for watersports. La Gomera, La Palma, and El Hierro preserve ancient forests, with charming rural guesthouses for nature lovers seeking tranquility.

Tenerife’s volcanic terrain

Trekking enthusiasts ascend Mount Teide’s volcanic slopes for panoramic Atlantic views.

Lanzarote’s lunar surface

Timanfaya National Park reveals geothermal spectacles and rugged lava fields of immense beauty.

Fuerteventura’s coastal dunes

Windsurfers and kitesurfers glide across turquoise waters bordering vast stretches of golden Saharan sand.

Selecting the ideal holiday accommodation

From all-inclusive resorts to authentic rural fincas, the archipelago provides holiday rentals and lodging options that cater to every travel style and budget.

Family-friendly resort stays

Modern hotels provide extensive amenities, including kids’ clubs, pools, and direct beach access for families.

Traditional rural houses

Restored fincas offer an authentic immersion into the local agricultural lifestyle, perfect for a digital detox.

City-centre apartments

Centrally located vacation rentals allow easy exploration of historical centers and vibrant nightlife districts.

Wild landscapes and protected night skies

Outdoor adventures and leisure pursuits

The diverse topography invites endless exploration, from trekking through laurel forests to scuba diving in waters teeming with dolphins and whales. Cyclists challenge themselves on steep mountain roads, while astrotourism flourishes under skies protected by astronomical laws, a premier destination for observing the cosmos.

Natural wonders and coastal beauty

Protected UNESCO biosphere reserves and dramatic coastlines define the environmental richness of this unique Atlantic territory, preserving rare ecosystems.

Volcanic black sands

Basaltic erosion creates striking dark beaches along the rugged northern coastlines, often framed by cliffs.

Golden sand dunes

Trade winds sculpt vast undulating sand hills that border the azure ocean, reminiscent of the Sahara.

Ancient laurel forests

Prehistoric misty woodlands survive in humid zones, sheltering rare endemic species and offering magical hiking routes.

Canarian Gastronomy

Authentic Canarian traditions

A Taste of Local Traditions

The cuisine is a fusion of influences, based on fresh ingredients. Explore local markets for tropical fruits, freshly caught Atlantic fish, and ‘papas arrugadas’ prepared with simplicity. Don’t miss a wine tasting tour.

Authentic mojo sauces

Red or green condiments accompany most traditional meals, adding a signature zesty flavor.

Papas Arrugadas

Small local potatoes are boiled in salt water until the skin wrinkles and gains a salty crust.

Malvasia volcanic wines

Vines grown in volcanic ash pits produce distinct mineral wines, a unique terroir expression from Lanzarote.

Vibrant festivals and cultural events

The island calendar is full of celebrations showcasing deep-rooted traditions. The Carnival of Tenerife and Gran Canaria is a spectacular explosion of color, drawing global attention. Throughout the year, ‘Romerías’ (religious pilgrimages) unite communities, with locals in traditional costume honoring saints with food, dance, and folk music.

Carnival Season

Street parades feature elaborate costumes and live music, transforming cities into massive open-air dance floors for weeks.

Corpus Christi Sand Carpets

Intricate carpets of colored volcanic sand decorate town squares, a form of ephemeral land art for the procession.

‘Bajadas’: Sacred Island Processions

Statues of patron saints descend from hermitages, gathering thousands for these rare, powerful recurring festivities.

Practical information for travelers

Planning a seamless journey requires understanding inter-island transport and the distinct climatic variations present throughout the archipelago.

Island Hopping: Ferries and Flights

Frequent ferries and local flights connect the archipelago daily, making multi-island trips easy.

Climatic diversity

Temperatures remain mild, yet remember that altitude impacts conditions significantly on mountainous islands.

Cultural etiquette

Locals value polite greetings (‘hola’, ‘buenos días’) and a relaxed social pace.