The Canary Islands: where the Atlantic Ocean meets dramatic volcanic landscapes, golden beaches, and a rugged beauty that feels straight out of another world. Picture this: hiking up Mount Teide’s otherworldly slopes in Tenerife, getting lost in La Gomera’s enchanted forests, marveling at the starlit skies of La Palma, and feeling the wind whip through your hair as you explore Fuerteventura’s sprawling dunes and pristine beaches. Each island has its own personality, charm, and adventures waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re chasing epic hikes, serene beach days, or thrilling water sports, the Canaries have you covered. Ready to explore? Let’s go!
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Why Visit the Canary Islands?
Why not? Seriously, these islands are a treasure trove of adventure and relaxation. Nestled just off the northwest coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago with a unique blend of European and African vibes. The islands’ history dates back to ancient times, with a mix of indigenous Guanche culture and Spanish influences creating a fascinating tapestry of traditions. Today, locals speak Spanish, but you’ll also hear English and German in tourist hotspots. The Canarian people are known for their friendliness and laid-back attitude, making visitors feel right at home.
Geographically, the Canaries offer a bit of everything: volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and endless beaches. Whether you want to hike, surf, or simply soak up the sun, there’s no wrong way to enjoy these islands. As for how long to stay? You could easily spend a week per island, but if you’re short on time, 10 days will let you experience the highlights.
Insider tip: Bring your stretchy pants. Between papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) and mojo sauce, your taste buds will throw a fiesta.
My Canary Islands Itinerary: The Greatest Hits
- Tenerife: I started my journey in Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands. Renting a car here was a game-changer. Over a few days, I explored Mount Teide’s alien-like landscapes, lounged on black sand beaches, and wandered through the vibrant streets of Santa Cruz. Read my post about Tenerife here.
- La Gomera: From Tenerife, I took the ferry with my car to La Gomera. This island felt like stepping into another world. Over a few days, I hiked through the misty forests of Garajonay National Park, stopping at local miradores (viewpoints) for jaw-dropping scenery. The pace here was slower, giving me time to soak in the tranquility. Read my post about La Gomera here.
- La Palma: A short flight from Tenerife brought me to La Palma, also known as “La Isla Bonita.” Renting another car was essential to explore the island’s lush greenery and dramatic landscapes. Highlights included hiking in Caldera de Taburiente National Park and stargazing under some of the clearest skies I’ve ever seen. This island truly felt magical. Read my post about La Palma here.
- Fuerteventura: My adventure wrapped up in Fuerteventura, accessible via a quick flight from La Palma. This island was all about endless beaches, wind-whipped dunes, and charming villages like Betancuria. I spent my days alternating between exploring the dunes of Corralejo and lounging by the turquoise waters. Read my post about Fuerteventura here.
Best Time to Visit
The Canary Islands are the definition of year-round destinations. December to February? Perfect for escaping the winter chill. June to August? Warm but never unbearable, thanks to those Atlantic breezes. That said, March to May and September to November are ideal for fewer crowds and better deals.
How Much Does It Cost?
Here’s the tea:
- Budget traveler: €30-€50/day. Stay in hostels, cook your own meals, and take public transportation.
- Mid-range traveler: €80-€120/day. Enjoy nice guesthouses, rent a car, and splurge on guided tours.
- Luxury lover: €200+/day. Think boutique hotels, gourmet dining, and private excursions.
Getting Around
With each island offering its own unique landscapes and vibes, getting around the Canaries is all about choosing the right mode of transport.
- Car rental: Best for flexibility. Check the best deals here.
- Buses: Affordable but slow. Great for budget travelers.
- Ferries: Perfect for island hopping. Check out Naviera Armas or Fred. Olsen Express.
- Flights: Fastest way between islands. Find the best flight here.
Island Hopping Packing Tips
Don’t overpack! Here’s what you actually need:
- Comfy hiking boots (check my favorite one here).
- Lightweight clothes for sunny days, but pack a jacket for chilly evenings.
- Snorkel gear if you’re into underwater adventures.
- A power bank because your phone will be glued to Google Maps.
Why It’s Great for Solo Travelers (Including Solo Female)
The Canary Islands are ridiculously safe. The locals are helpful, public transport is reliable, and there’s a solid mix of fellow travelers. Bonus: the hiking trails are well-marked, so getting lost isn’t a worry (unless you’re daydreaming too hard). Stay connected and book group tours on GetYourGuide to meet fellow adventurers.
Staying Connected in the Canary Islands: Best SIM Cards & WiFi Speeds
The Canary Islands are a paradise of volcanoes, beaches, and adventure, but staying connected is still essential for navigation, photos, and booking your next thrill.
Best Local SIM Cards
For solid coverage across the islands, Movistar and Vodafone are your best bets. Both offer good coverage, even in more remote areas, with prepaid SIMs priced around €10-20 for a solid data plan.
- Movistar: Great coverage, including in more secluded spots.
- Vodafone: Fast speeds and solid coverage in towns and popular hikes.
- Orange: A reliable choice, but coverage may be patchy in the island’s wildest corners.
Pro tip: Pick up your SIM at the airport in Tenerife to get started.
Skip the hassle of hunting for a local SIM, Airalo gives you instant, affordable, and hassle-free connectivity the moment you land. No physical SIMs, no surprise fees, just seamless data in multiple countries with one easy app. Stay connected smarter, check options here.
WiFi Speeds
WiFi is reliable in most towns like Las Palmas and Santa Cruz, with speeds averaging 50-100 Mbps, perfect for streaming or keeping in touch. Outside the cities, expect slower speeds, but it’s a great excuse for a digital detox.
Stay secure and unlock better deals with a VPN! Protect your data, access cheaper flights, and keep streaming your favorite Netflix shows from anywhere. Fast, private, and hassle-free browsing wherever you go! Get yours here.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About the Canary Islands
If you’re from the EU or most Western countries, nope! Just bring your passport.
Stick to bottled water unless you’re staying somewhere with filtered taps, or bringing your Bottle water with a filter system (check my recommendation here)
The best time for whale watching in the Canary Islands is between November and February. During these months, you’ll have a great chance of spotting species like pilot whales and dolphins on dedicated tours. More on that in my dedicated posts below.
Final Thoughts
The Canary Islands are the perfect mix of adventure and chill vibes. Whether you’re scaling volcanic peaks or sipping sangria by the beach, you’ll leave with stories (and sunburn) to last a lifetime. Ready to plan your trip? Check out my guides below!
Just before you go: Travel insurance is a must-have for any trip—whether it’s covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage, it’s your reliable backup plan. Stay worry-free and focus on the adventure, knowing you’re protected no matter what happens! Get protected here.
