Highlights
- Hike through spectacular Canary Islands landscapes
- Climb the volcanic Mount Teide
- See some of the world's last laurel forests
- Get lost in Garajonay National Park
- Spot whales, dolphins, and sea turtles
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Tenerife | La Laguna |
| Day 2 | Hiking Excursion in Anaga National Park | La Laguna |
| Day 3 | Drive to Santiago del Teide via Buenavista del Norte & Masca | Santiago del Teide |
| Day 4 | Summit Mount Teide | Santiago del Teide |
| Day 5 | Take the Ferry to La Gomera, Free Evening in Playa de Santiago | Playa de Santiago |
| Day 6 | Sail La Gomera's Coast | Playa de Santiago |
| Day 7 | Hike in Garajonay National Park | Playa de Santiago |
| Day 8 | Depart for Madrid | Madrid |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Tenerife
Welcome to Tenerife, the "Island of Eternal Spring." Make no mistake, Tenerife abounds with as much energy and excitement as it does tradition and amazing landscapes. Upon arrival, you'll pick up your rental car and drive to your hotel. Settle in before heading out to explore the ancient capital of Tenerife, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, or nearby San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Start by visiting the many palaces and stately homes in the heart of the historic center. Check out the Palace of Salazar's sumptuous Baroque-style door, the Casa de Lercaro, Casa del Corregidor (town hall), and the Palacio de la Nava.
Day 2: Hiking Excursion in Anaga National Park
Day two is devoted to exploring the magnificent landscapes of Anaga National Park, a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Embark on a rugged full-day hike to experience a wild paradise of prehistoric forests, hidden mountain villages, dramatic clifftops, and black sand beaches.
Set off from the panoramic lookout of Mirador de Cabezo del Tejo, which offers magnificent views of the Cordillera de Anaga from Los Roques to Punta del Hidalgo. You'll then cross through a rare, primeval laurel forest to discover the beautifully situated hamlet of Chamorga. Continue toward El Draguillo before finally reaching Roque Bermejo, where a lighthouse stands at the island's remote northeastern tip.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 3: Drive to Santiago del Teide via Buenavista del Norte & Masca
Today you'll head west with a drive along the island's northern coast. Pass the stunning coastline dotted with picturesque coves, stopping at the charming village of Buenavista del Norte and winding through steep gorges and cliffs to reach the pretty hamlet of Masca. Your day ends in the seaside town of Santiago del Teide, a gateway to the 18,000-acre Teno Rural Park.
Day 4: Summit Mount Teide
A full day of adventure lies ahead, starting with a thrilling ascent to the top of Spain's highest peak. Follow a knowledgeable English-speaking guide on a custom climb up the rugged Mount Teide, culminating in magnificent views from the 12,198-foot (3,718-m) summit. For a gentler hike, walk to the base station for lunch, then jump on the cable car for a spectacular ride to the top.
Looking out across the sweeping expanses of Teide National Park, you'll understand why the 47,000-acre preserve was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the sun sets over the otherworldly volcanic landscape, you'll head back to Santiago del Teide for the evening and a well-earned rest.
Day 5: Take the Ferry to La Gomera, Free Evening in Playa de Santiago
Today you'll bid Tenerife goodbye and set sail for the magical island of La Gomera. This hidden gem is the second smallest island in the Canaries and is known as a paradise for nature lovers. Its wild, mountainous landscape is full of contrasts; within a few miles, you'll go from palm-covered valleys to vast canyons, arid coastal areas, to dense, ancient forests.
Catch a ferry from the southwest Tenerife port of Los Cristianos to arrive in the island's capital of San Sebastián de la Gomera, then head south down the coast to reach the quiet seaside town of Playa de Santiago. Settle into your accommodation and get some rest—tomorrow, you'll set out to explore "La Isla Magica" in depth.
Day 6: Sail La Gomera's Coast
See La Gomera from a different vantage point with a guided yacht trip to the north coast. Step on board at Playa de Santiago and spend the day searching for the area's diverse sea life—in good weather, you might spot whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and plentiful seabirds. Enjoy a locally prepared lunch of Canarian specialties onboard, and choose an inviting cove or bay for a swim stop along the way.
Continue north up the coast to Vallehermoso to catch sight of the natural monument of Los Órganos. These breathtaking basalt cliffs were formed by cooling lava from ancient volcanoes, giving the impression of giant organ pipes falling vertically into the sea.
Day 7: Hike in Garajonay National Park
Venture inland today into the fairy tale forests of Garajonay National Park. This subtropical rainforest's warm mists and fertile volcanic soils create a remarkable ecosystem, home to rare birds, lush laurel woodlands, and iconic rock formations.
Arrange for a guided hike to learn more about the park's biodiversity and gain a deeper understanding of the local culture and history—including a primer on the ancient Silbo language. This vast vocabulary of whistles originated with La Gomera's Indigenous Guanches people and is still used today to communicate across the island's deep ravines and narrow valleys.
Day 8: Depart for Madrid
This morning you'll leave your island paradise behind with a ferry from San Sebastián de La Gomera to Los Cristianos. From there, it's time to say goodbye to Spain, catch your flight to Madrid, and then continue home.
More Great Spain Itineraries
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