Hike, Kayak and Stargaze in Tenerife
Discover the island’s wild side, paddling and whale watching along the rugged coastline and hiking through dramatically diverse landscapes
What's Included?
Activities & Certified Guides
All itinerary activities with local, expert, English-speaking guidesAccommodation
5 nights in a comfortable Spanish finca (traditional rural property)Meals
All breakfasts, all lunches, 4 dinnersTransfers
To and from the airport and everything in betweenEquipment & Permits
Everything you need for kayaking, snorkelling and stargazing, plus all permits and entry feesSmall Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people…
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What's it like?
Head to Teide National Park to hike its lava fields, before an evening of astronomer-led stargazing with unparalleled celestial views
Kayak along the towering cliffs of Los Gigantes, snorkel in the crystal waters and keep watch for dolphins and pilot whales
Hike the spectacular Masca Gorge Trail in the Teno Massif and tread lush trails through the misty Laurisilva forests of Anaga
Bunk down in a cosy finca in the island's rural northwest, for an authentic Canarian vibe well away from the resort crowds in the south
Key Information
Day 1
Welcome to Tenerife!
Land at the South Airport in Tenerife, where you'll be met by your host and transferred to your rural hotel (also known as a finca) in the North West region, known for its charming villages and stunning coastal views. Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands with a diverse landscape ranging from dramatic volcanic peaks to lush green parks and sandy beaches. Tonight, you'll enjoy a traditional Canarian dinner at a local restaurant, with specialities like papas arrugadas (salted potatoes) and mojo sauce.
Day 2
Sea kayaking and whale watching at Los Gigantes
Kayaking
Snorkelling
Wildlife Watching
After tucking into breakfast at your finca this morning, you’ll set off to discover Tenerife's iconic cliffs of Los Gigantes, home to a diverse array of marine life (including dolphins and whales). After a briefing from your expert guide, you'll jump into sea kayaks and paddle along the coastline, keeping a lookout for playful dolphins and sea turtles. Take a break on the water to do some snorkelling and swimming, while your guide shares secrets of the wild nature surrounding you. In the early afternoon, you'll have a well-deserved break and a delicious lunch at the quaint Marina Los Gigantes. Then, head out on a scenic boat tour (semi-private, with up to 36 guests onboard) along the southwest coast of the island, known to be one of the world's prime spots for whale and dolphin sightings (athough sightings cannot be guaranteed, they are highly likely). The ocean here is home to pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins and sea turtles. Before returning to port, you'll stop at Masca Bay for a refreshing swim in the ocean. Back at your finca, you can take your time to freshen up before joining your group for dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 3
Hike and stargaze in Teide National Park
Hiking
After a hearty breakfast at the finca, you’ll hop in the van to go to Teide National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park is home to Mount Teide – Spain's highest peak at a lofty 3718m. After a short stop at the visitor centre and botanical gardens, you'll head out into the park. Your guided hike will take you through a lunar landscape of lava fields and volcanic cones, with views of the active volcano, Teide. You'll be hiking up to a maximum altitude of 2600m. Stop to take a break and enjoy a packed lunch along the way. In the evening, you'll have another opportunity to experience the park's magic, under the starry sky of Las Cañadas. You'll stop again for a boxed picnic dinner, before meeting your local Starlight guide. Teide National Park has been awarded the Starlight Certificate, recognising it as one of the best places in the world for stargazing due to its low light pollution and clear skies. The volcanic landscape of the park offers breathtaking panoramic views and under the guidance of an expert local astronomer, you'll observe the celestial phenomena of constellations, planets, and distant galaxies. The stargazing will take place at an altitude of 2000m and the park gets really cold at night, so be sure to bring a warm jacket and a scarf.
Day 4
Hike in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
Hiking
Driving
Today you’ll explore Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its biodiversity and pristine landscapes of dense forest, sharp peaks, and deep ravines. Your hike takes you along ancient trails that wind through the lush Laurisilva forest, offering a magical experience as you follow trails through the misty woods. Anaga has the highest concentration of endemic flora and fauna in Europe, with over 800 unique species recorded. These include the Canary Island spurge, Phoenician juniper, dragon trees, the Tenerife lizard, and hundreds of bird species. As you explore the park's hidden corners, learn about its ecological importance and ongoing conservation efforts. After a rewarding day of exploration, return to the finca for a relaxed evening.
Day 5
Trek the Masca Gorge Trail
Hiking
Today you’ll trek through the unforgettable Masca Ravine Trail, arguably the most spectacular route in Tenerife. After breakfast transfer to Masca village, located in the heart of the Teno Massif. This remote village, known for its stunning scenery and traditional Canarian charm, will be the starting point for your descent through the gorge. Follow a winding trail surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation which leads to the ocean below. After around three hours of hiking, you’ll pause for a picnic lunch whilst enjoying the breathtaking views and a sense of isolation from the outside world. By early afternoon, you’ll reach the ocean, where a boat will be waiting to take you back. The return journey will be equally memorable as you cruise along the base of the Los Gigantes cliffs, appreciating the towering formations from a new perspective. Tonight, gather with your group for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, sharing stories and highlights from your unforgettable week in Tenerife.
Day 6
Goodbye Tenerife!
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before bidding farewell to Tenerife. Your host will provide a transfer to South Airport, in time for your flight back home.
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Tenerife South Airport (TFS)
Any time before 19:00 on Day 1
Ends
Tenerife South Airport (TFS)
10:30 on Day 6
Transfers
Your host will meet you on arrival at Tenerife South Airport at anytime before 19:00 on Day 1. Your transfer to Finca La Hacienda takes around 1 hour, so if travellers are on flights arriving at similar times, then there'll likely be a wait in order to group the transfers together. Your host will inform you of the exact pick-up timings prior to your trip.
On Day 6, your host will transfer you back to Tenerife South Airport by 10:30 in time for your flight home. We recommend booking a return flight that departs after 12:30 to give enough time for security checks.
Airport transfers are included if you arrive on Day 1 and depart on Day 6 – if you are arriving earlier or departing later, your host can arrange private airport transfers for an additional fee. See Optional Extras for prices.
Travel options
There are regular flights to Tenerife South Airport from major airports across the UK, Europe and the east coast of North America.
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2 – Day 3
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 4
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 5
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 6
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?
Start your day with a traditional Canarian breakfast at your finca, with options such as a hearty bowl of gofio escaldado (a porridge-like dish made from toasted flour mixed with broth), or try almogrote (a savoury cheese spread made with tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and paprika). On Day 3, Day 4 and Day 5 you'll be exploring the rural parks of Tenerife, so you'll have picnic lunches to allow you to stay immersed in nature for the majority of the day. For dinner, you'll try local specialities like conejo en salmorejo (rabbit stewed in a marinade of wine, vinegar, garlic, and spices) or cherne (white fish grilled to perfection). Be sure to try papas arrugadas (the famous wrinkled, salted potatoes), and morcilla dulce (a sweet blood sausage made with onions, almonds, raisins, and sugar).
Vegetarians, vegans and other dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for – please just request this on your passenger info form.
What is the accommodation like?
Los Silos
You'll stay at the Finca La Hacienda, a rural property nestled in the tranquil village of Los Silos. An old converted farmhouse, it is surrounded by lush fruit trees and has beautiful gardens. The solarium and barbecue areas are perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The finca has just 16 bedrooms, each designed in a rustic, traditional style, but with WiFi and a TV in each. The rooms have private bathrooms with hydromassage showers. You’ll also have access to a kitchenette equipped with a microwave, refrigerator, and a tea/coffee maker. Start your day with a delicious daily buffet breakfast at the restaurant, which serves a variety of traditional Canarian produce and home-cooked food. After a day of exploring, relax with a drink at the lounge bar or in the cosy communal area. Finca La Hacienda is just a short walk away from the village of Los Silos where you'll discover local life, traditional architecture and a friendly community. In the evenings, you can venture out to discover nearby restaurants and bars, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the town.
Upgrades
For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for an extra charge. Please see Optional Extras for the price and request this at the time of booking, as this is subject to availability.
This trip has been rated as Moderate
No previous experience is needed for any of the activities on this trip. All you need is a good level of fitness and the ability to engage in four to five hours of activity each day. The kayaking routes are for beginners, and the main objective is to have a good time and enjoy nature. The pace is always slow, with breaks from paddling to swim, snorkel and enjoy the landscape. Your expert guide will be there to show you the ropes and assist you in managing the activity. Confidence in swimming is essential to ensuring your safety.
For the treks, you'll be on the move for up to five hours each day. You'll hike for a couple of hours before stopping in the parks for a picnic lunch and a rest. Afterwards, you’ll hike for a couple more hours. While a couple of steady climbs pose challenges, the breathtaking views along the way make the journey truly worthwhile.
Tenerife is an attractive destination year-round. The high season runs from December to February, coinciding with the cooler months in Europe. Temperatures are comfortably mild, ranging from 20°C to 24°C, with clear skies and minimal rainfall. March to May has pleasant weather, with temperatures between 22°C and 26°C, and the island is lush and blooming with spring flowers. May can occasionally bring light showers. June to August marks the summer season and temperatures are at their peak, often reaching highs of 29°C to 32°C. While it's hotter, the coastal areas benefit from refreshing sea breezes. In September to November, the weather remains warm, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 28°C, and the sea is still warm for swimming.
We’re still waiting to collect any reviews from other travellers on this trip. However, all our hosts go through an extensive vetting process to ensure that your adventure is awesome.
Itinerary Activities
- Guided sea kayak along Los Gigantes
- Snorkelling session
- Whale and dolphin watching boat tour
- Guided hike in Teide National Park
- An astronomer-led stargazing session
- Guided hike in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Anaga
- Guided hike along the Masca Gorge trail
Guides
- Expert, local, English-speaking guides
- Starlight guides to lead the stargazing session
Accommodation
- 5 nights in a cosy finca (traditional rural property)
Meals
- All tasty breakfasts
- 4 picnic lunches
- 4 local dinners
Transfers
- Scheduled arrival transfer from Tenerife South Airport before 19:00 on Day 1
- Group departure transfer to Tenerife South Airport on Day 6
- All transfers throughout the trip
Equipment
- Everything you need for kayaking, snorkelling and stargazing
Our trips are hassle-free by design. We include all the activities and equipment, as well as many of the meals, so you can simply rock up with your rucksack and share the adventure with your new pals.
Travel to and from the trip
Our trips do not include flights, trains or other travel to the start point and back from the end point.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing. Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness. Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine, as their insurance offers all of the above.
Visas
Visa requirements often change, and you are responsible for obtaining any required visas for this trip. Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date advice.
Personal Expenses
You know your own spending habits best, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals and drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry.
Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear
In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.
What's included?
- All kayaking, snorkelling and stargazing equipment
What do I need to bring?
- Suitcase or luggage
- Small backpack with rain cover
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Breathable wicking layers
- Fleece jacket or similar (it'll get cold during stargazing)
- Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts
- T-shirts
- Underwear and socks
- Swimwear
- Quick drying travel towel
- Sunglasses
- Sunhat
- Sleepwear
- Hiking boots (worn-in)
- An additional pair of trainers that can get wet (for use when kayaking)
- Shoes for the evening
- Universal travel plug adapter
- Passports (and visas)
- Travel insurance documents
- Ear plugs
- Insect repellent
- Suncream
- Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
- Alcohol hand-gel
- Refillable water bottle x 1.5 litre
- Energy bars and snacks - read our article on Best Hiking Snacks
Pre/Post night accommodation at Finca Hacienda - Single Room (dinner included)
Payable Before Departure
Pre/Post night accommodation at Finca Hacienda - Single Room (dinner included)
… Per Night
Pre/Post night accommodation at Finca Hacienda - Twin/Double Room (dinner included)
Payable Before Departure
Pre/Post night accommodation at Finca Hacienda - Twin/Double Room (dinner included)
… Per Night
Private Room Upgrade (subject to availability)
Payable Before Departure
Private Room Upgrade (subject to availability)
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Private transfer from Tenerife South Airport to accommodation (per vehicle of 1-4 guests)
Payable Before Departure
Private transfer from Tenerife South Airport to accommodation (per vehicle of 1-4 guests)
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Private transfer from Tenerife South Airport to accommodation (per vehicle of 5-8 guests)
Payable Before Departure
Private transfer from Tenerife South Airport to accommodation (per vehicle of 5-8 guests)
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We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 146kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
- A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
Overall, weather conditions in Tenerife are favourable in the months when this trip is scheduled to run, with mild to warm temperatures ranging from 20-26°C on average. However, as always, Mother Nature is unpredictable so the best you can do is to be prepared for anything and come equipped with sunscreen, a hat and waterproofs. Health and safety are the top priorities. Your host will be monitoring the weather conditions throughout the trip and may suggest alternatives if any planned activities need to be cancelled due to adverse weather.
This trip visits locations at or above 2500m. At this altitude some people may experience symptoms associated with Altitude Sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Previous experience at high altitude is not necessarily an indicator of future performance. Your guide(s) are trained to mitigate the risks associated with altitude, by carefully managing the rate of ascent and the intensity of the activity, and to provide the appropriate support response should someone feel ill during the trip. Should you experience health issues during your trip you should inform your guide immediately so the proper care can be provided. Owing to the nature of this trip, it is essential that your personal travel insurance policy provides cover up to the maximum altitude visited on this trip as well as emergency medical evacuation by helicopter.
This trip visits locations where daytime temperatures can be extremely high during the times of year when this trip operates. High humidity and limited access to shade can also be factors, and warm temperatures can continue into the nighttime, which additionally influence the body’s ability to cool down. Personal care should be taken to keep cool as best possible in the conditions, such as wearing appropriate clothing and proper hydration. Very high temperatures can impair an individual’s physical abilities to perform an activity that they may otherwise be able to do competently at cooler temperatures. People may experience symptoms associated with dehydration and Heat Stroke. Your guide(s) are trained to mitigate the risks associated with high temperatures, by carefully managing the intensity of the activity, and to provide the appropriate support response should someone feel ill during the trip. Should you experience health issues during your trip you should inform your guide immediately so the proper care can be provided.
The waters in the southwest of Tenerife are among the best in the world for cetacean sightings, particularly bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales, which are resident in these waters year-round. Depending on the time of year, you may also see tropical whales, sperm whales, spotted dolphins, common dolphins, turtles, and more. The rich biodiversity of this area has led to its recognition as a World Marine Sanctuary. The boats are run by companies that comply with all the official regulations as well as good sustainability practices, respecting the habitat of these wonderful creatures.
Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been recognised as a 'Starlight Destination' by the Starlight Foundation. This means that the area is renowned for its exceptionally dark skies, high altitude, and minimal light pollution, making it one of the best places in the world for stargazing. Workshops are typically led by certified Starlight guides who provide in-depth knowledge about the night sky. Guides introduce basic celestial navigation, helping you to locate stars and constellations with the naked eye, and will even share insights into the mythology related to constellations. You'll use professional telescopes to observe planets, star clusters, and distant galaxies. The workshops often include viewing meteor showers and phenomena like the zodiacal light. The activity takes place at around 2000m altitude, and it will get really cold in the park in the evening. Bring a warm jacket and scarf to keep wrapped up.
The departure dates for this trip are planned to coincide with the new moon, when the sky is at its darkest, providing the best conditions for stargazing.
Your host will provide two-seater kayaks, perfect for beginners and beyond. These kayaks are lightweight, stable, and easy to manoeuvre. Their design makes it nearly impossible to tip over unless done intentionally (which you might choose to do for fun). Before you set off your host will give you all the necessary information for using the kayaks safely, ensuring you have a wonderful day exploring the spectacular landscape of Los Gigantes. Despite the typically calm waters and for your peace of mind, a support and assistance boat will accompany you at all times, ready to return you to port in less than two minutes if needed. Your host will also have some single kayaks available for anyone with more experience and who prefers this.
Tap water in Tenerife is safe to drink, so please bring a 1.5-2L refillable bottle with you to avoid purchasing single-use plastic bottles locally.
No. You'll need to have a larger bag suitable for all your belongings which will be kept at your accommodation throughout the trip, and then a small daysack to carry personal items during each day of activity.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
In Tenerife, particularly in the southern regions like Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos, overtourism has created several challenges. The influx of visitors has led to extended wait times for local services, increased traffic, and the displacement of traditional businesses in favour of those catering to tourists. Overcrowding has diminished the peace and tranquillity for both residents and visitors. To help avoid contributing to these issues, you'll stay in a cosy rural finca in Los Silos, a charming village in the northwest of the island. Los Silos offers a refreshing alternative to the more crowded areas, with its traditional Canarian architecture, vibrant local culture, and scenic landscapes, including the dramatic cliffs of the Teno Mountains and picturesque coastal views. This choice not only alleviates pressure on heavily visited areas but also allows you to experience Tenerife’s authentic culture and natural beauty in a more peaceful setting.
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
Interested in a more exclusive experience? Opt for a 'Private Group' through the dates and prices tab to book this adventure for just you and your chosen companions.
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