Canary Islands Guide: Spain Volcanic Archipelago

Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago located off the northwest coast of Africa. This chain of volcanic islands is known for its rugged landscapes, picturesque beaches, vibrant culture, and sunny climate. With their subtropical weather and proximity to Europe, the Canary Islands have become a popular tourist destination that offers plenty of sights and activities for travelers of all interests.

The Canary Islands consist of 7 main islands and several smaller islets located in the Atlantic Ocean. The islands, from largest to smallest, are Tenerife and Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro. The Canary Islands are an autonomous community of Spain.

The main airports in the Canary Islands are Tenerife South Airport and Gran Canaria Airport. There is also a smaller airport in Lanzarote. The islands are closer to the African mainland than the rest of Spain.

Geography and Climate

The Canary Islands have a varied and dramatic physical geography shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity. The islands contain tall mountains, deep valleys, sheer cliffs, and extensive lava fields. Mount Teide on Tenerife is the highest peak in Spain at 12,198 feet (3,718 m). It is the third-largest volcano in the world.

Many of the islands also have picturesque black and white sand beaches due to the mixture of dark volcanic rock and light coral sand. The beaches are surrounded by the clear blue Atlantic waters.

Physical Characteristics

The Canary Islands have a varied and dramatic physical geography shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity. The islands contain tall mountains, deep valleys, sheer cliffs, and extensive lava fields. Mount Teide on Tenerife is the highest peak in Spain at 12,198 feet (3,718 m).

Many of the islands also have picturesque black and white sand beaches due to the mixture of dark volcanic rock and light coral sand. The beaches are surrounded by the clear blue Atlantic waters.

Volcanic Origins

The Canary Islands are part of the larger Canary Island volcanic province. This chain of islands likely formed over 100 million years ago as volcanic hotspots under the ocean erupted through the earth’s crust.

Powerful eruptions and lava flows built up the islands. Erosion by the ocean waves gradually shaped the coastline. The Canary Islands are still volcanically active, with eruptions occurring on La Palma in 1949, 1971, and most recently in 2021. The 1949 eruption on La Palma created the Volcán de San Juan ridge.

Mount Teide on Tenerife is considered the third largest volcano in the world by volume and the highest peak in Spain.

Subtropical Climate

The Canary Islands have a subtropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The average yearly temperature ranges from 64-75°F (18-24°C) across the islands.

The climate is moderated by the cool Canary current and steady northeasterly trade winds. High mountains also create wetter, cooler climates at higher elevations compared to the coast.

There are distinct seasonal variations in precipitation and temperature:

  • Winter is the coldest and wettest time of year from November to March, with average highs of 68-77°F (20-25°C).
  • Spring from April to June sees temperatures rising and rainfall decreasing.
  • Summer from July to September is hot and dry, with highs of 82-88°F (28-31°C). Occasional dust storms may blow over from the African coast.
  • Autumn from October to November has pleasant, sunny weather as the heat tapers off.

Microclimates and Ecosystems

The Canary Islands’ varied terrain leads to an array of microclimates supporting diverse ecosystems. Lush laurel forests cloak the windward, northern sides of the islands, while scrubland dominates the southern sides. Unique high-altitude pine forests grow above the treeline.

Endangered plant species like the Canary Islands dragon tree thrive in this isolated habitat so far from the mainland. The surrounding rich Atlantic waters also nurture abundant marine life including whales, dolphins, and turtles.

History and Culture

The Canary Islands have been inhabited for over 2,000 years. A fascinating blend of cultures has shaped the islands’ language, architecture, customs, and way of life.

The original inhabitants of the Canary Islands were the Guanches, part of the Berber people of North Africa. Carbon dating indicates they likely arrived around 500 BC. The Guanches lived in cave dwellings and practiced agriculture, animal husbandry, fishing, and gathering wild fruits.

In 1402, French explorers mapping Africa first re-discovered the Canary Islands. The native Guanches initially resisted Spanish invaders, but the superior Spanish forces conquered the islands in 1495. Tragically, the Guanches who survived were gradually assimilated and their indigenous culture faded away.

Indigenous Population

The original inhabitants of the Canary Islands were the Guanches, part of the Berber people of North Africa. Carbon dating indicates they likely arrived around 500 BC. The Guanches lived in cave dwellings and practiced agriculture, animal husbandry, fishing, and gathering wild fruits.

Mummified remains show the Guanches had blue eyes and blond hair, adapted for the sunny climate. Their simple lifestyle remained unchanged until the European conquest.

European Conquest

In 1402, French explorers mapping Africa first re-discovered the Canary Islands. The native Guanches initially resisted Spanish invaders, but the superior Spanish forces conquered the islands in 1495.

Tragically, the Guanches who survived were gradually assimilated and their indigenous culture faded away. Fortunately, some aspects blended with Spanish culture to influence Canarian identity today.

Canarian Spanish Dialect

Over centuries under Spanish rule, the islands developed their own dialect of Spanish with influences from the Guanches and Portuguese settlers. Canarian Spanish uses distinctive idioms and pronunciation.

For example, the “s” sound is often aspirated and words end in vowels rather than consonants. The dialect identifies residents as Canarian when traveling in other Spanish-speaking regions.

Portuguese Influences

During the 15th-17th centuries, many Portuguese settlers arrived at the Canary Islands since they were strategically located on trade routes. The Portuguese influenced the local language, architecture, cuisine, art, and customs.

For instance, Canarian architecture features white, flat-roofed houses with wooden balconies similar to Portuguese styles. And the Canary Island food mojo sauce originated from Portuguese molho sauce.

Growth of Tourism

In the mid-20th century, the Canary Islands started developing into a major tourist destination. With an abundance of sunny beaches and natural beauty, tourists flocked to relax in this oasis.

Tourism vastly expanded the economy, though also disrupted some traditional ways of life. Today tourists continue flocking to enjoy the hospitable culture and sights.

Landmarks and Attractions

From soaring mountains to sparkling beaches, the Canary Islands offer endless sights to explore. Here are some of the top landmarks and attractions to add to your Canarian itinerary:

  • The capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife has plazas and architecture reflecting the islands’ history under Spanish rule.
  • Mount Teide on Tenerife is Spain’s tallest peak and centerpiece of Teide National Park, with awe-inspiring volcanic scenery.
  • Playa de las Teresitas on Tenerife has golden imported sand and calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming.

Historical Landmarks

  • The capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife has plazas and architecture reflecting the islands’ history under Spanish rule.
  • San Cristóbal de La Laguna is a well-preserved historic city named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its original layout and Canarian architecture.
  • Casa de Colón in Las Palmas was the house where Christopher Columbus stayed before departing for the Americas. It’s now a museum about his voyage.

Natural Landmarks

  • Mount Teide is Spain’s tallest peak and centerpiece of Teide National Park, with awe-inspiring volcanic scenery.
  • Roque de los Muchachos on La Palma is renowned for its extraordinary views of the starry night sky.
  • The lava fields and craters around Timanfaya National Park showcase Lanzarote’s vivid volcanic landscape.
  • Playa de las Teresitas on Tenerife has golden imported sand and calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming.
  • With swaying palms and black sand, Playa Quemada on Lanzarote feels like a true tropical paradise.
  • For surfing waves and seaside resorts, head to the famous Playa del Inglés in Gran Canaria.

National Parks and Protected Areas

  • Lush Garajonay National Park is cloaked in laurel forests with walking trails to scenic overlooks.
  • See wild Canarian wildlife like lizards and birds at Caldera de Taburiente National Park.
  • Maspalomas Dunes are magnificent towering sand dunes spanning the south of Gran Canaria.

Wildlife Parks and Zoos

  • Loro Parque is a world-class zoo with an extensive collection of parrots along with whales, tigers, and other exotic animals.
  • Palmitos Park is a tropical oasis with thousands of exotic birds to admire amid the lush vegetation.
  • Aqualand Maspalomas combines a huge water park with performing dolphins, sea lions, and parrots.

Family-Friendly Activities

With sunny weather year-round, the Canary Islands make for an exceptional family-friendly destination. Families with kids of any age will find plenty to do across the islands:

  • Loro Parque on Tenerife is a world-class zoo with an extensive collection of parrots along with whales, tigers, and other exotic animals.
  • Siam Park on Tenerife has exotic themed waterslides and wave pools set in lush gardens.
  • Jungle Park on Tenerife offers wildlife shows, jungle trails, and adventure activities like zip lines.

Beaches for Young Children

Sheltered sandy beaches perfect for little ones include:

  • Playa Chica in Lanzarote
  • Playa del Duque in Tenerife
  • Puerto Naos beach in La Palma
  • Playa del Cabrón in Fuerteventura

Water Parks and Amusement Parks

Fun parks to enjoy include:

  • Siam Park in Tenerife has exotic themed waterslides and wave pools set in lush gardens.
  • Jungle Park in Tenerife offers wildlife shows, jungle trails, and adventure activities like zip lines.
  • Holiday World Maspalomas amusement park in Gran Canaria has rollercoasters and rides for all ages.

Family-Friendly Hiking

Easy hiking trails to try include:

  • Camino de St Bartolomé on Lanzarote winds past lava fields.
  • The pine forest trail on Pico del Inglés in Gran Canaria.
  • Cumbre Nueva Circuit on La Palma has panoramic volcano views.

Museums and Cultural Centers

Hands-on museums to visit include:

  • Elder Museum in Gran Canaria depicting Canary Island history and culture.
  • Science and the Cosmos Museum in Tenerife with exhibits to spark kids’ interest.
  • Pirate Museum in Lanzarote takes you into the swashbuckling world of pirates.

Outdoor Activities

Outdoor fun for families includes:

  • Whale and dolphin watching boat tours to see marine life.
  • Horseback riding adventures along beaches and through forests.
  • Exploring the lava tube caves of Cueva de los Verdes in Lanzarote.
  • Riding tandem bikes along the paved coastline.

Travel Tips and Recommendations

To help you plan your ideal Canarian getaway, here are some key travel tips:

  • Most visitors arrive by plane, with direct flights available to Tenerife South Airport and Gran Canaria Airport from many European cities.
  • Recommended areas to stay include: Puerto de la Cruz and Costa Adeje in Tenerife, Las Palmas or Maspalomas in Gran Canaria.
  • Rent a car for the freedom to explore remote parts of the islands.
  • Take public buses which are inexpensive and efficient on shorter routes.

Best Time to Visit

The Canary Islands enjoy pleasant weather all year, but the best times to visit are:

  • Spring (mid-March to May) to avoid crowds and enjoy wildflowers blooming.
  • Early autumn (September to mid-October) for sunny days without intense heat.

Getting There

  • Most visitors arrive by plane, with direct flights available from many European cities.
  • Ferries connect the islands, with daily fast ferries and overnight ferries available.
  • Cruise ships frequently stop at ports in Tenerife and Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote.

Accommodation

You can choose from hotels, resorts, rental apartments, villas, hostels, campgrounds, and guest houses. Recommended areas to stay include:

  • Puerto de la Cruz and Costa Adeje in Tenerife
  • Las Palmas or Maspalomas in Gran Canaria
  • Morro Jable in Fuerteventura
  • Playa Blanca in Lanzarote

Transportation Around the Islands

  • Rent a car for the freedom to explore remote parts of the islands.
  • Take public buses which are inexpensive and efficient on shorter routes.
  • Ride share taxis to travel between key destinations.
  • Hop on ferries for island-hopping between islands.

Local Cuisine

Sample fresh local dishes like:

  • Papas arrugadas – boiled potatoes with mojo sauce
  • Fresh fish and seafood like tuna, grouper, and octopus
  • Goat cheese and meats
  • Tropical fruits like mangos, papaya, bananas and cherimoya

Canary Islands’ Economy and Society

While best known as a sunny tourist destination, there’s more to the Canary Islands beneath the surface. The islands have a complex economic and social fabric.

The Economic Situation

Tourism generates over 35% of the Canary Islands’ GDP and employs 40% of workers. However, the islands have worked to diversify their economy beyond tourism in areas like:

  • Agriculture – Tomatoes, bananas, sugarcane, wine grapes, potatoes and other crops are exported.
  • Manufacturing and construction
  • Financial services and new technologies
  • Port infrastructure – The ports connecting Europe, Africa and America provide jobs.

This makes the economy more resilient to downturns in tourism. The Canaries also benefit from EU funding and tax advantages.

The Role of Tourism

Tourism will likely remain vital to the Canary Islands. However, problems like overcrowding have led the islands to shift towards more sustainable tourism focused on nature and culture rather than mass beach resorts.

Ecotourism, agritourism, heritage tourism, and health tourism are growth sectors that diversify the options for visitors.

Population Growth

The Canary Islands population has grown 46% since 2000, with over 2.2 million residents today. Main factors in this growth are:

  • High birth rates compared to most of Spain
  • Lower death rates due to mild climate
  • Immigration from Africa, South America and mainland Spain

This rapid population growth puts strain on infrastructure and the environment. There are also cultural tensions between islanders and newcomers.

Social and Cultural Diversity

Like the blend of influences in their heritage, Canarians come from diverse backgrounds today including:

  • Indigenous islanders whose families have lived in the Canaries for generations
  • Immigrants from mainland Spain seeking jobs and sunny weather
  • African immigrants, especially from Morocco and Western Sahara
  • British and German expat retirees and remote workers
  • South Americans blending in due to cultural similarities

This multicultural society leads to a richer but sometimes strained social fabric.

Global Significance

As a junction between Europe, Africa and the Americas, the Canary Islands have long held global importance. Today, their main contributions are:

  • Bringing tourism revenue to Spain as a top sunny destination for Europeans
  • Providing a strategic base for space observation and astrophysics research
  • Supplying agricultural products to Europe during the winter
  • Standing as a cultural bridge between continents

The isolated volcanic islands continue shaping the world far beyond their size.

Detailed History of the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands have a long and fascinating history stretching back over 2000 years. Early records from Roman writers like Pliny the Elder mentioned the Fortunate Islands off the coast of Africa, likely referring to the Canaries. But the isolated volcanic islands were largely forgotten until Europeans re-discovered them in the 14th century.

The Mysterious Guanches

The original inhabitants of the Canary Islands were the Guanches, part of the aboriginal Berber people of North Africa. Carbon dating indicates they likely arrived around 500 BC, most likely from present-day Morocco.

The Guanches lived in stone and cave dwellings and survived through agriculture, animal husbandry, fishing, and gathering wild fruits. Remains show they had blue eyes and blond hair, adaptations to the sunny climate. Their peaceful way of life persisted unchanged for centuries until European conquest.

Very little was known about the mysterious Guanches until recently. Ongoing archaeological research continues uncovering fascinating details about their language, tools, diet, religious beliefs and other aspects of their culture. Genetic analysis also links them to Berber peoples in North Africa.

Rediscovery by Europeans

By the 14th century, rumors reached Europe about uncharted islands off the coast of Africa. In 1341, French explorers possibly made the first European rediscovery of the archipelago. Many early explorers stopped at the Canary Islands to restock supplies on voyages down the African coast.

Spain eventually claimed the islands and began colonization in 1402 under the sponsorship of Henry III of Castile. But the native Guanches fiercely resisted the Spanish conquistadors. It took almost a century of warfare before Spain completely subdued the islands by 1496.

Spanish Colonization

The Spanish colonized the Canary Islands and established settlements starting in the late 15th century. Tragically, the native Guanche population was gradually decimated by warfare and European diseases. Those who survived were forced to assimilate and intermarry with the Spanish.

The new rulers transformed the landscape by introducing crops like sugarcane and grapevines. Catholicism spread across the islands, replacing native beliefs. Fortified port cities emerged as bases for trade with the Americas. Under Spanish rule, the cultural identity of modern Canarians formed.

Growth of Santa Cruz and Las Palmas

By the 1700s, the major port cities of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria were flourishing as they dominated trade routes. Their strategic location connected Europe with Africa and the Americas.

Both cities expanded with grand colonial plazas, churches, merchant mansions, and maritime infrastructure. This established them as the centers of power and commerce in the archipelago.

Today, Las Palmas remains the largest city and capital of the Canaries, while Santa Cruz is the political capital on Tenerife. Their historic quarters showcase the islands’ Spanish colonial heritage.

Experiencing the Diversity of Islands

The Canary Islands each have their own unique character and beauty. From the tall volcanoes of Tenerife to the wild dunes of Fuerteventura, a trip to the archipelago lets you discover seven distinct worlds.

Lush La Palma

La Palma stands out among the Canary Islands for its verdant forests, flower farms, and small towns surrounded by nature. 85% of the island is protected, earning it the nickname “La Isla Bonita” – the beautiful island.

The capital, Santa Cruz de La Palma, has historic buildings painted in pastel colors. Inland, hike through the dense laurel forests of Los Tilos Biosphere Reserve, home to rare plant and bird species. Or observe the night sky from Roque de los Muchachos Observatory amid the striking volcanic terrain.

La Palma moves at a slower pace, making it perfect to relax and appreciate the island’s natural splendor. Stop to sample local produce from plaintains to wine. Discover waterfalls, volcanic caves, charming hamlets and more across this beautiful gem in the archipelago.

Historic El Hierro

Sleepy El Hierro is the most remote of the Canary Islands, steeped in history and tradition. Before Spanish colonization, it was considered a sacred island of the Guanches and believed to be the edge of the ancient world.

Today, El Hierro has just one small city, Valverde, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and over 500 ancient lava tubes. The island has protected its slow, traditional way of life. Don’t miss the “Bajada de la Virgen” festival celebrating the patron saint.

Activities on El Hierro center on nature like diving, whale watching, hiking through volcanic terrain, and admiring unique flora and fauna. Its slow pace and endless trails to explore make it perfect for a tranquil getaway. Discover why it’s nicknamed the “edge of heaven.”

Lively Fuerteventura

Sunny Fuerteventura stands out among the islands for its sweeps of golden sand beaches and dunes. This has made it a mecca for surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing and sailors. But it offers much beyond watersports.

Fuerteventura has diverse landscapes ranging from lava plains to salt flats. Visit the vast sand dunes of Corralejo Natural Park. Hike through badlands to hidden coves. The island has world-class beaches like Sotavento de Jandía, ranked one of the top in Europe.

While more arid than other islands, Fuerteventura has its own beauty in the changing colors of volcanic peaks, dark sandy beaches, and turquoise waters. Experience this rugged island shaped by thewind and waves.

Unique Lanzarote

Lanzarote stands apart for its surreal volcanic terrain unlike anywhere else on the planet. In the 18th century, massive eruptions blanketed 200 square km with lava fields and ash, creating an alien landscape.

This geology can be seen in the national park of Timanfaya, where restaurants cook food over the heat of the still-active volcano. Visit the lava tube caves at Cueva de los Verdes and the prehistoric canyon of El Golfo.

Beyond the lava, Lanzarote has lovely beaches, whitewashed villages, vineyards cultivated in volcanic ash, and amazing sunsets over the ocean. The artist César Manrique helped preserve the island’s beauty from overdevelopment. With its relaxing resorts and wealth of outdoor adventures, Lanzarote invites you to follow your curiosity.

Natural Wonders of the Canaries

With eight national parks and over 150 protected natural areas, the Canary Islands offer endless opportunities to explore volcanic peaks, pine forests, lush valleys, breathtaking viewpoints, and more.

Mount Teide National Park

No trip to Tenerife is complete without visiting Mount Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site centered around Spain’s tallest volcano.

At the heart of the park rises the iconic Mount Teide, towering 12,198 feet (3,718 meters) above the landscape. Take the cable car up to the summit to admire the vast volcanic crater and panoramic views.

The park has over 46,000 acres of unique lunar-like landscapes created by past eruptions and lava flows. Discover rivers of petrified lava, Multi-hued rock formations, and towering cliffs. Keep an eye out for native lizards and birds soaring overhead.

With permits, avid hikers can climb to the peak of Teide itself or tackle one of many routes winding past volcanic cones and down into pine forests. The otherworldly scenery makes Mount Teide National Park an awe-inspiring destination.

Maspalomas Dunes

On the southern coast of Gran Canaria lies the huge Maspalomas Dunes, a natural wonder and protected reserve spanning over 1,500 acres.

These awe-inspiring golden sand dunes tower up to 100 meters tall as they meet the azure Atlantic waters. Created by eroding trade winds, the dunes continuously shift shape in the wind.

Maspalomas Dunes offer a magnificent landscape for hiking, camel rides, andadmiring views of neighboring islands on the horizon. Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most stunning light over the dunes.

While an iconic site today, the giant sand field remains pristine and untouched. Walking through the peaceful dunes, you’ll feel immersed in the raw beauty of nature. Discover the grandeur of the Canaries’ largest dune fields.

Garajonay National Park

On the northwest corner of La Gomera lies Garajonay National Park, protecting the island’s primeval laurel forests. These forests once blanketed the Canary Islands millions of years ago when the climate was wetter.

Stepping into Garajonay National Park is like entering the lush forests of prehistory. The leaves of towering laurel trees filter the sunlight, while mosses cloak the gnarled trunks. Walk along shaded trails to scenic overlooks with panoramas of the island’s green valleys.

This rare subtropical park was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its valuable biodiversity. Rare plant and animal species that have disappeared across most of Europe continue thriving in this isolated habitat. Wander through these protected forests for a glimpse back in time.

Experiencing Canarian Cuisine

The cuisine of the Canary Islands blends Spanish, African, and Latin American influences into its own unique flavors. With fresh seafood, tropical produce, and locally crafted cheeses and wines, eating your way across the islands is a treat.

Popular ingredients include papas arrugadas, boiled new potatoes served with spicy mojo sauce. Fresh tuna, octopus, grouper and other seafood stars in dishes like vieja sancochada fish stew. And don’t miss trying classic gofio, roasted grain flour used in many recipes.

In Gran Canaria, sample crunchy cilantro cakes called morcillas. Tenerife is known for honey-based dishes and wines made from Listán grapes. Lanzarote serves up fare with North African spices.

Every island has food specialties like La Palma’s benejanos black pudding, Fuerteventura’s Majorero cheese, and La Gomera’s palm honey. Trying local cuisine immerses you in traditions passed down through generations.

Best Beaches of the Islands

With over 600 miles of coastline, the Canaries offer endless options for relaxing on sunny shores. From family-friendly beaches to secluded coves, here are some top beach destinations:

Playa de las Canteras in Gran Canaria is an expansive golden sand beach set against a backdrop of the bustling capital Las Palmas. Protected by reefs, it’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

In Tenerife, Playa de las Teresitas imports soft white sand from the Sahara, which contrasts beautifully with the blue Atlantic. It’s a popular beach with amenities and cafes nearby.

Playa Mujeres on Lanzarote is a quieter beach outside the resort town of Costa Teguise, surrounded by palm trees. Its calm, clear waters make it ideal for young families.

On La Gomera, Playa de la Caleta in Valle Gran Rey is tucked at the base of towering cliffs for a dramatic setting. It has black volcanic sand and rock pools teeming with marine life.

With so many stunning beaches across the islands, you’re sure to find your perfect spot to unwind under the Canarian sun.

Celebrations and Festivals

Beyond the sunny weather, the lively culture of the Canary Islands shines through in colorful annual festivals and celebrations held across the islands.

On Tenerife, the epic Carnaval in February turns Santa Cruz into one huge street party with parades, costumes, concerts, and contests. It’s considered the second largest Carnaval in the world after Rio de Janeiro.

In Gran Canaria, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria celebrates its founding each August with the Fiestas de la Virgen del Mar. For two weeks, the seaside city hosts nautical parades, concerts, bullfights, pageants and more.

La Palma’s breathtaking Los Indianos festival every September commemorates the islanders who emigrated to the Americas with spectacular costumes and floral displays.

Experience the culture of the Canaries by timing your visit around these and other lively festivals. It’s the chance to join in age-old traditions with the warm-hearted locals.

The Canary Islands offer a true getaway to a volcanic paradise. With sweeping landscapes, historic cities, vibrant culture, beaches, parks, family fun, and near-perfect weather year-round, the islands have rightfully become a favorite sunny retreat.

From strolling the cobblestone streets of La Laguna to exploring Teide’s moon-like vistas or watching whales glide through the Atlantic, the Canaries offer limitless magic for travelers. Follow this guide to help craft your own unforgettable experience on these islands off the coast of Africa that remain uniquely Spanish.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Canary Islands

Are the Canary Islands part of Spain?

Yes, the Canary Islands are an autonomous region of Spain located off the northwest coast of Africa. The islands are governed as a Spanish province but have some degree of self-governance.

What are the major islands of the Canary Islands?

The main islands of the Canary Islands archipelago are Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are the largest and most populated islands.

How many people live in the Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands have a population of over 2.2 million residents. The islands have seen rapid population growth in recent decades.

When were the Canary Islands discovered?

The Canary Islands were known to ancient Romans and rediscovered by Europeans in the 14th century. Spain colonized the islands starting in 1402 under the rule of Henry III of Castile.

What is Mount Teide on Tenerife?

Mount Teide is the tallest peak in Spain at 12,198 feet (3,718 meters). It’s the third largest volcano in the world by volume and the centerpiece of Teide National Park on Tenerife.

What is the geography of the Canary Islands like?

The Canary Islands have a dramatic volcanic landscape with tall mountains, cliffs, valleys, lava fields, and black and white sand beaches from volcanic minerals mixing with coral.

What is the climate of the Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands have a warm, sunny subtropical climate year round due to their location off the coast of Africa. The average temperature is around 75°F (24°C).

Why are they called the Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands are named after the birds found there, not the canary yellow color. The Latin name for the islands Insula Canaria means “island of the dogs” referring to marine canids spotted there by ancient Romans.

What are the Easternmost Canary Islands?

Fuerteventura and Lanzarote are the easternmost Canary Islands, located closest to the African continent.

Which island is called “La Isla Bonita”?

La Palma is known as “La Isla Bonita” meaning “the beautiful island” due to its lush forests, pretty towns, and abundance of nature.

Where are the best beaches in the Canary Islands?

Top beach destinations include Playa de las Canteras in Gran Canaria, Playa de las Teresitas in Tenerife, and Papagayo Beach in Lanzarote. Each island has stunning beaches.

What is a good Canary Islands travel guide?

Useful travel guides for visiting the Canary Islands include Lonely Planet’s guide to the Canary Islands or Rick Steve’s Spain which has a chapter on the islands. DK Eyewitness also publishes a good Canary Islands guidebook.

How do most tourists arrive to the Canary Islands?

The vast majority of tourists arrive by plane, with direct flights available from many European cities to airports on Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.

When is the best time to visit the Canary Islands?

Due to the mild year-round climate, any time is good for visiting the Canaries. Late spring and early autumn are ideal for pleasant weather without the summer crowds.

What is there to do on La Gomera?

Top attractions on La Gomera include hiking through Garajonay National Park, exploring historic towns like San Sebastian, and relaxing on black sand beaches like Playa Caleta.

What are the main airports on Tenerife?

Tenerife has two international airports: Tenerife North Airport (TFN) and Tenerife South Airport (TFS). Between them they serve over 12 million passengers per year.

What island has an arid desert climate?

Fuerteventura is the Canary Island with the most arid desert climate. But even Fuerteventura has plenty of sunny beaches and watersports along its dry volcanic coasts.

What are papas arrugadas in the Canary Islands?

Papas arrugadas are boiled small potatoes, usually served with a spicy and flavorful mojo sauce. They are a beloved staple of Canarian cuisine.

Where is the Timanfaya National Park?

Timanfaya National Park showcasing volcanic craters, peaks and lava fields is located on the island of Lanzarote. It’s sometimes called the “Fire Mountains.”

How do you get between the Canary Islands?

You can fly between islands on regional airlines or take ferries run by companies like Fred Olsen Express and Naviera Armas. Fast ferries connect the islands in 2-3 hours.

What UNESCO site is located in the Canary Islands?

Garajonay National Park on La Gomera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site protecting the island’s rare subtropical laurel forests.

What is unique about El Hierro?

Remote El Hierro moves at a slow pace and protects ancient traditions. It was thought to be the edge of the ancient world and is the least visited Canary Island.

Where are the Maspalomas sand dunes?

The epic golden Maspalomas sand dunes are located on the southern end of Gran Canaria. They stretch 400 hectares and are protected as a natural reserve.

What languages are spoken in the Canary Islands?

Spanish is the official language, though most islands also speak a distinct Canarian dialect of Spanish. English is also widely spoken in tourist areas.

What is the tallest peak in the Canary Islands?

The tallest peak in the Canary Islands is Mount Teide on the island of Tenerife, which rises 12,198 feet (3,718 meters) high.

How many main islands are in the Canary Islands archipelago?

There are 7 main islands in the Canary Islands: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro.

What is the population of the Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands have a population of over 2.2 million residents spread across the 7 main islands.

When did mass tourism begin in the Canary Islands?

Mass tourism in the Canary Islands took off in the 1960s and 1970s, thanks to the islands’ warm climate and proximity to Europe.

Which island is called “La Isla Bonita”?

La Palma is affectionately called “La Isla Bonita”, which means “the beautiful island” in Spanish, due to its lush scenery.

What island has an arid landscape?

Fuerteventura has the most arid climate of the Canary Islands, with desert-like conditions in parts of the island.

Where is Parque Nacional del Teide?

Parque Nacional del Teide is a national park on the island of Tenerife centered around Mount Teide, the tallest peak in Spain.

What are the Easternmost Canary Islands?

Fuerteventura and Lanzarote are the Easternmost islands in the Canary Islands archipelago.

What language is spoken in the Canary Islands?

The main language spoken is Spanish, though most islands have developed distinct Canarian dialects of Spanish over time.

How many tourists visit the Canary Islands each year?

Over 15 million tourists visit the Canary Islands each year, making tourism vital to the local economy.

What island is home to Playa de las Américas?

Playa de las Américas is a major tourist resort located on the south coast of Tenerife.

How do the Canary Islands have such mild weather?

The Canary Islands enjoy mild weather all year due to the moderating effects of the surrounding Atlantic Ocean and cooler Canary current.

What are the smallest Canary Islands?

The smaller islands of the archipelago include La Graciosa, Alegranza, Montana Clara, and Lobos.

Where does the name “Canary Islands” come from?

The name refers to the wild dogs, or canines, that ancient Romans found on the islands when they first discovered them.

What island has the deepest ravines?

The island of La Palma is home to the incredibly deep ravines of Los Tilos Biosphere Reserve.

How can you island hop across the Canaries?

Visitors can fly or take passenger ferries between the different Canary Islands to experience the diversity of the archipelago.

What trade winds influence the Canary Islands climate?

Cool northeasterly trade winds help moderate the warm climate of the Canary Islands throughout the year.