Travel to Canary Islands

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Travel to the Canary Islands: an Archipelago of Volcanoes!

The Canary Islands, with their eternally mild climate and incredible diversity, are a truly unique destination in Europe. Hiking, beaches, surfing, diving, gastronomy… each island has something special to offer!

From Lanzarote with its lunar landscapes, to Tenerife dominated by Spain’s highest peak – Mount Teide – to Gran Canaria with its striking contrasts, and La Palma and La Gomera with their ancient forests, the archipelago is sure to captivate you!

On this page, you’ll find my articles to help you plan your trip to the Canary Islands!

P.S.: I’ve been living in Tenerife for a year and a half now.

The Canary Islands in a Few Words

Capital: Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (co-capitals)

Area: Approximately 7,500 km²

Population: Around 2.2 million inhabitants

Best time to visit: All year round (mild and sunny climate)

drapeau canaries

We love them for:

Their unique archipelago: 8 main islands (Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and La Graciosa).

Their ideal climate: Spring-like temperatures year-round.

Their diverse landscapes: Volcanoes, cliffs, sand dunes, and lush

Q&A : Travel to Canary Islands

The Canary Islands consist of 8 main islands: Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and La Graciosa. Each island offers unique landscapes, climates, and vibes:

  • Tenerife: Perfect for combining beaches, hiking, and culture.
  • Lanzarote: Famous for its volcanic landscapes and César Manrique’s creations.
  • Fuerteventura: A paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
  • Gran Canaria: A “miniature continent” with dunes, mountains, and beaches.
  • La Palma: The greenest island, ideal for hiking and stargazing.
  • La Gomera: Wild and authentic, known for Garajonay National Park.
  • El Hierro: The smallest island, perfect for an immersive nature experience.
  • La Graciosa: Still off the beaten path, a tranquil retreat for simplicity seekers.

The Canary Islands enjoy a mild subtropical climate year-round, often called the “eternal spring.” Temperatures typically range between 20 and 28°C, varying by altitude and island.

Yes, several sites in the Canaries are UNESCO World Heritage-listed:

  • Teide National Park (Tenerife): Home to Spain’s highest peak, the iconic Teide volcano.
  • Garajonay National Park (La Gomera): Known for its prehistoric laurel forest.
  • The historic city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna (Tenerife): A perfect example of colonial urban planning.

Getting around the islands is easy with these options:

  • Ferry: Companies like Fred Olsen or Naviera Armas connect the main islands. This is a practical option if you’re traveling with a car.
  • Plane: Binter Canarias offers quick and frequent flights between islands.
  • Organized tours: Some agencies offer day trips to explore neighboring islands.

Canary Islands’ cuisine is rich and varied, influenced by Spanish and island traditions:

  • Papas arrugadas: Small potatoes served with mojo rojo (spicy red sauce) or mojo verde (green sauce).
  • Gofio: A toasted cereal flour used in many local dishes.
  • Cheeses: The islands produce artisan cheeses, like Majorero cheese from Fuerteventura.
  • Fish dishes: Fresh fish, such as cherne or vieja, is highly prized.
  • Desserts: Don’t miss bienmesabe, a honey and almond specialty, or rosquetes (local donuts).