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Canary Islands

Canary Islands, Spain

Escape to the Canary Islands: Where Eternal Spring Meets Volcanic Majesty Basking in year-round sunshine just off the coast of Africa, the Canary Islands offer a kaleidoscope of experiences for every kind of traveler. F…

#Island destination#Volcanic landscapes#Mild climate#Beaches#Tourist hotspot

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Canary Islands.

Top Hotels in Canary Islands

Top Flights to Canary Islands

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Canary Islands.

Tours

Teide National Park Visit

Explore the stunning landscapes of Teide National Park, home to Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak.

Loro Parque Visit

A world-famous animal park in Tenerife known for its orca and dolphin shows.

Shopping

Shopping at Siam Mall

A large shopping center in Tenerife with a variety of international and local shops.

Outdoor

Kayaking in Los Gigantes

Experience the towering cliffs of Los Gigantes from the sea on a kayaking adventure.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Canary Islands.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

2.2 million

Languages

Spanish, Spanish

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Canary Islands.

What people love

The Canary Islands, located off the northwest coast of Africa and belonging to Spain, offer numerous benefits for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to the Canary Islands include:

Year-round pleasant weather: The Canary Islands enjoy a mild and pleasant climate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for those seeking sunshine and warmth regardless of the season.
Diverse landscapes: The Canary Islands boast diverse landscapes ranging from volcanic mountains to sandy beaches, lush forests, and picturesque villages. This variety provides travelers with plenty of options for outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, or simply relaxing by the sea.
Rich culture and history: The Canary Islands have a unique cultural heritage influenced by Spanish, African, and Latin American traditions. Visitors can explore historic sites, museums, and local festivals to learn more about the islands' history and customs.
Outdoor activities: With its stunning natural beauty, the Canary Islands offer a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, water sports, and whale watching. The islands are also a popular destination for golf enthusiasts, with several world-class courses available.
Gastronomy: The Canary Islands are known for their delicious cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, local cheeses, and traditional dishes such as papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) and mojo sauce. Visitors can enjoy a culinary journey through the islands' diverse flavors and ingredients.
Accessibility: The Canary Islands are well-connected by air and sea, with several international airports serving the main islands. This makes it easy for travelers to reach the islands from Europe and other parts of the world.

Overall, the Canary Islands offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and recreational opportunities, making them a popular destination for travelers seeking a diverse and memorable vacation experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to the Canary Islands in Spain include:

Overcrowding: During peak tourist seasons, the Canary Islands can become quite crowded, particularly in popular tourist areas such as beaches and resorts. This may lead to longer wait times for attractions, restaurants, and transportation.
High Costs: The Canary Islands are a tourist hotspot, which can result in higher prices for accommodations, dining, and activities compared to other less popular destinations in Spain.
Language Barrier: While many locals in the Canary Islands speak English, the primary language is Spanish. Travelers who do not speak Spanish may encounter some communication difficulties, especially in more rural areas.
Weather Variability: The weather in the Canary Islands can be unpredictable, with variations between different islands and even different parts of the same island. Travelers should be prepared for sudden changes in weather patterns.
Tourist Traps: Like any popular tourist destination, there may be tourist traps in the Canary Islands, where visitors are charged exorbitant prices for subpar goods or services. It's important to research and be cautious when making purchases.
Environmental Concerns: The influx of tourists to the Canary Islands can put a strain on the environment, leading to issues such as waste generation, water scarcity, and damage to natural habitats. Travelers should be mindful of their impact on the local ecosystem.

Overall, while the Canary Islands offer stunning landscapes and a unique cultural experience, travelers should be aware of these potential drawbacks when planning their trip.

The Canary Islands, an archipelago located off the northwest coast of Africa, are an autonomous community of Spain. The islands have a rich and diverse history that spans centuries, marked by significant events, influential historical figures, and important landmarks.

Early History

Indigenous Inhabitants: The original inhabitants of the Canary Islands were the Guanches, a Berber people who are believed to have arrived from North Africa. They lived in relative isolation and developed a unique culture, which included the construction of cave dwellings and the use of stone tools.
Classical References: The Canary Islands were known to the ancient Romans and Greeks, who referred to them as the "Islands of the Blessed" or the "Fortunate Isles." The islands were described in various classical texts, although little was known about them at the time.

Age of Exploration and Spanish Conquest

14th Century: European navigators began to explore the Canary Islands in the 14th century. The first confirmed European visit was by the Genoese navigator Lancelotto Malocello around 1312.
15th Century: In the early 1400s, the islands began to attract the attention of the Kingdom of Castile. The Spanish conquest of the Canary Islands started in 1402, led by Jean de Béthencourt and Gadifer de la Salle, who initially settled Lanzarote.
Conquest Completion: The conquest of the entire archipelago was completed by 1496 when the last of the islands, Tenerife, was subdued. During this period, many of the Guanche people were decimated by warfare and diseases introduced by Europeans.

Colonial Period and Economic Development

Strategic Importance: The islands served as an important stopover for Spanish ships traveling to the Americas. This strategic location made them a key point in the transatlantic trade routes.
Economic Activities: The economy of the Canary Islands developed through agriculture, particularly sugar cane and later wine and cochineal (a dye). The islands also became involved in the slave trade.

Modern History

19th Century: The Canary Islands experienced economic difficulties due to competition in agriculture and changes in trade routes. Many Canarians emigrated to the Americas during this period.
20th Century: The islands saw significant political changes, including the establishment of the Canary Islands as an autonomous region of Spain in 1982. Tourism began to emerge as a major economic driver, transforming the islands' economy and infrastructure.

Significant Historical Figures

Alonso Fernández de Lugo: A Spanish conquistador who played a crucial role in the conquest of Tenerife.
José de Anchieta: A Canarian Jesuit missionary and linguist, born in Tenerife, who was instrumental in the establishment of the Jesuit missions in Brazil.

Important Landmarks

Teide National Park: Located on Tenerife, it is home to Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
San Cristóbal de La Laguna: A city in Tenerife known for its historical architecture, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Garajonay National Park: Located on La Gomera, this park is known for its ancient laurel forests and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Canary Islands' diverse history, from ancient indigenous cultures to modern tourism, has shaped its unique cultural and social landscape, making it a fascinating region with a rich heritage.