The Canary Islands are a treasure trove of adventure in the Atlantic Ocean with black sand beaches, turquoise water, enchanting forests, vast desert dunes, endemic species, and the third highest volcano in the world.
Though the territory belongs to Spain, the islands are closest to Morocco and have a subtropical climate, meaning you can have a European vacation wearing shorts and a t-shirt all year long!
There are seven main islands in the archipelago: Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro, along with a few smaller islets.
Truly a hikers paradise, perfect for the beach bum, a find for foodies, rife with archeological sites, and boasts a nightlife scene. Anyone and everyone would fall in love with the islands…but in the two weeks spent there this November into December, I didn’t run into one other American!
So over the next few weeks I will be introducing the Canaries revealing highlights to those who aren’t familiar with them, and hidden gems for those looking to visit again.
The Islands I Visited:
+Lanzarote Island is closest to Morocco and every building is white washed, creating the atmosphere of a posh paradise.
+Fuerteventura is the oldest of the islands and very much a desert, there are many windmills which once harnessed the strong Sahara trade winds.
+Gran Canaria is known as a continent in miniature due to its diverse climates, this island holds the most populated city of the archipelago .
+Tenerife is the largest and most populated island where Mount Teide is located, the tallest point in Spain at 12,198 feet.
Getting to & around the Canaries:
+Flights from the US will stop on mainland Europe before hopping over to the islands. If you want to visit another city in Europe first, subsequent flights within the EU are typically affordable. Take Spain’s capital of Madrid for example, a city where many connecting flights head to the Canaries and roundtrip tickets can be purchased for just $40. If you are island hopping, it might be feasible to fly into one island, and return home from your final island.
+Renting a Car is extremely affordable and hassle free. You can even pay in cash, no credit cards are necessary. The local agencies Cabrera Medina and Cicar which are sister companies provided great rentals and service on each of the islands. Gas however, is very expensive. Driving is on the right hand side of the road and the islands are covered in roundabouts. So much so that Lanzarote didn’t have one stoplight. Many of the roundabouts have interesting art in the middle, as an added bonus.
Islands such as Gran Canaria and Tenerife have thrilling mountain roads that are very narrow at times, those daring enough will be rewarded with the most breathtaking views.
There are some destinations that require driving on dirt roads (Example: Papayago Beach on Lanzarote & Cofete Beach on Fuerteventura) – be sure your rental insurance is covered for this before venturing off. Note that wearing flip-flops to drive might get you a ticket, so always don proper footwear. If you are island hopping, companies will not insure you from island to island.
Also, you must return your car to the original island where you rented it (but not necessarily the same office) – so since it is so easy to rent a car on the Canaries, I rented in four different locations and it really didn’t consume much time at all.
+Ferries take passengers to and from each island, I found that the company Fred Olsen was the most affordable and very reliable.
From Lanzarote to Fuerteventura the voyage was just a few minutes in calm sea. From Fuerteventura to Gran Canaria the journey was rockier, sitting in the back of the boat and laying down can help to avoid seasickness. Do book directly from their website, as second party websites may not be legitimate. You will need a valid passport to board the ferry.
Where to stay:
Airbnbs are plentiful and affordable located all over the islands. If you are looking to use the website for the first time, click this link and receive a discount on your first stay.
Language and currency:
Spanish is the official language, though many people speak English. I found the islands to feel extremely safe, with its inhabitants to be very friendly and helpful.
That being said, just like anywhere else you do not want to leave valuables in your car – and always be aware of your surroundings. The currency of the islands is Euro and most places take all major credit cards.
Cuisine of the Canaries:
+You can find any food you desire on the islands, but you shouldn’t miss the fresh seafood – especially at a restaurant by the sea.
+As the country is Spanish, tapas are another sure fire hit.
+If you are visiting the island of Fuerteventura, goat cheese is as fresh as can be called Majorero cheese made from the indigenous majorera goat.
+Guachinches found on Tenerife are known for their homemade wine and traditional food, many take cash only.
+Specific to the Canaries you must try Papas arrugadas with mojo, wrinkly potatoes in tangy sauce. Gofio is a dough like substance made of roasted Canarian grain flour eaten since the time of the Aboriginals.
+Tipping is not necessary on the islands, but if you have enjoyed your food and service round up the bill.
+Do not drink the water from the tap on the Canary Islands, buy bottled.
Helpful (and free) Apps:
+GoogleTranslates is a lifesaver for conversing with a language barrier
+GoogleMaps is great for directions, finding the nearest gas stations, and sometimes even provides rudimentary trail maps
+Currency Converter helps you understand the amount you will be paying
+Airbnb will allow you to communicate with your host