Carnival Festival in Tenerife, Canary Islands

This special time of year is a magical time to visit these Atlantic Oceans. Carnival in the streets runs February 7 - 18, 2024 and the main parade is on February 13, 2024. The largest of Spain’s seven Canary Islands, Tenerife, hosts the island group’s celebration of Carnival and is an unforgettable experience! The Carnival de Santa Cruz de Tenerife is held each February and attracts people from all over the world. It is considered the second most popular and internationally-known carnival, after the one held in Rio de Janeiro. Immerse yourself in the island’s awesome natural beauty, its distinctive landscapes and terrain, and its wide variety of outdoor and cultural activities. With an 11,000-foot high volcano, white sand beaches, stargazing, whale watching, exquisite wines and gastronomy, and so much more, Tenerife is truly paradise found.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Welcome to Tenerife

Arrive at the airport in Tenerife, where you’ll be met by your airport transportation to your hotel in Costa Adeje, on the southern coast of the island. Once you check into the hotel, the rest of the evening is yours to enjoy.

Day 2:

It’s Carnival Time - Private Tour of the North: La Laguna and Santa Cruz

After breakfast, spend the day in the northern part of the island on a private tour. You’ll start out with a drive to Santa Cruz, Tenerife's capital and one of the world’s busiest shipping ports. You will see how the city’s restaurants, art galleries, natural history museum, and striking examples of contemporary architecture all contribute to a definitively Spanish, cosmopolitan atmosphere. The day continues with a walking tour in La Laguna, which is considered to be the cultural capital of the Canary Islands. Its historical center was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 and is known for its many beautiful churches, including Santo Domingo, the Church of the Holy Christ, and the San Miguel Chapel. Afterwards, the tour continues to Bodegas Monje Vineyard in El Sauzal for a tasting of traditional Canarian wine. Located 500 meters above sea level, the vineyard is situated on rocky ground and solidified lava from the nearby volcano. The Monje family is among Tenerife’s first wine producers, cultivating and bottling wine since 1750. At the end of the day, your guide will return you to your hotel.

Day 3:

Mt. Teide

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning to yourself; relax at your hotel or explore the town. In the afternoon, you'll visit Las Cañadas National Park, home to Mt. Teide. This park is characterized by its unique, lunar landscape and beautiful plant life. Once in the park, pass the Chinyero volcano (site of the last major volcanic eruption in Tenerife in 1909) and stop at Roques de Garcia, where you can admire the view of Mt. Teide from 3,718 meters high. If the weather is good, you'll have the option to take the cable car to the summit of the volcano. Later, you'll enjoy the beautiful sunset overlooking the other Canary Islands and can stop to take memorable photos at a few of Mt. Teide’s stunning vistas.

Day 4:

Free Day

Today is yours to spend as you see fit! Hit the beach or relax at the pool. If you want, there are local buses that take you back to the Carnival in Santa Cruz. Or, if you are feeling adventurous, book an ATV tour or take advantage of the local paragliding or surfing experts.

Day 5:

La Gomera

After breakfast, board the ferry for your visit to La Gomera, an island of hidden beauty. Explore the island in chauffeur-driven jeeps, enjoying the open air and panoramic views. During your day on the island, discover Garajonay National Park and the ancient rain forest, visit small and tranquil villages, sample traditional Gomeran cuisine for lunch, and learn about the fascinating whistling language that is found only on this island. You will also have time to explore San Sebastian, the island's capital city that was once visited by Christopher Columbus on his way to discover the new world. At the end of the day, board the ferry to return to Tenerife.

Day 6:

Free Day

Today is your last full day on the island. Book another excursion, take a bus up to Carnival in Santa Cruz, or just enjoy the local beach and some downtime.

Day 7:

Until Next Time

After breakfast, use the last of your time in the Canary Islands to shop for souvenirs or simply relax at a café before your transfer back to the airport for your flight home.