Tenerife, Canary Islands

An island of dramatic contrasts

A notoriously festive destination, Tenerife is the biggest, most well-known of Spain's Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa. The volcanic island is characterized by rugged, steep coastline and miles of beaches, popular for kite surfing and swimming. Teide-Pico Viejo, Spain’s tallest peak, towers over the island, and its national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Explore Santa Cruz and the very modern Auditorio de Tenerife, reminiscent of Australia’s Sydney Opera House. Loro Parque boasts the world’s largest collection of parrots, and you can’t miss the striking bell tower of the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción, the city’s oldest church. Learn about the island’s ancient inhabitants at the archaeological sites of Guanches or explore the mysterious step pyramids at Güímar. When you need a break, Tenerife also has an abundant variety of fresh fish, well-known cheeses, and renowned wines to savor.