Tenerife: Kayak and Snorkel with Turtles, Wetsuits Included

Imagine gliding silently across shimmering waters, surrounded by pods of dolphins leaping out of the sea, and catching glimpses of green and loggerhead turtles swimming beneath you. That’s the promise of the Kayak and Snorkel with Turtles tour in Tenerife, offered by Xplore Tenerife.

While I haven’t taken this tour myself, the avalanche of positive reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear this is a memorable way to connect with the ocean’s wild inhabitants. What we love about this experience is how it combines eco-consciousness with a chance to see marine animals in their natural environment — no chasing or disturbing, just respectful observation. Plus, the included wetsuits and photos add tangible value.

One possible caveat? The sea can be unpredictable, and sightings—while statistically high—are not guaranteed. This tour is best suited for adventurous, water-loving travelers who are comfortable swimming and eager to observe marine life up close. If you’re looking for a laid-back boat ride, this might not be your fit, but if you love active outdoor experiences, keep reading.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly touring respects marine animals, offering a non-intrusive way to see dolphins and turtles
• Professional guides enhance the experience with knowledge and friendly attitudes
• Secluded bay stops provide excellent snorkeling opportunities in clear waters
• Comfortable kayaks with back support make paddling accessible for most
• Photos and wetsuits included add extra value to the trip
• Good value at $35 for a three-hour adventure full of potential wildlife sightings

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Experience

This Tenerife kayaking tour offers something quite special: the chance to see dolphins and turtles in their natural habitat without chasing after them or causing any disturbance. It’s all about respecting the environment while enjoying the thrill of marine wildlife encounters. For travelers who love the sea, this is an active, engaging way to appreciate the island’s rich marine biodiversity.

Two things we particularly appreciate: the eco-certified approach, ensuring minimal impact on the animals, and the inclusion of wetsuits and photos—meaning you won’t need to bring much besides your sense of adventure. The tour is well-suited for those who are comfortable swimming (a must, as it’s part of the experience) and are eager to enjoy the natural beauty of Tenerife’s coast.

One thing to consider: the activity lasts roughly three hours, including safety briefings and stops, so it’s not a quick thrill. But for many, that time frame hits the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Those with mobility issues or less confidence in water might want to double-check the minimum age (14) and weight limits (100 kg per person) before booking.

What You Can Expect During the Tour

Starting at Xplore Tenerife

The adventure kicks off at a conveniently located office in Cristianmar, near Playa de Los Cristianos. From there, you’ll meet your guides for a safety briefing—a crucial step, especially if it’s your first time kayaking or snorkeling. The guides are multilingual, speaking Spanish, English, Portuguese, Italian, and French, making communication smooth.

The Scenic Coastal Stops

The first stop takes you near Playa de Los Cristianos, where the guides will help you get comfortable on your kayak with supportive seats. Expect calm waters ideal for paddling and wildlife watching. Here, you might catch a glimpse of dolphins or even see a turtle swimming nearby. Several reviewers praise their guides, like Cristi: “Carlos is amazing, very friendly and calm. We saw turtles and dolphins.”

The next stop is the Cueva de los Enamorados, a small cave that offers a dramatic backdrop and excellent photo opportunities. It’s a brief stop, but the scenic cliffs and ocean views make it worthwhile.

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Snorkeling in Secluded Bay

The highlight for many is the snorkeling break in a secluded bay, accessible only by boat. This is where the waters turn crystal-clear, and marine life is abundant. The tour includes snorkeling equipment and wetsuits, so you’re prepared to float and explore beneath the surface. Many reviews mention the chance to see fish, rays, and sometimes even turtles during this part of the trip.

Wildlife Encounters

While sightings of dolphins and turtles aren’t guaranteed (nature is unpredictable), the guides’ expertise and local knowledge give you a good shot—about a 90% success rate according to the company. From multiple reviews, it’s clear this aspect excites travelers: “We saw dolphins from the kayaks and a turtle swam right up to us,” says Lisa Van. Others mention pods of up to 30 dolphins often putting on a show, jumping high and darting through the water.

Return to Base

After about an hour of paddling and snorkeling, the tour wraps up back at the starting point. Many reviewers leave with glowing memories and quality photos, like Ana from Portugal: “Barbara, our instructor, is very nice. When we get back to Tenerife, we’ll definitely do this activity again.”

The Value of the Tour

At just $35 per person for a three-hour adventure, this tour offers remarkable value. You get kayaks, wetsuits, snorkeling gear, accident insurance, professional guides, and photos—all included in the price. That’s a lot of gear and expertise packed into an experience that combines physical activity with wildlife encounters.

Compared to other marine activities in Tenerife, this one stands out because it’s eco-certified and emphasizes respect for the animals. Many reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Carlos, Gonza, David, and Barbara, who go beyond just safety instructions to share insightful info about the marine environment.

The reviews also underscore how well-organized the trip is. From the safety briefings to the scenic stops, everything runs smoothly, making it suitable for most water enthusiasts aged 14 and up. Keep in mind, the activity is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or people over 220 lbs (100 kg).

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at the Cristianmar office, where your guides will review safety procedures and distribute gear. Expect a quick 5-minute walk to the kayak launch point, where the real fun begins.

The first hour takes you along the coast of Playa de Los Cristianos, a lively beach town with spectacular views of Tenerife’s mountains. The guides point out landmarks and share tidbits about the local marine life and geography. It’s a relaxing paddle with moments of excitement as dolphins may leap nearby.

Next, you’ll glide towards the Cueva de los Enamorados—a small, romantic cave carved into the cliffs, perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery. The journey continues with another hour of paddling, giving you more chances to spot animals and enjoy the ocean breeze.

The final highlight is the snorkeling break in a secluded bay. Here, you’ll don your wetsuits and snorkel among schools of fish, rays, and maybe even a turtle or two. Many reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful this part is.

The return leg is a gentle paddle back to the starting point, often with dolphins following along or breaching nearby. Guides often take photos during the trip, ensuring you leave with memorable images of your marine adventure.

Real Travelers’ Views

The overwhelming majority of reviews are glowing. Cristi calls Carlos “amazing,” highlighting his friendliness and calmness. Rishav notes that the experience was “very good and totally value for money,” praising the guide for being “fabulous, friendly and super good.” Lisa Van appreciated the “really nice, lovely tour” with guides Barbara and Gonza.

Many travelers emphasize the knowledgeable guides who make the experience both fun and safe. David, Gonza, and Barbara frequently earn praise for their professionalism and enthusiasm. Several reviews mention dolphins and turtles actually being seen, with some lucky enough to witness dolphins jumping high into the air—a sight that makes the trip unforgettable.

A common theme is the scenic coastline and crystal-clear waters that make snorkeling a delight. The inclusion of photos is much appreciated, with many reviewers saying they cherish the memories captured.

Practical Details

Duration: Approximately 3 hours, which includes safety briefings, paddling, snorkeling, and breaks.
Price: $35 per person, representing excellent value considering the gear, guide expertise, and photos provided.
Starting Point: Cristianmar office in Playa de Los Cristianos.
Language: Guides operate in Spanish, English, Portuguese, Italian, and French.
Minimum Age: 14 years old; minors over 14 must be accompanied by a parent.
Weight Limit: 100 kg (220 lbs) per person for kayak stability.
What to Bring: Sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, flip-flops.
Not Allowed: Alcohol and drugs.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility if your plans change.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This kayaking adventure is ideal for active travelers who love nature and outdoor activities. It’s a perfect choice if you’re eager to witness marine life without the crowds or noisy boats. The secluded bay and crystal waters cater to those looking for a peaceful yet exciting experience.

It’s also well-suited for families with teenagers, provided they meet the age and swimming requirements. The guides’ friendly approach and the well-organized nature of the trip make it accessible to most water lovers.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding experience, or aren’t comfortable swimming or paddling, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

This Tenerife kayak and snorkeling tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, wildlife viewing, and scenic beauty for a very reasonable price. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable equipment, and the chance to see dolphins and turtles in their natural setting, it’s a solid pick for those who crave authentic, active experiences.

The emphasis on eco-consciousness and respect for marine life makes it stand out among many touristy alternatives. You’ll leave with vivid memories, great photos, and a real sense of connection to the ocean.

If your ideal vacation involves outdoor activity, marine wildlife, and beautiful coastal scenery, then this tour is well worth your consideration. It’s a chance to enjoy nature, get some exercise, and learn more about Tenerife’s vibrant marine ecosystem—all in just a few hours.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 14 years old, so it’s geared toward teenagers and adults. Minors over 14 must be accompanied by a parent.

Do I need to be able to swim?
Yes, it’s mandatory to be able to swim to participate, as swimming and snorkeling are core parts of the experience.

What’s included in the price?
You get kayaks, wetsuits, snorkeling gear, accident insurance, a guide, and photos taken during the trip.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 3 hours, including safety briefings, paddling, snorkeling, and breaks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind to flexible travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, and flip-flops. Note that alcohol and drugs are not permitted.

You can check availability for your dates here: