Tenerife: Kayak & Snorkel with Turtles & Dolphins w/Photos

Imagine paddling along the dramatic coastline of Tenerife, cutting through shimmering water lined with towering volcanic cliffs, and possibly sharing the moment with playful dolphins and gentle turtles. That’s what this kayaking and snorkeling tour promises—a chance to explore the natural wonders of the Canary Islands in a fun, active way. This experience is designed for those who love the outdoors, wildlife, and a bit of adventure, and it generally receives high praise for its guides and scenery.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the knowledgeable guides who keep safety and fun front and center, and the opportunity to catch glimpses of dolphins and turtles—these wildlife sightings make the trip memorable. That said, the tour can be physically demanding, especially if the sea is choppy. So, if your idea of a good adventure includes a bit of exertion and plenty of natural beauty, this trip might be perfect. It’s ideal for active travelers, families with older children, or anyone with a sense of curiosity about the ocean.

One point to consider is weather. When sea conditions turn rough due to wind or tide, the tour might be canceled, which could mean a sudden change in plans. So, if you’re visiting during a season with unpredictable weather, it’s wise to keep your plans flexible. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable in the water (or willing to brave it), and want a genuine connection with Tenerife’s marine life and coastlines rather than a passive sightseeing cruise.

Key Points

• Active and engaging: Combines kayaking and snorkeling for a full marine adventure.
• Wildlife spotting: Likely to see dolphins, turtles, and colorful fish, depending on the season.
• Expert guidance: Guides are knowledgeable and attentive, providing safety briefings and taking photos.
• Beautiful scenery: You’ll paddle past volcanic cliffs, sea caves, and dramatic coastlines.
• Good value: Includes gear, professional photos, and access to facilities, making it a practical choice.
• Weather dependent: The tour may be canceled in rough sea conditions, so flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tenerife Kayak & Snorkel Experience

An Introduction to the Adventure

This kayak and snorkel tour is designed to give you a taste of Tenerife’s spectacular coast both above and below the water. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines active paddling with the chance to marvel at underwater life, making it suitable for travelers who want more than just a boat ride. You’ll start your journey at the Shaka Surf Center in Los Cristianos, a convenient central location on the seafront with changing rooms and lockers, so you can leave your belongings safely.

What makes this trip stand out is the combination of scenic coastal exploration and wildlife encounters. You’ll paddle along giant volcanic cliffs, enter caves that could be straight out of a pirate story, and snorkel in areas where turtles are known to swim lazily by. The guides are praised for their friendliness and expertise, often sharing fascinating details about the marine environment and the local landscape.

One of the best things about this tour is the flexibility it offers. You don’t need to be a seasoned kayaker to enjoy it, but some degree of physical fitness helps. The water equipment is top-notch, including double kayaks approved for two adults and one child, or single kayaks for the more experienced. The tour lasts about 3 hours, making it manageable for most, and the pace allows plenty of opportunities to take in the scenery and wildlife.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The adventure kicks off on the beach of Los Cristianos, where your guides give a safety briefing and introduce you to the equipment. From there, you’ll hop into your kayak and paddle out into the Atlantic. This stretch is where the ocean turns bright blue and crystal-clear, giving you a fantastic view beneath the surface. As you coast along the coast, you’ll pass iconic sites like Playa de Los Cristianos, with its lively waterfront and scenic vistas.

The first highlight is the volcanic cliffs, some of which are colossal black formations that seem to rise straight out of the water. Your guides will steer you close enough to appreciate their scale and beauty. Then, you’ll enter the caves—small, hidden sea caves that add an element of mystery and adventure. Many reviews mention that entering these caves is a breathtaking experience, with some guides even capturing photos of the group inside the caves, which are a definite photo opportunity.

After kayaking, it’s time for snorkeling. The designated turtle area is often a highlight, with clear waters where you can see a variety of fish and, if lucky, some turtles swimming peacefully. According to reviews, this part is the most breathtaking, especially as you float above the seabed, gazing at schools of colorful fish and the occasional sea turtle. Guides provide all the gear—including masks, snorkels, wetsuits, and water bags—and are often seen taking photos of your underwater exploits, which they email after the trip at no extra cost.

The final part of the tour involves paddling back along the coast, with chances to spot dolphins—families of which are sometimes seen around Tenerife. While wildlife sightings depend on the season and luck, many travelers report seeing dolphins between 80% and 90% of the time, describing these moments as truly magical. According to reviews, guides are very attentive and will do their best to find wildlife, often sharing interesting facts along the way.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour package includes all necessary gear: double or single kayaks, paddles, life jackets, wetsuits (3mm), snorkeling masks and tubes, and free photos and videos. After returning to land, you can enjoy hot or cold showers, water, and a small snack like a cereal bar or banana—an appreciated touch for re-energizing after the activity.

You’ll want to bring a hat, sunscreen, swimsuit, towel, and a change of clothes. The physical nature of paddling for 2-3 hours means some stamina is needed, but the scenery and wildlife sightings make the effort worthwhile. It’s worth noting that alcohol and drugs are not permitted, for safety reasons, and the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with serious health issues.

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The Experience on the Water

Many reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. From pre-tour briefings to taking photos during the trip, guides like Caroline and Gabriël are praised for their knowledge and attentiveness. They often go the extra mile, such as helping participants who are less confident or managing unexpected situations like rough water.

The atmosphere is generally relaxed but attentive, with guides frequently checking in on participants’ safety and comfort. The photos they take add a special touch, allowing you to relive moments like dolphins swimming nearby or turtles gliding past your kayak.

Weather and Seasonality Considerations

The tour’s success depends heavily on weather conditions. In bad weather, with strong winds or high waves, the activity may be canceled—something to keep in mind if your trip coincides with unpredictable weather seasons. The tour provider offers full refunds if canceled due to weather, which provides some peace of mind. Checking the forecast beforehand can help you plan better.

Pricing and Value

The tour generally offers good value, considering it includes gear, a professional guide, and complimentary photos. For around 3 hours of active outdoor fun, the cost is reasonable—especially given the quality of the guides and the chance to witness dolphins and turtles in their natural habitat. Many reviewers feel the experience is worth the price, describing it as a memorable highlight of their Tenerife trip.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This kayaking and snorkeling tour is well-suited for active travelers who enjoy being outdoors and are comfortable in the water. It’s a great choice for families with older children, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a meaningful wildlife encounter. If you’re someone who appreciates scenic landscapes, wants to learn about local marine fauna, or simply loves a bit of physical activity, this trip will suit you well.

The guides’ professionalism and knowledge add value, making the experience safe and fun even for beginners. The chance to see dolphins and turtles, combined with stunning coastal views, makes this tour stand out among Tenerife activities. It’s perfect for those who value authentic, nature-centered experiences over crowded tourist spots.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness, or if your idea of a relaxing day involves minimal exertion, this might not be the best fit. Also, patience is needed because wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, though they are frequent. Be prepared for some physical effort, especially in choppy waters, but know that the beauty and wildlife encounters often make it worthwhile.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, most participants, including those new to kayaking and snorkeling, find the equipment easy to use after a brief instruction. Guides are attentive and helpful.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. It’s also good to have some stamina for paddling and a sense of adventure.

Can I see dolphins or turtles?
Many guests do see dolphins and turtles, but sightings depend on the season and luck. Guides do their best to locate wildlife and often succeed.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Somewhat. Paddling for 2-3 hours in the ocean requires stamina, but the activity is suitable for most people who are reasonably fit.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled in rough conditions, but the provider offers full refunds in such cases.

Are photos included?
Yes, guides take professional photos and videos during the trip, which they send to participants free of charge.

Is there a maximum weight limit?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for people over 220 lbs (100 kg), mainly for safety reasons related to kayaking stability.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Availability varies, so it’s best to check in advance. The tour can be booked with flexible payment options, including “reserve now, pay later.”

Final Verdict

This Tenerife kayaking and snorkeling tour offers a fantastic blend of active exploration, marine wildlife encounters, and stunning coastal scenery. With experienced guides, quality equipment, and the chance to see dolphins and turtles, it’s a worthwhile choice for those seeking a memorable outdoor adventure. While it requires a bit of effort and is weather-dependent, the high praise from travelers underscores its value.

Perfect for active, nature-loving travelers who want to connect with Tenerife’s marine environment in an authentic way, this experience promises both excitement and awe. If you’re ready for a physically engaging day with natural beauty, this tour should definitely be on your list.

You can check availability for your dates here: