The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife, also has the most unique landscape. There are amazing contrasts between the island's verdant, subtropical vegetation and volcanic mountains, between its towering blue cliffs and glistening beaches of golden and black sands. Crowned by the majestic 12,000-foot Teide Volcano, the highest peak in all of Spain, Tenerife is renowned for its superb tourism facilities and attractions. To the north, lies Puerto de la Cruz, a cosmopolitan tourist center, famous for its celebration of Carnival. In the south, Playa de las Americas, one of the most popular beach resorts beckons with beautiful hotels, all kinds of recreational activities and non-stop nightlife. Restored sailing ships provide visitors with romantic trips around the island, and modern ships offer mini-cruises between Tenerife and the neighboring islands. The warm Atlantic waters surrounding the island conceal dazzling marine life that are a scuba diver's dream. And no visit to Tenerife would be complete without a visit to Las Canadas National Park, a huge crater in whose center the Teide rises to the sky, and whose landscape of twisted lava formations and stunning colors can never be forgotten. Certainly, one of the most memorable aspects of Tenerife is its people, whose exquisite smiles and sincere desire to please visitors are as unique as the delightful year-round climate.
A combination of consistently sunny weather, warm water, temperatures and scenic beauty make the southern part of Tenerife a true vacation paradise. Many of the hotels featured on Tenerife are located in this part of the island, which is only 15 minutes from the international airport. Although the area has attracted many striking new hotels, the small villages which dot the coastline and mountains give it a quaint "local flavor." And when you're not enjoying your favorite watersport, playing golf or tennis or just lazing in the sun, you should spend some time exploring the surrounding countryside. The area is laced with footpaths leading to fascinating rock formations, picturesque valleys and secluded coves; and life in the villages goes on as if untouched by time. South Tenerife's nightlife begins at dusk and continues until dawn. Strolling past the sidewalk cafes or the promenade along the seashore after dinner is a favorite pastime. You'll see local families and couples enjoying their walk or sipping an aperitif or espresso at their favorite cafe. The clubs, discotheques and pubs are filled with the gaiety of people dancing and making new friends. And the flamenco and international shows are terrific.
Located 85 miles to the northeast of Gran Canaria, Lanzarote is by far the most fascinating of the Canary Islands. The term "different" does not even begin to describe the island's unique volcanic landscape.
This almost circular island is somewhat smaller than Tenerife, and was formed as a mountainous, volcanic mass, deeply indented by ravines. Its unique landscape also features a mini-Sahara desert and lush tropical vegetation.
It was on Gomera that Columbus stopped in 1492 to get provisions before setting sail for the New World. It's a breathtakingly beautiful island, etched by deep canyons and ravines, and covered by a lovely laurel forest.
The most exotic city in Morocco. You'll see all of Marrakesh's major historical and cultural sites, and have an opportunity to shop at a bazaar. The tour concludes with a colorful folklore dance performance at a typical Moroccan restaurant.
Las Canadas is the huge crater from whose center arose the majestic Teide volcano, the highest peak in Spain. With its multi-colored lava formations dotted with shrubs and plants, the crater presents a landscape of fantastic contrasts.
This tour encompasses both southern and northern Tenerife, and gives you the opportunity to view the dramatic difference in the landscape between the lush, fertile greenery of the north, and the more rugged and dramatic landscape of the south.
A comprehensive tour of the city.
Enjoy the many duty-free shops, an indoor marketplace, botanical gardens and the Lido San Telmo, an impressive complex of pools and sunbathing terraces.
Masca, near the cliffs of Los Gigantes, offers many spectacular views for photo-taking. Garachico was the principal port and capital of Tenerife until 1706, when the nearby Teide volcano erupted, destroying a good part of the village.
Visit Las Canadas, the huge crater from whose center arose the majestic Teide volcano. The crater has a unique landscape of multi-colored lava formations dotted with shrubs and plants.
Santa Cruz is a shopper's paradise. Duty-free goods, such as cameras, radios and stereos, are available; and there are also a number of shoe stores, boutiques and department stores.
Browse the town's many duty-free shops, and indoor marketplace. You'll also have time to visit the botanical gardens and the Lido San Telmo, an impressive complex of pools and sun terraces.
After visiting the camel breeding center, you'll begin your safari through Guaza National Park.
The scenery is unusual, and so is the transportation. It's an experience you'll never forget.
Step back in time and spend an evening with the "count" and "countess" at their medieval castle. You'll get to cheer on your own knight at a tournament, and partake of a medieval- style meal.
Enjoy a performance of traditional dance and a hearty Canarian dinner.
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