If you’re dreaming of paddling along Tenerife’s coast and spotting dolphins, turtles, and seabirds in their natural environment, this guided kayak tour might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the reviews and tour details paint a clear picture of a fun, wildlife-filled adventure that’s perfect for active travelers seeking authentic moments.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the guides—Iveta and her husband—are highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and dedication to environmental respect. Second, the chance to see dolphins and turtles up close is a real highlight, especially with the tour’s no-chase policy that ensures wildlife safety. Third, the combination of kayaking, snorkeling, and scenic views makes it a well-rounded outing for those who love aquatic activities.
One thing to consider is the weather—heavy seas can impact the experience, and a few reviewers noted that the tour might not meet every expectation if conditions aren’t ideal. Also, the 2.5-hour duration and small group size (max 12 travelers) keep things intimate, but it means booking in advance is recommended.
This tour is best suited for adventurous spirits who enjoy being active, wildlife lovers eager for close encounters, and travelers looking for a memorable day outside of the typical tourist spots. It’s especially great if you’re interested in responsible wildlife viewing and picturesque scenery.
Key Points
- Wildlife encounters: Dolphins and turtles are often seen in their natural habitat, with guides prioritizing non-intrusive observation.
- Small group size: A maximum of 12 travelers means personalized attention and fewer crowds.
- Well-rated guides: Iveta and her husband are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and safety-first approach.
- Value for money: At around $40.70 per person for roughly 2.5 hours, the experience offers excellent value, considering the chance to snorkel and see wildlife.
- Scenic stops: The tour includes visits to the fish farm, the picturesque Cueva del Palma, crystalline waters, and Guaza mountain.
- Weather dependency: Heavy seas could influence the trip, with cancellations possible for safety reasons.
Starting Point and Logistics
The adventure kicks off at Los Cristianos Beach, with the meeting point at C. el Coronel, 2, Arona. To kick things off smoothly, you’ll want to arrive about 20 to 30 minutes before the scheduled departure—9:30 or 12:30. The tour operates in small groups of up to 12 people, which keeps things cozy and allows for personalized attention from the guides.
Getting on the Water
Once everyone’s ready, you’ll hop into double kayaks, with the guides providing safety instructions and snorkeling gear. The guides emphasize a safe, environmentally conscious approach, ensuring wildlife isn’t stressed or chased—something many reviewers appreciate. Iveta and her husband are described as knowledgeable, personable, and genuinely passionate about preserving the natural habitat.
The Fish Farm and Wildlife Watching
The first stop is the fish farm—a hotspot for observing a large variety of fish, and if you’re lucky, sea turtles and dolphins. Several reviews mention the thrill of seeing dolphins swim freely close to the kayaks, with one reviewer noting, “a dolphin swam right under our kayak,” which is a rare and magical experience. Guides are attentive, offering insights into local marine life and encouraging respectful observation rather than intrusive chasing.
Snorkeling Opportunities
Guides mark out specific spots for snorkeling, often in crystal-clear waters, giving everyone a chance to explore beneath the surface. Reviewers have highlighted the abundance of fish and other marine life during snorkeling sessions, with some even capturing photos of dolphins and turtles from the water. The snorkeling equipment is provided, and the guides are happy to assist even beginners.
The Cueva del Palma and Guaza Mountain
Next, you’ll visit the stunning Cueva del Palma—an area known for its crystalline waters, ideal for swimming and taking photos. From there, the view of Guaza mountain is breathtaking, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a reminder of the island’s rugged beauty. This protected natural space is teeming with birdlife, adding to the sense of being in a pristine environment.
Duration and Group Size
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including stops and snorkeling. The small group setting not only enhances safety but also fosters a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Several reviewers mention feeling well looked after, with guides engaging in friendly conversation and providing local knowledge.
Environmental Focus and Wildlife Respect
A recurring theme in reviews is the respect for wildlife. Iveta and her team communicate clearly about their no-chase policy, which means animals aren’t disturbed or stressed. This approach ensures a more authentic and ethical wildlife experience—an important consideration for eco-conscious travelers.
What to Bring
Since the tour includes snorkeling, bringing your swimwear, towel, and sunscreen is advisable. The guides typically provide snorkeling gear and life vests, but you might want to bring a waterproof camera or phone in a dry bag to capture those unforgettable moments. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking medication beforehand, especially if the sea is rough.
Clothing and Comfort
Wearing comfortable, quick-drying clothing and a hat for sun protection will make the experience more enjoyable. Remember, heavy seas can sometimes make kayaking more challenging, so this activity is best suited for those comfortable with mild water activity.
Booking Tips
The tour is popular—most travelers book about 12 days in advance—so plan ahead to secure your spot. It departs twice daily, at 9:30 and 12:30, with the earlier slot often recommended for better wildlife viewing, based on reviews. Be sure to arrive at least 20 minutes early to avoid missing the start.
Pricing and Value
At just over $40 per person, this tour offers solid value given the mix of activities—kayaking, snorkeling, wildlife watching, and scenic stops—and the small group experience. Considering the expertise of guides and the chance to see dolphins and turtles in the wild, many reviews describe it as a worthwhile investment.
One of the most appreciated aspects is the guides’ dedication. Reviewers mention Iveta and her husband by name, highlighting their professionalism, extensive local knowledge, and genuine care for wildlife. They’re not just there to paddle and point, but to ensure everyone feels safe, informed, and involved.
The tour also garners praise for its educational value—guides share interesting facts about the local environment and marine life, making it more than a simple boat ride. Many travelers note the guides’ ability to strike a balance between safety and fun, creating a relaxed atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the experience.
Since the tour’s success depends on good weather, cancellations can happen if sea conditions are unsafe. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip, providing reassurance that plans can be flexible if needed.
This guided kayak tour offers a well-rounded, eco-friendly way to experience Tenerife’s marine life and stunning scenery. It’s ideal for active travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are interested in observing wildlife in a respectful manner. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a personalized, memorable outing, especially if you’re eager to spot dolphins and turtles.
If your idea of a perfect day involves paddling along the coast, snorkeling in crystal waters, and learning about local wildlife from passionate guides, this tour will likely hit the mark. However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer more relaxed, land-based sightseeing, you might want to consider other options.
This experience is a fantastic value—offering adventure, education, and a chance to witness Tenerife’s marine creatures in their natural habitat. It’s a solid choice for nature lovers and active explorers eager to add a unique highlight to their holiday.
What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour starts at C. el Coronel, 2, Arona, near Los Cristianos Beach.
How early should I arrive?
It’s recommended to arrive about 20 minutes before the scheduled departure—either 9:30 or 12:30—to ensure a smooth start.
How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including stops for wildlife viewing and snorkeling.
What activities are included?
You’ll kayak along the coast, visit the fish farm, snorkel in designated areas, and see scenic natural spots like Cueva del Palma and Guaza mountain.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, guides provide snorkeling gear, and several reviews mention the abundance of fish and clear waters to explore.
Can I see dolphins and turtles?
Many travelers have reported seeing dolphins swimming close by and turtles in their natural habitat, thanks to the guides’ no-chase policy.
Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for those with reduced mobility, and children should be comfortable with water activities.
What happens in bad weather?
If weather conditions are unsafe, the tour may be canceled, and you will be offered a different date or a full refund.
Can I cancel at any time?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance; less than that, and the booking is non-refundable.
This guided kayak tour from Los Cristianos Beach offers a genuine chance to connect with Tenerife’s marine environment while enjoying the company of friendly guides. Whether you’re chasing dolphin sightings or simply want a fun, active day in nature, it’s a trip worth considering.
More Guided Tours in Tenerife
- Full Day Guided Tour to La Gomera from Tenerife
- Electric Bike Teide Volcano Guided Tour
- Guided Kayak Tour From Los Cristianos Beach Tenerife
- Tenerife: Guided Buggy Discovery Tour around Mount Teide
- Tenerife : Brewery guided tour with tasting at TACOA Brewery
- Tenerife: Teide National Park Guided Buggy Tour
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Tenerife
More Tours in Tenerife
More Tour Reviews in Tenerife
Still browsing? Here are more Tenerife experiences we've covered recently
- Anaga Private Tour: Valleys of Nature and Tradition
- Amazing Anaga
- Acroyoga Tenerife Partner Yoga class
- Acrobatic Paragliding Flight with Spanish Champion in Tenerife
- 3-Hour Cetacean Watching and Snorkeling Tour in Tenerife
- 2 hour trip to see whales dolphins puerto colon adeje
- 1 hour Jet Ski Safari
- Teide National Park Half Day Tour with Hotel Pick up
- Tenerife Grand Tour: including Teide National Park and Masca
- Tenerife VIP Tour
- Teide Sunset Quad trip
- Teide National Park for smaller groups