Kayak Route along the Volcanic Coast in Tenerife South with Snorkeling

If you’re dreaming of a day on Tenerife’s shimmering waters, exploring rugged coastlines, spotting dolphins, and swimming alongside sea turtles, this kayaking and snorkeling tour might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally paddled along this route, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a lively, accessible experience suitable for all ages and fitness levels—perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends seeking a taste of ocean adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning scenery of Tenerife’s volcanic coastline offers a dramatic backdrop that’s hard to beat. Second, small group sizes (max 10 people) promise a more personal and relaxed atmosphere. Third, the combination of kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting elevates it from just a water activity to a memorable outdoor excursion. But, as with any adventure, there’s a caveat—the unpredictability of wildlife sightings and weather conditions can affect what you see and do during the trip.

This tour suits travelers looking for a fun, affordable, and family-friendly way to experience Tenerife’s coast, especially those eager to combine physical activity with dolphin and turtle encounters. If you value knowledgeable guides, scenic routes, and good value, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: Just over $40 per person for a 2.5-hour ocean adventure.
• All-Inclusive Equipment: Kayaks, paddles, vests, wetsuits, and snorkeling gear are provided.
• Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to see dolphins and sea turtles, though sightings are not guaranteed.
• Small Group Sizes: Max 10 participants, ensuring personal attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Expert Guides: Local guides with extensive knowledge of the coast and wildlife.
• Flexible Experience: Suitable for beginners, families, and those with moderate physical fitness.

An In-Depth Look at the Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour

Starting Point and Ease of Access

The tour begins at Shaka Kayak y Sup Tenerife, conveniently located on the promenade in front of Los Cristianos Beach. This prime location means easy access via public transportation, which is a plus if you’re relying on buses or walking. The check-in process is straightforward, and the staff is known to be friendly and helpful, easing first-timers into the adventure.

What the Tour Includes

For around $40.64, you get a well-rounded package: padded kayaks, paddles, water-resistant bags, life vests, wetsuits, and snorkeling equipment (either classic tubes or new full-face masks). The inclusion of wetsuits is a bonus, especially since the ocean temperature remains comfortably cool year-round, and wetsuits improve buoyancy and comfort.

The tour provider also offers photos and videos of the trip, allowing you to relive the experience or share it with family and friends. Plus, they supply water and fruit, making sure you stay hydrated and energized during the outing.

The Route and Main Highlights

The main appeal of this kayaking route lies in its spectacular volcanic coastline, peppered with caves, cliffs, and natural formations. As you paddle along, guides will point out interesting sights, and there’s potential (again, not guaranteed) to spot playful dolphins and swim with turtles. Multiple reviews mention dolphin sightings, with some travelers even seeing dolphins during the actual fish feeding.

One of the most praised aspects is the opportunity to snorkel in clear waters and observe marine life. Reviewers describe “spectacular” snorkeling experiences, with some encountering many fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins. However, a few reviews remind us that wildlife sightings depend on luck and nature’s mood. As one reviewer notes, “those are the same for other places, so your chances are the same everywhere,” emphasizing that seeing dolphins isn’t guaranteed but is a real possibility.

Navigating the Coast

The route takes you along rugged cliffs and caves, with guides sharing their local knowledge. The scenery is often highlighted as breathtaking, with some reviewers mentioning how “you can see dolphins and turtles from the kayak,” which adds a magical touch to the trip.

The group size of up to 10 people means you’ll get personal attention, and guides like Gabriel and Daniel are known for being friendly, humorous, and informative. They are experienced and know all the best spots to maximize your chances of wildlife sightings and scenic photos.

Snorkeling and Wildlife Spotting

While snorkeling is an integral part of the tour, some reviews mention that rough seas or weather conditions can impact the experience. One reviewer described snorkelling being cancelled due to rough seas, but appreciated the guide’s honesty and the kayak trip alone being worthwhile.

Notably, the availability of snorkeling gear makes it easy for beginners or those unfamiliar with the activity. The option to choose between a classic snorkel tube or a full-face mask offers flexibility, especially for those new to snorkeling or with comfort concerns.

Food and Refreshments

The inclusion of water and fruit adds a refreshing touch, especially after paddling and snorkeling. Though not a full meal, the snacks are enough to keep you going and are appreciated by many travelers.

Group Size and Personal Attention

The small group size ensures a quieter, more intimate experience, allowing guides to give tailored advice and keep a close eye on everyone—even children. Parents often mention feeling reassured with guides attentive to their kids’ safety during the activity.

The Balance of Risk and Reward

Several reviews reflect a mix of experiences—some saw dolphins and multiple turtles, while others didn’t encounter any wildlife. It’s important to remember that wild animals are unpredictable, and sightings depend on luck, weather, and ocean conditions. One reviewer summed it up well: “some days, animals might not be there, but the experience is still great,” emphasizing that the journey itself is rewarding regardless.

Practical Details: What You Should Know

Duration and Timing

The trip lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, making it a manageable half-day adventure. The experience is available year-round thanks to Tenerife’s mild climate, but it’s wise to check the weather forecast and confirm your booking at least 14 days in advance for better availability.

Cost and Value

At just over $40 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering the inclusive equipment, guide expertise, and wildlife encounter potential. Many travelers mention that the price is justified by the quality of the scenery, the personal attention, and the chance to see marine life.

Physical Fitness and Age

The activity is suitable for individuals with moderate physical fitness. Paddling for 2.5 hours requires some stamina, but the kayaks are designed for comfort, and guides can accommodate children and less experienced paddlers. Reviewers mention that children as young as 10 can participate, and the tour is accessible without requiring advanced kayaking skills.

Weather and Safety

The tour provider emphasizes good weather conditions for safety and enjoyment. If weather disrupts the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. As some reviews highlight, rough seas may lead to cancellations or snorkel restrictions—so flexibility is key.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This kayaking and snorkeling tour is best suited for adventurous families, couples seeking a scenic escape, or small groups of friends. It’s ideal if you’re looking for an affordable outdoor activity that combines nature, wildlife, and physical activity in one package. If you love the idea of spotting dolphins or swimming with turtles, this trip offers a genuine chance to do so, though it’s not a wildlife guarantee.

Travelers who prefer a guided, relaxed experience with knowledgeable locals will find this tour especially rewarding. The inclusion of photos and videos helps capture memories, and the small group size ensures a more personal, less rushed experience.

The Sum Up

This kayaking route along Tenerife’s volcanic coast offers a fantastic blend of scenic vistas, wildlife encounters, and outdoor fun. With attentive guides, comfortable kayaks, and the possibility of dolphin sightings and turtle swims, it’s a worthwhile choice for travelers wanting a memorable day on the water without breaking the bank.

While weather and wildlife sightings can be unpredictable, the overall experience remains engaging and authentic. The tour’s emphasis on safety, small groups, and local expertise makes it a reliable option for those new to kayaking or snorkeling, as well as seasoned adventurers.

If your Tenerife itinerary includes a love for the ocean, scenic coastlines, and wildlife, this tour is likely to be a highlight—offering both adventure and ample opportunity for stunning photos.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is accessible to families and children as young as 10, provided they are comfortable with paddling and water activities. Guides are attentive to safety and can help ensure kids enjoy the experience.

What should I bring with me?
While all necessary equipment is provided, it’s recommended to bring a cap, booties, and sunscreen for extra protection. Comfortable clothing and a sense of adventure are also encouraged.

Can I participate if I have no kayaking experience?
Absolutely. The tour is designed as a beginner-friendly activity, with guides helping everyone navigate and enjoy the route. Paddling for 2-3 hours is manageable with some basic instruction.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe or too rough, the activity may be canceled, and you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Will I see dolphins or turtles?
Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but many travelers report seeing dolphins and turtles. The guides know the best spots and times to increase your chances.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including paddling, snorkeling, and taking photos.

Is the snorkeling equipment suitable for beginners?
Yes, you can choose between a classic snorkel tube or a full-face mask, both of which are suitable for beginners and provided as part of the tour.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers kayak, paddles, vests, wetsuits, snorkeling gear, water, snacks, and photos/videos of your trip.

In essence, this Tenerife kayak and snorkeling tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, wildlife, and fun—perfect for travelers wanting a memorable ocean day with reliable guides and excellent value.