Tenerife: Kayak Safari and Sea Turtle Snorkeling

If you’re dreaming of exploring Tenerife from the water, this kayaking adventure offers a chance to see sea turtles and dolphins in their natural environment, all while enjoying the island’s breathtaking coastline. We’re here to share what makes this tour special, along with some honest insights to help you decide if it’s right for you.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to observe marine animals without disturbing their habitat, the stunning scenery of cliffs and caves, and the value for money — especially considering the inclusion of professional guides, photos, and snorkeling gear. A potential hiccup? If the weather turns rough, the tour might be canceled, which can be disappointing if you’re eager to see marine wildlife. Still, this activity suits adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a fun, eco-friendly way to explore Tenerife’s coastline.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: The tour offers chances to see sea turtles and dolphins in their natural environment.
• Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable guides speaking multiple languages, ensuring safety and education.
• Beautiful Scenery: Paddling along cliffs, caves, and protected nature reserves with breathtaking views.
• Flexible Options: Available as a group or private tour, with the possibility to repeat if animals aren’t spotted due to natural conditions.
• All-Inclusive Price: At $35, it includes kayaking equipment, snorkeling gear, photos, and insurance—great value.
• Weather Dependent: Rough seas can lead to cancellations, but full refunds are offered if weather prevents the trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tenerife Kayak Safari and Snorkeling Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at Los Cristianos beach, a lively fishing village in the south of Tenerife, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere. The meeting point varies depending on your booking option, but generally, you’ll want to arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start. Many reviewers emphasize the importance of punctuality; arriving early not only ensures timely departure but also gives you a chance to get comfortable and meet your guides.

Parking options are straightforward: free parking nearby or paid private parking just a minute away. Wearing your swimsuit underneath your clothes is recommended since you’ll likely get into the water soon after starting. Remember to bring essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a towel, snacks, and water — all of which greatly enhance your comfort during this active day.

The Route and Stops

The tour takes you from Los Cristianos to the cliffs of Guaza, a protected natural reserve teeming with biodiversity. As you paddle along the coast, you’ll get close views of towering cliffs, sea caves, and the rugged shoreline—perfect for photo ops. In fact, the tour includes a group photo at the start, making it easy to remember this special day.

One of the most thrilling moments is a visit to a sea cave, home to numerous marine species. This spot is accessible only by sea, which means you’ll experience a sense of adventure and exclusivity. Many reviews mention the cave as a highlight, with its calm waters and vibrant marine life making snorkeling particularly rewarding.

Wildlife Encounters

While no wildlife tour can promise sightings, the majority of adventurers report seeing sea turtles and dolphins—sometimes quite close. Several reviewers highlight that guides are attentive and skilled at spotting these animals, often saying guides like Irina, Joseph, and Gera are particularly knowledgeable.

For example, one reviewer mentioned, “We managed to see two baby turtles in the distance, which was incredible,” while another noted dolphins jumping near the kayaks and swimming close enough to touch. Such experiences are made possible because the tour is conducted respectfully in animals’ natural habitats, with guides explaining the animals’ behaviors and ecology.

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Snorkeling Experience

Midway through the journey, there’s an opportunity to snorkel in a prime location, accessible only from the sea. Expect to see colorful tropical fish and marine flora. Many reviewers describe the snorkeling as “lovely,” with some saying they saw an abundance of fish and even more turtles.

Guides are equipped with snorkeling gear and provide instructions, making it accessible even for first-timers. If you’re lucky, you’ll witness dolphins breaching or sea turtles gliding past—moments that feel surreal when experienced so close.

The Scenic and Relaxation Elements

Beyond wildlife, the tour offers stunning coastal vistas, especially during the late afternoon when the sunset paints the sky with warm hues. Many travelers appreciate the calmness of the sea during morning trips, which makes paddling easier and more relaxing. Others note that even when the sea is a little rough, guides like Carol and Gera remain attentive, ensuring safety and comfort.

The tour is designed to be relaxed yet adventurous — with plenty of stops for photos, wildlife spotting, and just soaking in the views. Reviewers often mention how the scenery alone makes this worthwhile, even if animals are elusive on some days.

Guides and Safety Measures

One of the biggest positives reported is the expert guidance. Guides like Jose, Irina, and Allisia are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and attention to safety. Many reviews note that guides are multilingual, speaking English, Spanish, French, Italian, and Portuguese, which helps make the experience inclusive.

Safety equipment, including life jackets, waterproof boxes, and comfortable seating, is provided. The tours are suitable for most fitness levels, but they’re not recommended for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, non-swimmers, or seasickness-prone travelers.

Photos and Videos

A standout feature is the inclusion of photos and videos during the activity, allowing you to relive those incredible moments with marine life. Some reviewers expressed excitement about receiving images of dolphins breaching and turtles swimming nearby, though a few noted that they’re still waiting for their photos.

Cost and Value

At $35 per person, this kayaking trip offers good value compared to other marine activities on the island. Considering the guidance, snorkeling gear, photos, insurance, and the chance to see wildlife all included, it’s a cost-effective way to spend a few hours immersed in Tenerife’s marine environment.

Many reviews describe it as “worth every penny” and “a fantastic adventure”, especially for those who enjoy active outdoor experiences with a chance to connect with nature. The fact that you can try to repeat the tour if animals aren’t seen on your first try also adds flexibility and reassurance.

Potential Drawbacks

As with any outdoor activity, weather plays a significant role. Rough seas can lead to cancellations—something that disappointed many travelers. However, if the tour is canceled due to weather, full refunds are offered, and most guides are transparent about weather conditions.

Another consideration is that seasickness might affect some guests, especially on choppier days. The tour isn’t suitable for low fitness levels or those prone to seasickness, so plan accordingly.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This activity is ideal if you’re interested in marine wildlife and want a hands-on experience rather than just looking at animals from a boat. It suits adventure seekers, nature lovers, and families with teens, as many reviews highlight how fun and accessible it is.

While not recommended for pregnant women, those with mobility issues or non-swimmers should consider their comfort level with water activities. It’s a great option for anyone wanting an active, authentic, and eco-friendly way to explore Tenerife’s coast.

FAQs

Do I need kayaking experience?
Not at all. Many guides are patient and helpful, and the equipment is designed for comfort and safety. Some reviews mention it’s easier than expected, even for first-timers.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials such as sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a towel, snacks, and water. Wearing your swimsuit underneath is recommended for quick transition into the water.

Can I see dolphins and turtles every trip?
Wildlife sightings depend on natural conditions, so they’re not guaranteed. However, many travelers report seeing both during their tour, often close enough for incredible photos.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most reviews focus on teenagers and adults. The activity requires a certain level of fitness and comfort in water, so check age restrictions and your child’s swimming ability before booking.

How long is the tour?
The tour typically lasts around 3 hours, covering paddling, snorkeling, and sightseeing. This gives enough time to enjoy each aspect without feeling rushed.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is helpful if weather or other plans change.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s advisable to bring snacks and stay hydrated.

What language do guides speak?
Guides are multilingual, including English, Spanish, French, Italian, and Portuguese, making it accessible to many travelers.

What if I don’t see any wildlife?
If animals aren’t spotted due to natural reasons, you’re welcome to repeat the tour the next day at no extra cost.

This Tenerife kayak safari with sea turtle snorkeling offers a fantastic blend of adventure, wildlife encounters, and stunning scenery. The guides are highly praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers. The chance to see dolphins breaching and turtles gliding past creates memories that last a lifetime—especially when captured with the included photos and videos.

It’s an activity that balances active exploration with relaxing moments, perfect for nature lovers looking to connect with the ocean in a respectful and sustainable way. While weather-dependent, most who embark on this trip leave with stories of close-up wildlife sightings and gorgeous coastal views.

If you’re after a fun, authentic marine experience that won’t break the bank, this tour is a wise choice. It suits those who enjoy outdoor adventures, want to learn about ocean life, and seek an eco-conscious way to explore Tenerife’s vibrant marine environment.

Enjoy your water adventure and keep your camera ready—you might just meet a turtle or a dolphin along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: