OCIO GUIDE
REGIONAL HOLIDAYS & FIESTAS
Canarias, like elsewhere in Spain, has a very lively culture with ample opportunities to celebrate and gozar. These are excellent opportunities to get out of the house and experience Canarias a tope. There are several throughout the year that are celebrated throughout the region and/or Spain (such as Carnaval), while many others are specific to individual islands. You will find that they are highly anticipated within the community/region – for example, your co-teachers may start asking you about your Carnaval costume in November! As events approach, don’t hesitate to ask them for recommendations, or even to tag along!
Carnaval
As noted elsewhere in the guide, Carnaval is one of the high points of the year in Canarias. Santa Cruz de Tenerife boasts the second-largest celebration in the world (behind Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), and hundreds of thousands of people flock to the islands to experience it. Basically, every last pueblo in the Islands will have their own celebration, big or small. The entire celebration lasts roughly a month and a half, stretching through February and March, and features parades, popular performers, murgas (musical theater acts), and fiestas in the streets and parks that last all night long.
Many schools have puentes (breaks) for Carnaval, though the length and timing varies on each island, so be sure to check at your school! Past grantees have said that Carnaval in Canarias is an experience you cannot miss, so keep it in mind and plan accordingly. If you’d like to travel to another city/island (especially Santa Cruz!) for part of the celebration, be sure to book accomodation VERY early, as places fill up rapidly.
One important rule: dressing up is mandatory! There is always a theme (last year in Tenerife was bajo el mar), but it is widely disregarded by partygoers. You can be whatever you’d like, but be sure to plan ahead. Many people plan group costumes with friends, and your co-teachers may already have something in mind if they choose to celebrate together. As February draws near, many shops and bazaars (you will often hear them called chinos by locals–more on this at orientation) will start selling materials (pelucas, maquillaje, and full costumes like you’d see at Halloween), but may be picked over if you wait until the last minute. Carnaval in Canarias requires strategy!
Many schools will also Carnaval celebrations, which often involve coordinated songs and dances, costumes, and a parade through town. There will also be many arts and crafts related to sardines, as the end of Carnaval in Spain is marked by the burial and/or burning of a symbolic sardine. It may not be a time of ample focus on the English language, but it will be fun and you are encouraged to attend (even if it’s on your day off!).
Semana Santa
In Canarias, observation of Semana Santa (Holy Week) is quite similar to that of the peninsula. There are long, candle-lit processions through the streets; torrijas (the delicious Spanish cousin of French toast); and plenty of religious opulence. Of course, however, canarios put their own spin on things! For example, in Costa Adeje (southern Tenerife), anyone can sign up to join an internationally broadcasted reenactment of biblical scenes. Semana Santa is also an excellent time to try any typical Canarian/Spanish foods you may have previously missed out on.
The epicenter of Canarian Semana Santa proceedings is San Cristobal de La Laguna – more commonly referred to as simply “La Laguna” – in northern Tenerife. The historic town center makes for an excellent backdrop, and many special events are organized as the celebration is a great point of pride for the city. If you would like to observe Semana Santa traditions without leaving the Islands, this would be an excellent destination!
For more information on Holy Week traditions in Canarias and Spain, click here.
Día de Canarias
Canarias pride is something to behold, and there is no better time to do so than during Día de Canarias on May 30th. It dates back to that day in 1983, when the Islands had their first official parliament meeting as an autonomous community. It is a time of appreciation of both the present and the past, and will pair well with your reflection as you near the end of your grant. Typical celebrations include romerías (processions through the streets), bailes de magos (traditional dances), musical performances, and plenty of opportunities to eat typical Canarian fare. Similar to Carnaval, everyone partaking in these events is strongly encouraged to dress up in traditional Canarian clothing. These outfits differ on each island and usually incorporate the colors of the city/town, and you will likely find someone who has a spare outfit you can borrow. In addition to that of your city/town, your school will also have a special celebration, and you will be encouraged to dress the part and partake in the festivities!
Racial Depictions in Fiestas
Throughout your year in Spain, and especially during holidays and celebrations like Three Kings Day and Carnaval, you will likely see some costumes and representations that are unsettling for you. While the conversation surrounding cultural appropriation in the United States has been ongoing for many years, peaking every year around Halloween, such themes and portrayals are not widely regarded as taboo or offensive in Spain. In addition to costumes, blackface is a recurring element of several celebrations throughout the year. During celebrations for Three Kings Day, one of los reyes magos is often a white Spaniard in blackface to represent Balthazar, who has historically been depicted as black. In Canarias specifically, the traditional festival of Los Indianos (which happens mainly in La Palma but is also celebrated elsewhere) features caricatures of the canarios who emigrated to and then returned from the Americas during the colonial period, as well as the people they brought back with them. A central figure in the celebration, La negra Tomasa, is portrayed in blackface, typically as the exaggerated “mammy” archetype.
Several 2018-2019 grantees attended Los Indianos celebrations, and described this part of the experience as jarring and problematic, but also very much enjoyed the rest of the fiesta, which featured a powder fight, endless dancing to Cuban music, and ample evidence of the connection that exists between Canarias and the other side of the Atlantic. Elements of these celebrations can be very unsettling, but it is important to take time to consider the larger cultural context. For example, in the United States, blackface has a very specifically painful history that may not translate in other parts of the world. Regardless, encounters with such representations can be important opportunities for personal reflection and discussion with those around you.
While we will speak more about race in Spain during Orientation, always feel free to reach out to your mentor, the Commission, and/or others at any point if you would like to continue the conversation!
Fiestas by Island
You can find here an exhaustive list of all Lanzarote fiestas and their dates and locations. In addition to this, we have included below fiestas specifically recommended by past grantees.
Alfombras del Corpus Christi:
At the end of June each year (date varies), people flock to Arrecife to view beautifully designed “carpets” of colored sea salt around la Iglesia de San Ginés. The art is visible for only one day, as the processions to the church walk atop them the next day.
Fiesta de Nuestra Señora de los Dolores:
The biggest traditional festival on Lanzarote, during which people walk in a pilgrimage and in romerías to the small village of Mancha Blanca to celebrate the virgin who protected inhabitants from volcanic eruptions. Be sure to read up on the very interesting history before the fiesta!
Holi Lanzarote:
The colorful Hindu festival welcoming Spring is celebrated in Puerto del Carmen each March, with lots of typical food, music, and traditions. The date changes each year, so keep an eye out for more information.
Lanzarote Wine Run:
A yearly event in La Geria in early June that involves running or walking through a volcanic vineyard and lots of wine and traditional foods at the finish. The short race is 11.5 km and the long race is 23.2 km, and the trekking course is 11.1 km.
To keep track of all the fiestas, classes, concerts, and more happening in Fuerteventura, past grantees strongly recommend downloading the app Pella de Ocio. There, you can sort the calendars by event type and even by municipality. In addition to this, we have included below fiestas specifically recommended by past grantees.
Carnaval de Día Tetir:
Springtime powder festival celebrated in Tetir, reminiscent of Los Indianos in La Palma. Don’t forget to wear white!
Gran Baile de Taifas:
A widely-attended event in Puerto del Rosario that occurs in conjunction with Día de Canarias at the end of May. Traditional clothing is required, so plan ahead!
Being one of the largest islands, Gran Canaria has many events and festivals throughout the year. Below are some of the larger festivals celebrated on the island, but always be on the lookout for flyers that advertise smaller, more pueblo-specific fiestas!
One of the most widely celebrated fiestas, Día de Canarias in Gran Canaria is sure to be an eventful time. The main event is The Paseo Romero on May 30, which is a parade with folk groups, cars, Canarian cuisine and a large number of participants. Check out the link above to see more detailed information on museum tours, sailing races, and other community events that commemorate Día de Canarias in Gran Canaria.
And, of course, Carnaval! Gran Canaria has one of the largest celebrations of Carnaval throughout the islands, second only to Tenerife. The community will likely be celebrating this for weeks, so be on the lookout for spontaneous parades, art exhibitions, and musical performances. Some of the scheduled festivities include the Drag Queen of Carnaval Gala, Murga (local Canarian singing groups) Contests, and the Sardine’s funeral.
WOMAD (World, Art, Music and Dance Festival)
Each year, the WOMAD festival takes places in several places across the globe, and Gran Canaria is one of the locations. Dates vary each year, so be sure to check WOMAD social media and ask co-teachers at your school about attendance. As the title suggests, the festival is a mix of art, music, and dancing, and attracts a global crowd!
Past grantees have also recommended the Tejeda Almond Festival, occurring in February. This festival is one of the most popular fiestas in the winter months, celebrating the blossoming of the Almond Trees.
If you live on Tenerife, it will be hard to miss the constant advertisement and excitement that surrounds Carnaval each year. Some Tenerife-specific events that occur: The Gala for the Queen of Carnaval, Murga (local singing groups) Contests, and constant street performances at every corner you turn. Take a look at the website linked above to see last year’s festivities!
Las Burras de Güímar:
A unique celebration occurring in Güímar on the day of the Carnaval sardine burial that centers around a theatrical representation of brujería in Tenerife’s history.
Romería de la Bajada de la Virgen del Socorro:
A well-known romería that takes place on the 7th (la bajada) and 8th (la subida) of September in the town of Güímar. There are the usual traditional dances and concerts, but there is also a theatrical representation of the aparición of the Virgin in front of the Guanches. It is said to be the oldest romería in Tenerife. You can find a writeup of the 2018 celebration here.
Romería de San Marcos: One of the most popular romerías in Canarias, celebrated in Tegueste on the last Sunday in April.
Baile de Magos: Fiestas that take place on the Sunday before a town’s romería, where traditional dances, clothing, and food abound. One of the most notable celebrations occurs in Santa Cruz de Tenerife in mid-May–read a description of last year’s celebration here. Traditional clothing required!
Los Indianos:
La Palma’s most popular celebration, taking place during Carnaval and commemorating/parodying the return of canarios who colonized the Americas. The main event is an enormous and lengthy powder fight with all participants wearing elegant white outfits. Dancing and fiestas abound.
Fiestas de San Marco Evangelista
This fiesta is in Agulo in late April and has live music, people jumping over burning things in the street, and much more!
Carnaval in Valle Gran Rey
Carnaval occurs in late February/early March. It can be tempting to want to leave La Gomera for this time and spend as much of it as you can on the larger islands, but La Gomera itself has so many great festivities, past grantees recommend staying on the island for at least some time to experience the local celebrations. Check out last year’s La Gomera Carnaval celebrations here.
Los Reyes in El Guro, Valle Gran Rey
This is a celebration that takes place at Ermita de Los Reyes in El Guro with live music and homemade food.
These celebrations take place in mid-July. All valleys on the island celebrate Carmen, the patron saint of fishermen.
For a complete list of festividades locales and their dates and locations, visit here. In addition to this, we have included below fiestas specifically recommended by past grantees.
Bajada de la Virgen de los Reyes:
An important celebration that takes place once every four years in early July. The patron saint of El Hierro leaves her sanctuary and travels throughout the island, visiting every locality on the island accompanied by traditional dancing and processions. The last bajada was in 2017, and the next will be in 2021.
El Hierro Fotosub Open:
An international underwater photography competition based in La Restinga in October. To read a past grantee’s account of the 2018 celebration (open to anyone!), click here.
Los Carneros de Tigaday:
One of the more unique festivals in Canarias, and just one example of the wide variety of Carnaval celebrations that occur across the islands. The festival takes place in La Frontera in February, and involves men dressing up as rams and chasing people through the streets to try and rub them with shoe polish. While it may sound nothing short of horrifying, it is a beloved tradition of the island and is known to be extremely fun!
CANARIAS GASTRONOMY
The culinary experience in the Canary Islands is unique and exciting: fresh seafood, distinctive regional ingredients, the most flavorful bananas, classic Spanish favorites, and a diverse range of cultural influences that combine in delicious ways. As in the rest of Spain, a large percentage of socializing takes place in the presence of food and drink, so you’ll have ample opportunities to eat out at restaurants. If you go out to eat with a group of canarios, you may find that someone orders multiple dishes for the entire group to share, sort of like a tapas experience but with appetizers and entrees (note: tapas are more often called pinchos in Canarias, and the corresponding verb is pinchar [algo]). This is an excellent way to try multiple dishes, and it helps to have local experts to guide you!
A cornerstone of Canarian eating establishments is the guachinche. Guachinches are small restaurants that open primarily to serve local wine, but also offer homemade traditional food as an accompaniment. Going to a guachinche is one of the most authentic experiences you can have, and is highly recommended by past grantees. They can be difficult to reach without a car, as many of them are in relatively remote locations. But if you mention to a canario that you’ve never been to one, you’ll quickly find yourself being whisked away. Guachinches are most common on Tenerife, but can be found on any island. They are always marked by the letter V (for vino de cosecha propia) on a red plaque outside.
One thing to note is that in Canarias (as in other parts of Spain), establishments labeled as “bars” (or tascas) are usually all-purpose restaurants, unlike in the United States. Some of the best, most authentic food you’ll eat in Canarias will come from a bar! Specialities/staples include papas arrugadas con mojo, anything with gofio (like escaldón), pan con mojo rojo/verde, ropa vieja, huevos rotos, carne de cabra, carne fiesta (pork), pulpo, pescado fresco, almogrote (goat cheese/pepper spread), gambas al ajillo (shrimp in garlic and oil), leche asada (similar to flan), polvito uruguayo, and bienmesabe (almond custard – not to be confused with the fish dish of the same name typical in Andalucía!).
In the tabs below, you can find restaurants on each island recommended by former grantees as well as places that cater to dietary restrictions, and the specific, can’t-miss foods that the islands are known for.
One of Lanzarote’s claims to fame is its wine, which is produced by growing grapes in shallow craters dug in the volcanic earth, shielding them from wind and weather. The result is unique and earthy wine, beloved by all who try it.
A widely-recommended local dish is a plate of lapas (limpets), which are small molluscs typically cooked with garlic, parsely, salt, olive oil, and white wine.
Restaurant recommendations from past grantees:
- Casa de Miedo (Arrecife)
- El Lupe (Arrecife)
- Café Gernika (Arrecife)
- Pizzeria Venezia: Italian food right on the beach (Arrecife)
- El Notario: well-priced Italian gastrobar (Arrecife)
- La Recova: great lunch options, especially for papas arrugadas (Arrecife)
- Malecón (Arrecife)
- San Antonio Pasteleria: great for a bocadillo, coffee, and pastries (Arrecife)
- Antiu Xixona: gelato chain (Arrecife, next to the Charco)
- La Miñoca: popular, good, affordable bar (Arrecife, next to the Charco)
- Gigi’s: great pizzeria (Arrecife)
- La Casa Azul: nice beach restaurant (Arrieta)
- Noodle Zone (Arrecife)
- Restaurante Taiwan (Arrecife)
- El Nuevo Maccheroni (Arrecife)
- La Tabla (Arrecife)
- Chikketeria69 (Arrecife)
- Monociclo (Arrecife)
- BellPan (Arrecife)
- Punto Sabroso (Arrecife)
- Pizzeria Real (Arrecife)
- Sakura V: affordable sushi and buffet (Arrecife)
- Kokoxili: upscale Japanese cuisine (Arrecife)
- Gran Hotel Café: great place to grab drinks/snacks with a view (Arrecife)
- Hamburguesería Superguay: open until 2 am on the weekends! (Arrecife)
- Cantina: restaurant housed in historic building (Teguise)
- For vegan food in Arrecife:
- The V Factor
- Veganito del Charco
Grantees also note you can find many restaurants serving Indian, Mexican, and American cuisine in the cities of Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca.
You can find long lists of tried-and-true restaurant recommendations here:
Queso majorero is a Fuerteventura specialty, and even has its own museum in Antigua! It’s a distinctive goat’s milk cheese, and sometimes the rind is rubbed with gofio–it doesn’t get more canario than that!
Grantee-Recommended Restaurants in Puerto del Rosario:
- Arepas Llaneras (best arepas)
- Ciao Mare (pizza)
- La Despensa de María (nicer lunch or dinner)
- La Jaira de Demian (great for celebrations and family visits)
- La Panateca (great bakery with inexpensive sandwiches)
- Restaurante Bahía la Pared (traditional Canarian food, great sunset view)
Grantee-Recommended Restaurants in Gran Tarajal:
- Pizza Pomodoro
- Local cofradía (best and freshest seafood)
- For vegetarian/vegan options, check out Delicias y Namaste in Puerto del Rosario (don’t miss the smoothies) and La Canela in Lajares.
- For vegetarian/vegan options, check out Delicias y Namaste in Puerto del Rosario (don’t miss the smoothies), Bar y Cafeteria Terra (by the port), and La Canela in Lajares.
Grantee-Recommended Restaurants in El Cotillo:
- La Vaca Azul
- El Callao
- La Marisma
You can find long lists of tried-and-true restaurant recommendations here:
As Gran Canaria is a larger island, there are many options for a diverse array of food. Some recommendations from past grantees are seen listed below:
Grantee-Recommended Restaurants in Las Palmas:
- Restaurante Pizzería Venecia
- Tartas Pan
- Smoothie Galaxy
- Cafe Central
- Bogedon Pachichi
- De la Huerta (vegan specific)
- Zoe Love Cafe
- Cokí
- La Garriga Bocadillo de Tortilla
- Candombe Bar
- Tipsy Hammock
Because Tenerife is one of the biggest and most populous islands in the archipelago, it has a wide variety of global cuisines and an enormous amount of restaurants to sort through. It is also home to the most guachinches!
While on Tenerife, you should try locally produced wines, as well as escaldón (mixture of gofio, broth, vegetables, and mojo), puchero (Canarian everything-but-the-kitchen-sink stew), polvito uruguayo for dessert, and other traditional foods. While it may not appeal to you the first time, it’s always worth giving it another go — you may like it more due to differences in style and preparation!
Grantee-Recommended Restaurants in Santa Cruz de Tenerife:
- Viva María
- Taj Tenerife (great vegetarian options)
- Krua Thai
- Restaurants along Avenida Anaga
- La Pajarita (vegan brunch)
- Mel (vegan)
- Aiko (sushi)
- Chema’s (upscale wine and cheese)
- Nazar (kebab)
- El Rayo (arepas)
- La Garriga (bocadillos)
- El Capricho (seafood)
- Tasca Ramón
- Tasca Galeón
Grantee-Recommended Restaurants in La Laguna:
- Guachinche El Paraíso
- Guachinch & Fusion (modern-twist guachinche)
- Beers (hamburgers)
- Tasca 61 (all locally-sourced, organic food run by a really sweet couple)
- Pizza Manammé
- Arepera 23 (best arepas in LL)
- Capricho Lebanés
- Rakaposhi Tapas Bar (Pakistani-Himalayan food)
- Plantae Gastrobar
- Tamarindo (delicious sandwiches and juice)
- Vegigan (home-cooked vegan food)
- Creperie Les Iles
- Patio Canario
- Tasca Faracho (nicer, reservations and small space)
- Cafe Siete (great outdoor space)
- Makika & Co (cafe with a more modern vibe)
- El Jinete Sin Cabeza (intimate dining, reservation required)
- La Venta de la Esquina (jamón, wine, cheese)
- Tasca la Tertulia (fresh comida casera)
Grantee-Recommended Restaurants in Puerto de la Cruz:
- Al Amir (Lebanese)
- Compostelana (Italian)
- Saigon Grill (Vietnamese)
- Restaurante China III (Chinese)
- El Limón (Vegetarian)
- Con Pasión (Wine and tapas)
Grantee-Recommended Restaurants Elsewhere on Tenerife:
- Terrazas del Sauzal (amazing views in El Sauzal)
- Casa del Vino (amazing views in El Sauzal)
- Café Paraíso (Coffee, cake, and amazing views in La Orotava)
- Casa Riquelme (Masca)
- Los Pinchitos (San Andrés)
- It’s worth noting that restaurants in El Médano have many, many more options for dietary restrictions than restaurants in San Isidro do.
- Rosmarino Italiano (El Médano)
- Cofradía El Médano
- Cofradía Bajamar
Recommended guachinches:
- Como En Casa (rated best modern guachinche on Tenerife)
- La Huerta de Ana y Eva (La Matanza)
- El Fogón (close to La Laguna)
- El Barco (La Victoria)
- La Gorgolana (Tacoronte)
- Restaurante Tenoria (San Andrés)
You can also find long lists of tried-and-true restaurant recommendations here:
Canarias’ isla bonita may be known for its greenery and stargazing opportunities, but it is also a great place to visit for locally produced red wine and various types of fresh cheeses. On top of typical Canarian dishes, you should also try the chicharrones and take advantage of the presence of delicious areperas.
Grantee-Recommended Restaurants in Santa Cruz de La Palma:
- La Isla de Goya (Mediterranean, vegetarian friendly)
- Casa Goyo (seafood, gluten free options)
- Restaurante Ericlai (Mediterranean, Spanish)
- Parilla Los Braseros (steak, barbecue)
- Chipi Chipi
- Cafeteria de Las Nieves (Venezuelan)
- Don Manuel’s (coffee and cheesecake)
Other Grantee-Recommended Restaurants:
- Jardín de la Sal (Fuencaliente)
- La Casa del Volcán (Fuencaliente)
- Quesería Luna de Awara (cheese factory in Garafía)
You can also find long lists of tried-and-true restaurant recommendations here:
La Gomera is home to some of the best and most authentic Canarian food of the islands. Besides the many places listed below, the previous La Gomera grantee also recommends trying the following traditional foods: almogrote, gofio, queso asado (also called “queso a la plancha”) with miel de palma and mojo, potaje de berros, carne de res en salsa, and leche asada. And the local Gomeran wine is not to be missed!
Grantee-Recommended Restaurants in Valle Gran Rey:
- La Salsa
- La Bocana del Puerto (best fresh fish)
- El Baifo (Malaysian-Canarian fusion)
- La Islita (great Italian food)
- Pizzería Pinocho (best woodfired pizza)
- Pizzería Chiquitín (owned by Mimo from Sicily; if you see him wearing a Harley Davidson shirt from Pataskala, Ohio, that was from the previous La Gomera grantee!)
- El Pescador
- El Paraíso (nice ocean views, great for drinks/picoteo)
- La Abisinia (fantastic food, twists on Canarian favorites, also good for date nights)
- El Sueño de Yanini (best ice cream, homemade, super friendly owner)
- Heladería Zanzibar (newly opened, juices and good ice cream, also nice atmosphere for sitting)
- La Crema (cheap ice cream by the beach)
- Heladería Zumería Gran Rey (really good juices)
- Pan de Vueltas (German café with two locations in town, good for coffee/tea/treats/bread)
- El Gran Café (local favorite café, good for breakfast)
- Cacatua (bar by night, restaurant-ish by day)
- La Tasca (go-to bar in Vueltas, local favorite)
- La Bodeguita (German bar, great for playing darts)
- Donde Aitor (tapas bar)
Grantee-Recommended Restaurants Elsewhere:
- Restaurante Roque Blanco
- La Chalana
- Casa Conchita in Arure (great traditional food)
- La Laguna Grande (recreational area in the center of the island with a great restaurant attached)
- Mirador de Abrante above Agulo (amazing views)
- Restaurante La Vieja Escuela in Agulo
- Restaurante La Tasca in San Sebastián
- Bar Colón in San Sebastián
Grantee-Recommended Restaurants for Vegetarians/Vegans:
- Noah’s Ark in La Puntilla (serves all vegetarian and vegan food and has great juices)
- Casa Efigenia in Las Hayas (serves a vegetarian menú del día)
It is small, but it is mighty! Each year, cheeses and wines from tiny El Hierro hold court in international gastronomic competitions, just one of many points of pride for herreños. Be sure to try lapas (limpets) as well as local quesadillas, the island’s hallmark treat made from local pineapple, cheese, and star of anise.
Grantee-Recommended Restaurants:
- Harina y Tomate (pizza in Tamaduste)
- San Luis (comida típica in Valverde, cash only)
- Quesadillas Adrián Gutiérrez e Hijas (best quesadillas on the island; in Valverde)
- Restaurante El Refugio (seafood in La Restinga)
- Tasca La Laja (seafood in La Restinga)
- Mirador de La Peña (great views in Guarazoca)
- Guarazoca (they have an option for quesadillas with stevia so you get all of the flavor and none of the sugar)
- La Mirada Profunda (a little expensive, but worth it at least once)
- La Tafena (pretty affordable)
- The Unide (has a decent selection of organic products)
- Mas Que Frutas (fruit and vegetable shop in Valverde with a good selection)
While there are not currently any restaurants specifically catered to specialty diets in El Hierro, past grantees have noted that Canarias cuisine is adaptable and accommodating, especially for vegetarian preferences.
You can find long lists of tried-and-true restaurant recommendations here:
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
If you’re a fan of watersports, hiking, cycling, or really any outdoor activity, you’ve come to the right place! With its incredible, versatile landscape and beautiful weather year-round, Canarias is a top destination for anyone who enjoys being outside. From scuba diving to rock climbing, you’ll never get tired of what the Islands have to offer.
In general, the westernmost islands (La Gomera, La Palma, and El Hierro) are known more for rugged beaches, lush forests, and hiking, while the easternmost islands (Lanzarote and Fuerteventura) are known for their smoother, endless beaches and watersports such as windsurfing. In the middle, the larger islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria can offer some of both – Gran Canaria is actually known as un continente en miniatura!
One general recommendation from past grantees is to rent a car at least once or twice to explore your island or others. While each island has its own bus network, there are some incredible places you just can’t reach by guagua, and the freedom to operate on your own schedule enhances the experience. The rental process in the Islands is much easier and much cheaper than in the United States, although it can sometimes be a little difficult to find automatic cars on the smaller islands (most vehicles have manual shifts). Renting a car is an excellent option especially if you are traveling in a group, which reduces the cost even further. CICAR is the primary rental company in the islands, but you will find smaller companies locally, in addition to more traditional car rental companies. If you are planning on renting an automatic car with any company, you should reserve/call ahead to ensure availability.
Beyond offering a wealth of typical outdoor sports and activities, Canarias also has several traditional sports you may want to try or observe. One of the most famous is la lucha canaria, which is a form of wrestling derived from Guanche practices. Another is la bola canaria, which is similar to the game bocce, in which you must attempt to throw a ball as close as possible to a designated goal object. In Canarias, these sports are almost as popular as fútbol (soccer), which is another activity you may want to join!
Below, we list the outdoor activities and beaches on each island recommended by past grantees. However, as 2018-2019 was Fulbright’s first year with a TA program in Canarias, the list is not exhaustive. For hiking inspiration, download the app Outdooractive or Komoot, where users upload maps of their routes along with photos and pointers. Many uploads may be in German (one of the main tourist groups in the islands), but will often have an option to translate. For more ideas, you may try visiting a local adventure company, or asking Canarian friends or teachers at your school for recommendations that are off the beaten path.
Although Lanzarote is one of the oldest islands in the archipelago, evidence of its wild volcanic history has been preserved and makes for an absolutely incredible landscape. There are craters, petrified lava and ash flows, caves, and more. These features, combined with unique vineyards and beautiful beaches, make Lanzarote a haven for explorers. Opportunities for hiking, sailing, snorkeling and scuba diving, as well as all sorts of watersports abound, and a past grantee highly recommends taking a bike around to explore. You can’t miss Timanfaya National Park, which is one of the main natural attractions on the island. If you prefer to visit an underwater park, take a scuba diving tour through Museo Atlántico.
Those visiting or living on Lanzarote also have the opportunity to visit La Graciosa, the newly-minted 8th official Canary Island. There are no roads or cars, and the entire island is home to just ~700 people. Here, you can find some of the most beautiful beaches in Canarias, and can also camp under the stars (an experience highly recommended by past grantees!). Ferries to La Graciosa (Caleta del Sebo) leave from the port in Orzola, and the ride lasts about 25 minutes. There are two companies operating on this line: Biosfera Express and Líneas Marítimas Romero.
Some of the Best Beaches:
- Playa Honda
- Caletones Blanco
- Playa Bastián
- Papagayo
- Puerto del Carmen (complete with 5€ entry bouncy house castle and rentable pedal boats)
- Reducto
- Famara (limited bus coverage, more of a entire-day trip beach)
- All over the island of La Graciosa
Recommended hikes:
- Los Ajaches (steep volcanic path)
- Guatiza (beautiful views)
- Fémes <–> Papagayo
- Caldera Blanca
- Detailed list
As the oldest and second-largest island in the archipelago, Fuerteventura has a lot to offer outdoors. The eroded volcanic landscape melts into sand dunes with stunning skyscapes, transitioning into vast yellow, white, and black sand beaches. The entire island was designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 2009, and there are many parques naturales scattered throughout the island. Isla de Lobos, located just 15 minutes away from Corralejo by water taxi, is known for its abundance of birds and fish, and is a parque natural in its entirety and a special protection area for birds.
Visitors flock to Fuerteventura for windsurfing, scuba diving, sailing, swimming, hiking, and more. Past grantees noted that oftentimes the best hikes and beaches on Fuerteventura are well-kept local secrets to protect them from invasive tourism. Follow @en_cholas on Instagram for instructions on how to get to the more off-the-beaten-path spots.
Some of the Best Beaches:
- Aguas Verdes
- Ajuy
- Cofete – the most famous/wild beach on Fuerteventura. Dedicate a full day to the experience, but beware of popping rental car tires!
- Corralejo
- El Cotillo – take the dirt road near Faro de Tostón and explore, look around the coves past the lighthouse. Great sunset spot!
- Gran Tarajal
- Isla de Lobos
- Jarugo
- Majanicho
- Morro Jable
- La Pared
- Las Playitas
- Puertito Los Molinos
Recommended hikes:
- Gran Tarajal <–> Las Playitas
- Arco de las Peñitas: hike to natural arch next to oasis in Parque Betancuria
- Montaña La Caldera, Isla de Lobos
- Malpaís de la Arena (“badlands” of Fuerteventura)
- Pico de la Zarza (highest point in Fuerteventura)
- Detailed list
Lata y Zurrón is a hiking club that goes on weekly trips around the island.
Limpiaventura is a beach clean-up organization that hosts weekly clean-ups as well as educational workshops.
Being one of the largest islands in the archipelago, Gran Canaria has a breadth of options when it comes to outdoor activities. This list is only the beginning – don’t be afraid to go out and discover new places to swim, hike, or maybe even surf!
Best beaches:
- Playa de Mogán
- Playa de Güigüí
- Playa de Tufia
- Playa Anfi
- Agaete – Playa de las Nieves
- Las Canteras
- Playa Montana de Arena
- Amadores Beach
- Taurito
- Playa de Veneguera
For an extensive list of beaches on Gran Canaria, check here.
Best hikes:
- Presa de las Niñas
- Caldera de Bandama
- Roque Nublo
- Playas de GüiGüi
- Tamadaba
- Ruta de Las Presas
For an extensive list of the best hikes on Gran Canaria, check here.
Thanks to Tenerife’s size and diverse landscapes, outdoor enthusiasts of all persuasions will never find themselves bored. From the warm and sunny beaches in the south to the top of Spain’s highest peak (El Volcán Teide), there is no shortage of incredible experiences waiting for you just outside your door. If you’re looking for watersports, head to the south; if rugged, untouched landscapes call to you, check out the north. And of course, you can’t escape El Teide – many grantees choose to undertake the hike up to the peak, and say it is an unforgettable experience!
Best beaches/swimming:
- Playa el Duque
- Playa el Apio
- Las Gaviotas
- Charco Los Abrigos
- Bajamar/Punta de Hidalgo/Piscinas Naturales de Jover
- Playa Diego Hernandez
- Montaña Amarilla
- Playa Tajao
- Playa San Juan
- El Bullullo
- Playa del Roque de las Bodegas (accessible by bus but important to look at bus schedule because they don’t run that often)
- Playa Benijo/Almáciga
- Los Cristianos
- Playa La Caleta
- Faro de Anaga (involves a hike)
- Playa de las Américas
- Los Gigantes
- El Médano
- Tejita
- Las Teresitas
Hiking:
- El Teide (Mount Guajara circuit, Mirador de Samara, Las Cañadas)
- Teno
- Malpaís de Güímar (cool volcanic structures but terrain can be muddy and unstable with so many rocks; it is a MUST to wear hiking shoes.)
- Tejina and Igueste
- Anaga
- Chamorga
- El Sauzal (coastal paths)
- Rambla de Castro
- Vueltas de Taganana
- Cuevas Negras
- Volcán de Garachico
- Hikes around Cruz del Carmen and the Punta del Hidalgo <–> Cruz del Carmen hike
- Barranco de Masca
- Mil Ventanas
- Detailed lists:
Past grantees have said that AllTrails and Komoot are also useful for planning a hiking trip on Tenerife.
La Palma is known for its lush greenery and beautiful mountains, so when people go to visit, it’s usually to hike! The 2018-2019 grantee placed on La Palma said that the island has the best-connected and labeled trail system she had ever seen, and that access to the trail network from the foothills of the mountains was very easy. While the forest is beautiful, many of the most spectacular spots are on the rim of an ancient volcano in Parque Nacional de la Caldera de Taburiente. It won’t take you long to see why they call it La Isla Bonita!
Best beaches/swimming:
- Los Cancajos
- Tazacorte
- Playa de Nogales
- Piscinas Charco Azul
- Piscinas de La Fajana
- Playa Enchentive
Recommended Hiking:
- Los Tilos (waterfall!)
- Area around Roque de los Muchachos
- Caldera de Taburiente
- Los Arenales/Pinar del Pilar dunes
- Volcán San Antonio
- Parque Natural de Cumbre Vieja
- Area around El Tablado
- Refugio del Pilar
- La Crestería (between Roque de los Muchachos y Pico de la Veta)
- Cubo de la Galga
- Cráter Volcán Teneguía
- Pico de la Fuentee Nueva (don’t miss the man’s face in the rock!)
- Detailed list.
If you’re interested, La Palma is an excellent place to go mountain biking! Many companies offer tours with e-bikes, which give you a boost up hills and allow even the most casual of cyclists to cover extensive amounts of terrain. Find a local adventure company and book a tour!
La Gomera offers so many opportunities to get outside and get moving! From sea to mountains, this tiny island has something for everyone.
Best beaches:
- Playa Amarilla (located in La Playa)
- Generally the best beach all around. It’s conveniently located, has a good sand-to-rock ratio, gentle to moderate waves, and lots of room to lay out.
- Playa de Vueltas
- The harbor beach, protected from waves and is very nice for swimming. There is also good snorkeling if you swim out a bit along the coast. However, because it’s a partially enclosed area and has some boat traffic, the water quality is not always amazing.
- Playa del Inglés
- By far the most beautiful beach, with rugged cliffs and rocks and huge waves. However, it’s very dangerous for swimmers and has also been declared a nude beach by tourists. Be forewarned!
- La Puntilla (by the Guanche statue)
- Great for swimming but can be a bit rocky, especially in the winter when rougher waves roll in. Be careful not to stub your toes.
- La Condesa
- A rocky beach, but a great snorkeling spot when the tide is lower.
- El Charco del Conde
- A large, shallow pool that’s protected by waves. Frequented by younger kids.
Best hikes:
- A classic day hike from Valle Gran Rey is La Merica, which starts in La Calera and ends at the tiny tree on top of the far cliff that towers over the valley.
- Another good day hike from VGR is the waterfall in the barranco behind El Guro. There are German signs reading “wasserfall” that will point you to the trailhead from the main streets of El Guro.
- Mirador Ermita del Santo in Arure is one of the most breathtaking places in the world, and there’s a really nice trail that goes along the cliff from there.
- In general, Arure is a great place to start hikes as it’s a quick (~20 min) bus ride up the mountain and sits at the edge of Parque Nacional Garajonay.
- Any hike in Garajonay is guaranteed to be amazing. On a clear day, plan to go up to el Alto de Garajonay, which is the highest point on the island and affords a view of 4 different islands!
Amazing sights to see:
- Roque de Agando
- Mirador de Abrante
- La Rajita (abandoned fishing factory town that occasionally opens a seaside bar for boaters and fishermen passing by)
- La Fortaleza (plateau in the center of the island)
- Ermita de Nuestra Señora del Buen Paso in Alajeró
- Los Organos
- Chorros de Epina
The previous grantee highly recommended renting a car every so often to get out and explore the island at your leisure. There is so much to see that’s inaccessible by bus, and car rental in the islands is decently affordable and easy, unlike in the States. FullCar in Borbalán, Valle Gran Rey currently has one automatic car for rent-be sure to reserve it in advance to guarantee availability. Other than that, Cicar has offices in the airport in Alajeró and the port in San Sebastián, and they typically have a couple of automatic cars as well, but again, be sure to reserve in advance.
Some final tips:
Always read posters around town, as they may be advertising fun events!
Information pages to check out:
El Hierro may be small, but it has no shortage of incredible vistas and outdoor activities to keep you entertained. The island’s government and local population focus on the preservation of the environment: it uses 100% renewable energy, and is the first self-sufficient island. The 2018-2019 grantee placed on El Hierro took full advantage of all El Hierro has to offer, and strongly recommended stopping by the tourism office in Valverde (Calle Dr. Quintero, 4) for ideas and advice. Beyond hiking, snorkeling, diving, and paragliding are also popular activities…El Hierro even has its own paragliding festival!
Best beaches/swimming:
- Roque Bonanza
- La Caleta (accessible by bus)
- Charco Azul
- Charco Manso (free-standing sea arch and stone swimming hole)
- La Maceta
- Pozo de las Calcosas (beautiful pools down a stone staircase)
- Puerto Estaca
- Tacorón
- Timijiraque (reliably sandy!)
- Tamaduste (accessible by bus)
- Verodal
Recommended hikes:
- La Llanía as a zone — La Bajada (~30km)
- Mirador de Jinama down to Frontera
- Tamaduste area (northern tip of the island)
- Valverde <–> Tamaduste
- Tamaduste <–> Roque de las Gaviotas
- Ruta del Agua
- Area around Mirador de Isora
- Detailed list
If you would like to scuba dive, check out Buceo La Restinga for the best experience!
To try out paragliding, head to Sabinosa.
PLACES OF INTEREST
Hiking and beaches aren’t the only wonderful things Canarias has to offer! Thanks to its rich history and blend of cultures, as well as its unique geology and geographic location, the region has no shortage of points of interest. Each island has its own special array of attractions tailored to specific histories, customs, and landscapes.
Many ayuntamientos have centros culturales with resources and/or exhibits to teach visitors about the history and culture of Canarias as well as their specific island and municipality. There are also many monuments to the indigenous past of Canarias scattered throughout the Islands, and these provide excellent opportunities to learn more about the patrimonio of the place where you reside.
Below, you will find recommendations from past grantees and other sources on the must-see/do places and activities on each island. One piece of advice that applies anywhere you go in the Islands: never miss the chance to take in the incredible views at a mirador!
Jameos del Agua are a series of caves in an old lava flow that represent César Manrique’s vision for Lanzarote, which was a beautiful and enjoyable confluence of humans and nature. Inside the caves there are pools, auditoriums, restaurants, and more.
La Casa/Museo de César Manrique is one of the artist’s homes on the island, located in a palm grove in the village of Haría. The house-turned-museum is filled with quirky art and furniture as well as unfinished work in his old studio.
Fundación César Manrique Taro de Tahiche is another Manrique home, this time built into an old lava flow in Tariche, complete with rooms in lava bubbles and tunnel hallways.
Jardín de Cactus is a drought-resistant botanical garden in a reclaimed quarry, also designed by Manrique.
La Geria is Lanzarote’s wine region, located in the southwest of the island. There are various vineyards scattered around, all offering tours and tastings. There are also tour companies offering “wine routes”, which stop at multiple bodegas throughout La Geria.
Cueva de los Verdes is a lava-tube-turned-cultural-center in Haría within the Monumento Natural del Malpaís de La Corona. It was once a place where Lanzarote natives hid from pirates and other intruders. Today, two kilometers of the cave are lit by colorful lights and are open to the public, and there is also a 500-person concert hall.
El Museo Internacional de Arte Contemporáneo (MIAC) is a contemporary art museum near Arrecife located inside a converted 18th-century fortress.
Past grantees also highly recommend CACT Lanzarote, the cultural/arts organization that runs several sites. You can get a discounted ticket to visit multiple sites! With your TIE, it’s only €1 or €2 without the multi-location pass. Some highlights not mentioned above include: Timanfaya / Montañas del Fuego (recommended to take the bus tour), and Mirador del Rio.
El Castillo de San Gabriel is a stone fortress from the 16th century.
The theater close to the center of town has a variety of performances. Co-teachers may also know about different cultural events going on.
Betancuria is a historic pueblo – once the capital city of Canarias! – founded in 1404 in the mountains of Fuerteventura. Within Betancuria, you’ll find points of interest like old military barracks and ruins of convents, as well as traditional houses. One house contains El Museo Arqueológico de Betancuria, for those looking to learn more about the town.
Ermita de San Diego de Alcalá is one of many historic buildings in Betancuria, named for the Franciscan friar who was chosen as the guardian for the local convent. The small chapel is known for its intricate design.
El Centro de Arte (Casa Mané) is an art and cultural center in La Oliva that showcases Canarian artwork.
Casa-Museo Unamuno is a small museum in a house in Puerto del Rosario dedicated to the Spanish writer, who stayed in the residence when he visited Canarias.
El parque escultórico is located in Puerto del Rosario and features over 100 sculptures from artists from all over the world. Because of this park and other sculptures scattered throughout the town, Puerto del Rosario is sometimes called “La Ciudad de la Esculturas”.
Museo de Queso Majorero in Antigua is a one-stop shop to learn about (and taste!) Fuerteventura’s prized goat cheese. Here, you can also see La Molina de Antigua, one of many iconic windmills that dot Fuerteventura’s landscape.
Murales de Gran Tarajal: Gran Tarajal is home to some amazing street art–keep an eye out when you visit!
Las Cuevas de Ajuy are part of the oldest geologic formation in Canarias, predating even the genesis of Fuerteventura itself. They are located within El Parque Rural de Betancuria, near the tiny pueblo of Ajuy. There are fossilized seafloor sediments, fossilized sand dunes, and more.
Ecomuseo Alcogida, located outside of Tefir, aims to educate the public (namely children) about the traditional practices of rural life on Fuerteventura, such as grain milling, pottery, and weaving.
Museo de la Sal is a museum located adjacent to the El Carmen salt flats, and contains information about the history of salt and the operation of the salt flats.
Faro de la Entallada is a relatively new lighthouse built on the east coast near Las Playitas. It marks the closest point to the African continent in Canarias, sitting just ~62 miles from Morocco.
Caves in Guayadeque are ancient cave dwellings located in between the municipalities of Ingenio and Agüimes. Past grantees have recommended coming here for the sight and to eat in some of the cave restaurants.
Puerto de Mogan is a fishing village in the municipality of Mogán. Travel here for a day for sight-seeing and some delicious seafood!
Observatorio Astronomico de Temisas is an astronomical observatory on Gran Canaria, located on Montaña de Arriba, Temisas, in the Agüimes municipality. Head here to take advantage of the Canarias clear skies for stargazing!
Towns and pueblos like Maspalomas, Tejeda, Teror, and La Aldea are all worth checking out.
Other sites include Poema del Mar Aquarium, Teror Market, and Museo Canario. With a bit of research, it’s also possible to find artisanal markets all around the island.
SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE
Tenerife Espacio de las Artes (TEA) is a gallery space with contemporary art and a beautiful library with movie theater rooms for film screenings, recommended by grantees as an easily-accessible working space.
El Auditorio is an easily-recognizable building (looks like a knight’s helmet) designed by Santiago Calatrava that hosts operas and orchestras, as well as other performances.
Iglesia de San Francisco is a beautiful 17th century example of Canarian Baroque design.
Plaza de España is the biggest plaza in Canarias, and includes a fountain pond and a Santa Cruz sign.
Palmetum Santa Cruz Jardín Botánico is a reclaimed dump that was converted into a botanical garden with beautiful views of the ocean.
Museo de la Naturaleza y Arqueología (MUNA) is a hub of natural history (entomology, botany, paleontology, etc) and houses the largest collection of Guanche/pre-colonial artifacts from the Islands, including mummies.
Parque Marítimo César Manrique is a seaside aquatic and entertainment park designed by Canarian architect and visionary César Manrique, who worked to instruct the development of the islands in a manner that preserved their essence and natural beauty.
SAN CRISTOBAL DE LA LAGUNA (the entire city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999!)
Plaza de Concepción is a homebase for exploration of one of the most well-preserved historic centers in Canarias.
Iglesia de la Concepción is another wonderful example of Canarian Baroque architecture, and has a bell tower that you can climb for a small fee to see beautiful views of La Laguna.
Catedral de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios is a landmark of La Laguna and a prime example of neo-gothic/neo-classical architecture.
Plaza del Adelantado is a pretty plaza in La Laguna facing the old ayuntamiento and with views of the mountains.
Grantees recommend finding and taking a walking tour through La Laguna. Almost every building or neighborhood has a story or meaning behind it!
Museo de las Ciencias y el Cosmos is a museum of astronomy, technology, and other sciences that includes a planetarium and models of the telescopes located on the highest points of the Canary Islands.
Museo de Historia y Antropología de Tenerife (MHA) is an anthropology museum housed inside a mansion called Casa Lercaro, which is also considered to be haunted by the ghost of Catalina Lercaro!
ELSEWHERE ON TENERIFE
La Cueva del Viento is an enormous system of lava tubes in Icod de Los Vinos that has been dubbed a museum. It includes many fossils of extinct Canarian megafauna, and housed various Guanche artifacts.
Siam Park is a large water park in Costa Adeje that draws over a million visitors each year, and has won the honor of World’s Best Waterpark.
Loro Parque is a zoo near Puerto de la Cruz that is very popular among island inhabitants (you will see and hear a lot from students about this and Siam Park), but is also a source of controversy due to the presence of orcas and past connection to rare bird smuggling.
Los Pirámides de Güímar are six rectangular pyramids built in in Güímar in the 19th century whose origin still puzzles historians. You can visit them within the ethnographic park, which also contains exhibits about the history of the area and hypotheses for the construction.
El Castillo de San Miguel is a 16th century castle in the beautiful coastal pueblo Garachico.
IN SANTA CRUZ DE LA PALMA
Avenida Marítima is one of the iconic streets of La Palma’s capital, filled with colorful 15th century colonial-era buildings and flowers.
Iglesia Matriz de El Salvador is a 16th century baroque church with beautiful sculptures and stained glass.
Museo Insular is an all-purpose museum for the island of La Palma, with exhibits ranging from natural history to contemporary art. It is located inside a 16th-century monastery in Plaza San Francisco.
Museo Naval in Plaza de la Alameda is a maritime museum housed inside a replica of the Santa María.
ELSEWHERE ON THE ISLAND
Salinas de Fuencaliente are salt flats built by the sea in Fuencaliente on the southern tip of the island that create a colorful and unusual landscape. There is an adjacent lighthouse, as well as a restaurant (Jardín de Sal) on site with dishes that feature the special product.
Observatorio del Roque de los Muchachos is an astronomy observatory that sits atop La Palma’s highest point and houses multiple telescopes, including el Gran Telescopio Canarias (GRANTECAN), which is the largest telescope in the world! You must book visits in advance by filling out an online application form at www.iac.es. The Observatory is open every day from June 15th to September 15th, and on Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during the rest of the year. Availability subject to weather.
La Pirámide de Vandama is a pre-Castilian structure in Breña Baja with an uncertain origin. While it is currently unprotected and not officially marked, information about it can be found in local museums.
Museo Arqueológico Benahoarita is a museum in Los Llanos dedicated to the indigenous population of La Palma.
Museo del Puro is a cigar museum in Breña Alta with exhibits on the history and production of tobacco and cigars on La Palma.
For a full list of museums on La Palma, click here.
Flamenco dance group for people of all ages that practices weekly. Here’s a link to more information on Flamenco and how to become involved.
Whale watching: There are several different whale watching companies in Valle Gran Rey. The previous grantee recommended Amazonia, run by the captain JuanJo. It’s a small, comfortable boat with a knowledgeable and funny captain, and each tour includes vegetarian paella and drinks. Regular price is 45 euros per person, but if you mention you’re a resident they may give you a discount. Some companies also run trips around to the north side of the island to see Los Organos, which are incredible basalt columns in the cliffs.
Noches en Blanco are held occasionally by the town to promote local businesses, so keep an eye out! There are often performances by local dance groups, drum corps, and more.
Centro Cultural de El Cercado is a cultural center on the island with interesting information on island history, with an exhibit on indigenous pottery-making and agricultural practices.
El Sabinar is a grove of wild juniper trees in the pueblo of La Dehesa that have been blown into unique shapes by the wind. They have become symbols of persistence and survival on El Hierro, resonating with the local culture.
Ermita de Nuestra Señora de los Reyes, also in La Dehesa, is a small church dedicated to the patron saint of the island.
El Árbol Garoé is a sacred tree located in San Andrés that was revered by the Bimbaches (indigenous population of El Hierro) for its ability to distill water and is still adored by locals today.
El Centro de Interpretación Vulcanológico is a modern museum located in a volcanic field in La Restinga. The center has geologic information as well as audiovisual simulations of volcanic eruptions.
El Centro de Recuperación del Lagarto Gigante de El Hierro is a rehabilitation center and nursery for the rare El Hierro Giant Lizard, located in Gorreta. In the guided tour, visitors can see some captive-raised lizards and learn about the conservation and reintroduction efforts.
La Punta de la Orchilla is the westernmost point on El Hierro, and was once the site of the Prime Meridian. There is a monument to the Meridian, as well as a picturesque lighthouse.
El Parque Cultural de El Julan in El Pinar includes a visitors center and a guided tour to the site of petroglyphs left by the Bimbaches.
USEFUL WEBSITES
In addition to the websites and apps listed elsewhere in the guide, here you can find more links that may help you in your transition to and exploration of Canarias.