Hello, future explorer! As your personal guide and someone who knows every corner of Tenerife, I’m thrilled to share with you a 7-day itinerary that will let you discover the magic of our island. From volcanic peaks to black sand beaches, lush nature and charming villages—get ready for an unforgettable experience. From Hotel AF Valle de Orotava, we welcome you to your home away from home!
Day 1: The Charm of the North and the Heart of La Orotava
Your adventure begins in the north! After settling comfortably at Hotel AF Valle de Orotava, I suggest diving into the beauty that surrounds us.
- Morning: Start by exploring La Orotava, a town whose historic center has been declared a Historic-Artistic Site. Wander through its cobbled streets and admire the traditional Canarian architecture, especially the Casa de los Balcones. Don’t miss the Iglesia de la Concepción, a gem of Canarian Baroque style.
- Lunch: Enjoy local cuisine at one of La Orotava’s traditional restaurants. Try rabbit in salmorejo sauce or “papas arrugadas” with mojo.
- Afternoon: Head to Puerto de la Cruz, a vibrant coastal town just minutes from the hotel. Stroll through the Lago Martiánez saltwater pool complex designed by César Manrique, or relax at Playa Jardín.
- Evening: Have dinner in Puerto de la Cruz and soak in the lively atmosphere. If you’re in the mood, enjoy a local show.
Day 2: Volcanic Majesty – El Teide and its Lunar Landscapes
Get ready for a day of contrasts, where nature will leave you speechless.
- Morning: Head up to Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the highest peak in Spain. Go early to avoid crowds. Take the cable car up near the summit and enjoy spectacular views. Don’t forget to bring warm clothing—even in summer!
- Lunch: Bring a picnic to enjoy in the park or dine at the Parador de Las Cañadas del Teide.
- Afternoon: Explore the lunar landscapes surrounding Teide, like the Roques de García or Llano de Ucanca. Take an easy hike to soak in the volcanic beauty.
- Evening: Return to the hotel. Enjoy a relaxing dinner and recharge your energy.
Day 3: The Wild Beauty of the West and the Cliffs of Los Gigantes
Today you’ll experience the power of nature on the island’s western coast.
- Morning: Head west to visit Los Gigantes, stunning basalt cliffs that rise dramatically from the ocean. You can take a boat tour to see them from the sea and maybe even spot dolphins or pilot whales.
- Lunch: Enjoy fresh seafood at a restaurant in Los Gigantes or nearby Puerto de Santiago.
- Afternoon: Visit Masca, a picturesque hamlet nestled in a dramatic ravine. The road there is an adventure itself, with winding curves and breathtaking views. If you’re an experienced hiker, consider hiking down the Masca Ravine (some sections require a permit and good physical condition).
- Evening: Return to the hotel.
Day 4: Golden Beaches and Vibrant Atmosphere in the South
Time to change gears and enjoy the sun and lively vibe of southern Tenerife.
- Morning: Head to the beaches of Costa Adeje or Playa de las Américas. You’ll find plenty of water activities: jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding—or just relax on the golden sand!
- Lunch: Enjoy a wide variety of local and international restaurants in the south.
- Afternoon: Walk along the promenades, visit shops, or relax with a drink by the sea. For something different, visit Siam Park, one of the best water parks in the world.
- Evening: The south of Tenerife has a vibrant nightlife, with bars, clubs, and live shows.
Day 5: Lush Nature – Anaga Rural Park
Today we dive into the greenest, most mysterious part of Tenerife.
- Morning: Explore the Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with one of the best-preserved laurel forests in Europe. Try a marked trail like the Path of the Senses to immerse yourself in this magical forest.
- Lunch: Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the park’s picnic areas or find a small local restaurant in one of Anaga’s hamlets.
- Afternoon: Visit Taganana, a charming coastal village, and if weather permits, take a swim at one of its volcanic beaches, such as Benijo or Almáciga.
- Evening: Return to Hotel AF Valle de Orotava.
Day 6: Flavors and Local Traditions – Icod, Garachico & the Wind Cave
A day to explore the authenticity and history of the northwest.
- Morning: Visit Icod de los Vinos, home of the thousand-year-old Drago Milenario tree, a symbol of the island. Stroll the historic center and taste local wines.
- Lunch: Head to Garachico, a town with a fascinating history of rebirth after being destroyed by a volcanic eruption in the 18th century. Enjoy lunch by the natural pools of El Caletón.
- Afternoon: Explore the natural pools of El Caletón in Garachico. If you’re into geology, book a tour of the Wind Cave—one of the largest volcanic tubes in the world (book early, it’s very popular!).
- Evening: Dine in Garachico or return to La Orotava.
Day 7: Relax, Shopping or One Last Dip
Your last day in Tenerife is for you to enjoy at your own pace before heading home.
- Morning: Depending on your interests, you might:
- Relax at the Hotel AF Valle de Orotava pool and enjoy its facilities.
- Do some last-minute shopping in La Orotava or Puerto de la Cruz.
- Revisit your favorite beach.
- Lunch: Enjoy a final Canarian meal—perhaps at a traditional family-run “guachinche” for an authentic experience.
- Afternoon: Free time to prepare for your departure. Remember, you can always ask reception to store your luggage if your flight is later in the day.
Your Local Guide’s Tips for Making the Most of It:
- Rental car: A must to explore the island at your own pace and reach every corner.
- Clothing: Pack for different climates—you can go from coastal heat to chilly Teide summit in a single day.
- Sunscreen: The sun in Tenerife is strong, even in winter. Use sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Comfortable shoes: Especially if you plan on hiking.
- Water: Stay hydrated—especially on excursions.
- Book in advance: For the Teide cable car, the Wind Cave, and other popular attractions, booking ahead is recommended, especially during high season.
- Gastronomy: Don’t leave without trying mojo picón, papas arrugadas, gofio, fresh fish, and local wines.
- Canarian pace: Relax and let yourself be carried away by the island’s laid-back and friendly vibe!
We hope this guide helps you make the most of your 7 days in Tenerife. From the Hotel AF Valle de Orotava in the north of Tenerife, we’re sure you’ll take unforgettable memories from the Island of Eternal Spring. We look forward to seeing you again!
