The Canary Islands are a summer paradise, offering incredible beaches, volcanic landscapes, and unforgettable activities. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, these top excursions across Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura will make your trip amazing.
- Exploring Lanzarote: The Best Guided Tours to Discover the Island’s Volcanoes, Wine & Art
- Boat Trips & Snorkeling Adventures (Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura & Tenerife)
- Loro Parque & Siam Park (Tenerife)
- Epic Off-Road Adventures in the Canary Islands: Quads, Buggies & Pure Adrenaline
- Jet Ski Safari Adventures in Tenerife, Gran Canaria & Lanzarote
- Stargazing & Mount Teide by Night – A Sky Full of Stars
1. Exploring Lanzarote: The Best Guided Tours to Discover the Island’s Volcanoes, Wine & Art
Lanzarote is not just another sun-and-sea destination. It’s a jaw-dropping blend of surreal volcanic landscapes, coastal villages, unique architecture, and local flavors. Whether you’re staying in Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, or even visiting from nearby Fuerteventura, there are several well-organized tours that let you experience the island’s highlights — all without the stress of driving. Let’s break down the top excursions worth booking.
Half-Day South Lanzarote Tour From Playa Blanca or Puerto del Carmen
This option focuses on the dramatic south of Lanzarote — perfect if you don’t want to commit to a full day. You’ll travel through volcanic terrain until you reach Timanfaya National Park, where geysers, steaming vents, and lava fields dominate the landscape. Often, there’s a live geothermal demonstration, and a chance to ride the volcano route by coach through the park’s restricted area. Next comes a visit to La Geria, Lanzarote’s renowned wine-growing region. Here, vines grow in volcanic soil protected by stone semi-circles. A local wine tasting is usually included — Rubicon’s wine is the signature grape here. Then it’s on to the Aloe Vera Museum, where you’ll learn about the health benefits of this locally grown plant. The final highlight? The mysterious Green Lagoon (Charco de los Clicos), a volcanic crater filled with algae-rich water that glows bright green beside black sand and rugged cliffs. Lunch Stop: Either at the El Diablo restaurant (where meat is grilled by volcanic heat!) or at a typical Canarian restaurant in Yaiza — depending on the tour.
Full-Day Grand Tour of Lanzarote
This full-day adventure includes everything from the half-day route, and then continues into the north of the island — offering a more complete picture of Lanzarote’s unique identity. After exploring Timanfaya and La Geria in the morning, the tour typically includes:
Jameos del Agua – A stunning volcanic cave transformed into an underground cultural space by Lanzarote’s iconic artist César Manrique.
Cueva de los Verdes – A nearby lava tunnel with dramatic lighting and acoustic effects.
Mirador del Río – A panoramic viewpoint in the far north of the island, designed by Manrique, offering unforgettable views of La Graciosa island.
There’s usually a lunch stop mid-way, and optional visits to a cactus garden or aloe vera shops depending on the route. Ideal for: Visitors who want to combine natural beauty, art, and culture in one unforgettable day.
Lanzarote in a Day (from Fuerteventura)
Staying in Corralejo and want a quick but deep dive into Lanzarote? Twice a week, there’s a guided tour with ferry included that departs in the morning from Fuerteventura and brings you back by late afternoon. You’ll board the fast ferry from Corralejo to Playa Blanca, then hop on a comfortable coach to visit: Timanfaya National Park, La Geria wine region with a tasting stop Green Lagoon. The Aloe Vera Museum, and sometimes a viewpoint stop in Yaiza or the volcanic salt flats near Janubio. The tour is designed to maximize time efficiently while giving you a taste of the island’s most photogenic and fascinating spots. Pro Tip: Bring your passport or ID card — it’s often required for inter-island travel.
2. Boat Trips & Snorkeling Adventures (Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura & Tenerife)
Discover the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean with a boat excursion from, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura or Tenerife. Whether you’re sailing along volcanic coastlines, spotting marine life, diving into turquoise waters for a snorkeling break, or you’re looking for a relaxed sail, an all-inclusive catamaran trip, or a private charter with friends, there are fantastic boat tours available from the main tourist hubs on Fuerteventura, Tenerife, and Gran Canaria. Many excursions include drinks, snacks, and snorkeling gear — perfect for couples, families, or small groups. Here are the top options to consider:
Fuerteventura: Sailing to Lobos Island from Corralejo
Departing from Corralejo, these catamaran excursions take you across the narrow strait separating Fuerteventura from the Isla de Lobos — a small protected islet with volcanic scenery and crystal-clear waters. Tours usually include: Round-trip sailing A long anchor stop in a sheltered bay snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding in calm, shallow waters Onboard lunch — either a traditional paella or local dishes like papas arrugadas with mojo sauce. Unlimited soft drinks, wine, and beer. The vibe is relaxed, perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers looking for a day at sea with a splash of adventure. Pro Tip: Private Charters. If you’re traveling as a group (up to 10 people), you can book the entire catamaran with a skipper for a mor convenient price. Ideal for celebrations or simply enjoying the day your own way.
Tenerife: Catamaran Cruise & Whale Watching
Tenerife is one of Europe’s best destinations for whale and dolphin watching, especially along the southwest coast between Costa Adeje and Los Gigantes. Half-Day Catamaran Cruise: These 3-5 hour tours often spot pilot whales and dolphins year-round. Most include a swimming stop near cliffs or bays, and drinks/snacks onboard. Luxury Sailing Boat Experience: Smaller groups, more personalized service. Sailing boats typically offer tapas, drinks, and a more peaceful alternative to bigger group tours. Some options also include snorkeling gear. Some tours also offer kayaking and snorkeling near dolphin habitats, allowing you to experience marine life from the water, not just the boat — a unique and eco-friendly option for adventure seekers.Tip: Morning departures tend to have calmer seas and better visibility for spotting marine life.
Gran Canaria: Boat Trips from Puerto Rico & Mogan
Catamaran Cruise from Puerto Rico: These excursions are all about comfort and fun — onboard bar, sunbathing areas, and time to swim or snorkel in calm southern coves. Some include water sports like banana boat rides or jet skis (optional extras). Sailing Experience from Puerto de Mogán: For a quieter, more scenic alternative, opt for a smaller sailing boat. Ideal for couples or small groups, with fresh food served onboard and stops in secluded spots along the coast. Good to know: Southern Gran Canaria is sunnier and more sheltered from wind, making it ideal for boat tours nearly year-round.
3. Loro Parque & Siam Park (Tenerife)
Tenerife is home to two world-famous attractions: Loro Parque, a top-rated wildlife park, and Siam Park, one of the best water parks in the world.
Loro Parque offers an incredible day out with exotic animals, dolphin shows, and lush tropical gardens — perfect for families and nature lovers. Siam Park is a Thai-themed water park packed with adrenaline slides, lazy rivers, and a giant wave pool. Ideal for cooling off on a hot day. Combo tickets are available for both parks, offering great value and free transport from major tourist areas like Costa Adeje and Playa de las Américas.
4. Epic Off-Road Adventures in the Canary Islands: Quads, Buggies & Pure Adrenaline
If you’re dreaming of more than sunbeds and sangría, the Canary Islands offer a wild side you can explore on four wheels. From moonlike volcanoes to desert-style dunes, these islands are tailor-made for off-road adventure — and there’s no better way to experience it than by quad or buggy.
Quad Safari to Mount Teide – Tenerife
Roar up into the heart of Tenerife’s volcanic highlands on a guided quad bike tour. Starting from the island’s sun-drenched south (usually near Costa Adeje or Playa de las Américas), you’ll climb scenic backroads through Canarian pine forests and up to the foothills of Mount Teide — Spain’s highest peak. Depending on the route, you may stop at panoramic viewpoints like Pino Gordo or Las Cañadas, with enough time to snap photos and breathe in that crisp mountain air. What to bring: Long trousers, sunglasses, and a hoodie — it gets chilly at altitude. Requirements: Valid driver license, minimum passenger age varies.
Buggy Adventure – Lanzarote
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’re driving on Mars, Lanzarote’s black-lava backroads are waiting. A guided dune buggy safari — usually departing from Puerto del Carmen or Playa Blanca — is the most exhilarating way to explore the island’s surreal volcanic terrain. Depending on the route, you might pass craters, lava tunnels, and even get a glimpse of Timanfaya National Park from the perimeter. Tours are dusty, fast-paced, and full of photo stops. Expect some road sections between off-road tracks — it’s not a racing course, but it’s definitely not a lazy drive either.
Buggy Excursions from Corralejo – Fuerteventura North
Corralejo is known for its beaches, but the real fun starts just inland. Buggy tours from the north of Fuerteventura take you from seaside roads to arid volcanic valleys, including detours through the Villaverde region and near the volcanic area of Montaña Roja. The terrain is dry, rocky, and rough — ideal for a bumpy ride that ends with sweeping views of Lanzarote across the strait. These are perfect for couples or small groups, and often include short stops at local viewpoints. Pro tip: don’t forget your sunglasses (or goggles), and a bandana to block the dust.
Dune Buggy from Caleta de Fuste– Fuerteventura
From Caleta de Fuste and Costa Calma, the routes head through desert tracks and dry riverbeds, revealing the island’s arid heart. Expect dust, wind and big landscapes — this is real off-road country. What to wear: Closed shoes, bandana or mask for the dust, and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Don’t forget: A valid driver’s license — no license, no buggy.
Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. These off-road tours aren’t just about speed — they’re about seeing the Canaries beyond the tourist strips. You’ll hit viewpoints buses can’t reach, ride through nature parks, and get a totally different feel for each island. You can compare available excursions and book securely online — spots fill fast in summer.
5. Jet Ski Safari Adventures in Tenerife, Gran Canaria & Lanzarote
Ride the Atlantic waves with speed and style. Few activities combine adrenaline and stunning scenery like a Jet Ski Safari in the Canary Islands. These tours are available year-round and are especially popular in the southern areas of Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote, where the waters are warm and the coastlines are impressive.
Tenerife – Jet Ski Safari from Las Galletas (South Tenerife)
In Las Galletas, located on the southern coast of Tenerife near Costa del Silencio, you’ll find the island’s main hub for jet ski safaris. These tours typically follow the wild volcanic coastline toward Montaña Amarilla or Punta Rasca, offering panoramic views, hidden coves, and sometimes dolphin sightings along the way.
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Includes: Life jackets, professional guide, fuel, insurance
Add-ons: Photos or combo packages with parasailing or quad safaris
Gran Canaria – Jet Ski Circuit or Coastal Safari
In the south of Gran Canaria, around Puerto Rico and Anfi del Mar, you can choose between short jet ski circuits and longer guided routes along the coast. The extended tours often include views of coastal cliffs, small beaches, and unique volcanic landscapes.
Options: 20-minute circuits to 90-minute guided routes
Add-ons: Photos, GoPro video, or combo packages with parasailing or banana boat
Lanzarote – Jet Ski Tour from Puerto del Carmen
These trips take you along the volcanic shoreline with plenty of splashing, speed, and views of unique sea rock formations. It’s a fun contrast to the calmer inland Lanzarote excursions.
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Includes: Life jackets, professional guide, fuel, insurance
Add-ons: Photos or combo packages with parasailing
6. Stargazing & Mount Teide by Night – A Sky Full of Stars
The most magical night experience in the Canary Islands. There are few places in the world better for stargazing than Tenerife’s Mount Teide National Park. With its high altitude, clean air, and minimal light pollution, Teide has earned international recognition as a top spot for astronomy lovers — and a night tour here is unforgettable.
Sunset & Stargazing Tour in Teide National Park
If you’re fascinated by the night sky, this is one of the best places in Europe to enjoy it. After sunset, expert guides lead a stargazing session using telescopes to observe constellations, planets, and celestial objects in the clear, high-altitude skies of Teide National Park. The remote location ensures minimal light pollution and spectacular visibility. This experience usually begins in the late afternoon with a scenic drive through the lunar landscapes of the Teide plateau. You’ll stop at a viewpoint to watch the sunset above the clouds, then continue to a dark-sky location for telescope-guided stargazing. Tip: Nights can get cold even in summer — bring a jacket and wear closed shoes.
Includes: Hotel pickup, guide, and stargazing equipment
Optional: Can include a stop at a local restaurant or wine tasting in Vilaflor
Disclosure
We’ve carefully selected these beloved activities and tours to help you make the most of your visit. We hope you find them useful and inspiring. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
