Top Tips for First-Time Visitors to the Canary Islands
Made up of 8 unique Islands, The Canaries are one of the most popular year round holiday destinations in Europe. The close proximity to the equator means that the islands benefit from high temperatures and sunshine 12 months of the year. If you're travelling to the Canary Islands for the first time, check out our top tips on what to pack, how to get around and how to make the most out of your holiday!
We all know the feeling. Travelling somewhere new can be daunting. The different language, different laws, different currency and general difference in the way of life. The good news is that The Canary Islands, whilst being Spanish Islands, are generally pretty easy to get to grips with once you land. In the main resorts English is spoken well, although it will do you no harm whatsoever to learn a bit of the lingo to put a smile of the face of some of the locals.
For those of you travelling to the Canary Islands for the first time, here are out top tips on how to adjust quickly and make the most out of your holiday.
What to pack?
The year round temperatures in the Canary Islands range from warm to extremely hot. Even if you are travelling in December there is a very high likelihood that you will be wearing shorts and t-shirts in the day, but we would also recommend a light cardigan or something slightly warmer for the evenings of the winter months.
Not forgoing common sense, It is essential that you pack your passport. As the Canary Islands are governed by Spain you will need your passport to enter (and leave the UK). If you're travelling from a non EU country, make sure that your passport has at least 6 months on it before it expires.
UV Levels are much higher in the Canary Islands than in Northern Europe so ensure you pack sufficient sun protection - either creams, lotions or headwear. Don't worry if you forget to pack enough as you can buy these items almost everywhere on the islands, but at least take a bit to get you started.
What about money?
You should also ensure that you have access to spending money. The currency in the Canary Islands is Euros. You can either change cash before you travel, or simply use your debit / credit card as you would at home. If using your card and asked if you want to pay in Pounds or Euros, then always select Euros to get a better rate.
If you're exchanging money whilst in The Canary Islands then shop around for the best exchange rates, and don't fall into the trap of mistaking the travellers cheque rate for the cash rate!
Do I need to plan trips and excursions in the Canary Islands?
In our experience it's always better to pre-book your trips and excursions. Trying to book onto an already full excursion or activity on the day can only lead to disappointment so it's much better to reserve your places in advance before you travel. In the event that you needed to cancel and advanced booking the reputable Excursions companies on the island will always offer a refundable deposit option.
Check out the rest of our website for all the best things to do in the Canary Islands.
Driving in the Canary Islands
Driving on some of the smaller islands is a breeze. All the islands respect the driving laws of Spain, therefore you drive on the right hand side of the road. The built up areas of the larger islands, such as Las Palmas on Gran Canaria, may be more challenging due to the sheer volume of traffic, but if you're thinking of visiting the likes of Lanzarote or Fuerteventura then it's much easier to get around and adjust to driving on the right.
Remember to carry some form of photo ID when driving as you may be subjected to random stops by the Guardia Civil. These stops are nothing to worry about, just ensure you have your ID and Car Hire paperwork with you and you'll soon be on your way again.
How do I get around the Canary Islands
Unless you're planning an island hopping visit to the Canaries you'll just be staying in one island during your visit. For example, you can get a boat trip from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura or hop on a short flight from Gran Canaria to Tenerife. Most of the time you'll be more interested about how you get from your accommodation to the main areas of activity in the resort. All the main holiday resorts in the Canary Islands have excellent transport services though local busses and taxis. If you want to Island Hop by air, you'll need to book your tickets through either Canary Fly or Binter, the two local airlines.
Food and Drink in the Canary Islands
Food and Drink the Canary Islands is about as diverse as you can get it. In the more populated islands, especially in the resorts, you can expect every time of cuisine you can possibly think of. On the smaller islands the choices won't be as plentiful, however the local cuisines are extremely tasty and filling. When in Spain, you really must try the Spanish foods and wines!
Shopping in the Canary Islands
Supermarkets and Shops are common place in the Canary Islands, and a lot of them now stock popular English brands. However, the Spanish brands are much cheaper and taste no different. Supermarket Shopping in the Canary Islands is no different to supermarket shopping anywhere else, apart from you might see the odd Spanish delicacy here and there.
What about duty free allowances in The Canary Islands?
If you plan on taking some souvenirs back home with you, or you find a new favourite Canarian Wine that you want to enjoy at home it's important to acknowledge the Duty Free Laws that are relevant to your country. In general, if you're travelling back to the UK your allowances will be as follows:
- 42 litres of Beer
- 18 litres of Still Wine
- 4 litres of Spirit or Liquors over 22% alcohol
- 9 litres of Sparkling or Fortified Wine up to 22% alcohol
- 200 Cigarettes
- 100 Cigarillos
- 50 Cigars
- 250g Tobacco
- 200 sticks of Tobacco for electronic heated tobacco devices
The above information is correct at the time of the article, however you should also check your own countries allowances before returning home.
Try and Plan for all eventualities
Failing to plan is like planning to fail. Think about every event that 'could' happen when you visit the islands. Do you have insurance for travel delays? Do you have medical insurance should you fall sick during your visit? Do you have contingency funds available should you need to spend a little bit more, either for pleasure of should a certain situation arise? It's important, when travelling to a new country, to have all bases covered - even if you don't need to call upon them.
What is the best Canary Island?
This is very much an open ended question as it depends what sort of holiday you are looking for. Whilst all fairly similar, the islands have so much to offer individually. Lanzarote and Fuerteventura have more of a relaxed vibe, where as Gran Canaria and Tenerife might be better suited for party go-ers. Here is a brief breakdown of the different islands.
Tenerife - The Best All Rounder
Tenerife, the largest of the eight islands, has it all. From Golden Sands to Spains tallest Volcano, and everything in between, it provides holiday makers with a diverse selection of things to see and do by day and by night.
The main resorts in the South provide a bustling holiday type atmosphere, with lively day time activities and night life, and yet the North provides a more relaxed, tranquil approach to a holiday with its typically Canarian Villages and scenery. The Teide National Park is by far the jewel in the crown of this magnificent island, where you will find cool pine forests and of course, the iconic Mount Teide Volcano standing tall overlooking the rest of the island.
Gran Canaria - A place for explorers
If you like to explore, Gran Canaria has some of the most amazing natural features you can find on any island. From the rolling sand dunes of Maspalomas to the elevated forests and trails that lead to the likes or Roque Nublo, it's a hikers dream. But don't be put off if you're looking for a holiday to relax and recharge. The many different coastal resorts all offer the beach and pool type holidays you would expect and the stunning town of Mogan in the South has to be on your list of things to do at some point.
One of the amazing things about Gran Canaria is the micro climates, largely created due to the sheer scale and height of the island. It's possible to wake up to a cloudy day down by the coast but travel high up into the mountains and above the clouds at the peak of the island where you can witness spectacular views and interesting forest trails.
Lanzarote - A cultured island styled by Manrique
From the cultured inspiration of César Manrique to the fine home grown wines, Lanzarote is the perfect destination for everyone. The Timanfaya National Park is a symbol of the islands fairly recently turbulent history, where the Fire Mountains rest their might, and stylish villages offer younger generations a sporting paradise beneath the cliffs of the Riscos.
Lanzarote is set apart from the other islands of the Archipelago by it's unique approach to buildings. Here, the houses are all white and high rise buildings are strictly not permitted. That being said, the one that got away, The Gran Hotel in Arrecife, stands today as a stark reminder of why the vision of Manrique was so important to the island. Tourism is important to Lanzarote, but not tourism at any cost.
Having said all that, Lanzarote is still a great destination for family holidays. The three main resorts of Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise and Playa Blanca all have their own charming features. Private Holiday villas are as popular here as All Inclusive hotels, so take your pick and enjoy your time on the island.
Fuerteventura - It's all about the wind and the sports!
OK, so there is more to Fuerteventura than just wind and sports, but it's a destination of choice for those looking for sailing, paddle boards, and para gliding.
Unlike the other islands, where the main resorts tend to be located in the South, the town of Corralejo is the northern post point on the island. It has a bit of a 'hippy' and trendy vibe to it and you'll find some excellent bars and restaurants here, especially if you're looking for vegan or vegetarian food. The island of Los Lobos is a big attraction here. The small island, declared a national park is surrounded by crystal clear waters and allows only a handful of visitors to step food on the land every day.
To the East of Corralejo you'll find the famous, sprawling sand dunes of Fuerteventura. These golden sands are perfect for sports enthusiasts and sunbathers alike. There is plenty of room for everyone. In the South of the island the beaches of Jandia are an absolute must, and in our opinion the best beaches in the Canary Islands. You can also spend a day at the Oasis Park Wildlife Park - a great hit with families of all ages.
La Graciosa - The latest member of the Canary Island Archipelago
If you like back to basics, then La Graciosa is the island for you. There are no roads here and the island is by far the smallest of the eight.
La Graciosa has no direct forms of transport links. There is no airport here and access is only available by ferry from the port of Orzola in Lanzarote.
The unspoilt, golden beaches sit under the watchful eye of the Risco Cliffs of Famara. La Graciosa is part of a smaller collection of Islands off the North Coast of Lanzarote known as the Parque Nacional del Archipelago Chinijo.
La Palma - The Beautiful Island (La Isla Bonita)
La Palma has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere reserve. When you experience the natural beauty of the contrasting volcanic landscape and green forests you'll understand why.
Whilst not usually an island you will see advertised by the travel companies, the island boasts a classy combination of tradition and modernity through architecture and way of life. Guided tours through volcanic tunnels are a highlight, whilst contrasted by the dizzy heights of the Caldera de Taburiente National Park offering stunning views of the archipelago.
La Gomera - A hikers paradise
If hiking is your thing, then this is the island for you. The mountainous landscape, steeped in Columbian history, is another UNESCO World Heritage site that's serious about it's food and drink. The trails around the forest paths are best rewarded at the end of the day with the unique local gastronomic delights, washed down with a local wine.
El Hierro - A sanctuary
El Hierro is about as far from a tourist island as you can get. Its the most westerly island and not the easiest to get to.
You won't find a bursting tourist night life here. It's a place for reflection, relaxation and exploring the natural beauty of the island, both on land and under the water.