Canyoning in Tenerife South

If you’re considering adding some active adventure to your Tenerife trip, canyoning here offers a fantastic way to experience the island’s rugged beauty. While I haven’t personally strapped into a harness for this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty appealing picture. It’s a five-star rated experience perfect for those who enjoy a mix of nature, moderate physical activity, and a dash of adrenaline.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines accessible adventure for beginners with some genuinely breathtaking scenery. Plus, the guides seem to be both professional and personable — qualities that make a big difference when you’re navigating narrow basalt canyons. The only thing to consider is that this activity isn’t suited for those with mobility issues or a fear of heights, so keep that in mind if you’re planning for friends or family members.

Overall, it seems best suited for adventurous travelers with moderate fitness levels who want to explore Tenerife’s lesser-known natural spots without needing prior experience. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone who’s been canyoning before, this experience promises a memorable day out.

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly: No prior canyoning experience needed, guides teach you all the techniques.
• Stunning scenery: Narrow basaltic walls and Canary pine trees create a beautiful natural backdrop.
• Value for money: At around $80 for over five hours of activity, it’s a competitive price.
• Safety focus: Guides are professional, with safety equipment included and insurance covered.
• Limited group size: Max of 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Timing and logistics: Starts at 9:30 am from Vilaflor, with easy access and a straightforward meeting point.

What to Expect During the Tour

Canyoning in Tenerife South is a carefully curated experience, designed to introduce visitors to the island’s rugged beauty through manageable yet exciting activities. The tour lasts roughly 5.5 hours, including preparations, the descent, and the walk back up. It’s scheduled to begin at 9:30 am, making it a great morning activity that leaves plenty of time for other explorations later in the day.

The Journey Begins: Meeting Point & Preparation

You’ll gather at the designated meeting point in Vilaflor, a charming town with easy access to Tenerife’s natural wonders. The guides are friendly and will gear you up with a helmet, gloves, harness, and accident insurance. It’s worth noting that you should bring your own water, food, and a backpack — essentials for staying energized and comfortable.

Descending the Canyon

Once geared up, the real fun begins. You’ll descend a dry canyon carved from basaltic rock, navigating different rappels that each present a new challenge. Don’t worry if you’re new to this — guides are trained to teach you the techniques needed to continue safely. They’ll be with you every step of the way, ensuring you feel comfortable and in control.

The Rappelling Experience

Each rappel offers a slightly different adventure, from gentle drops to more technical descents. The narrow basalt walls will surround you, creating a sense of adventure and intimacy with nature. Reviewers consistently highlight how safe they felt, thanks to the guides’ professionalism and attention to safety. One reviewer even mentioned feeling encouraged to test their limits, which shows the balance of safety and challenge here.

The Return Walk & Ending

After descending, you’ll walk uphill through a landscape dotted with endemic Canary pines, which adds an enchanting local touch. This small ascent is a pleasant cooldown and a chance to take in the views before returning to the starting point. The tour ends back where it began, completing a full natural loop.

What’s Included & What You Should Bring

Included in the price are all the essential safety gear: helmet, gloves, harness, and accident insurance. The tour itself is well-priced, considering the duration and the high-quality instruction.

However, there are a few personal items you need to bring:

• At least 1L of bottled water per person — hydration is key during physical activity.
• Food like energy bars, fruit, nuts, or sandwiches to keep your energy up.
• A backpack to carry your essentials.
• Long pants are recommended — not mandatory, but helpful to avoid scratches from plants like Carlina Salicifolia.
• Good grip shoes or hiking boots — proper footwear makes a huge difference for safety.
• Personal medication if needed, and a hair tie if you have long hair to keep it out of your face.

While the tour provides the core safety gear, bringing your own water and snacks ensures you stay energized throughout the adventure.

The Experience from Reviews

The reviews paint a consistent picture: enthusiastic, professional guides make all the difference. One reviewer called their guide Jorge “wonderful, professional & personable,” emphasizing how safe and encouraged they felt during the descent. Others praised Jorge for his instructor skills, making the activity comfortable even for beginners.

Many highlight the stunning scenery — from the basaltic canyon walls to the Canary pines — and describe the experience as “beautiful,” “exciting,” and “full of memories.” Several reviews also mention the good value for the price, especially considering the duration and quality of the guide service.

One comment that stood out: “This trip is suitable for beginners, Jorge has great instructor skills so you will feel comfortable and safe with him. I would definitely repeat this trip again!” Such feedback underscores the importance of the guides’ expertise and the overall approachable nature of the tour.

Safety and Comfort

While the activity isn’t suitable for anyone afraid of heights or with mobility issues, those with moderate fitness levels will find it manageable and rewarding. The guides are attentive, and the equipment is well-maintained, which reassures safety-conscious travelers.

Additional Perks

Beyond just canyoning, some reviewers appreciated the local tips, pictures taken by guides, and the chance to explore a lesser-known side of Tenerife. It’s not just about the adrenaline — it’s about connecting with the island’s natural beauty in a memorable way.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This canyoning tour is ideal for beginners and moderate hikers looking for a safe but exciting outdoor activity. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy scenic outdoor pursuits but don’t want the hassle of prior experience.

It’s also a good pick for solo travelers or small groups (max 8), who want personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The inclusion of safety gear and professional guides makes it accessible to most reasonably fit people, but it’s not designed for those with severe mobility impairments or a strong fear of heights.

Practical Details & Tips

• Start time: 9:30 am, so plan to arrive a little earlier.
• Duration: About 5.5 hours, including preparations.
• Cost: $80.25 per person, a fair price considering the length and quality of the experience.
• Group size: Limited to 8 people, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Transportation: The meeting point is near public transportation options, making it easy to get there without a car.
• Weather considerations: The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

FAQ

Is prior experience required for canyoning in Tenerife South?
No, guides teach all the necessary techniques, making this activity suitable for beginners.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring at least 1L of bottled water, food like energy bars or fruit, a backpack, and proper footwear such as hiking boots or sports shoes with good grip. Long pants are optional but recommended.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts roughly 5 hours and 30 minutes, including meeting, descending, and the walk back.

Is this activity suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 14, mainly due to the height and physical demands.

What safety gear is provided?
The tour includes a helmet, gloves, harness, and accident insurance, all essential for a secure experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, provided the weather permits the activity.

In sum, canyoning in Tenerife South offers a well-organized, scenic, and safe adventure suitable for beginners who want a taste of Tenerife’s natural ruggedness. With professional guides, good value, and stunning views, it’s a solid option for anyone looking to add some excitement to their island stay. Just remember to bring the essentials, listen to your guides, and enjoy the natural beauty that Tenerife has to offer.