Kayaking and Snorkeling with Turtles

If you’re dreaming about days on the water in Tenerife, the Kayaking and Snorkeling with Turtles tour might catch your eye. Offered by Diving Atlantis, this experience promises a fun, relaxed way to explore the coastline, with a good chance of seeing local turtles, dolphins, and a variety of fish. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a balance of adventure and scenery without the intimidating price tag.

What we really like about this tour is how accessible it is—equipment, guidance, and insurance are all included, so you can just focus on enjoying the moment. Plus, the views of Los Cristianos and the towering Mount Teide make for a memorable backdrop. On the downside, some people have mentioned that getting back on the kayak after snorkeling can be a little tricky if you’re not feeling physically up to it, so it’s worth considering if you’re new to water sports.

This experience is well-suited for those who want to try something active but don’t need a strenuous workout. Families with kids, especially older children, find it safe and enjoyable, thanks to the friendly guides and calm waters. If you’re after a laid-back aquatic adventure with a good chance of seeing marine life in its natural habitat, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Easy for beginners: Equipment and safety gear are provided, making it accessible even if you’re not an experienced swimmer.
• Wildlife sightings: Turtles, dolphins, and various fish are common, creating lots of photo opportunities.
• Great scenery: The coastline views and Mount Teide are stunning, adding to the visual appeal.
• Professional guides: Helpful, patient guides enhance the experience, especially for families or first-timers.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—ideal if your plans change.
• Affordable value: At $51 per person, it offers a lot of fun and wildlife sightings for a reasonable price.

Our first impression of this tour is how straightforward and well-organized it is. Starting from Los Cristianos, you’ll be picked up from one of ten locations, making it easy to fit into your Tenerife itinerary. The transportation covers the south of Tenerife, so if you’re staying in areas like Playa de las Américas or Costa del Silencio, you’re covered.

Once at Rays Bay, the kayak center provides all the equipment you need—life jackets, masks, snorkels, and boots. The instructors are there to give clear instructions, so even if you’re new to kayaking or snorkeling, you’ll feel comfortable. There’s no need to worry about your swimming skills; the gear is designed to support even the less confident.

The tour itself lasts about two hours, with the kayaking portion typically around 2.5 hours including travel time. That leaves a nice balance between active movement and relaxing sightseeing. The group is small enough to feel personal, and guides speak multiple languages, including English, Spanish, German, Polish, Russian, and French.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Route and Its Highlights

The trip begins at Rays Bay, where you get a quick safety briefing and instructions. Once you’re in your kayak, you’ll paddle along the coast of Los Cristianos. This stretch offers fantastic views of the coastline, with plenty of opportunities to see the shoreline from a different perspective. The water here shimmers beautifully in the sunlight, making the paddle both visually stunning and peaceful.

Traveling towards Palm-Mar, the chances of spotting dolphins in the soft waves increase. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, many past participants have reported seeing dolphins during the tour. The guides keep a watchful eye and are happy to share their knowledge about the local marine life, adding an educational twist to your adventure.

Arriving at Palm-Mar, you’ll anchor the kayaks and gear up for snorkeling. This is often the highlight—many guests have swum alongside friendly turtles, which are known to inhabit this area. The turtles are said to be quite approachable, and some reviews mention swimming with them as a truly memorable part of the trip. The snorkeling stop lasts about half an hour, giving you ample time to float, explore, and maybe capture some underwater photos.

On the return journey, you’ll paddle back along the coast, once again enjoying the spectacular scenery. Mount Teide looms in the background, providing a stunning natural frame to your water adventure.

The Experience and Reviews

The feedback from travelers is largely positive, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 184 reviews. Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides who are patient and friendly, making the whole experience comfortable and fun. One guest raved, “Andrew guide was great. He was patient and explained everything. We felt very safe,” which is exactly the kind of reassurance you want when trying water activities.

Seeing marine life is a big part of why people sign up. Multiple reviews mention dolphins and turtles, with some even swimming near turtles or watching dolphins jump in the distance. For example, one guest said, “We saw a turtle, lots of dolphins,” and another appreciated the guide’s quick response when sunglasses slipped into the water, diving in immediately to retrieve them.

Some travelers mention that after snorkeling, it can be difficult to get back onto the kayak if you’re not physically strong, so if mobility is a concern, it’s worth taking that into account. But overall, the experience is described as “brilliant,” “amazing,” and “fantastic,” especially when it comes to wildlife sightings.

Pricing and Value

At $51 per person, the tour offers a solid value. It includes transportation from the hotel, all necessary equipment, insurance, and guides—so no hidden costs or surprises. The only extra charge might be for photos, which are available at 15 euros per kayak.

Considering the inclusivity and the chance to see turtles and dolphins in their natural environment, many feel this price is reasonable. It’s a half-day activity that combines physical activity with wildlife observation and gorgeous scenery—making it a well-rounded experience for those looking to make the most of their time in Tenerife without overspending.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details

The tour lasts about two hours, with the starting times varying based on availability. It’s advisable to check the schedule beforehand. The group size tends to be small, enhancing the feeling of safety and personal attention. You’ll need to bring swimwear and a towel, and it’s wise to wear sunscreen, especially if you’re sensitive to sun exposure.

The tour is offered in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, German, Polish, Russian, and French, catering well to international visitors. Cancellation is flexible, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind in case your plans change.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxing yet active way to explore Tenerife’s coast and wildlife. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a family-friendly outing, especially since many reviews mention feeling safe and having guides that go out of their way to help. Those with some water confidence—especially if you’re comfortable snorkeling—will get the most out of it.

If you’re not an experienced swimmer or have mobility concerns, just be mindful that returning to the kayak after snorkeling can be a little challenging. But the guides are experienced and helpful, making sure everyone feels comfortable.

Adventure seekers who love the idea of spotting sea creatures like turtles or dolphins will find this tour particularly rewarding. Plus, if you’re keen on stunning views and outdoor activities that don’t require a huge time commitment, this is a great pick.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for beginners. All equipment is provided, and guides give instructions to ensure safety and comfort, even for those new to kayaking or snorkeling.

Are there any age restrictions?
While specific age restrictions aren’t listed, some reviews mention children around six years old participating comfortably. It’s best to assess your child’s comfort with water activities and physical exertion.

What should I bring?
You should bring swimwear and a towel. Sunscreen is also recommended to protect from the sun, especially during the water activities.

Is there a chance I won’t see turtles or dolphins?
Wildlife sightings depend on the day’s conditions, but many guests have reported seeing turtles and dolphins. The guides do their best to spot and share marine life with you.

How long does the activity last?
The total experience lasts around two hours, including transportation and the actual kayaking and snorkeling time.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

Are photos included?
Photos are not included in the price. If you want pictures of your trip, they are available for 15 euros per kayak.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Spanish, English, German, Polish, Russian, and French, ensuring clear communication for a wide range of travelers.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from multiple locations in the south of Tenerife is included, making it convenient to join the tour without extra hassle.

If you’re after a relaxing yet engaging water adventure in Tenerife, this kayaking and snorkeling tour offers a wonderful way to spend part of your holiday. The chance of seeing turtles and dolphins, combined with the stunning coastlines and professional guidance, makes it a solid pick for many travelers.

It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy being on the water but prefer a laid-back, family-friendly environment. The overall value, considering the wildlife sightings and the included gear, makes it an experience worth considering—especially if you’re in the south of Tenerife looking for a memorable outdoor activity.

Just remember, the thrill of wildlife watching isn’t guaranteed, but that’s part of the adventure. With friendly guides and a scenic route, you’re set for a day that’s both fun and visually captivating.