Kayaking with Dolphins and Turtles and Snorkelling in Tenerife

If you’re dreaming of a day out on Tenerife’s waters, this kayaking experience offers a mix of adventure, wildlife, and scenic views. The tour combines paddling in the Atlantic with the chance to see dolphins and turtles in their natural habitat, plus a refreshing snorkel stop. It’s a popular choice for those wanting a hands-on adventure with nature, and it’s easy enough for beginners.

What we really like about this tour is how well-organized it is, with all gear provided so you can focus on having fun. The second thing that stands out is the opportunity to actually see dolphins — something many travelers hope for but not all experiences deliver. The one thing to keep in mind is that wildlife sightings, while common, aren’t guaranteed — which is important if you’re expecting a specific animal encounter. If you enjoy being on the water and want a genuine chance to connect with marine life, this tour is a solid pick.

This experience is especially suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable swimming, and are ready to spend a few hours out in the ocean. It’s not ideal for pregnant women, and there’s a weight limit of 105 kg per person, so keep that in mind. Overall, if you’re after a fun, guided aquatic adventure that’s reasonably priced and packed with potential wildlife surprises, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Chances to see multiple dolphin species and turtles in their natural setting.
• All Equipment Included: Wetsuits, snorkeling gear, aqua shoes, and dry buckets are provided, making it hassle-free.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy incredible vistas of Tenerife’s west coast, Mount Teide, and the Guaza Mountains.
• No Experience Needed: Full instructions ensure beginners feel confident paddling.
• Flexible and Transparent: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with weather-related rescheduling or full refunds.
• Group Size: Tours are capped at 16, fostering a more personal experience.

The Experience in Detail

This tour kicks off from Los Cristianos, a lively hub on Tenerife’s south coast. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your guide, get briefed on safety procedures, and gear up with wetsuits, life vests, snorkeling equipment, and water shoes. The company’s attention to detail is clear: all gear is provided, so there’s no need to rent or bring your own, which can be a relief after a busy travel day.

Once prepared, you’ll set out in a sea kayak, paddling along the coast between pristine beaches and peaceful bays. The water here is calm enough that you don’t need prior kayaking experience, as the guides give instructions at a comfortable pace. You’ll paddle underneath the looming Guaza Mountains, with the cliffs and coastline providing a stunning backdrop throughout. Expect to feel the fresh sea breeze and see the bright, clear water stretching in every direction.

One of the main highlights is the chance to see wild dolphins — a thrill that draws many participants. The tour promises sightings of up to five dolphin species, including bottlenose and striped dolphins. As one reviewer noted, “We were very impressed by all the staff… especially our guide William. We were lucky enough to see some bottlenose dolphins and a very large sea turtle.” While wildlife spotting isn’t guaranteed, the guides are experienced at finding these creatures, and sightings are quite common.

Midway through the trip, you’ll make a stop for snorkeling. The water equipment provided allows you to float and explore beneath the surface, with colorful fish often visible. The tour’s organized nature means you don’t have to worry about bringing your own gear or messing around with rentals. Several reviews highlight the fun of the snorkeling part, with many seeing a variety of fish and even turtles — a real treat in the Atlantic waters.

The return paddle offers panoramic views of Tenerife’s coast, Mount Teide, and the cliffs lining the shoreline. It’s a relaxing yet invigorating way to round off the session, and many reviewers mention how the whole trip feels well-paced and thoughtfully organized.

Guides and Customer Service

Many travelers emphasize how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are. Comments like “Gonzo went above and beyond” and “Daniel and the rest of the staff were great to get you geared up” show the effort staff put into making sure everyone feels safe and enjoys the experience. Safety briefings are thorough, and guides are attentive during the trip, checking on each paddler’s comfort.

What’s Not So Great?

While most reviews are glowing, a few mention issues like guides being a bit disorganized or rushing the group, which can detract from the experience. One reviewer shared their disappointment about a guide who started late and seemed hurried, though this appears to be an exception rather than the rule. Weather can also be a factor; since the tour is weather-dependent, poor conditions could lead to cancellations or rescheduling, but refunds or alternative dates are offered.

Price and Value

At just over $40 per person, this experience offers excellent value considering all equipment, guides, and the potential for wildlife sightings. The added bonus of professional photos sent afterwards enhances the value, saving you the trouble of capturing everything yourself. Several reviewers commented on how well-organized and affordable the experience was, especially given the quality of the guide and the chance to see dolphins.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal if you’re active and love outdoor water activities. It suits those who want to experience Tenerife from a different perspective—paddling along the coast while potentially spotting marine animals. It’s also good for beginners, thanks to clear instructions and calm waters. If you’re traveling with children over 14 or are comfortable swimming, it’s a fun family-friendly option.

However, if you’re pregnant, or prefer less physically demanding activities, this might not be suitable. Also, wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, so if you’re fixated on seeing dolphins or turtles, it’s good to keep expectations realistic.

Final Thoughts

This kayaking and snorkeling tour in Tenerife offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to explore the island’s marine environment. The combination of scenic paddling, wildlife encounters, and snorkeling makes it a memorable day out. The guides’ knowledge and the all-in-one gear package add to the convenience, making it a hassle-free adventure.

It’s best suited for travelers who are physically comfortable in water, appreciate guided outdoor activities, and are eager for a chance to see dolphins in the wild. While wildlife sightings are not 100% guaranteed, the experienced guides’ efforts and the generally positive reviews suggest most participants leave delighted with their experience.

If you’re after an active, nature-focused outing that balances fun with relaxation, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to book in advance since it’s popular—most book about two weeks ahead—and be prepared for the weather to cooperate.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
All necessary gear, including wetsuits, snorkeling equipment, aqua shoes, dry buckets, and life vests, are provided. You’ll also receive pictures of your trip.

Is prior kayaking experience needed?
No, full instructions are given, and the waters are calm enough for beginners to enjoy safely.

What’s the best time to book?
Most bookings are made around 14 days in advance, which helps secure a spot during the busy season.

Can I see dolphins and turtles on this tour?
While sightings are common, they are not guaranteed. Guides do their best to find the animals, and many guests do see dolphins and turtles.

What should I bring?
You should bring a towel, swimsuit, and water — although these aren’t provided. Wearing your own water shoes for comfort is optional since they are supplied.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 14, and minors from 14 to 18 need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, including paddling, snorkeling, and sightseeing. The start time is typically 10 minutes before the scheduled session.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a lively and scenic way to connect with Tenerife’s marine life, this kayaking adventure checks a lot of boxes. With friendly guides, good equipment, and the potential for wildlife surprises, it’s a memorable option for active travelers eager to explore the coast in a fun, guided setting.