Tenerife: Teide National Park and Dolphins Sailboat Tour

Discovering Tenerife: Teide National Park and Dolphins Sailboat Tour — An Honest Look

If you’re considering a day in Tenerife that combines stunning land formations with the thrill of seeing dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, this tour might just catch your eye. Offered by Gloma Travel, the experience promises a blend of surreal volcanic scenery and an intimate maritime adventure with a small group of no more than 11 people.

What we love about this tour is how it balances spectacular land-based sightseeing with the excitement of marine wildlife watching. Plus, the fact that it’s a private group means fewer crowds and a more personalized experience. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is the potential for weather or sea conditions to affect the dolphin-watching part, which is always a bit of a gamble with ocean excursions.

This kind of experience tends to suit travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, adventure, and small-group intimacy. If you’re okay with a full day out that involves some walking, boat time, and a love for scenic views and wildlife, then this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines land exploration of Teide National Park with a maritime dolphin-watching trip.
• Small Group: Limited to 11 people, offering a more personalized, relaxed atmosphere.
• Stunning Landscapes: Teide’s otherworldly volcanic views and the chance to see dolphins and pilot whales in the wild.
• Flexible and Customizable: Route can be adjusted depending on your hotel location or personal preferences.
• Includes Food and Drinks: Snacks and beverages are offered on the boat, adding to the relaxing vibe.
• Professional Guides: Knowledgeable guides ensure you get insightful explanations and support throughout.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This experience kicks off with a hotel pickup (or a designated meeting point), setting the tone for a seamless day. The first leg takes you to Teide National Park, which is renowned for its volcanic landscapes. You’ll stop at multiple viewpoints, giving you plenty of chances to capture those Instagram-worthy shots of the alien-like terrain. The guide will share insights into the volcanic activity and geological features that make Teide a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The route through the park is flexible — if you want to customize it, the guide is happy to accommodate your preferences, weather permitting. You’ll get a sense of why this landscape is considered one of the most spectacular manifestations of volcanism on Earth. Expect to see vast craters, lava fields, and towering volcanic structures, all framed by clear blue skies.

After soaking in the land views, your journey continues south to the marina for the maritime adventure. The boat is described as luxurious and intimate, with a maximum of 11 travelers. This small-group setting is perfect for those who prefer a quieter environment and more personalized attention from the crew.

The Boat Trip and Marine Wildlife

Once aboard, you’ll enjoy an approximately 3-hour cruise, where the main goal is to spot dolphins and pilot whales. The waters around Tenerife are famous for these creatures, and boat tours like this have a good reputation for sightings — but, of course, wildlife is always unpredictable. As one reviewer mentioned, they experienced countless whale sightings and appreciated the crew’s concern for everyone’s well-being.

While the focus is on wildlife, the tour also offers the chance to snorkel, adding a fun element to the day. The boat provides a free snack and bar, so you can relax with a drink or nibble while enjoying the views of the Atlantic. The waters around Tenerife are often described as turquoise, and anchoring in a bay for swimming makes for some memorable moments.

The Value of This Tour

At $210 per person, it’s certainly a somewhat premium experience, but it includes quite a bit: transportation, hotel pickup, a knowledgeable guide, the land tour of Teide, and the boat excursion with snacks and drinks. Considering the small group size and the combination of land and sea activities, many travelers find this offers good value for a full day of diverse experiences.

The Land and Sea Balance

One of the big draws is how well the tour balances landscape exploration with marine adventure. You won’t be just sitting on a bus all day; instead, you’ll get to witness the alien landscapes of Teide and then switch gears to look for playful dolphins and majestic pilot whales. The boat trip, with its smaller group, promises a more exclusive, less commercial feel.

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Flexibility and Convenience

Another aspect worth noting is the flexibility — the route through Teide can be tailored depending on your hotel location or preferences. Plus, the pickup is included, which simplifies planning. The tour runs for about 7 hours, so expect a full day of exploration, but the pace is relaxed and unhurried.

A Closer Look at the Highlights

Teide National Park

This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a landscape that looks like it’s from another planet — vast volcanic craters, unusual rock formations, and a sense of grandeur that’s hard to match. The multiple viewpoints allow for spectacular photo opportunities, and the guide’s explanations deepen your understanding of the volcanic activity that shaped the island.

Some reviews mention the route down from the harbor through the clouds, revealing an impressive lava landscape. The guide, Johnny, is praised for his detailed explanations, making the visit both educational and visually stunning.

Dolphin and Whale Watching

The sea activity is what makes this tour stand out. Tenerife’s waters are a hotspot for dolphins and pilot whales, and boat trips like this are quite popular among wildlife lovers. The reviews reflect that sightings are common, with one traveler mentioning “countless whale sightings.” The experience of seeing these animals in their natural environment is often described as magical.

Many travelers appreciate the small group size on the boat, which fosters a more intimate connection with the wildlife and a chance to ask questions or just enjoy the experience quietly.

Snorkeling and Refreshments

Adding a swimming stop is a thoughtful touch — the turquoise waters are inviting, and anchoring in a bay for a swim can be a highlight. The free snacks and drinks on the boat make the cruise comfortable and relaxing, letting you unwind and soak in the scenery without a rush.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour lasts about 7 hours, so wear comfortable shoes, lightweight clothes, and swimwear.
• Don’t forget sunscreen — the sun can be strong, especially at higher altitudes and out on the water.
• Bring a hat and sunglasses for added protection.
• The group size is limited, so booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly if that’s a consideration.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who appreciates a combination of land and sea adventures, this tour provides a well-rounded day. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see Tenerife’s iconic landscapes and also love wildlife, especially dolphins and whales. The small group size makes it appealing for those who prefer a more intimate experience rather than large, crowded tours.

It’s also great if you’re comfortable with a full day of outdoor activity and don’t mind some variability in wildlife sightings, which are always at nature’s mercy. The inclusion of snacks, drinks, and snorkeling options makes it a comfortable, versatile choice.

Final Thoughts

This Tenerife combo tour stands out because it blends the otherworldly beauty of Teide’s volcanic landscapes with the thrill of wildlife watching aboard a cozy sailboat. The reviews speak to the professionalism of the guides, the stunning scenery, and the satisfying experience of spotting dolphins in the wild.

While it’s not perfect — weather can influence the marine part, and it’s a full-day commitment — the overall experience looks to be top-tier for those interested in nature, photography, and wildlife. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a personalized, small-group adventure that balances land exploration with marine excitement.

If you’re looking for a day filled with remarkable landscapes and the chance to see playful dolphins in their natural habitat, this tour might just give you one of the most memorable days in Tenerife.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Tenerife. You’ll be asked to wait in the lobby about 10 minutes before pickup time.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, the route through Teide National Park can be adjusted depending on your hotel location or personal preferences, weather conditions permitting.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, and light, casual clothes suitable for outdoor activities and potential swimming.

How long is the boat trip?
The maritime excursion lasts around 3 hours, giving ample time for wildlife spotting, snorkeling, and relaxing with snacks and drinks.

What is the group size?
The boat accommodates a maximum of 11 passengers, ensuring a more private and relaxed experience.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, but older children who enjoy outdoor activities and wildlife may find it enjoyable. Note that the boat trip involves some time on the water and walking.

What if I don’t see dolphins or whales?
Wildlife sightings depend on ocean conditions and animal presence, but the tour operators are experienced and do their best to maximize chances. Even without sightings, the boat trip offers beautiful views and a relaxing experience.

Hope this helps you decide if this blend of land and sea adventure is right for your Tenerife trip. It’s a day designed to leave you with lasting memories of both the island’s fiery landscapes and playful marine life.

You can check availability for your dates here: