Tenerife: Underwater Lava Tongues Snorkel Excursion

Snorkeling along Tenerife’s coast offers more than just a dip in the ocean; it’s a chance to witness a landscape shaped by volcanic forces, both above and beneath the water. The Underwater Lava Tongues Snorkel Excursion by Apnea Academy WE aquatic experiences promises an adventure that combines geological marvels with vibrant marine life—all in just a couple of hours. While it’s a short trip, it packs in enough breathtaking sights and authentic experiences to make it a worthwhile addition to your Tenerife itinerary.

What we love most about this tour is how it makes volcanic geology accessible and visually stunning. Watching the lava tongues—those striking formations of volcanic rock—underwater adds a layer of wonder that many other excursions don’t highlight. However, one consideration is the limited duration; if you’re eager to explore extensively or want a longer, more leisurely experience, this might feel a bit brisk. Still, it’s perfect for travelers who want a concise, immersive peek into Tenerife’s volcanic heritage, especially those interested in marine ecosystems. This tour suits adventurous travelers, nature lovers, or anyone looking to combine stunning scenery with engaging snorkeling opportunities.

Key Points

• Unique geological formations: Experience the fascinating underwater lava tongues created by volcanic activity.
• Expert-guided tour: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, ensuring safety and capturing memorable photos and videos.
• Vibrant marine life: Explore Tenerife’s underwater flora and fauna in crystal-clear Atlantic waters.
• Short but sweet: A 2-hour excursion that’s ideal for travelers with limited time or looking for a quick, impactful activity.
• Small group setting: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Affordable price point: At $56 per person, it offers good value considering the expertise, scenery, and memorable photos included.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Marina Del Sur, Las Galletas

The trip begins at Marina Del Sur in Las Galletas—an easy spot to reach whether you’re staying nearby or heading over from other parts of Tenerife. The meeting point at pontoon 5 sets the stage for a smooth start, with the boat cruise serving as an introduction to the volcanic coast.

The Boat Cruise: Setting the Scene

Once on board, the boat cruise takes you along the coast, offering scenic views of Tenerife’s volcanic landscape. This also gives you a chance to relax, enjoy some bottled water, and get excited for the snorkeling ahead. The boat ride is not just transportation; it’s part of the adventure, with many travelers appreciating the chance to see the coast from a different perspective before plunging into the water.

Snorkeling: Discovering Lava Tongues and Marine Life

The highlight, of course, is snorkeling over the underwater lava tongues—remarkable formations of volcanic rock that extend beneath the waves. As the guide, Paco, and the team explain the geological significance of these features, they also capture photos and videos for you to keep.

One reviewer noted, “Paco is very professional and we were able to enjoy the marine life for a while,” emphasizing the guide’s friendly approach and the chance to truly observe the vibrant ecosystem beneath. Expect to see a variety of marine flora and fauna, with clear waters making for excellent visibility.

Underwater Marvels

The volcanic origin of Tenerife has left a landscape unlike any other in the Canary Islands. These lava tongues are not just impressive to look at; they provide shelter for marine creatures, making the snorkeling experience lively and dynamic. As you glide over these formations, you’ll notice how the volcanic activity shaped the coast both above and below water, creating a natural spectacle that’s part geological wonder, part underwater garden.

Return to Marina Del Sur

After about an hour snorkeling, you’ll head back to the marina, giving you time to reflect on the sights and perhaps share some photos with fellow travelers. The entire experience lasts just 2 hours, making it a perfect short activity that doesn’t eat up your entire day.

How the Tour Delivers Value

At $56 per person, this tour offers a compelling mix of geological sights, marine life, and guided expertise. The inclusion of photos and videos is a particularly nice touch, providing tangible memories without extra cost. Snorkeling equipment and bottled water are also included, so you’re not left scrambling for gear or hydration during the excursion.

Compared to longer or more expensive tours, this activity strikes a good balance between cost and experiences. It’s especially attractive for travelers seeking a quick, visually stunning outing without the need for extensive planning or commitment.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This snorkeling tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a taste of Tenerife’s volcanic marvels without spending hours in water. Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to see volcanic formations up close while enjoying the vibrant marine life. It also suits those traveling with family or friends who prefer small groups, given the limited number of participants and personalized attention from guides like Paco.

However, if you’re looking for a leisurely, extensive exploration or a longer underwater adventure, you might find this experience a bit brief. Still, for many, it provides a perfect snapshot of Tenerife’s geological and marine treasures.

Final Thoughts

In essence, the Tenerife Underwater Lava Tongues Snorkel Excursion offers a fantastic blend of geology, marine life, and guided expertise. The small-group format and inclusion of photos make it both personalized and memorable. While it only lasts two hours, the sights and stories shared by Paco and his team make this a worthwhile addition to your Tenerife adventure.

Travelers who appreciate authentic, scenic experiences and want a quick but impactful glimpse into Tenerife’s volcanic past will find this tour engaging and rewarding. It’s especially great for those with limited time but a desire to see something truly unique and beautiful beneath the waves.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including the boat cruise and snorkeling.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Marina Del Sur, Las Galletas, specifically at pontoon 5, and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included in the price, ensuring you can focus on enjoying the underwater scenery.

Are photos and videos included?
Absolutely. The guides take photos and videos of your snorkeling experience, so you can keep memories of the volcanic formations and marine life.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all levels, with guides ensuring safety and offering assistance if needed.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone if you want extra photos.

Are there any age restrictions?
The available information doesn’t specify age limits, but given the nature of snorkeling, it’s best for those comfortable in the water.

Do I need to bring my own food or drinks?
Food and drinks are not included, but bottled water is provided. You might want to bring some snacks if you wish.

Is there any cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, this snorkel tour offers a compact yet immersive look into Tenerife’s volcanic heart. It’s a worthwhile choice for travelers eager to see geological formations and marine life up close, guided by friendly experts who enhance every step of the journey. With stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to capture memorable moments, it’s a small adventure that leaves a big impression.