Kayaking + snorkeling with turtles

Exploring the Kayaking and Snorkeling with Turtles Tour in Tenerife

This Tenerife adventure combines the thrill of paddling along rugged coastlines with the peaceful joy of snorkeling among marine creatures. Rated 4.5 out of 5 based on over 120 reviews, this activity is a favorite for those looking to connect with nature in an active, yet relaxed setting. We love how accessible it is—whether you’re a seasoned paddler or new to kayaking—and how it showcases Tenerife’s wild, untouched shorelines.

One thing to keep in mind is that, as with all wildlife encounters, sightings of turtles or dolphins are not guaranteed. This means you’ll get plenty of scenic kayaking and snorkeling, but the animals’ unpredictable habits can sometimes mean no close-up turtle encounters. Nonetheless, for families, nature lovers, or anyone eager to explore Tenerife’s coast in an eco-friendly way, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience suits anyone with moderate physical fitness who enjoys the outdoors. Kids from 6 years and up can join, making it a fantastic family outing. If you’re craving a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and marine life, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see dolphins, turtles, and a variety of fish, though sightings depend on nature’s mood.
• Active & Relaxing: Combines kayaking with guided snorkeling—perfect for those who enjoy both sport and leisure.
• Authentic Nature Experience: Offers access to rocky shores visible only from the sea, providing exclusive views.
• Professional Guides: Knowledgeable instructors, like Ayop, make the trip informative and friendly.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for ages 6 and up, making it a fun outing for all ages.
• Good Value: At around $52 per person for approximately 2 hours, the tour offers a well-rounded, memorable experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Planning and Booking

The tour is often booked about a week in advance, reflecting its popularity. The cost of roughly $52.33 per person is quite reasonable, considering it includes kayak use, snorkeling equipment, and guide services. Booking in advance ensures a spot, especially during peak travel times.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Start your adventure at Kayaking Tenerife Atlantis, located at Edificio Guayero in Los Cristianos. The meeting point is easy to reach via public transportation, and the activity ends right back at the same spot, simplifying logistics. Pickup options are offered, which is a bonus for those staying nearby.

Duration and Group Size

The entire trip lasts about 2 hours, a perfect slice of time to enjoy without feeling rushed. The maximum group size is 45 travelers, ensuring plenty of space for everyone and personalized attention from guides. The tour runs year-round thanks to Tenerife’s pleasant climate, making it accessible in any season.

The Itinerary in Detail

The adventure kicks off from the beach of Los Cristianos, where friendly instructors will gear you up and give a safety briefing. Once on the water, you’ll paddle along the spectacular southern cliffs—a stretch of coastline characterized by impressive rocky formations, caves, and caverns that are only visible from the ocean.

The first stop is PalmMar rocks, known for their caves and caverns. From here, the guide takes you to a special area where sea turtles are known to live. This is the highlight for many, especially during the guided snorkeling session that lasts around 30 minutes. As one reviewer noted, “Ayop, our tour guide, gave us an incredible and memorable experience. He was very patient and helpful,” which highlights the quality of instruction and support provided.

During snorkeling, you’ll observe the turtles in their natural habitat—gentle creatures surfacing for air—though not every trip guarantees a close encounter. As one reviewer shared, “We saw a turtle surfacing the water but unfortunately we couldn’t go near,” reflecting the unpredictability but also the authenticity of wildlife sightings.

Marine Life and Snorkeling

Beyond turtles, the waters of PalmMar are teeming with diverse fish and marine species. The calm, clear waters and abundant marine life make snorkeling here a visual feast. The guided nature of the activity ensures safety and enhances the experience, especially for beginners or those unfamiliar with snorkeling gear.

Paddling and Scenic Views

Following snorkeling, you’ll paddle further along the coast, enjoying picturesque views of cliffs, caves, and the ocean’s surface. Many reviewers have mentioned how stunning the scenery is, with one noting the “impressive caves and caverns” that make the paddle so visually rewarding.

Dolphins are sometimes spotted along the way, with some travelers reporting memorable sightings of these playful creatures jumping around—though it’s all down to luck. As one person said, “Many times when we are lucky, we meet dolphins,” emphasizing the element of unpredictability that makes wildlife tours exciting.

Guides and Overall Atmosphere

Our favorite aspect is the professionalism and warmth of the guides—like Ayop and David—who go out of their way to make everyone feel comfortable and informed. They are patient, friendly, and clearly passionate about sharing Tenerife’s marine environment. This enhances the tour’s value, making it more than just a paddle and snorkel trip but a genuine introduction to the local ecosystem.

What’s Included and What Not

The tour price covers kayaking equipment and snorkeling gear, which is all you need for the water activities. The only notable extra expense might be transportation if you’re not staying nearby, as the activity does not include an air-conditioned vehicle.

It’s worth noting that service animals are allowed, and the tour is suitable for anyone with a moderate level of physical fitness. This means if you’re comfortable paddling for a couple of hours and swimming, you’re good to go.

The Value and Overall Impression

At around $52.33, this tour offers excellent value considering it combines outdoor activity, wildlife spotting, and stunning scenery in one package. The price is reasonable, especially given the expert guidance, snorkeling equipment, and the chance to see turtles and dolphins in their natural setting.

The experience is particularly appealing to families, nature enthusiasts, and active travelers who want to explore Tenerife’s coast from a different perspective. The combination of paddling, snorkeling, and sightseeing makes for a lively, engaging outing that’s not just about ticking boxes but about creating authentic, memorable moments.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re eager to get out on the water and enjoy Tenerife’s rugged coastline, this tour is ideal. It suits those who enjoy a bit of physical activity without it being too strenuous and appreciate wildlife in their natural habitat. Families with kids aged 6 and above will find it manageable and fun, especially because guides are attentive and safety-conscious.

The tour encourages a relaxed yet adventurous day, perfect for travelers seeking a mix of sport, scenery, and marine life. If your goal is to see dolphins or turtles, remember that sightings depend on luck, but even without close encounters, the experience offers remarkable views and a good dose of ocean air.

FAQs

Do I need prior kayaking or snorkeling experience?
No, the activity is suitable for beginners. The guides provide gear and instructions, making it accessible for first-timers.

Is there a minimum age to participate?
Yes, children aged 6 and above are welcome, making it a family-friendly outing.

What should I wear and bring?
Just bring a towel, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure. The tour provides snorkeling equipment and kayaks, so no need to bring your own gear.

How long is the snorkeling session?
The snorkeling with turtles lasts about 30 minutes, guided by the instructor to ensure safety and enjoyment.

Can I expect to see dolphins?
Dolphin sightings are possible but not guaranteed—they often appear during the paddle, and many travelers have enjoyed watching them leap and play.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This kayaking and snorkeling tour in Tenerife is a well-balanced mix of adventure, natural beauty, and wildlife encounters. It offers good value for its price, especially considering the expert guidance and stunning scenery. The chance to see turtles and dolphins—whether close up or in the distance—adds a magical touch to the trip, making it a highlight for many.

Ideal for families, active travelers, or anyone wanting a memorable outdoor experience in Tenerife, this tour promises a day of fun, exploration, and connection with the ocean’s wild inhabitants. Just keep your expectations flexible regarding wildlife sightings, but rest assured, you’ll leave with plenty of incredible views and stories to tell.

In short, if you’re looking for an engaging way to explore Tenerife’s coast that combines sport, scenery, and the chance to see marine life, this tour is a fantastic choice. With friendly guides and a focus on authentic experiences, it’s a memorable addition to any Tenerife itinerary.