Tenerife: Kayak and Snorkel with Turtles with Free Videos

If you’re dreaming of paddling along Tenerife’s coast, encountering playful dolphins, and swimming with green turtles in crystal-clear waters, this kayaking and snorkeling tour might be just what you need. It’s a well-rated, eco-friendly adventure that combines wildlife sightings, scenic views, and relaxed aquatic fun—all in a manageable 3-hour window.

One thing we really like about this experience is how respectful it is of marine life. The guiding company emphasizes eco-certification and non-intrusive practices, which means you’re less likely to disturb the animals and more likely to witness them in their natural habitat. Plus, the inclusion of free professional videos and pictures adds a memorable touch without extra cost, making it perfect for shareable moments and keepsakes.

However, a consideration worth noting is that participants must be comfortable swimming, as this tour involves active paddling and snorkeling in open waters. With a group size that’s generally manageable and guides who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, this trip suits adventurous, wildlife-loving travelers who enjoy a mix of physical activity and nature encounters.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Up to 90% chance of seeing dolphins and turtles in their natural environment.
• Eco-Friendly Approach: The only eco-certified kayaking company on the island prioritizes animal welfare.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Videos, photos, wetsuits, and insurance included for a seamless experience.
• Scenic Routes: Beautiful coastline, mountain views, and secluded bays make for stunning scenery.
• Suitable for Swimmers: Participants must be able to swim; the activity isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or pregnant women.
• Varied Marine Life: Expect to see bottlenose dolphins, green turtles, sometimes loggerhead turtles, and even rays.

Exploring the Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Convenience

The trip begins at Xplore Tenerife, specifically at the Cristianmar building on Google Maps, located conveniently near Playa de Los Cristianos. The setup is straightforward: a brief safety briefing (around 15 minutes) gets you comfortably oriented before you’re kitted up and ready to go. The meeting point is easy to find, and changing rooms and lockers are available, so packing light is possible.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off with a quick on-foot walk of approximately five minutes, leading you to the water’s edge. From there, you are introduced to your comfortable kayaks, equipped with supportive seats and backrests—important for those not used to spending hours paddling.

The first kayaking segment lasts about an hour, taking you along Tenerife’s coast, offering spectacular views of cliffs, coves, and mountains. Your guide will keep an eye out for dolphins, which often put on impressive displays, jumping high out of the water and swimming alongside the kayaks. Multiple reviews mention pods of up to 30 dolphins being seen, often jumping and playing right near the kayaks, creating picture-perfect moments.

Scenic Stop at Cueva de los Enamorados

Around 15 minutes into the tour, a brief stop at Cueva de los Enamorados allows for more dolphin spotting and a chance to appreciate Tenerife’s rugged coastline. Guides tend to be very knowledgeable about the local wildlife and geography, sharing interesting facts that enhance the experience.

The Snorkeling Break in a Secluded Bay

The highlight for many is the 30-minute snorkeling break at a secret, hardly accessible bay. This spot, only reachable by boat, offers calm, clear waters perfect for exploring marine life. Here, you’re likely to observe more marine creatures, including the green turtles that are common in the area—though sightings are never guaranteed, there’s a strong 90% chance you’ll encounter them.

Several reviewers describe snorkeling as a highlight, with one even mentioning the chance to see rays gliding gracefully along the seabed. Wetsuits are provided, which is a plus considering water temperatures and to ensure comfort. The calm bay setting allows for easy floating and viewing, making it accessible even for those new to snorkeling.

Return and Final Stretch

After the swim, the tour loops back to Playa de Los Cristianos, with another hour of kayaking along the coast. This segment offers more opportunities for dolphin sightings, scenic vistas, and relaxing paddling. Guides often take this chance to point out interesting landmarks and share insights about Tenerife’s natural environment.

The End of the Tour

Back at the starting point, you’ll receive your photos and videos—a fantastic bonus included in the price. Many reviewers express appreciation for this, noting how it allows them to relive the experience without paying extra.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Wildlife sightings are the core appeal here. As one reviewer states, “Seeing dolphins jump less than 20ft away was an experience I’ll never forget.” The guides’ expertise and attentiveness shine through, with many praised for their friendly personalities, safety-conscious approach, and knowledge of local marine ecosystems.

The eco-certified status of the company distinguishes it from less responsible options, assuring you that your adventure doesn’t harm the environment. This is especially important given the popularity of wildlife tourism and the risks of disturbing marine animals.

The inclusion of wetsuits, photos, and videos for the price enhances perceived value. For only $40, you’re not just paying for the actual activity but also for memories you can keep forever, which many reviewers say is worth every penny.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration: 3 hours, perfect for a half-day activity.
• Price: $40 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the inclusions.
• Participants: Minimum age is 14; must be able to swim and comfortable in open water.
• Group size: Generally small and manageable, guided by knowledgeable multilingual instructors.
• What to bring: Sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, flip-flops.
• What’s provided: Kayaks, snorkel gear, wetsuits, accident insurance, pictures, and videos.
• Not suitable for: pregnant women, children under 14, people with back problems, or anyone over 220 lbs (100 kg).

Considerations

While the majority of reviews highlight the fun and wildlife sightings, some mention that turtle sightings are not guaranteed, as it depends on the day and animals’ natural behavior. Being prepared for the possibility of just seeing dolphins or fish is wise.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer enthusiastically mentions, “Gonza was my guide, and the trip exceeded all expectations,” highlighting how great guides can make all the difference. Others appreciated guides like William, Max, and Coco for their friendliness, professionalism, and spontaneous help—like jumping into the water to free a turtle from a net.

A common thread in reviews is how guides’ knowledge and attitude made the experience memorable. Many say guides went above and beyond, making them feel safe, cared for, and well-informed.

The Value of This Experience

Compared to other similar tours—some of which charge higher prices for fewer inclusions—this trip delivers an excellent balance of value. The free photos and videos alone add significant worth, especially for families or couples hoping to share their wildlife encounters online.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for someone looking for a mix of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty without spending a whole day at sea. It’s particularly suited for active travelers who are comfortable in water and enjoy seeing animals in their natural environment.

If you love dolphins or turtles, or simply want a fun, engaging way to experience Tenerife’s coast, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s also a good choice for groups with diverse ages—as long as participants are over 14 and comfortable swimming.

Final thoughts

This kayak and snorkel trip strikes a great balance between adventure, respect for nature, and value. The chance to see dolphins leap and turtles glide, combined with professional guidance and beautiful scenery, makes it a standout option for marine life enthusiasts. The inclusion of free media makes it easy to cherish and share these special moments long after the trip ends.

FAQ

Do I need to be able to swim to join this tour?
Yes, it is mandatory to be able to swim, as the activity involves paddling and snorkeling in open waters.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including safety briefings, paddling, stops, and snorkeling.

Are wetsuits provided?
Yes, wetsuits are included in the price, which helps keep you warm and comfortable during the water activities.

Can I see dolphins and turtles every time?
While there’s a 90% chance of encountering dolphins and turtles, sightings depend on weather and animal behavior, so they’re not guaranteed.

Is this suitable for children?
Not for children under 14. Minors over 14, who are confident swimmers, can participate with parental permission.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, and flip-flops. Remember, alcohol and drugs are not allowed.

Is it safe?
Absolutely. The guides are experienced, and all participants are insured. Safety briefings are provided before paddling.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it's recommended to check availability and reserve your spot, especially in peak seasons.

What if I don’t like kayaking?
The focus is on enjoying marine life, and guides do their best to make the experience accessible and enjoyable even if kayaking isn’t your thing.

Can I buy additional photos or videos?
No, the media is included in the tour price, so you can relax without worrying about extra costs.

In essence, Tenerife’s kayak and snorkel tour offers a fantastic, well-organized chance to see wild dolphins and turtles without overdoing it. With friendly guides, stunning scenery, and free media, it’s a memorable adventure perfect for wildlife fans and active travelers alike.