Kayaking with Dolphins and Turtles and Snorkelling in Tenerife

Kayaking with Dolphins and Turtles and Snorkelling in Tenerife

Imagine paddling along Tenerife’s sun-kissed coast, with the chance to spot wild dolphins leaping beside your kayak and catching glimpses of sea turtles gliding beneath the surface. For just over $40 per person, this three-hour adventure from Los Cristianos offers a mix of scenic views, wildlife encounters, and fun water activities. Led by guides like William and Gonzo, the tour promises a memorable day for anyone eager to enjoy Tenerife’s marine life in an active, engaging way.

What we love most is how accessible it is—full instruction is given, so no prior kayaking experience is necessary, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Second, the opportunity to see dolphins in their natural habitat makes this more than just a paddle; it’s a chance to connect with the local ocean environment authentically. On the downside, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, so patience and a bit of luck are required. If you love being on the water, enjoy wildlife, and appreciate professional guides, this tour is a fantastic pick for your Tenerife visit.

Key Points

• Wildlife sightings are a highlight, with the chance to see dolphins and turtles in their natural environment.
• All gear provided means no need to bring your own equipment; wetsuits, snorkel gear, and water shoes are included.
• Experienced guides like William and Gonzo enhance the experience with friendly, knowledgeable assistance.
• Flexible for beginners and those with moderate fitness levels, thanks to full instruction and group support.
• Spectacular coastline views of Tenerife’s west coast and Mount Teide make the trip visually rewarding.
• Weather-dependent, with potential cancellations or rescheduling if conditions aren’t safe.

Exploring Tenerife’s Marine Adventure: Full Breakdown

Starting Point and Setup

Your kayak adventure begins in Los Cristianos at Xplore Tenerife, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow paddlers. The meeting point at Edificio Cristianmar is convenient—near public transportation—making it easy to find. We appreciated the efficiency of the check-in process, as gear such as wetsuits, aqua shoes, life vests, and snorkeling equipment are all provided, removing the hassle of organizing rentals separately.

Guides like William and Gonzo excel at their job, offering clear safety instructions and making everyone feel comfortable, whether it’s their first time or they’re seasoned paddlers. The tour is capped at 16 people, which ensures a friendly, manageable atmosphere and personalized attention.

The Kayaking Itinerary

Once geared up, you’ll push off from the shore and glide over calm Atlantic waters. The paddling route takes you between pristine beaches and quiet bays, where the scenery is spectacular—crystal-clear waters, rugged cliffs, and the distant silhouette of Mount Teide.

The guide leads the way, pointing out features of the coastline and offering insights into the local landscape. Many reviewers note how the instruction is paced well, with plenty of guidance, so even newcomers feel confident.

Wildlife Encounters

This is the heart of the tour. The real thrill is spotting dolphins, particularly bottlenose and striped species—an experience many describe as “thrilling” and “unpredictable.” As Brett recounts, “We were lucky enough to see some bottle nose dolphins and a very large sea turtle.” While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, most groups do encounter dolphins or turtles at least once during their trip.

The guides are skilled at spotting marine life, with some reviewers praising their keen eyes and enthusiasm. As one wrote, “Carlos, our tour guide, made it so nicely,” implying that guide attentiveness can significantly enhance your chances of seeing creatures.

Snorkeling Break

Midway through, the group pauses for a snorkeling session. This is a great chance to switch from paddling to floating and observing the underwater world. The provided snorkeling gear makes it easy to dip below the surface, where colorful fish and other marine critters are often spotted. One reviewer mentioned seeing various fish and crabs, adding to the underwater interest.

Return Journey and Coastal Views

On the paddle back to shore, the scenery continues to impress. Expect breathtaking views of the Tenerife coastline, with Mount Teide looming in the distance—a perfect backdrop for photos. The experience isn’t just about wildlife; the aesthetic pleasure of being on the Atlantic Ocean and witnessing Tenerife from afar makes the journey special.

Final Impressions

Throughout the trip, guides like Daniel, Gonzo, and Guillaume go the extra mile—helping with photos, assisting beginners, and sharing facts about marine life. As one guest noted, “Gonzo went above and beyond when one member of our group accidentally dropped her phone, swimming down to retrieve it,” exemplifying the level of care provided.

The tour concludes back at the starting point, with group members often feeling energized and grateful for the day’s experiences. Many reviews praise the value for money, considering the gear, instruction, and wildlife encounters included.

Practical Aspects to Consider

Price at around $40.55 per person, this tour offers a lot of value—especially considering gear, guides, and photos are included. The full safety briefing and supportive guides mean even nervous first-timers feel at ease, and the group size ensures a personal experience.

You’ll want to bring a towel, swimsuit, and water—these are not included—so plan accordingly. The tour is suitable for travelers aged 14 and up, with a moderate fitness level required. Participants must be able to swim, which is a standard safety requirement.

Weather plays a role; the activity is subject to favorable conditions, and cancellations are possible if the sea becomes too choppy. The company offers a full refund or rescheduling if weather issues arise.

Transportation & Timing

The meeting is scheduled 10 minutes before the start time, with the activity lasting approximately three hours. The start at 10:00 am makes it a good morning activity, leaving plenty of time afterward to enjoy other parts of Tenerife.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted by Travelers

Numerous travelers commend the knowledgeable guides—Gonzo, Daniel, and William—whose expertise and friendly demeanor significantly boost the experience. As one review states, “Guillaume made sure everyone was comfortable and checked on each person,” underscoring the importance of attentive guiding.

Many guests appreciate the photos sent afterward, capturing special moments like dolphins leaping or turtles gliding. One reviewer said, “They made pictures during the trip and sent them to us,” which adds great value to the overall experience.

While most reviews are glowing, some mention disorganised guides or less fortunate wildlife sightings. For example, a guest expressed disappointment about not seeing dolphins or turtles; however, they still enjoyed the guide’s friendliness. This honesty reflects the unpredictable nature of wildlife tours, where sightings depend on luck and timing.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This kayaking adventure in Tenerife is best suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water, are comfortable with moderate physical activity, and seek a genuine, hands-on encounter with marine life. It’s ideal if you’re eager to combine sightseeing with active participation, and value professional guides who make safety and fun their priorities.

If your main goal is guaranteed wildlife sightings or a more relaxed, sunbathing experience, this might not suit you. But if you’re a curious explorer, love seeing dolphins in their habitat, and appreciate well-organized trips in beautiful settings, this tour ticks all those boxes.

FAQs

Is kayaking experience necessary?
No, full instruction and equipment are provided, making it suitable even for beginners.

How long does the tour last?
About three hours, including paddling, snorkeling, and wildlife watching.

What is included in the price?
Wetsuits, snorkeling gear, aqua shoes, dry lockers, life vests, and professional photos are included.

What should I bring?
Towel, swimsuit, water, and perhaps sunscreen—though most gear is provided.

Can I see dolphins and turtles?
While sightings cannot be guaranteed, most groups do encounter dolphins or turtles, depending on conditions and luck.

What is the minimum age?
14 years old, with minors aged 14-18 needing a guardian present.

Is the activity weather-dependent?
Yes, it’s subject to favorable weather; poor conditions could lead to cancellation or rescheduling.

What if I can’t swim?
You must be able to swim to participate, as per safety requirements.

In The Sum Up

This Tenerife kayaking tour offers an engaging way to explore the island’s marine environment, combining physical activity with wildlife spotting. The professional guides, like William and Gonzo, make safety and fun a priority, while the stunning coastal scenery provides a perfect backdrop. The chance to see dolphins and turtles in their natural habitat elevates this from just a kayak trip to a memorable, nature-connected experience. It’s excellent value for money, especially with gear, safety, and photos all included.

If you’re looking for an authentic, active way to spend part of your Tenerife holiday—enjoying the ocean, wildlife, and beautiful views—this tour is a superb choice. It’s well-suited for adventurous travelers, families, and anyone eager to connect with the island’s natural beauty in a lively, friendly setting.

Whether you’re a first-time paddler or a seasoned water enthusiast, this tour offers a compelling glimpse into Tenerife’s lively marine world, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Atlantic.