Los Cristianos: Kayak & Snorkel Tour with turtles and photos included

Experience the Coast of Los Cristianos with Kayaking and Snorkeling—A Close Encounter with Marine Life

If you’re heading to Tenerife and looking for a fun, active way to enjoy the sea, the Los Cristianos Kayak & Snorkel Tour offers a fantastic option. For around $31 per person, this 2.5-hour experience takes you along the stunning coast, where you’ll paddle past cliffs, spot dolphins and turtles, and snorkel in clear waters. Led by knowledgeable guides like José, who’s praised repeatedly for his enthusiasm and helpfulness, this tour combines adventure and natural beauty in a manageable, family-friendly package.

What we love about this experience are two specific aspects: First, the opportunity to see dolphins and turtles in their natural habitat—a rare chance that’s often highlighted in reviews. Second, the friendly, knowledgeable guides make sure everyone feels comfortable, whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a first-timer. The equipment is also inclusive, with waterproof bags, snorkeling gear, and safety vests provided, which adds to the overall convenience.

A possible consideration is the weather dependency—since conditions can influence marine sightings and comfort on the water. For those prone to seasickness or with certain health issues, the activity might not be suitable. It’s also worth noting that this tour is best suited for those comfortable with swimming and light physical activity, as some reviews mention it being a bit of a “solid gym session.”

This tour appeals most to travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, wildlife, and scenic views without over-complicating things. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy outdoor activities will find this an engaging and worthwhile addition to Tenerife’s many attractions. Now, let’s break down exactly what you can expect on this adventure.

Key Points

• Authentic Marine Encounters: Chance to see dolphins and turtles in the wild, making it a memorable experience.
• Professional Guides: Guides like José are praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and helpfulness.
• All Equipment Included: Snorkel gear, waterproof bags, life jackets, and insurance are provided for comfort and safety.
• Beautiful Scenery: Paddle along the cliffs of Guaza Mountain, a recognized Biosphere Reserve, with scenic views and wildlife.
• Flexible Booking and Cancellation: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for individuals comfortable in water, but not recommended for very young children, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Los Cristianos Kayak & Snorkel Tour

The Starting Point and How It Works

Your adventure begins at the El Carmen 4 location, a familiar spot between the Hostal Tenerife and Yedey store, making it easy to find. From there, a quick 3-minute walk takes you to the beach of Los Cristianos, where the activity actually kicks off. This proximity is convenient, especially if you’re staying nearby or want to maximize your time on the water.

Once on the beach, you’ll receive a thorough briefing from your guides. They’ll cover safety tips, kayak handling, and what to expect during the tour. The guides are experienced and lively—many reviews highlight how José and Alejandro go above and beyond to make everyone feel comfortable and informed, even helping children with snorkeling or answering questions about the marine environment.

The Itinerary and Highlights

The tour is designed with a good mix of paddling, sightseeing, and snorkeling. Here’s how it unfolds:

• Initial Paddle (35 minutes): You’ll leave from the beach, heading toward the fish farms. Along the way, you’ll pass Los Tarajales and El Callao beaches, with views of Guaza Mountain’s cliffs, part of a Biosphere Reserve. This stretch offers dramatic scenery and the chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the coast.

• Wildlife Watching at Fish Farms: As you approach the fish farms, guides will be on the lookout for marine fauna, including dolphins and turtles. The reviews repeatedly mention sightings of dolphins—some travelers even saw multiple. Your guides do their best to respect the animals’ habitat, which adds a layer of authenticity and environmental consciousness.

• Snorkeling at Palm Mar Cave: Near the fish farms, you’ll stop to snorkel in crystal-clear waters. This spot is often praised for its visibility and the variety of fish and sea life you can observe. The guides provide snorkeling gear, goggles, and snorkel tubes, making it accessible even for beginners. Many reviews mention how guides like José help children or less confident swimmers, which adds peace of mind.

• Break with Refreshments: After snorkeling, you’ll enjoy a gift of fruit and water—a thoughtful touch that revitalizes you before the return paddle. This is especially appreciated by families and those who want a little energy boost.

• Return Paddle (40 minutes): The route takes you back toward Los Cristianos, passing scenic spots and possibly catching glimpses of more marine life. The final stretch is often lauded for its peacefulness and beautiful views.

The Guides and Their Impact

Several reviews emphasize how guides like José elevate the experience. Not only do they ensure safety, but they are also rich in local knowledge and genuinely enthusiastic. One reviewer said, “José went out of his way to help my son with snorkeling, showing him different sea life along the way,” which highlights the personalized approach.

Another reviewer raved, “José and Alejandro were amazing guides and made it a wonderful experience,” and many noted that guides took photos and videos—saving you the hassle and creating lasting memories.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The key feature of this tour is its combination of active paddling, wildlife encounters, and scenic beauty. The chance to see dolphins and turtles in the wild is often cited as a highlight, especially since the guides do their best to respect marine habitats. The scenic views of Guaza Mountain’s cliffs and the proximity to protected areas give this tour an authentic sense of place that larger, more commercial excursions might lack.

The value is also notable: at $31, the experience includes all necessary gear, insurance, photos, and refreshments. For a half-day adventure that delivers multiple highlights—wildlife, scenic views, and physical activity—this is a solid bargain.

Considerations and Who Should Skip It

While many travelers find this tour unforgettable, it’s not for everyone. The activity involves some physical exertion—paddling a kayak, snorkeling, and walking to the beach—so those with health issues, back problems, or who are not comfortable in water might want to reconsider.

Weather can influence marine sightings—dolphins and turtles are wild animals, and sightings aren’t guaranteed—so you might find this is a chance-based experience. Also, seasickness can be an issue for sensitive travelers, and the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, young children under 3, or anyone over 220 lbs (100 kg).

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At just $31, this tour offers an immersive experience that combines adventure, wildlife viewing, scenic landscapes, and cultural appreciation. The inclusion of all gear, insurance, and photos adds extra value, making it a hassle-free outing.

Many reviewers highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, which turns what could be a simple activity into a memorable experience. The chance to see dolphins, turtles, and a variety of fish makes this more than just a paddle—it’s a chance to connect with nature.

The brief duration ensures you won’t be exhausted, and the flexibility in booking and cancellation makes it easy to fit into your Tenerife itinerary. For families or solo travelers who enjoy active days and nature, this tour ticks many boxes.

The Sum Up

The Los Cristianos Kayak & Snorkel Tour provides excellent value for an accessible, engaging adventure along Tenerife’s coast. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach make it particularly appealing for those new to kayaking or snorkeling, but even seasoned water lovers praise the scenic views and wildlife sightings.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly, authentic experience that combines physical activity with the chance to see marine life in its natural environment, this tour delivers. It’s especially suitable if you want a flexible, affordable outing that’s well-organized and full of memorable moments.

While it depends on the weather and your comfort level in water, many travelers find this tour to be a highlight of their trip—an active, scenic, and wildlife-rich experience that leaves lasting impressions.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for children who are comfortable in water and can handle light physical activity. The tour is not recommended for children under 3 years or those with health issues.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, flip-flops, and beachwear. The tour provides snorkeling gear, waterproof bags, and life jackets, so those are not necessary to bring unless you prefer your own.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

How long is the entire activity?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including briefings, paddling, snorkeling, and breaks.

Will I see dolphins or turtles?
Sightings are possible and frequently reported, especially with early morning bookings. However, as wildlife is unpredictable, sightings are not guaranteed.

Is this activity safe?
Yes, safety equipment and insurance are included. Guides like José prioritize safety and provide instructions to ensure a secure experience for all participants.

This Kayak & Snorkel Tour in Los Cristianos offers a balanced mix of fun, scenery, and wildlife, making it a fitting choice for those seeking an active outdoor experience with genuine natural encounters.

You can check availability for your dates here: