Category: Canary Islands

  • The Guide & Schedule for Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2024

    The Guide & Schedule for Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2024

    Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

    This is not so well known but the capital of Tenerife, the biggest island in the whole Canaries, holds the second biggest carnival in the world. It is no surprise that Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a twinned city with Rio de Janeiro – the host of the biggest carnival in the world – Carnival of Rio de Janeiro. Throughout the years with the growing tourism, the popularity of the event only grew.

    In 1987 more than 250,000 gathered for the performance of Celia Cruz during the Carnival and it was registered by World Guinness Book Records as the biggest people gathering in an outdoor plaza to date. Though it was not acknowledged by the same institution, it is well-recognized that more than 400,000 people gathered during Day Carnival in 2019.

    Carnival de Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2019
    Every Queen of Carnival is more beautiful than the others. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

    A Brief History of Carnival in Spain

    The celebration of the carnival has been in the Canary Islands since the arrival of Europeans. Though considered to be a Christian event, it could be a continuation of some kind of pagan tradition to celebrate the return of light.

    Today it is the biggest annual event held in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, but not everybody all the time likes the idea of carnival and wearing masks. Throughout history, there have been several attempts to ban masks or the carnival itself. Despite all the attempts the celebrations persisted. Together with Cadiz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife continued to celebrate the carnival even during the Franco regime when the event was banned, probably due to pagan origins. The resilience of people might be the reason why Santa Cruz de Tenerife hosts such a big carnival these days.

    Carnival de Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2019
    One thing is for sure – Spaniards know how to celebrate & party. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

    Where to stay?

    I’ve been to Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife only for The Grand Parade day but from what I saw – it left me with the impression that the city is partying for the whole duration of the Carnival. So, it depends on what you are after for but if fun is the goal – the closer to the city center – the closer to the action. If you are interested only in the parade part of the carnival – anywhere would do. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to get there somehow. TITSA transportation company will have an increased number of buses operating, depending on the crowds.

    Recommended locations: Plaza de España, Plaza Principe de Asturias, Plaza de la Candelaria, Fountain Square Weyler or anywhere else in Santa Cruz de Tenerife for quieter nights.

    Santa Cruz de Tenerife during the 2019 Carnival
    Staying close to the city center will make you feel like a part of the carnival even when at home. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

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    Santa Cruz Carnival 2024 Details

    • Carnival theme: Television
    • Location: Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands
    • Date: Jan 12 – Feb 18
    • Entrance: Free
    • Accomondation: Santa Cruz de Tenerife
    • Parade-watching location: Plaza de España
    • Main events: The Queen’s Gala (Feb 7), The Opening Parade of the Carnival (Feb 13), The Big Carnival Parade in Santa Cruz de Tenerife (17 Feb)

    Carnival Map

    Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2024 Schedule

    In 2019 when I was visiting Santa Cruz de Tenerife for the event I found it quite difficult to find relevant information except in Spanish. The schedule and location information are taken from the official carnival website(find the reference at the end of the article) and translated into English. Also, I added Google Maps directions to all the locations where the event is taking place. I hope you find this useful because it was exactly what I needed in 2019 when I last visited the carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

    Week 1

    Friday Jan 12

    • 21:30 – Opening of Carnival 2024

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    Week 2

    Thursday, Jan 18


    Friday, Jan 19


    Saturday, Jan 20


    Sunday, Jan 21

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    Week 3

    Monday, Jan 22


    Tuesday, Jan 23


    Wednesday, Jan 24


    Friday, Jan 26


    Saturday, Jan 27


    Sunday, Jan 28

    Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2019
    Photo from Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2019. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

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    Week 4

    Wednesday, Jan 31


    Friday, Feb 2

    • 20:30La Canción de la Risa (Laughter Song Contest) – Guimerá Theater;

    Saturday, Feb 3


    Sunday, Feb 4

    Orchestra parade in Carnival de Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2019
    Though it is hard to take a picture of orchestra performances, they are as much impressive as the Queens of Carnival. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

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    Week 5

    Wednesday, Feb 7


    Thursday, Feb 8

    • 20:30 – Performance of the Agrupación Lírica La Zarzuela of Círculo de Amistad XII de Enero – Guimerá Theater;

    Friday, Feb 9


    Saturday, Feb 10


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    Sunday, Feb 11

    Carnival de Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2019
    During the Grand Parade of the Carnival you can see all of the Queen of Carnival finalists. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

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    Week 6

    Monday, Feb 12

    • All dayCarnival’s Monday

    Tuesday, Feb 13


    Wednesday, Feb 14


    Thursday, Feb 15

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    Friday, Feb 16


    Friday, Feb 17

    • 13:00Day Carnival – All stages with performances;

    Sunday, Feb 18 – Pinata Sunday

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    You May Be Also Interested in…


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    The big parade in Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival
    Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the second biggest in the whole world. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

    References & Useful Links

  • Itinerary for 7-day Holiday in Tenerife, Spain

    Itinerary for 7-day Holiday in Tenerife, Spain

    Sunny Winter Holidays in Europe

    Winter… Winter always comes and once it does, somehow it feels that it never leaves. I hardly meet a person who doesn’t want to migrate somewhere warmer during the cold season. Here in Europe, we don’t have many places to run away from the bitter cold of winter, but the Canary Islands are one of them. Yes, it lies just next to Africa in the Atlantic, but technically – it is Europe. This Spanish territory is a legacy of the empire’s illustrious past.

    Today, Tenerife stands as a year-round haven for those seeking balmy weather and diverse experiences. In this guide, I’ll share a tried-and-true 7-day itinerary that showcases the best of Tenerife, from its stunning beaches to its majestic mountains.

    And don’t you feel like you deserve holidays on a sunny beach too? Maybe, with a mix of one or two adventures every now and then? That would be nice, isn’t it? I think any month could be a perfect time to put your umbrellas down and head to the biggest island of all the Canary Islands – Tenerife. Whether you’re basking in the sun or embarking on an adventure, Tenerife promises a dose of vitamin D and joy for every traveler.

    A road to Teide Volcano in Tenerife, Spain
    Teide Volcano is the crown jewel of the Canary Islands. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

    7-Day Tenerife Itinerary

    • Day 1: Tenerife’s Beach Paradise – Begin your adventure by unwinding on some of Europe’s most beautiful beaches. Bask in the sun and soak in the picturesque views of the Atlantic.
    • Day 2: Marine Majesty – Dolphin and Whale Watching – Set sail on the azure waters for a chance to encounter playful dolphins and majestic whales, a highlight of Tenerife’s natural wonders.
    • Day 3: The Enchantment of Masca Village – Step into the quaint and captivating world of Masca, a hidden gem offering breathtaking views and rich history.
    • Day 4: Conquering Mount Teide – Ascend Spain’s highest peak for awe-inspiring vistas and an up-close experience with Tenerife’s volcanic majesty.
    • Day 5: Northern Tenerife – A Journey of Discovery – Venture into the island’s northern region to explore its unique landscapes and cultural richness, from Garachico to the lush Anaga Rural Park.
    • Day 6: Anaga Rural Park – Nature’s Masterpiece – Immerse yourself in the lush, green heart of Tenerife, a haven for hikers and nature lovers alike.
    • Day 7: Santa Cruz de Tenerife – Culture and Celebration – Conclude your journey in Tenerife’s vibrant capital, where culture, history, and modernity blend
    The view from Playa de los Roques, Puerto de la Cruz
    A typical view in the northern part of Tenerife. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

    Tenerife Island Details

    Tenerife Map

    Panorama from Sendero de los Sentidos, Tenerife
    You wouldn’t guess that Anaga Rural Park is located on the same island as an active volcano. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

    How is the Weather in Tenerife?

    The weather in Tenerife is just fantastic throughout the year. In winter months like February – visiting Tenerife is just surreal. Not only do you get to take out your summer outfits out of the closet but to swim outdoors in a warm sea. One thing is for sure – there are not so many places with such pleasant weather during winter. Tenerife & the rest of the Canary Islands get to enjoy one of the best climates in the world. Why won’t you enjoy it too?

    People watching sunset on Playa de Arena, Tenerife
    Most of the beaches in Tenerife has its sand colored black by Teide volcano. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

    Day 1 – Enjoy Sun & the Best Tenerife Beaches

    Today is all about indulging in the simple pleasures of a beach holiday, setting the tone for an unforgettable week in Tenerife. To some, I imagine, this might sound a bit lame, but once you get your keys to a car and an apartment, the first thing you should do is to go out and head for the closest beach. Let’s start with a big chunk of Vitamin D, you know that it improves your mood, right? ² Good feels are what we are here for, be ready for a week of happiness as this feeling won’t leave you for the rest of the trip. A sunny beach with warm ocean water for sure is surreal once you get here on a winter out of cold Europe.

    Keep in mind that due to possible big waves, some of the beaches might be closed. In that case, just head for any beach with a breakwater, I marked some on the map.

    After the beach, you should walk around, and get to know your neighborhood – find those grocery shops for the morning milk runs and the pubs for the late-night drinks. Picking the best area for your base will vary based on yout personal preferences, but I highly recommend the area around Los Gigantes for its breathtaking evening views, where the sky and sea meet in a spectacular display of colors.


    Day 2 – Take the Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour

    Due to past experience on some other islands, I wasn’t expecting more than beautiful vistas of the island out of the tour. That was true but so was the following. From what I learned the chances of encountering these playful and intelligent creatures are exceptionally high. It might sound strange, but most of the dolphins seek out the boats themselves. They do it either for some wave-riding along the human vessels or simply just because they want to befriend you. Either way, you won’t be able to tell the difference. The dolphins will be there to cheer you up and that combined, with more sea, and more sun will guarantee some quality time. Based on my personal experience (besides the North Atlantic), Tenerife was the only island where dolphins still reach out for boats. In many places, like Mauritius and other coasts suffering from over-tourism, the opposite is true. Therefore, it is very important to take one of the eco-dolphin-friendly tours to keep these majestic creatures still interested in us.

    While dolphin sightings are common, spotting a whale is a moment of serendipity, a special gift from the sea.

    Alternatively, you can take a ferry or tour to La Gomera Island and spend your day there. Most of the dolphin and whale watching tours are heading for territory between Tenerife and La Gomera anyway, where these encounters are very common.

    If you are afraid to get seasick, I would still recommend spending this day not too far from the sea. You just got here and there is still plenty of time to see the rest of the island. Today is the day for the sea and the further enjoyment of the beautiful beaches of Tenerife.


    Day 3 – Visit Masca Village

    By now you probably gotten used to warm weather and the sun (hopefully without too much of a sunburn). It is time to turn your holidays into an adventure to remember. Not like it is boring to lay down on a mattress by the sea reading a book and sipping one Gin Topic after another, but by now you probably have noticed a giant mountain overlooking the island. It kinda looks interesting, doesn’t it? We’ll get there on time, don’t worry, but for now, let’s get closer to the sea. What about getting on that big cliff called Los Gigantes?

    Besides Mount Teide itself, probably the most popular natural attraction on Tenerife island is Masca village, and the so-called Masca hike. The route goes down from the village through Masca Gorge to Playa de Masca at sea level. As of 2019, it was closed down for safety upgrades because some genius decided to do the hike with slippers – don’t be that person, it is not the same as going to the closest supermarket to buy another six-pack.

    Despite the hike being open or closed, Masca Village is highly recommended for any visitor to Tenerife Island. The Teno Massif surrounding the settlement is absolutely mesmerizing. In fact, the whole Teno region used to be a separate small island, which later joined forces with other islets to form what is now called Tenerife Island.

    Sadly, I never had a chance to do the track but by now I hope it is open again for visitors. From what I read and from what I saw, the Masca hike is usually a one-way walk to the beach from where a water taxi will take you back to Los Gigantes but the times might have changed. What definitely has changed is that Masca village is no longer reachable by car. You’ll need to take a bus from the nearest town. Alternatively, you can do a longer and more spectacular guided hike to the ocean from Santiago del Teide. Apparently, you’ll also need a permit to access Masca Gorge Trail, but guided tours will handle this for you.


    Day 4 – Get on the Top of Tenerife Island – Teide Volcano

    While the main reason to go to the Canary Islands is its stable climate, the main reason to pick Tenerife Island for your holidays in the Canary Islands is Mount Teide. Yes, it is the biggest island of all the archipelago and it is amazing – infrastructure and beaches are as good as it gets. Nevertheless, there is nothing similar to Mount Teide on the other islands of the Canaries, and as a matter of fact – the whole of Spain. Mount Teide is the highest mountain in the whole country and did I mention that it is an active volcano too? At the narrowest point up in the north, the sea level and the top of Mount Teide are separated only by 13km / 8 mi. That alone makes the landscape of the island truly awe-inspiring. The one you cannot mistake with anything else.

    What is even better – is the various possibilities to reach the peak of Mount Teide. Most of us will reach it by the cable car running from the base station (2,356m / 7,730ft) to La Rambleta (3,555m / 11,663ft). The very peak of Mount Teide (3,718 / 12,198ft) could be only reached by foot with a special permit that you can get here from the park authorities. In the recent years, with the growth of visitors and the necessity of eco-tourism as a result, guided group tours to Teide Volcano have become very popular – no more worries about parking slots or any other organizational stuff.

    If anybody wants to see more of Teide National Park, they can climb the whole mountain on foot. The hike could start almost from anywhere, including the full challenge of climbing Mount Teide from the sea level. More adventurous people might also want to try the Teide Volcano sunrise hike or sunset tour.


    Day 5 – Visit the North of Tenerife Island

    Many ask which side of Tenerife they should go. North or South? There is no such thing as the right answer to this question. Both faces of Tenerife Island are totally different. It is like Two-Face from the Batman series. While the south is sun-drenched, has more spaces and golden beaches, the north is totally different. This part of Tenerife is where the island’s volcanic heritage and lush landscapes come to life, offering a blend of nature, history, and culture.

    Garachico in Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
    Garachico is listed among top most beautiful villages in Spain. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

    Los Gigantes is located on the edge of both sides. Today we go further to the North than we ever did before. The whole route will slowly bring you to a totally different world. First stop – Garachico – an old port founded in 1496 by a Genoese banker after Tenerife was conquered by the Crown of Castille. Its importance diminished in 1706 when a volcanic eruption destroyed part of the town. Today, Garachico is an interesting tourist destination offering informational historical walks around the city surrounded by 500m+ / 1500ft cliffs.

    After visiting Garachico, drive along the coast towards Puerto de la Cruz, where you no longer have to worry about the road quality. The areas beyond the Teno region, offer smooth travel, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the experience with everything on the table.

    The rest of the day should be spent based on your preference. It is the time to visit Loro Park or walk around Puerto de la Cruz. Our choice was to have a picnic in Playa de los Roques, or you can visit La Orotova instead. Just don’t press too far – tomorrow is the time for La Laguna and Anaga Rural Park.

    Playa de los Roques near Puerto de Santago, Tenerife
    The northern side is not as spacious as the southern one. Eveything feels like it was molded by Teide itself. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

    Day 6 – Enter the Hikers’ Paradise – Anaga Rural Park

    Most of us associate Tenerife and the whole Canary Islands with volcanic formations. Anaga Forest is a totally different landscape. It is a true jungle from the movies: lush green with the sunlight blocked by the trees – alive & dangerous – nothing in common with desolate volcanic rocks. Well, at least, from the first sight.

    The whole Anaga Forest is growing in a mountainous area formed between 7-9mya, after a volcanic eruption. Ever since life transformed this landscape to something more exotic than you’d expect from Tenerife. That is so for a reason – Anaga Rural Park has more endemic species than any other area in the whole of Europe. For that reason, it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Biosphere Reserve in 2015. Actually, a pity it happened so recently.

    These unique natural features attract many outdoor enthusiasts but the Anaga Forest does something way more important. The forest controls the humidity and fertility of the island. Back in the days, when wood was the most important building material, people started deforesting the area. It was noted that the microclimate of Tenerife has changed. Ever since the forest preservation took place. Unfortunately, not so many places in Spain remain with an authentic forest.

    Tip: No matter where you plan to stay for the first days, you should consider relocating to Santa Cruz de Tenerife on this day as you’ll spend the rest of your time in the western part of the island.

    Day 7 – Party at the Capital of Tenerife Island – Santa Cruz

    After all the breathtaking variety of nature, Tenerife Island has, it is finally the time to see some of the local culture. I can hardly think of a better place to do so than the Capital of the island – Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

    Even though Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the most populated city in the whole archipelago, don’t underestimate Santa Cruz. After all, it does share the Capital status of the Canary Islands with Las Palmas and has that feeling of a major city. There is plenty of cultural stuff to do during the day, and more than enough things to do at night. It is especially true during the Carnival at the end of February or at the beginning of March. It is not a well-known fact that Santa Cruz de Tenerife hosts the second biggest Carnival in the whole world, bowing down only to the famous Rio de Janeiro.

    The dates of the event vary from year to year but you can read more about it in my different article about the schedule of Carnival de Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2024. This is surely one hell of an event not to miss if you are around. The whole Santa Cruz de Tenerife turns into a party day after day.

    The big parade in Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival
    The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the second biggest in the whole world. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

    Where to Stay in Tenerife?

    Most of the visitors to Tenerife holidays head to resort towns located around Playa de las Americas like Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos. Unless you are visiting Tenerife for beach holidays only, I would recommend getting a bit further from the crowds instead.

    From what I saw, the popular destinations feel like they were built for people seeking package holiday getaways. It was done in the most uninteresting part of Tenerife Island. All the cool stuff is somewhere else.

    If you want to get intimate with the natural beauty of the island, Los Gigantes or La Laguna are the better choices. If you don’t like calm places, Santa Cruz de Tenerife or Puerto de la Cruz are the places to go.

    Los Gigantes in Tenerife, Canary Islands
    Los Gigantes provides the most dramatic everyday views from all the resort areas in Tenerife. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

    Personal Experience

    There were things I expected with high expectations and they didn’t disappoint me. The Crown Jewel of Tenerife – Mount Teide exceeded even my most optimistic hopes. At the time of my visit, the whole Teide National Park was beyond my imagination. I never expected to see a new type of landscape ever again, and here it was a somewhat barren, yet rich, in both case alien and bizarre surroundings of the tallest point in all territories of Spain.

    Despite its uniqueness and beauty, it was not only Mount Teide that made the whole journey across the island so exceptional. Not a single day left me disappointed. Every day it felt like a different adventure on a different island. It is not your one trick pony like paradise beach island Mahe in Seychelles, or Mauritius snorkeling heaven. Tenerife has many faces and excels to perfection in some of them. If you follow this itinerary, I’m sure you’ll experience the same. The largest islands in the Canaries have more than enough to offer to anybody.

    Man sitting on the top of Mount Teide, 3,718m
    The Cable Car will take you almost to the top of Mount Teide, but to reach the very peak you’ll need a permit. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting the Dots

    Sources:

    ¹ https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/travel-and-events/holiday-weather/europe/canary-islands/tenerife
    ² Young S. N. (2007). How to increase serotonin in the human brain without drugs. Journal of psychiatry & neuroscience : JPN, 32(6), 394–399.