Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island’s lively capital, is an ideal starting point for exploring Tenerife’s diverse landscapes. We explored the island from this town and are convinced that it offers excellent access to a wide variety of excursions, from the volcano to the primeval forests, including historic villages and boat trips. Whether you’re looking for nature, culture, or an adrenaline rush, the area around Santa Cruz has something for everyone. In this article, you’ll also find ideas for exploring the south and the neighboring island.
Check out our selection of the best day trips from Santa Cruz de Tenerife to help you plan your days on the island!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Our 3 Favorite Day Trips from Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Before discovering our detailed opinions on each of the selected excursions, here are our 3 favorites:
- Teide National Park, a striking volcanic landscape in the heart of the island— see photos, prices, and availability
- The Anaga Rural Park and its primeval forest, just a few kilometers from the capital— see prices, photos and availability
- Dolphin and whale watching off the southern coast— see prices, photos and availability
1. Teide National Park by Day
Why do we recommend this tour?
From Santa Cruz, Teide National Park is about a 1-hour to 1 hour and 15-minute drive away, depending on where you stop along the way. This is undoubtedly the most iconic excursion in Tenerife. As soon as the road breaks through the sea of clouds, the landscape changes dramatically: the ochre, reddish, and black hues of the volcanic rocks create a world unlike any other on the island. We were struck by the sheer size of this park, which offers trails for all skill levels, from easy, flat walks to hikes to the top of the volcano.
You can explore the park by rental car, ATV, or by taking a guided bus tour. We recommend leaving the capital early in the morning to enjoy the light and avoid the tourist rush.
What you will see
- The Llano de Ucanca Viewpoint, our favorite spot, which offers a view of the vast desert plain, the Roques de García, and the volcano in the background (requires a special permit for the final section of the cable car ride—see here)
- The Roques de García and the famous Roque Cinchado, spectacular rock formations that can be circumnavigated on a 3.5km circular hike.
- Minas de San José, a former mining area with lunar-like landscapes, featuring smooth, rocky, and colorful surfaces
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day to explore the park at your own pace. Each stop can last from 15 minutes to over 1 hour, depending on how much you feel like walking. The Roques de García loop takes between 1 hour and 1 hour and 30 minutes. See our complete guide to the park to choose your stops if you’re planning the trip in a rental car.
>>>>> If you don’t want to drive, book your trip to Mount Teide: by bus, car, or ATV! View all options and availability <<<<<
2. Immerse yourself in the primeval forest of the Anaga Rural Park
Why do we recommend this tour?
The Anaga Mountains are literally on the outskirts of Santa Cruz: it takes just a few kilometers to go from the capital to one of Europe’s oldest ecosystems. The forest that covers these mountains, filled with mosses and ferns, is a remnant of Tertiary-era vegetation. We were captivated by the unique atmosphere along these trails—a blend of humidity, silence, and dense vegetation.
The road through the park also offers panoramic views of cliffs plunging into the ocean. At the Cruz del Carmen Lookout, an information center helps visitors understand the site’s ecological richness. Many trails start from this point, suitable for hikers of various skill levels.
What you will see
- A primeval forest with an enchanting atmosphere, filled with mosses and giant ferns
- Dizzying cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic Ocean
- Stunning views along the scenic route
- The Cruz del Carmen Lookout and its information center on the local ecosystem
How much time should I allow?
Plan on spending half a day to a full day, depending on how many hikes you’d like to do. The road is worth taking your time on, stopping regularly to admire the views. Check out our guide to Anaga Park to help you choose where to stop if you’re taking the trip in a rental car.
>>>> If you don’t want to drive, explore the Anaga Forest on a guided tour! View all options, prices, and availability <<<<
3. Watch dolphins and whales off the coast of Tenerife
Why do we recommend this tour?
The waters off the coast of Tenerife are home to dolphins and pilot whales all year round. We had a remarkable experience setting out from the south coast to observe them in their natural habitat. Whether it’s a catamaran or a speedboat, there are a variety of options to suit different types of travelers. We recommend that you choose a tour operator committed to responsible cetacean watching, ideally one that has been certified by the quality charter or the “Barco Azul” label.
Some tours also include a stop for swimming in coves that are accessible only by sea. Departures are mainly from the port of Puerto Colón on the south coast, as well as from Los Gigantes. Some operators offer a transfer from your accommodations in Santa Cruz.
What you will see
- Dolphins and pilot whales in the open sea (these are wild animals; sightings are not guaranteed)
- Tenerife’s south coast seen from the ocean
- Secluded coves accessible only by boat, depending on the tour you choose
How much time should I allow?
Allow around 3 hours for this type of outing. The trip from Santa Cruz to the departure port on the south coast takes about an additional hour by car or bus.
Book your boat tour to see dolphins and whales!
See all options, prices and availability
4. Stroll through San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO City
Why do we recommend this tour?
San Cristóbal de La Laguna is just a few kilometers from Santa Cruz, making it one of the easiest day trips to organize from the capital. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this former episcopal city has preserved a historic center with remarkable architectural coherence. We enjoyed its relative tranquility, its lively student atmosphere, and its colorful facades, which contrast with the white colonial buildings.
As you stroll through its streets, you’ll discover remarkable religious buildings that bear witness to several centuries of history. The atmosphere is peaceful, quite different from the hustle and bustle of the beach areas. We particularly enjoyed the contrast between this colonial heritage and the student life that brings the heart of the city to life.
What you will see
- A historic center listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Colorful facades and remarkable religious buildings
- Harmonious, well-preserved colonial architecture
- Majestic churches whose interiors hold artistic treasures
How much time should I allow?
Allow half a day to a full day to explore the historic center at a leisurely pace. You can also combine this tour with a visit to the Anaga Rural Park on the same day. La Laguna is accessible by car or tram from Santa Cruz. See our article on attractions in San Cristóbal de La Laguna.
5. Explore Masca and its breathtaking gorges
Why do we recommend this tour?
Masca is a tiny village nestled in the Teno Mountains, in the heart of gorges with steep cliffs. We recommend leaving Santa Cruz early to minimize the stress of the winding road and maximize your chances of finding a parking spot. The access road itself is one of the most spectacular in the Canary Islands: every hairpin turn reveals a new view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Several tour options are available: some combine Masca with Mount Teide or the Los Gigantes cliffs, while others offer hikes through the gorge—good physical condition is required. We were captivated by the contrast between the stone houses clinging to the mountainside and the vastness of the surrounding landscape.
What you will see
- A charming village whose stone houses cling to the mountainside
- Dizzying gorges in the heart of the Teno Massif
- One of the Canaries’ most spectacular roads, punctuated by hairpin bends and panoramic ocean views.
How much time should I allow?
Allow half a day for the village tour and photo stops along the way. If you decide to hike through the barranco, plan on spending a full day there (this is a regulated activity that requires advance reservations and a good level of physical fitness). Caution: The road is winding, steep, and sometimes narrow. Learn more about Masca.
>>>> Discover Masca on a guided tour: combined with a visit to Mount Teide, a hike, or a trip to the Los Gigantes cliffs! View all options, prices, and availability <<<<
OUR TIPS TO RENT A CAR IN Tenerife
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- If you’re planning to explore the mountains, don ‘t take the smallest cars. A more powerful engine will be more comfortable.
- But don’t take too big a car either, as some roads are narrow.
- There’s a lot of demand and it’s an island, so book early.
6. Explore the Northwest: Garachico, Icod de los Vinos, and La Orotava
Why do we recommend this tour?
Northwestern Tenerife offers three stops that complement each other perfectly in a single day. Garachico is a historic town that managed to rebuild itself after the devastating eruption of 1706. The natural pools at El Caletón, carved out of volcanic rock by the sea, offer a unique swimming experience in crystal-clear waters. We were also drawn to its well-preserved historic center, with its old mansions, fort, and monasteries.
In Icod de los Vinos, the Drago Milenario—a famous dragon tree nicknamed “the Millennium Tree,” although its official age is estimated to be around 800 years—is well worth a stop. La Orotava, for its part, charms visitors with its cobblestone streets and well-preserved colonial heritage. There are several guided tours that allow you to combine these three stops into a single day trip starting from Santa Cruz.
What you will see
- The natural pools of El Caletón in Garachico, formed by volcanic lava
- The historic center of Garachico, once Tenerife’s main port
- The Drago Milenario in Icod de los Vinos, as well as the banana museum and the beautiful church on the main square
- La Orotava and its most famous landmarks: the Casa de los Balcones, with its ornate wooden balconies; the Church of La Concepción; and the Victoria Gardens, which offer views all the way to the sea
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day to combine the three cities. La Orotava takes between 1 and 2 hours to visit; Garachico, about 1 hour and 30 minutes; Icod de los Vinos, between 30 minutes and 1 hour. Learn more about the attractions in La Orotava, Garachico, and Icod de los Vinos.
>>>> Discover northwestern Tenerife on a guided tour: See all options, prices, and availability <<<<
7. Spend an evening at Teide stargazing
Why do we recommend this tour?
If you’ve already visited Mount Teide during the day, this nighttime tour offers a whole new experience. Thanks to its high elevation and the absence of light pollution, the park is recognized as one of the best sites for stargazing in the world. We were impressed by the clarity of the starry sky that unfolds above the volcano as night falls.
Guided tours allow you to observe the constellations through professional telescopes, accompanied by explanations from specialized guides. It’s a moment frozen in time, one that’s hard to recreate anywhere else. From Santa Cruz, the organized bus trip is the most convenient option for this night outing.
How much time should I allow?
Allow an entire evening for this excursion. Organized tours typically include transportation, telescope viewing, and commentary from the guide. Be sure to bring warm clothes: temperatures drop significantly at higher elevations once night falls.
>>>> Book your nighttime trip to Mount Teide to stargaze! View all options, prices, and availability <<<<
8. Cross the island to La Gomera
Why do we recommend this tour?
La Gomera, a neighboring island accessible by ferry from Los Cristianos, offers a striking getaway. We appreciated its authentic character, which has largely been spared from mass tourism. The island is home to Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, whose laurisilva—a laurel forest—is a remnant of Tertiary-era vegetation.
Deep valleys, terraced farmland carved into the mountainsides, and quaint little villages come together to form a landscape of great diversity. It was also here that Christopher Columbus made a stopover on his way to the Americas. From Santa Cruz, plan to travel by car or bus to the port of Los Cristianos first.
What you will see
- Garajonay National Park and its laurel forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Impressive rock formations in the heart of the island
- Colorful houses in charming villages
- Deep valleys with agricultural terraces carved into the mountainsides
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day. The ferry ride from Los Cristianos takes about 1 hour. Organized tours departing from Tenerife include transportation, a guide, and visits to the main attractions. If you’d rather make your own arrangements, book your ferry in advance and check whether your car rental agreement allows you to drive to another island.
Book your day trip to La Gomera from Tenerife! See all options, prices and availability
9. Abseiling during a canyoning session
Why do we recommend this tour?
Thrill-seekers will find an exceptional playground in Tenerife. The island has many barrancos—volcanic ravines—that are particularly well-suited for canyoning. The itinerary includes rappelling, jumps into pools, and passages through narrow gorges. Led by professional guides, these outings are available at various difficulty levels. Please note that canyoning in Tenerife is done in relatively shallow water compared to other destinations, which makes for a different experience.
What you will see
- Canyons with rock walls sculpted by volcanic erosion
- The untamed interior of Tenerife, far from the beaches and the usual tourist routes
- Abseiling sections and passages through narrow gorges, accessible at various skill levels
How much time should I allow?
Allow between 3 and 5 hours depending on the route chosen. Excursions generally include equipment, certified guides and transport from your accommodation.
>>>> Book your canyoning tour in Tenerife! View all options, prices, and availability <<<<
10. Spend a day at Loro Parque
Why do we recommend this tour?
Loro Parque, located in Puerto de la Cruz, is one of the most famous wildlife parks in the Canary Islands. It is home to an impressive collection of parrots from all over the world, as well as orcas, dolphins, gorillas, and many other species. The park is also involved in conservation and research programs. Families will find a varied program there, ranging from exploring biodiversity to animal shows.
We encourage you to learn more about the park’s ethical commitments in advance so that you can make an informed decision.
What you will see
- The world’s largest collection of parrots
- Animal shows (orcas, dolphins, sea lions)
- An aquarium, a penguin exhibit, and numerous themed exhibits
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day to enjoy the park and the various shows. Tickets that include transportation from Santa Cruz are available. Learn more about Loro Parque.
Book your ticket to Loro Parque (transfer included)! See prices, photos, and availability
DISCOVER Santa Cruz de Tenerife
11. Enjoy the attractions at Siam Park
Why do we recommend this tour?
Siam Park, located in Costa Adeje on the south coast, is regularly ranked among the best water parks in the world. Its spectacular water slides, artificial wave pool, and Thai-inspired atmosphere create a unique experience. We spent a day there full of excitement. This package is perfect for both families and thrill-seekers.
In addition, if you’d like to explore other amusement parks on the island, Tenerife has several to offer. See our list of the best theme parks in Tenerife.
What you will see
- Spectacular slides and water attractions for all levels
- An artificial wave beach in a Thai-inspired setting
- Relaxation and dining areas in the park
How much time should I allow?
Plan to spend a full day there to enjoy all the attractions. Skip-the-line tickets that include lunch, drinks, and a beach towel are available. Learn more about Siam Park.
>> Book your skip-the-line ticket for Siam Park! See prices, photos and availability <<
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Tenerife?
Tenerife’s climate makes it a pleasant destination all year round. The months of September–October and April–May offer particularly favorable conditions: mild temperatures, moderate crowds, and more affordable rates. The sea stays warm in the fall, making it ideal for water sports. Find out more about when to go to Tenerife.
Do you need a car to go on day trips from Santa Cruz de Tenerife?
A rental car gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace, including trips to Teide National Park, the Anaga Mountains, and the villages in the northwest. Traffic is generally moving smoothly across the island, except on certain more challenging mountain roads, particularly toward Masca. If you’d rather not drive, there are many guided tours that depart from the main tourist areas and often include transportation from your lodging. Find out more about car hire in Tenerife.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO tenerife
- Best of
What to do in Tenerife
Most beautiful towns and villages
Most beautiful beaches
Best natural pools
The most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful roads
Amusement parks
Best excursions in Tenerife
- Practical advice
25 tips for a successful trip to Tenerife
How to get around
How to rent a car in Tenerife
Driving tips
Best excursions (coming soon)
Where to stay in Tenerife
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 1 week – 10 days
- The must-dos
Dolphin watching in Tenerife
Teide National Park
Anaga Rural Park (coming soon)
La Orotava
Garachico
Village of Masca
Pyramids of Güimar
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
