Tenerife: Kayak & Snorkel with Turtles & Dolphins w/Photos

If you’re looking for an active and wildlife-rich experience in Tenerife, the Kayak & Snorkel with Turtles & Dolphins tour offers an engaging way to explore the southern coast of the island. Departing from Los Cristianos, this 3-hour adventure combines kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting, with an emphasis on observing dolphins and sea turtles in their natural habitat. The tour is coordinated by Shaka Surf Tenerife and includes all necessary equipment, a friendly guide, and free videos and photos of the experience, which many reviews highlight as a major plus.

This tour suits those who enjoy outdoor water activities, are comfortable in the ocean, and want a chance to see marine wildlife up close. It’s suitable for beginners thanks to the use of double kayaks and the attentive guidance provided. However, it’s not designed for pregnant women, individuals with back issues, or those over 220 lbs (100 kg). Weather conditions can impact the schedule, so some flexibility might be needed.

Key Points

• Duration: 3 hours of active water-based fun.
• Location: Starts at Shaka Kayak y Sup Tenerife near Los Cristianos.
• Wildlife: Expect to see dolphins, turtles, fish, and crabs.
• Activities: Kayaking along volcanic cliffs and snorkeling in caves.
• Included: Equipment, professional guide, and free photos and videos.
• Weather: Tours may be canceled if sea conditions are poor.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point at Los Cristianos Seafront

The tour begins at the Shaka center, located on the Paseo Marítimo in Los Cristianos. This spot provides a convenient and scenic meeting point, with facilities such as changing rooms and lockers where personal belongings can be stored safely. The process involves a 20-minute safety briefing before heading into the water, ensuring all participants are well-prepared and comfortable for the activity ahead.

Once checked in, participants are equipped with all necessary gear and receive instructions from an expert guide. The focus on safety and clear guidance is a consistent highlight in reviews, making even beginners feel confident. The meeting point’s coordinates are 28.0494, -16.7142, pinpointing the exact location for an easy arrival.

Exploring the Volcanic Coast of Tenerife

From Los Cristianos, the trip heads into the Atlantic Ocean, where the water turns a clear, vibrant blue. The coastline features massive volcanic cliffs and small caves, which are both stunning and intriguing. The guide leads you along the coast, providing insights into the volcanic geology that shapes this part of Tenerife.

A key feature is entering hidden sea caves, an activity that adds an element of adventure and discovery. The scenery here is dramatic, with black volcanic rock formations contrasting against the ocean’s blue. The coastline also includes well-known spots like Playa de los Cristianos, which add familiarity and beauty to the journey.

Kayaking Along the Black Volcanic Cliffs

The kayaking section begins from the beach, with participants paddling double kayaks that ensure stability and safety. The experience usually lasts around 1.5 hours, during which you glide past colossal cliffs and enjoy scenic views of Tenerife’s volcanic landscape.

The guides are praised for their clear instructions and friendly demeanor, making the experience accessible even for those new to kayaking. Many reviews mention how the guides take their time explaining the local wildlife and geography, which enriches the adventure. The kayaks are designed for groups of up to 2 adults and 1 child, but single paddlers can join with guide supervision.

Snorkeling in the Turtles’ Habitat

One of the trip’s highlights is the snorkeling stop at a turtles’ area. Here, the underwater visibility allows for a close look at a variety of fish and sea turtles. The equipment provided is professional, and the guide often captures footage and photos with aquatic cameras—all of which are shared for free afterward.

The snorkeling lasts about 20 minutes, giving ample opportunity to float above the seabed and observe marine life. Many reviews describe this as a breathtaking part of the tour, with the chance to see sea turtles up close in their natural environment.

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Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, Fish, and Crabs

Beyond the caves and snorkeling, wildlife viewing is a central element. While the chance to see dolphins depends on the season, the typical probability is between 80% and 90%. Dolphins are often seen swimming alongside the kayaks or jumping out of the water, creating unforgettable moments.

Plus, fish are abundant in the snorkeling zone, with many colorful varieties visible in the clear water. The coast is also home to crab families, adding to the diversity of marine species encountered during the excursion. Watching these animals in their natural ocean environment stands as a major attraction for many participants.

End of the Tour and Land Return

After the snorkeling and wildlife spotting, the group paddles back towards the shore. The return journey offers more scenic views and a relaxed paddling pace. Once back on land, the tour concludes at the Shaka center, where participants are greeted with free water and a small snack such as cookies, bananas, or cereal bars.

Facilities include showers with both hot and cold water, allowing everyone to rinse off after the aquatic activities. Many reviews note that the overall organization is smooth, and the friendly staff pay attention to participant needs.

The Guide and Safety Measures

The guides play a pivotal role in ensuring a smooth experience. They provide training before paddling begins and stay with the group throughout the trip, often capturing videos and photos with aquatic cameras. The reviews highlight Frank, Caroline, Gabriel, and Barbara as particularly helpful and knowledgeable guides.

Safety is a priority, with double kayaks used for stability and clear instructions communicated in multiple languages: Spanish, Italian, English, and French. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or those over 220 lbs. Weather conditions can lead to cancellations, with full refunds offered if the trip cannot proceed.

Logistics and Practical Tips

Participants are advised to bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. A change of clothes is recommended for after the activities. Since no alcohol or drugs are allowed, the focus remains on safety and enjoyment. The meeting point is precisely at Edificio Cristian mar, and arriving on time is essential to start the activity smoothly.

The tour offers flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility is appreciated by many, especially considering the unpredictable nature of sea conditions.

The Experience for Families and Beginners

Many reviews mention how friendly and accommodating the guides are, making this experience suitable for families and beginners. Children as young as 8 years old have participated, with guides helping them paddle and ensuring they feel safe. The small group sizes and personal attention contribute to a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

Participants often leave with photos and videos of their trip, which are provided free of charge. This adds significant value and makes it easy to share the memorable moments with friends and family later.

Summary of the Tour’s Strengths and Considerations

This Tenerife kayak and snorkeling tour stands out for its high wildlife encounter probabilities, friendly guides, and inclusive photos. The combination of scenic coastline, sea caves, and marine life makes it a well-rounded activity for ocean lovers.

However, the activity is physically demanding, especially the paddling, so those with limited strength or mobility should consider their readiness. Also, the unpredictability of wildlife sightings means that while dolphins and turtles are common, they are not guaranteed.

Tenerife: Kayak & Snorkel with Turtles & Dolphins – Final Thoughts

This tour offers an active, wildlife-focused way to experience Tenerife’s southern coast. It delivers on seeing dolphins, turtles, and colorful fish, all while exploring volcanic cliffs and caves. The professional guidance and free photos add to the appeal, making it a memorable outing for families, couples, or solo travelers.

While weather conditions can influence the schedule, the overall organization and friendly staff contribute to a smooth, enjoyable experience. Participants who enjoy water sports and wildlife encounters should find this tour both fun and rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children as young as 8 years old can participate, provided they are comfortable in the water and paddling.

What should I bring? Participants should bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a hat. A change of clothes is advisable for after the activities.

Is the tour canceled due to bad weather? Yes, if sea conditions are unsafe, the excursion can be canceled with a full refund.

Are the kayaks suitable for beginners? Yes, all kayaks are double kayaks designed for stability, and guides provide a full training beforehand.

Can I see dolphins during the tour? The likelihood is between 80% and 90%, depending on the season, making dolphin sightings quite common.

What wildlife can I expect to see? Expect to encounter dolphins, turtles, fish, and crabs during the trip.

Are photos included? Yes, the guide captures videos and photos during the tour, which are shared with participants for free afterward.

How long is the snorkeling stop? The snorkeling lasts approximately 20 minutes, giving enough time to observe marine life.

Is the activity safe for pregnant women? No, pregnant women are advised not to participate for safety reasons.

How do I book this tour? Reservations are flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and options to reserve now and pay later.

This tour offers a lively way to connect with Tenerife’s marine environment, with the chance to see dolphins and turtles up close, all while paddling along some of the island’s most scenic volcanic cliffs.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby