La Orotava: a guided Christmas tour of the nativity scenes

Explore La Orotava’s Christmas Tradition Through Its Nativity Scenes

This guided tour in La Orotava offers a captivating look at the town’s cherished nativity scene tradition. For 2.5 hours, visitors walk through the historic center, visiting beautifully crafted nativity displays that have been part of the local Christmas celebrations for 17 years. The tour is available in Spanish, English, and German, with specific dates catering to each language group, making it accessible for diverse visitors.

You’ll get an inside look at one of the largest nativity scenes in the Canary Islands, which stretches across the town hall square. The tour also features various styles of nativity displays, including Hebrew, traditional Canarian, Neapolitan, and a modern Playmobil version. The experience is led by knowledgeable guides from the Taoro Nativity Scene Association, founded in 2008, with over 70 members dedicated to preserving this festive tradition.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Duration of 2.5 hours provides a comfortable, well-paced tour of La Orotava’s nativity scenes
• Available in Spanish, English, and German on specific dates in December
• Visit notable displays, including the impressive town hall square nativity scene
• Learn about the history and craftsmanship behind the nativity scenes from expert guides
• Skip the line with priority access thanks to the exclusive organization
• Suitable for those with comfortable shoes and an interest in Christmas traditions

The Unique Appeal of La Orotava’s Nativity Scenes

The nativity scenes in La Orotava have been a tradition for nearly two decades, attracting thousands of visitors yearly. During this 17th edition, the town’s displays are created with great care and affection, making each visit special. The tour allows visitors to see a variety of styles, from Canarian to Neapolitan, as well as modern adaptations like the Playmobil nativity.

The large nativity scene in the town hall square is a highlight, covering an extensive area that visitors can appreciate from different angles. The careful craftsmanship of each scene reveals the dedication of local nativity scene makers, strengthening the local Christmas culture. The Taoro Villa de La Orotava Nativity Scene Association supports this effort, nurturing this timeless tradition.

Meeting Point and Tour Logistics in La Orotava

The meeting point for the tour is clearly specified: the guide waits in front of the main facade of a designated location, holding a guide ID and a sign or folder with the nativity scene route. The exact coordinates are 28.389965057373047, -16.525663375854492, easing planning for visitors.

The tour includes priority access, meaning guests skip the regular lines, although they may need to wait a few minutes for the previous group to depart. The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, and there is a maximum stay of 15 minutes at each stop, allowing for a thorough but manageable visit.

Choosing Your Language and Date for the Tour

The tour dates are set to coincide with the language preference:

• For Spanish and German speakers, tours are available on December 9, 16, 23, and 30
• For Spanish and English speakers, tours are offered on December 22 and 30

It’s important to select the correct date for your language choice when booking. The tour operates with live guides speaking either English or Spanish.

More Great Tours Nearby

What to Bring for a Comfortable Experience

Visitors should come prepared with comfortable shoes suitable for walking through the historic streets of La Orotava. An umbrella is recommended in case of rain, especially during winter months. Since some content is shown in its original language, a general interest in local traditions and history helps enrich the experience.

Accessibility and Physical Considerations

This tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those who are visually impaired. The historic center’s cobbled streets and the nature of the stops may pose challenges for some guests.

The Significance of the Nativity Scene Tradition in La Orotava

The nativity scene tradition is a key part of La Orotava’s Christmas celebrations. The 17 editions of this tour showcase the town’s dedication to preserving and sharing this cultural practice. The association’s goal is to rescue, care for, and promote this cherished heritage, which is evident in the careful craftsmanship of each display.

The guides excel in telling stories behind each nativity scene, revealing curiosities and details that deepen visitors’ appreciation. The tradition is more than just visual; it’s a living part of La Orotava’s community, involving local artisans and families.

The Overall Value and Who Will Appreciate This Tour

This guided tour offers a well-organized, insightful look into La Orotava’s Christmas nativity scene tradition. The expert guides ensure an engaging experience, making it ideal for visitors interested in local culture, craftsmanship, and festive traditions.

The price point includes priority access and a small group setting, enhancing the experience’s intimacy. While not suitable for guests with mobility issues, the tour suits those who enjoy walking and learning about cultural heritage within a timely framework.

La Orotava’s Christmas Nativity Scene Tour: Final Thoughts

This 2.5-hour guided tour in La Orotava stands out for its dedication to tradition and the opportunity to see impressive nativity displays across the historic center. The large town square scene and diverse styles offer rich visual interest, while the guides’ storytelling adds depth and context.

Booking on the correct date and in your preferred language ensures a smooth experience. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate Christmas in the Canary Islands and gain insight into a heartfelt local custom. The organized structure and knowledgeable guides make this tour a reliable choice for anyone eager to explore La Orotava’s festive spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour’s focus on detailed nativity scenes and walking through the historic streets makes it suitable for children, especially if they enjoy Christmas traditions. However, it is not explicitly tailored to very young children or those with mobility issues.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes priority access to the nativity scene stops and an expert guide explaining the displays. No specific mention of additional inclusions like food or souvenirs.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning.

Are there any food or drink options during the tour?
The provided information does not specify any food or drink stops during the tour.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes suitable for walking around the historic streets, and an umbrella in case of rain.

How long does each stop last?
Each nativity scene stop allows a maximum of 15 minutes for viewing and photography.

Is the tour accessible for all visitors?
No, the tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or visually impaired guests.

What are the tour dates and times?
The specific dates are in December, with December 9, 16, 23, and 30 for Spanish/German, and December 22 and 30 for Spanish/English.

Does the tour include any special or modern nativity scenes?
Yes, among the displays is a modern nativity scene made with Playmobil, providing a playful contrast to traditional styles.

Where exactly does the tour start?
The guide waits in front of the main facade of the meeting point, with clear identification, at the coordinates 28.389965057373047, -16.525663375854492.

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