Tenerife: Discover the only vanilla cultivation in Canaries

Unique Vanilla Cultivation on Tenerife in a Small Group Setting

This 1-hour tour at Finca La Canopea offers a rare chance to see the only vanilla cultivation in the Canary Islands. Located in a tranquil rural area close to Garachico, Icod de Los Vinos, and Punta de Teno, this experience combines permaculture principles with the story of sustainable food production.

Led by Pascal, the tour emphasizes transforming a once-deserted landscape into a vibrant edible forest. With a focus on biodiversity and ecological balance, it appeals to those interested in permaculture, subtropical plants, and vanilla harvesting. The tour is performed in English or French and is limited to 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Exclusive vanilla farm in the Canary Islands, with harvesting during April to July
• One-hour guided tour led by Pascal, a passionate and knowledgeable guide
• Learn about permaculture techniques used to recreate a diverse subtropical ecosystem
• Discover edible plants, including vanilla, in a peaceful food forest environment
• Stories and anecdotes enrich the experience, making it engaging and educational
• Suitable for adults and older children, but not accessible for children under 12 or those with wheelchair needs

The Vanilla Cultivation in the Canary Islands

This tour is unique because it showcases the only vanilla cultivation in the Canary Islands, a rarity in the region. The farm is committed to sustainable practices and biodiversity, transforming an initially desert landscape into a lush edible forest using permaculture techniques. Pascal introduces visitors to how vanilla adapts to this subtropical environment, highlighting the farm’s aspirations for larger-scale cultivation.

During the blooming season, from April to July, visitors have the chance to observe the pollination process, harvesting of vanilla pods, and pod preparation. This hands-on aspect adds a layer of authenticity and engagement to the experience. The modest production emphasizes a small-scale, sustainable approach, making it a truly special sight in the Canary Islands.

Exploring the Food Forest and Subtropical Curiosities

The tour takes place in a natural food forest rich with subtropical plants and curiosities. The permaculture setup is designed to mimic natural ecosystems, allowing both humans and nature to flourish together. As Pascal guides the group through this environment, visitors learn about various edible plants and how they are cultivated.

This environment is relaxing and beautiful, offering a peaceful setting where aromas and scents from the plants fill the air. Visitors are encouraged to touch, smell, and taste some of the plants, making the experience interactive and sensory-rich. The aesthetics of the forest combined with the educational storytelling make this a memorable journey through sustainable farming.

The Guide: Pascal’s Expertise and Passion

Pascal stands out as an especially passionate and knowledgeable guide. Described as authentic and friendly, Pascal shares stories, anecdotes, and insights that make the tour engaging. Reviews praise his pedagogical approach, making complex topics like permaculture accessible for everyone.

His enthusiasm for the biodiversity project and vanilla cultivation is contagious. Visitors appreciate how Pascal takes the time to explain the ecological principles behind the farm, fostering a deeper understanding of sustainable food systems. His ability to connect with the group enhances the overall experience, especially for those curious about ecological farming.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Language, and Group Size

The tour departs from a location with coordinates 28.3624668, -16.8153152, which may vary depending on the booked option. It is organized into small groups limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Available in English and French, the tour is designed to accommodate visitors from different backgrounds. Reservation is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later, and full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Comfortable shoes are recommended, and visitors should bring sun protection if they are sensitive to the sun. No pets, baby strollers, or baby carriages are allowed, and the tour is not suitable for children under 12 or wheelchair users.

The Seasonal Aspect: When to See Vanilla Bloom and Harvest

The highlight of visiting during the blooming season (April to July) is witnessing the pollination of vanilla flowers. Depending on the timing, visitors may also observe harvesting the vanilla pods and preparing them for use. This practical demonstration provides an authentic insight into vanilla’s journey from flower to pod.

Because vanilla cultivation is small-scale and seasonal, timing is important. Booking during this period maximizes the chance of seeing live pollination and harvesting. The experience emphasizes sustainable and artisanal methods, contrasting with large-scale industrial vanilla production.

The Surrounding Area: Scenic and Cultural Highlights

Beyond the farm, the rural location offers striking natural beauty. The proximity to Garachico, Icod de Los Vinos, and Punta de Teno makes it easy to combine this tour with visits to local villages, beaches, and scenic viewpoints.

The farm’s setting in a quiet countryside adds to the peaceful atmosphere. Visitors often find the area perfect for a relaxed exploration of Tenerife’s diverse landscapes, making this tour a great addition to a day exploring the island’s less-touristy spots.

Comparing Similar Experiences on Tenerife

While this vanilla farm tour is distinctive in focusing on vanilla cultivation and permaculture, Tenerife offers other agriculture-based experiences such as banana plantations, avocado farms, and botanical gardens. Links to similar activities include banana plantation tours with tastings, avocado farm visits, and botanical garden tickets.

However, none of these experiences combine vanilla cultivation with the permaculture environment and educational storytelling found at Finca La Canopea. This makes it an appealing choice for eco-conscious travelers and plant enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This one-hour tour at Finca La Canopea suits those interested in sustainable agriculture, exotic plants, and local food production. It particularly appeals to adults and older children who can appreciate the details of permaculture and vanilla harvesting.

The small group format ensures an engaging, intimate experience, and the knowledgeable guide makes it informative without feeling overwhelming. Those seeking a relaxing, educational escape in Tenerife’s countryside will find this experience refreshing and inspiring.

While not suited for young children under 12 or wheelchair users, the tour offers a unique glimpse into a rare vanilla farm and the art of eco-friendly farming. It stands out as an authentic, sustainable activity that highlights Tenerife’s ecological diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 1 hour, providing a concise yet rich exploration of vanilla cultivation and permaculture.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is offered in English and French, with sign-up options to ensure language preferences are met.

Where does the tour meet?
The meeting point is at coordinates 28.3624668, -16.8153152, which may vary slightly depending on the booking.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available when canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this suitable for children?
The experience is not suitable for children under 12 or wheelchair users.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended for outdoor activity.

Is vanilla harvesting visible during the tour?
Yes, during the blooming season (April to July), you may observe flower pollination, pod harvesting, and preparation.

Can I participate in vanilla pollination?
The tour may include demonstrations of pollination and harvesting when in season.

How large are the groups?
Groups are limited to 8 participants for a more personalized experience.

Are there any additional activities nearby?
The farm is close to scenic sites like Garachico, Icod de Los Vinos, and Punta de Teno, perfect for combining with other explorations.

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