Our guide on the most common Mistakes to Avoid in the Canary Islands and how to avoid them for your next trip.
The Canary Islands, with their year-round mild climate, stunning beaches, and dramatic landscapes, are a favorite destination for travelers seeking a mix of sun, sea, and adventure.
However, navigating these beautiful islands can be tricky if you don’t plan ahead or are unfamiliar with local customs and travel logistics.
To help you make the most of your visit, here are the top mistakes to avoid when traveling to the Canary Islands and how to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can enjoy a richer, more immersive experience in the Canary Islands. Embrace the unique landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, and you’ll find that the archipelago has so much more to offer beyond the typical tourist path.
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Mistakes to Avoid in the Canary Islands
1. Visiting Just One Island
Mistake: The Canary Islands are made up of eight main islands, each with its own unique character and attractions. Many travelers only visit the most popular ones, like Tenerife or Gran Canaria, missing out on the diversity the archipelago offers.
How to Avoid:
Island Hop: Plan to visit at least two islands to get a taste of different landscapes and experiences. For example:
Tenerife: Ideal for a mix of culture, nightlife, and nature, with Mount Teide and lively resorts.
Lanzarote: Known for its volcanic landscapes and stunning art by César Manrique.
La Palma: A quieter, lush island with beautiful hiking trails and star-gazing opportunities.
Fuerteventura: Famous for its endless sand dunes and pristine beaches.
Use Ferry or Short Flights: Island-hopping is easy thanks to local airlines like Binter Canarias and ferry services such as Fred Olsen and Naviera Armas.
Tip: Plan your itinerary based on your interests—whether it’s nature, beaches, or local culture—because each island has a unique flavor.
2. Not Renting a Car
Mistake: Relying on public transportation limits your ability to explore the best scenic spots and off-the-beaten-path attractions, especially on larger islands like Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
How to Avoid:
Rent a Car: Having a rental car gives you the freedom to explore remote beaches, mountain villages, and national parks at your own pace.
Book in Advance: Rental cars can be in high demand, especially during peak seasons, so secure your vehicle early.
Choose the Right Size: Opt for a compact car if you plan on visiting rural areas or old towns, as roads can be narrow and parking limited.
Tip: Make sure to fill up your gas tank in advance, as rural areas may have few fuel stations.
3. Underestimating the Weather and Terrain
Mistake: Thinking the Canary Islands are only about sun and sand can lead to unpreparedness for the varied weather conditions and rugged landscapes.
How to Avoid:
Pack for All Conditions: Even in summer, bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings and high-altitude areas like Mount Teide.
Prepare for Hiking: If you plan to explore volcanic trails or mountainous regions, wear proper hiking shoes and carry water, sunscreen, and snacks.
Check Weather for Outdoor Activities: Weather can vary significantly between the north and south of the islands. For example, Tenerife’s northern coast tends to be cooler and wetter than the sunny south.
Tip: If you’re heading to Mount Teide or Roque de los Muchachos on La Palma, bring warmer clothing as temperatures can drop dramatically at higher elevations.
4. Ignoring Local Etiquette and Customs
Mistake: Treating the Canary Islands as a beach-only destination and not respecting local customs, traditions, or language can be seen as dismissive.
How to Avoid:
Learn Basic Spanish Phrases: While many locals speak English, making an effort to greet people with “Hola” and thank them with “Gracias” goes a long way.
Dress Modestly Away from the Beach: Outside of beach areas, dress modestly, especially when visiting local towns or religious sites.
Respect Local Siesta Time: Many shops and restaurants close in the afternoon for a siesta, typically from 1 pm to 4 pm. Plan your shopping and dining around this.
Tip: Attend local festivals and markets to get a taste of the Canarian culture and traditions, like the Carnival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife or the Corpus Christi festivities in La Orotava.
5. Only Sticking to Tourist Areas
Mistake: Staying within the main tourist hubs like Playa de las Américas (Tenerife) or Maspalomas (Gran Canaria) without venturing out means missing the true beauty and charm of the islands.
How to Avoid:
Explore Smaller Towns: Visit less touristy towns like Garachico (Tenerife), Agaete (Gran Canaria), or Betancuria (Fuerteventura) for authentic experiences.
Venture into Nature: Take time to explore natural parks like Timanfaya National Park (Lanzarote), the Anaga Rural Park (Tenerife), or Corralejo Natural Park (Fuerteventura).
Seek Out Local Restaurants: Avoid sticking only to resort restaurants. Seek out local guachinches (family-run restaurants) for a more authentic culinary experience.
Tip: Take a guided tour with a local expert for insider knowledge and hidden gems.
6. Assuming All Beaches Are the Same
Mistake: The Canary Islands have a wide variety of beaches, from white sand to volcanic black sand, each with different conditions. Choosing the wrong one for your activities can lead to disappointment or even danger.
How to Avoid:
Research Beach Types: If you’re looking for tranquil swimming beaches, visit Las Teresitas in Tenerife or Corralejo Beach in Fuerteventura. For unique volcanic beaches, try Playa de Benijo in Tenerife or Playa del Golfo in Lanzarote.
Understand Local Conditions: Some beaches are better for surfing, while others are ideal for family-friendly relaxation. Look for flags indicating water safety conditions.
Tip: Always check wave and wind conditions if you’re planning to surf or swim, as the Atlantic Ocean can be unpredictable.
7. Booking Accommodations Only in the South
Mistake: Staying exclusively in the southern parts of the islands, where many resorts are concentrated, means missing the lush green north and charming inland villages.
How to Avoid:
Balance Your Stay: Spend a few nights in the south for beach time, but also consider staying in the north or central parts of the islands to experience local culture, hiking, and authentic cuisine.
Look for Rural Tourism Options: Consider staying in a traditional casa rural (country house) or boutique hotel in areas like La Orotava (Tenerife) or Agaete Valley (Gran Canaria).
Tip: If you’re into stargazing, look for accommodations near remote, dark-sky areas like El Hierro or La Palma.
8. Not Trying Local Food and Wine
Mistake: Missing out on the unique cuisine of the Canary Islands by sticking to international or resort dining options.
How to Avoid:
Try Local Dishes: Sample specialties like papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes with mojo sauce), gofio (a traditional roasted flour), and fresh queso de cabra (goat cheese).
Explore the Wine Scene: The Canary Islands produce unique volcanic wines, especially from Lanzarote and Tenerife. Visit local wineries for a tasting.
Visit Local Markets: Farmers’ markets in La Laguna (Tenerife) or Teguise (Lanzarote) are great places to try local products and street food.
Tip: Order a selection of local mojos (sauces) with bread or potatoes to sample the various flavors—mojo rojo (spicy red) and mojo verde (mild green) are must-tries.
9. Overpacking and Not Considering Island Hopping Fees
Mistake: Bringing large suitcases or too much luggage can be a hassle, especially if you plan to hop between islands.
How to Avoid:
Pack Light: Opt for casual, lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes for exploring. Bring layers if you’re planning to visit higher elevations.
Check Baggage Fees: If flying between islands, check your airline’s baggage policy, as some local carriers have lower weight limits and higher fees for checked luggage.
Tip: Use a backpack for day trips and hikes, and keep luggage compact to make travel between islands smoother.
10. Ignoring Environmental Impact
Mistake: Treating the islands like any other beach destination and contributing to environmental degradation through littering, off-trail hiking, or touching fragile ecosystems.
How to Avoid:
Stay on Marked Trails: When hiking in national parks or nature reserves, stick to marked paths to protect native flora and fauna.
Respect Marine Life: Choose responsible operators for whale-watching or diving tours, and avoid touching coral reefs or marine animals.
Dispose of Waste Properly: Always take your trash with you, especially in remote areas where there may not be waste facilities.
Tip: Consider joining a local beach clean-up or conservation activity to give back to the community and protect these beautiful islands.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.