Seeing dolphins in Tenerife is undoubtedly one of the best activities you can do in the Canary Islands. It’s a way to be close to nature uniquely and magically. If you are planning your visit to Tenerife to see dolphins or whales, this article is for you, as we will share the best places to spot these animals in the wild. We will also give you some recommendations for an enjoyable experience and teach you some interesting facts about these fun creatures. Don’t miss out!

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The best places to see dolphins in Tenerife

Although almost the entire island has spots where it’s possible to see these animals, some areas are better equipped for this purpose, where various companies organize dolphin-watching excursions:

Tenerife is known to be one of the best destinations for dolphin watching, so let’s explore the most ideal places on Tenerife to see dolphins in the wild. Although you can spot dolphins from almost the entire island, some areas are better equipped for dolphin and whale watching, where various companies organise dolphin-watching excursions:

Puerto de Los Cristianos

It is here, on the southern part of the island where you can find many ferry boats that take you out to sea for dolphin and whale watching, you have a good chance of seeing these animals here! 

Puerto Colón

Puerto Colón is another one of the best places to see dolphins in Tenerife, as ferries departing from here will take you to areas with a higher concentration of cetaceans.

Catamaran Royal Delfin Tenerife

Another option for seeing dolphins in Tenerife is the Royal Delfin Tenerife boat, which is ideal since it features a transparent bottom and underwater viewing, providing you with a closer experience with the dolphins and other fish. It has panoramic windows and underwater cameras that broadcast live images on a television and can accommodate up to 26 people.

El barco Royal Delfin Tenerife​

Las Galletas

This spot for seeing dolphins in Tenerife has a small drawback: the currents are strong and there is usually more wind, which makes the experience less comfortable.

Acantilados de Los Gigantes

From this marina, several ferries depart that will take you to your destination, usually with calm seas and a high concentration of dolphins and whales.

Some interesting facts about the dolphins in Tenerife

If you’re interested in dolphins, you’ll definitely want to know more about these animals, and if you’re travelling with children, these fun facts will be very useful for teaching them something new:

  • Neuron Structure: Dolphins’ brains contain spindle neurons, which enable them to develop advanced skills such as memory, communication, problem-solving, and the recognition of people and other animals.
  • Birth Process: Dolphins are born tail-first, followed by the head. This is crucial because being born head-first could cause them to drown!
  • Speed: Dolphins can reach speeds of over 30 km/h.
  • Lifespan: Bottlenose dolphins can live up to 50 years.

 

donde hay delfines en tenerife

What to see and do in Tenerife?

To complement your visit to this fantastic island, here are some suggestions for things you must see and do in Tenerife:

  • Teide National Park: As the third largest volcanic structure in the world and the highest point in Spain, it undoubtedly deserves a visit. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique landscapes.
  • Natural Pools of Tenerife: The various natural pools on the island are spectacular and perfect for soaking in nature. 
  • Los Gigantes: These cliffs are impressively tall (some reach up to 600 meters) and taking a boat tour to see them from the sea is one of the best activities to do in Tenerife.
  • Visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife: You can’t leave Tenerife without visiting its capital, perfect for taking a stroll. The streets of Castillo, Plaza de España, and the Ramblas are highly recommended.
  • Adeje: This area is very popular among travellers as it offers perfect options to enjoy the good weather: scuba diving, water parks, golf, and much more.

Water Activities in Tenerife

In Tenerife, various companies organise water sports and sea activities such as diving, snorkelling, surfing, paddle surfing, parasailing, flyboarding, jet skiing, and banana boating. You’ll have plenty of options to have a great time with your family or friends and enjoy the fantastic sea surrounding the Canary Islands.

ver delfines en tenerife

Tips for environmental friendliness for dolphin watching

It’s important to care for and respect nature, especially if we want to interact with it closely. In this case, the best thing you can do is contact companies that organise dolphin-watching excursions responsibly, as these ensure that the animals are respected and that the ecosystem is minimally impacted. Of course, one of the most important recommendations is to not take part in maintaining animals in captivity. Yes, it is possible to swim with dolphins in Tenerife, but only those that are in captivity—for this reason, we do not recommend it, as it would not be a responsible interaction. Swimming with dolphins in the wild is prohibited in Tenerife.

Tips for Choosing the Best Dolphin Watching Tour in Tenerife

Not all excursions are the same. To ensure a magical and respectful experience, we recommend checking the following:

  • Look for the “Blue Boat” (Barco Azul) flag: This is the official authorization from the Canary Islands Government, guaranteeing that the boat follows strict rules to avoid disturbing the cetaceans.
  • Tour Duration: Excursions usually last between 2 and 5 hours. Longer tours often include lunch and a snorkeling stop at beautiful spots like Masca Bay.
  • Book in Advance: Especially if you want to join popular boats like the Royal Delfin or small group sailing trips, as spots fill up quickly during peak season.
Tip for our guests: If you are staying at our North Tenerife apartments, we recommend driving south to Puerto Colón or Los Gigantes early in the morning. The drive from La Matanza is only about 45-50 minutes via the TF-1 highway.

Come and enjoy the dolphins in Tenerife

Take advantage of this spectacular opportunity to get close to nature and witness the thrilling sight of dolphins swimming around your boat. Tenerife has a lot to offer: pristine beaches, spectacular weather, incredible natural beauty, and much more, so start planning your next trip now. Here are some accommodation options in Tenerife from Sansofé Stay to help with your planning. You just need to decide whether you prefer an apartment, a house, or a villa, and choose your favourite area.

Best accommodation in Tenerife

Frequently Asked Questions About Whale and Dolphin Watching

How much does it cost to see dolphins in Tenerife?

Prices vary depending on the type of boat. A standard catamaran tour usually costs between €25 and €45 per adult. Private sailing tours, including drinks and snacks, can exceed €60 per person.

Is it possible to swim with wild dolphins?

No. In Tenerife, it is strictly forbidden to swim with dolphins or whales in the wild to protect their welfare. Responsible companies maintain a safe distance to avoid stressing the animals.

Which animals are most commonly seen?

The most frequent residents are the Bottlenose Dolphin and the Short-finned Pilot Whale. Throughout the year, you may also see spotted dolphins, common dolphins, and even fin whales during their migration seasons.

Which port is better: Los Cristianos or Los Gigantes?

Both are excellent choices. Los Gigantes offers a spectacular backdrop with its massive cliffs, while Puerto Colón and Los Cristianos provide a wider variety of boats and more flexible schedules throughout the day.

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