Private Tenerife Island Tour with Custom Photo Session

Summary

Explore Tenerife’s Hidden Corners with a Local Photographer

You’ll see Tenerife through local eyes—historic towns, secret beaches, mountain forests—and get professional photos along the way. Every stop is tailored to your pace and interests so you won’t feel herded around or rushed.

What’s the experience like?

We kicked off our day in Plaza de España, right in the heart of Santa Cruz. The square’s got this big artificial lake—locals use it as a meeting spot, and you’ll see kids running around while pigeons strut by. Our guide pointed out the Monumento a los Caídos, that tall cross-like obelisk you can’t miss. If you’re coming from the cruise terminal, it’s just a short walk—super handy since parking is basically impossible here.

A quick drive brought us to Playa de Las Teresitas. The sand here isn’t local—it was actually shipped in from the Sahara back in the ‘70s. It’s golden and soft, not black like most beaches on the island. The water was calm enough for a dip, and we watched fishermen fixing their nets near San Andrés village while our guide snapped some candid shots of us with the mountains behind.

Next up: San Cristóbal de La Laguna. This old colonial city feels different—cobbled streets, pastel mansions with those carved wooden balconies, and tiny shops selling Canarian cheese or handmade baskets. We wandered for about an hour, ducking into a café for barraquito (that sweet layered coffee locals love). There’s always something happening here; last time I heard street musicians playing outside the cathedral.

The road twisted up into Anaga Rural Park after that. Suddenly everything turned green and misty—the laurel forest smells earthy and damp, especially after rain. At Cruz del Carmen viewpoint, we could see all the way to Mount Teide if the clouds cleared for a second. We took a short walk along the Trail of the Senses; honestly, it felt like stepping into another world. There’s a small visitor center where you can grab info or just warm up with coffee if it gets chilly.

We made an unplanned stop at Los Roques—a tiny village where people still live in cave houses carved into volcanic rock. It’s quiet except for waves hitting the black sand beach below. Our guide knew one of the locals who waved as we passed by; apparently everyone knows each other here.

Driving south, we reached Abades and its strange “leprosy village.” The half-finished Franco-era church stands out against rows of white bungalows—kind of eerie but fascinating if you’re into history. Most folks come here for peace and sea views rather than crowds.

Lunchtime was flexible—we picked a roadside guachinche (local eatery) where we tried papas arrugadas with mojo sauces and grilled goat cheese that squeaked between your teeth. If you’re adventurous, go for carne de cabra guisada (slow-cooked goat stew)—it’s rich but worth it. House wine is usually decent too.

Candelaria was our last stop—a pilgrimage town famous for its Black Madonna statue inside the basilica (if it’s open). Out front are these huge statues of Guanche chiefs staring out to sea; they look even more dramatic at sunset when shadows stretch across Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias. We grabbed ice cream from a little shop on the promenade before heading back—felt like just enough time to soak it all in without rushing.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tenerife Island Highlights

• Visit Plaza de España, Santa Cruz
• Relax at Playa de Las Teresitas Beach
• Explore San Cristóbal de La Laguna Old Town
• Walk in Anaga Rural Park and Cruz del Carmen
• Discover Los Roques village and black sand beach
• Tour historic leprosy village in Abades
• Optional Canarian lunch stop
• Visit Basilica and old town of Candelaria

Top questions

Can I customize which places we visit?

Absolutely! The route is flexible based on your preferences and timing—we’ll chat before setting off to make sure it fits what you want.

Is lunch included in the price?

No, lunch isn’t included but we’ll recommend great local spots depending on your tastes—just pay directly at the restaurant or café you choose.

I’m arriving by cruise ship—how do I meet you?

The meeting point is Plaza de España in Santa Cruz, within walking distance from your terminal (sometimes there’s also a free shuttle bus).

What should I bring?

Comfortable shoes are best since there’s some walking; sunscreen and maybe a light jacket if heading into Anaga where weather changes fast.

What’s included

Your own private photo session (all images provided), bottled water throughout the day, air-conditioned vehicle for comfort—even when it gets hot outside—and full flexibility to shape your itinerary as you go along.