Tenerife: Kayak & Snorkel with Dolphins & Turtles, Eco Adventure

Summary

Kayak along guaza cliffs spot dolphins snorkel with turtles

You’ll kayak along Tenerife’s wild coastline with local guides, watching for dolphins as you paddle beneath Guaza Mountain’s cliffs. Snorkel in clear waters where turtles feed—sometimes they glide right past you. Wetsuits, snorkeling gear, and pictures are included so you can just show up ready to swim (and maybe laugh at yourself in flippers). This is one of those days you’ll remember long after your skin stops smelling like salt.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t think I’d actually see a turtle up close. That’s the first thing that comes to mind when I remember our morning on the water in Tenerife. The sun was already warm, but not too much—just enough that slipping into a wetsuit felt like a relief instead of a chore. Our guide, Carlos, handed out life vests and made sure everyone knew how to paddle (I pretended I did, but honestly my arms had other ideas). You could smell salt and sunscreen everywhere. We set off from the beach and after a few minutes, the cliffs of Guaza Mountain were right there beside us—towering and kind of silent except for the gulls overhead.

Carlos pointed out some birds nesting way up on the rocks—I tried to spot them but mostly just saw flashes of white against all that stone. The water was clearer than I expected; you could see down for meters, like looking through green glass. At one point he said “keep your eyes open for dolphins” and maybe ten minutes later, there they were—two or three fins breaking the surface, moving fast but not hurried. Someone behind me gasped so loud it made me laugh. I got splashed by a wave right then and swallowed a mouthful of salty water (not recommended), but honestly it was worth it for that moment.

We stopped near a quieter patch where Carlos said turtles sometimes feed. He handed out snorkels and masks—mine fogged up immediately because apparently I never learned how to breathe properly through one of those things. But even through the blur, I caught sight of a turtle gliding past below us, slow and calm like it had all day. It’s weird how peaceful it felt just floating there, listening to muffled voices above and feeling the current tug at my legs. I still think about that view under the water—the light flickering down in stripes—and wonder if those turtles ever get tired of being watched.

Paddling back was slower (my arms gave up halfway), but we drifted along the coast with Teide in the distance and dolphins popping up now and then like they were checking on us. The whole thing took about three hours but felt both longer and shorter somehow—you know? Carlos took some photos for us (so yes, proof exists that I survived) before we clambered out onto shore again. My hair was full of salt and my legs wobbled for ages after.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayaking and snorkeling with wildlife

• Join 3-hour kayaking adventure
• Kayak along Guaza Mountain cliffs
• Snorkel in crystal clear waters
• View turtles and dolphins
• Kayak back along Tenerife coast

Top questions

Do you really see dolphins on this kayak tour?

Dolphin sightings happen about 90% of the time during this tour, though they can't be guaranteed since they're wild animals.

Is swimming required for kayaking with turtles in Tenerife?

Yes—it’s mandatory to know how to swim if you want to join this kayaking & snorkeling adventure.

How long does the kayak & snorkel tour last?

The whole experience takes around 2.5 to 3 hours from start to finish.

Are wetsuits provided on this Tenerife kayaking trip?

Yes, wetsuits are included along with aqua shoes, snorkeling equipment, dry buckets, life vests, and photos.

What’s the minimum age for this dolphin & turtle tour?

The minimum age is 14 years old; minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Where does this kayak tour take place in Tenerife?

The route goes along Tenerife's southern coast near Guaza Mountain's cliffs—a natural monument famous for its birdlife.

Is pickup included for this day trip?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you'll need to meet at the starting point 10 minutes before departure.

Can pregnant travelers join this kayak & snorkel tour?

No—this activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women due to safety reasons.

What’s included

Your day includes use of wetsuits and aqua shoes so you’re comfortable in any weather; dry buckets keep your stuff safe while you paddle; all snorkeling equipment is provided; life vests are mandatory (and included); plus Carlos or another guide snaps pictures so you don’t have to worry about your phone getting wet—all sorted before you head back ashore.