Tenerife – 10 fascinating interesting facts you must know!

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and one of the most popular vacation destinations. The island hides many interesting facts that may surprise you! Here are 10 interesting facts about Tenerife that you should know.

1. Tenerife is home to Spain’s highest peak

Measuring 3,715 meters above sea level, the Teide volcano is the highest mountain in Spain and the third-highest volcano in the world, if you count from the ocean floor. Teide National Park is a UNESCO-listed site. Tenerife’s el Teide volcano is also considered one of the best places in the world for stargazing.

2. Tenerife has two climatic facets

If you look at the Tenerife map, you will notice that the north and south of the island are quite different. The north is wetter and greener, while the south is dry and sunny most of the year. However, Tenerife is called the island of eternal spring, and it has a mild subtropical climate all year round.

3. black beaches are the result of a volcanic past

Tenerife offers both golden and black beaches. Black beaches, such as Playa Jardín or Playa de Benijo, were created from volcanic sand and are incredibly impressive. However, Tenerife also has an artificial beach, with sand brought from the Sahara – Playa las Teresitas.

4. Loro Parque has the largest collection of parrots in the world

At the famous Loro Parque zoo in Puerto de la Cruz, you’ll find more than 4,000 parrots, making it the largest of its kind in the world.

5. Los Gigantes are some of the highest cliffs in Europe

The cliffs of Los Gigantes rise as high as 600 meters above sea level. They used to be called “Walls of Hell” by the indigenous Guanches.

6. Tenerife hosts the second largest carnival in the world

The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is one of the most important cultural events in Spain, second in size only to the Carnival of Rio de Janeiro.

7. dragon tree is over 800 years old

In Icod de los Vinos grows the famous Drago Milenario, one of the oldest trees in Tenerife. Its red sap is called “dragon’s blood” and is attributed with magical properties. According to the myths of the Guanches (indigenous inhabitants of Tenerife), the tree was sacred and surrounded by worship. There is also a legend that dragon trees grew from the blood of dragons defeated by mythical heroes.

8. pirates were hiding in Masca village

Masca is a charming village located in the Teno mountains. In the past it was a refuge for pirates, and today it attracts tourists with its views. Masca is also called a little Machu Picchu and can be seen during one of our roundtrips with a Polish guide. Masca was probably one of the last bastions of the Guanches during Spanish colonization in the 15th century. Thanks to its mountainous terrain, the site was difficult to conquer and served as a refuge from the Spanish conquistadors.

9. pyramids at Güímar still remain a mystery

In Tenerife you will find mysterious pyramids, the origin of which is still disputed today. Some believe they were built by the indigenous Guanche people. The pyramids at Güímar were long forgotten and treated as random piles of stones resulting from agricultural activities. It wasn’t until the 1990s that Norwegian researcher Thor Heyerdahl brought them to their attention. Heyerdahl, known for his research on ancient shipping and cross-cultural contact, noted similarities between the pyramids at Güímar and structures in Latin America and Egypt.

10. Tenerife has a microclimate – the weather can change every few kilometers

Thanks to its mountainous terrain, Tenerife’s weather can vary drastically in a small area. You can simultaneously enjoy the sun on the beach and watch the snow on Teide! That’s why in Tenerife it’s always a good idea to bring something long-sleeved and something lighter.

Summary

Tenerife is an island full of secrets and surprises. Whether you are planning a Tenerife vacation or just interested in the island, its history and nature are sure to delight you! Which curiosity surprised you the most?