The Canary Islands form an autonomous part of Spain and are an
archipelago comprising 7 islands. They are located approx. 1,000
km (620miles) south of the Iberian Peninsula, and approx. 116
km (72 miles) from the nearest point of the NW African coast. The
islands are volcanic and their unique location in the Atlantic
Ocean has produced some interesting geology and flora, producing
a very unusual landscape, unlike any other found in Europe or Africa.
Travel Insurance for the Canary Islands:
Area: Europe *
Know Before You Go:
FCO Country Advice for Spain
The Canary Islands are part of the Macaronesia ecoregion along
with the Azores , Madeira , Cape Verde , and the Savage Islands
. The volcano on Tenerife (called Teide) is the highest mountain
in Spain and it is also the 3 rd largest volcano on earth. There
are four national parks in the Canary Islands which have much to
offer nature lovers and for trekking.
Because of the wonderful year-round climate of the Canary Islands
, they are a hugely popular destination for sun-seekers and beach
lovers, and one of the leading destinations for Europeans. There
are approx. 500 beaches along the total approx. 1,100 km (approx
900 miles) of coast. The beaches are magnificent and there are
of course numerous activities for water sports enthusiasts. Some
beaches have golden sand and others are man-made with black shingle,
or more rugged where you can swim in pools among the rocks. The
sea temperatures vary from between approx. 17-22 in Feb, the coolest
month, to 23-27 in late summer, the hottest months.
The Canaries have plenty to offer for golfing enthusiasts. There
are approx. 15 spectactular golf courses in total, with 7 in Teneriffe,
6 in Gran Canaria, one in Lanzarote and one in Fuerteventura .
For those loving water sports, there is great sailing, surfing
and windsurfing - thanks to the trade winds. There are several
locations offering excellent scuba diving and snorkelling. The
deep water sportfishing is also good with many visitors coming
from all over the world to fish for the Blue Marlin. Whale watching
trips are also a very popular attraction.
If you would rather be way above the water to enjoy it, then
there is some type of flying activity to suit the most adventurous.
The favourable winds in the islands are ideal for flying, paragliding,
parachuting, hang-gliding and ultra-lights.
The islands also offer volcanoes, forests and a variety of wonderful
scenery. The local people are friendly and hospitable, reflecting
the beauty of the islands and the climate.
The islands are a particular favourite because of their close
proximity, being only a few hours plane trip from Europe , and
their well-organized tourist facilites.
The islands are connected by ferries, hydrofoils and jetfoils.
The local airlines can also provide transportation between all
the islands. There are buses and all the usual car rental companies
as well as taxis to get around.
Climate
/ Weather
The Climate of the Canary Islands is temperate with mild temperatures
(23 C – 72 C average for the coastal areas) and there is
minimal season variation in the temps. From day to night |
