Punta de Teno: Kayak Safari overlooking Los Gigantes Cliffs

Imagine gliding along the rugged coast of Tenerife in a kayak, with the towering Los Gigantes Cliffs rising dramatically from the Atlantic. This 1.5-hour kayak safari from Punta de Teno is a highlight for anyone wanting a mix of adventure, nature, and a splash of education. It’s not just about paddling; it’s about experiencing a slice of marine wonderland with expert guidance, scenic beauty, and enough water-based fun to satisfy the most enthusiastic traveler.

Two things I really like about this experience are the stunning views of the cliffs—which are truly something to see from the sea—and the chance to snorkel among tropical fish in crystal-clear waters. The guides, including the well-reviewed Guido, do a great job at explaining the area’s geology and marine life, adding a layer of insight that makes the trip more meaningful.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the logistical challenge of reaching Punta de Teno because private vehicle access is restricted. You’ll need to plan ahead to catch the public bus from Buenavista del Norte, which takes about an hour and runs frequently. This extra step might add a little complexity, but it’s a small price to pay for the spectacular coastline you’ll see.

• Stunning coastal views of Los Gigantes Cliffs from the water are unmatched.
• Guided tours include educational insights about the area’s geology and marine life.
• Snorkeling option allows you to explore underwater in crystal-clear waters.
• Transportation logistics require a bus from Buenavista del Norte, so plan your timing.
• All equipment—kayaks, paddles, vests, snorkel gear—is included, making it hassle-free.
• The experience’s value is high at $40 for 1.5 hours, especially with live guides and safety support.

When I think about the best ways to enjoy Tenerife’s dramatic coastline, paddling along Punta de Teno jumps to the top of the list. This kayak safari offers an intimate look at one of the island’s most impressive natural features—the Los Gigantes Cliffs. These cliffs, soaring up to 800 meters, look particularly spectacular from the sea, where you get a unique perspective that photos from land rarely capture.

The trip is designed for those who love a bit of adventure but also appreciate a careful, guided experience. The guide—notably recommended for their friendly and informative style—keeps safety a priority with zodiac boat support if needed and provides fascinating explanations about the geology and marine life of the area. This adds a layer of understanding that transforms a simple kayak ride into an educational outing.

One of the tour’s best features is the snorkeling opportunity. After a paddle, you can take a refreshing swim in one of the bays or explore the underwater world with provided goggles and snorkel. The crystal-clear Atlantic waters are perfect for spotting tropical fish and observing marine flora, making this experience a treat for water lovers.

While the experience itself is top-notch, the logistics around getting to Punta de Teno can be a bit tricky. Access by private vehicle is restricted, meaning you’ll need to leave from Buenavista del Norte. The public bus (line 369) runs every hour and only costs around €1, so it’s affordable but requires some planning. The guided trip assumes punctuality—arriving late for the bus or missing the meeting window can complicate things.

What to Expect During the Tour

The starting point at Punta de Teno is accessible only by bus, which departs from Buenavista del Norte. The bus ride itself adds a local flavor, and I recommend arriving at the bus station well in advance to secure your ticket and avoid missing the departure.

Once at Punta de Teno, you’ll meet your guide and get a thorough safety briefing. The equipment—kayaks, paddles, vests, and backrests—is well maintained and included in the cost. After initial instructions, you’ll set out into the sea, paddling along the coast, marveling at the cliffs, caves, and rock formations.

The guide might take you to some particularly scenic spots, such as caves or quiet bays, where you can stop to take photos or simply soak in the scenery. The educational commentary about how Punta de Teno was formed and about local marine species adds richness to the trip, elevating it from a simple paddle to a learning experience.

The snorkeling stop is optional but highly recommended. The waters here are clear enough to see a variety of fish, and goggles and snorkel are provided. Many reviewers mention how friendly and fun the guides are, creating a relaxed environment to enjoy the water.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $40 per person, this experience is quite good value. You’re paying for an hour and a half of guided activity, equipment, safety support, and the chance to see Tenerife’s rugged coast from a fresh perspective. The inclusion of educational commentary and snorkeling gear adds to the value, especially considering how much is packed into this short trip.

Keep in mind, you should bring your own sun protection—hat, sunscreen, and swimwear—as these aren’t provided. Also, since there are no food outlets at Punta de Teno, it’s wise to bring a snack and water to stay energized.

Who Will Love This?

This activity suits travelers who enjoy outdoor pursuits and want a taste of adventure without needing advanced skills. Swimming ability is essential, but you don’t need to be an expert—just comfortable in the water. It’s also a good pick for those interested in geology or marine ecology, as the guides share insights that make the scenery more meaningful.

It’s perfect for a half-day, especially if you’re staying nearby or need an activity that combines nature, water, and a little education. Families with kids who can swim, couples, or solo travelers eager for a scenic adventure will all find plenty to love here.

Since private cars can’t access Punta de Teno, your journey begins at the Buenavista del Norte bus station. The Line 369 bus runs hourly, year-round, starting from 10:00 am, with the specific departure for a 12:00 pm tour at 11:05 am, and for a 2:00 pm tour at 1:10 pm. The journey takes about an hour, and tickets are just €1, payable in cash, credit, or with a TEN+ card.

It’s wise to arrive early to buy your ticket and settle in, especially during busy periods. The courtesy waiting period at Punta de Teno is 15 minutes—after that, the tour starts on time, and refunds aren’t given for late arrivals.

Remember: no catering services or shops are available at Punta de Teno. It’s best to bring water, snacks, and sun protection to enjoy the experience fully.

If you love outdoor water activities, appreciate stunning natural scenery, and are curious about the geology and marine life of Tenerife, this kayak safari offers an excellent balance of adventure, education, and scenic beauty. It’s especially suited for those who want a guided experience with safety support and don’t mind making a little logistical effort to reach the starting point.

At a modest price point, you get a memorable 1.5 hours exploring the coast from the sea, with the added thrill of snorkeling in clear waters. The guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and dedicated to making sure everyone has a good time, which adds to the overall value.

This trip isn’t ideal if you’re uncomfortable in open water or aren’t confident swimmers, but for most water lovers, it’s a manageable and rewarding adventure that offers fresh perspectives on Tenerife’s rugged coastline. And, as one traveler put it, “I highly recommend it for discovering this part of the island,” which is exactly what makes this experience stand out.

Do I need to know how to swim? Yes, swimming ability is essential since you’ll be in the water during snorkeling and possibly during the paddling.

How do I get to Punta de Teno? Private vehicles are restricted, so you’ll need to take the public bus (line 369) from Buenavista del Norte, which departs hourly and costs about €1.

What should I bring? Pack a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and perhaps a snack and water since there are no food outlets at Punta de Teno.

Are the equipment and safety gear included? Yes, your kayak, paddles, vests, backrests, and snorkel gear are provided at no extra cost.

Is the tour suitable for children? As long as they are confident swimmers and can handle some physical activity, kids can enjoy the experience, but check the age restrictions if any are specified.

What about the weather? Activities at sea can be affected by weather conditions, so check the forecast before booking and be flexible with your plans.

How long does the bus ride take? About an hour from Buenavista del Norte, so factor this into your schedule.

What if I arrive late? The tour starts 15 minutes after the scheduled bus arrival. Late arrivals forfeit their spot without refund.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size? This information isn’t specified, but small groups are typical, contributing to a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for your trip planning.

In short, this kayak safari at Punta de Teno offers a fantastic way to see Tenerife’s coast from a different angle, combining natural beauty, a bit of adventure, and educational insights. Just plan your logistics ahead, bring your sun gear, and enjoy paddling along one of the island’s most striking landscapes.