The Best Tropical Islands: The Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Morocco. Benefiting from a favorable ocean current and a wonderful location, these islands are Europe’s answer to the tropics. Beautiful, calm, and cheap- the Canary Islands are a great destination for a quick trip from Europe.
Quick Facts About the Canary Islands
Capital: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Population: 1,995,833
Size: 7,447 km
Power Outlets: 220V 50Hz
Official Languages: Spanish; Castilian
Currency: Euro
Time Zone: GMT +0
Religion: Christian
Calling Code: +34
When to go: The weather on the Canary Islands is great year-round. December to March are cooler and are the islands’ busiest months. The summer period (July to September) is a rival high season.
Cost and Budgeting on the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are very inexpensive. You can get by for as little as US$50 per day, maybe even less. A more reasonable budget, especially for a couple would be around US$80 dollars per day. A typical meal is around US$5 and budget hotels are around US$20 per night. The affordability makes this place a popular destination for Europeans and around the holiday season, it gets very crowded and prices go substantially up. The best value on airfares to the Canary Islands is offered from November to mid-December.
Things to Do and See in the Canary Islands
Playa de las Canteras- This 3km stretch of narrow, golden sand is beyond words and has made the Santa Catalina district the city’s main tourist draw.
Parque Nacional de Garajonay- Covering 10% of La Gomera’s surface, this park is a haven for one of theplanet’s most ancient forest. The majority of the hikes are relatively light, and you can get a solid view of the landscape without venturing too far.
Swim with Sealions- This is a fun and exciting way for the whole family to get up close and personal with animals in a fun and safe environment. Animal encounter offers are available on the island and can typically be booked with your hotel.
Visit La Gomera- This island is one of the smaller seven Canary Islands along with El Hierro and La Palma. The island is an ideal escape for any tourist or resident wishing to get away for a few days in the tranquil surroundings of a beautiful natural island with its own national park.
La Palma- Unlike the four largest Canary Islands, La Palma has plenty of water and therefore a great flora and fauna. The island oozes culture from the local crafts to the fine cuisine.
Looking for more detailed information? Click on the topics below:
| Canary Islands History | Canary Islands Politics | Canary Islands Culture | Canary Islands Economy | Canary Islands Geography |