Road trip in the Canary Islands: discover the archipelago by car and ferry

Who hasn’t dreamed of standing on a cliff at the edge of the world, or walking along paths higher than the clouds? Or of seeing active volcanoes that give the sand its intense black color?

Off the coast of Morocco, the Spanish archipelago of the Canaries is a small, isolated corner of paradise, with islands that each have their own identity and special characteristics. So it’s only logical that we should want to discover them all!

In this article, we suggest a 7- or 10-day itinerary to cross the Canaries, by car and ferry, and discover unique landscapes. Where to stay, which hikes to choose, where to take the ferry, which villages to visit? Our selection combines nature, history and picturesque villages to give you a complete overview of the Canary Islands. All aboard!

Article overview:

• The essentials for a successful road trip in the Canaries
• Trip duration and islands to visit
• All you need to know about car hire and accommodation
• Your itinerary for an ideal road trip in the Canaries
• Quick read: your roadmap in a nutshell!

The essentials for a successful road trip in the Canaries

Road trip rhymes with freedom, discovery, fun and adventure! Source: Pexels.

The Spanish archipelago of seven islands stretches over some 500 km in length, including the seas. But each island is relatively small in area, and that’s a plus! In general, it takes less than two hours to drive from one point of the island to another, and it usually takes between 1.5 and 2 hours to reach a neighboring island by ferry.

Length of stay and islands to visit

For our selection, we give you two itinerary options depending on the length of your stay:

• 7-day stay: visit Gran Canaria and Tenerife
• 10-day stay: visit Gran Canaria, Tenerife and La Palma

Each island has a lot to offer, and it would be a shame to spend too little time on any one of them. But don’t worry! We’ll be able to propose another itinerary highlighting Fuerteventura and Lanzarote in another article. This article focuses more on the greener islands!

Car rental and accommodation

Vehicle

• Where to rent: although it’s possible to rent a car on one island and drop it off on another, we recommend that you pick up your rental car and drop it off at the same agency. We’ve compared prices, and the second option is almost ten times cheaper! With this in mind, we’ve designed your itinerary so that you can land and depart from the same island: Tenerife.
• Which vehicle to hire: you’re free to choose a classic car, a van or a camper van, or even a motorcycle! The itinerary we’ve put together won’t be affected by this choice. If you’re renting a van or camper van to sleep wherever you please, be sure to check the wilderness camping conditions before making your choice!
• Beware of narrow roads: in the Canaries, roads are often steep and narrow due to the mountainous and volcanic terrain! Our advice: rent a car that’s easy to drive and has enough horsepower under the hood.
• Vehicles and ferries: all the ferry routes included in your road trip allow you to take a vehicle on board, so you can visit all the islands with just one car.

Hosting

Even if it’s a road trip, it’s easier and more economical to choose one drop-off point per island rather than booking in a different place every night.

The towns and villages where we offer accommodation allow you to book accommodation for several nights, and provide easy access to destinations of interest or ports when crossing from island to island.

What documents to take with you when driving in the Canaries

The Canaries are part of the European Union. All you’ll need is your identity card and French driver’s license. We also advise you to take your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to facilitate your treatment.

All set? Then let’s get started!

Your itinerary for an ideal road trip in the Canaries

The key to a road trip is to combine preparation with improvisation! Source: Pexels.

Welcome to Tenerife airport! It doesn’t make much difference whether you land in the north or south. If you haven’t yet booked your plane tickets, we advise you to choose Tenerife Norte (TFN) simply because it’s closer to the port that will take you to Gran Canaria for the start of your trip.

So why not land on Gran Canaria? It’s very simple. As mentioned above, it’s much cheaper to rent your car and drop it off at the same agency (at the same airport). And Tenerife is at the center of your itinerary. So you’ll find it much easier to return to Tenerife to take off again.

Advice: As mentioned earlier, the itinerary is valid for 7 or 10 days. If your trip is only scheduled for a week, you can simply stop at day 7.

Day 1

Heading for Gran Canaria

Mountain scenery through an opening in a rock face on the island of Gran Canaria

For this first day, we recommend heading directly to the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife early in the morning to take the ferry to the island of Gran Canaria. In less than two hours by boat, you’ll reach the port of Las Palmas, the capital of the Canary Islands, and a city steeped in history that you’ll have the opportunity to discover another day. Once docked, head south towards the island’s hills.

• Ferry routes: Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Agaete or Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
• Ferry journey time: 1:20 a.m.

Nublo Rock

Nublo Rock was once revered by the aborigines of Gran Canaria. It exudes a mystical, soothing energy. Source: Pexels.

Your second stop of the day is in a protected natural park, where you’ll see a mysterious volcanic rock formation over eighty meters high: Roque Nublo (Spanish for “Nublo Rock”).

The second-highest point on Gran Canaria, this strange rock was revered by aboriginal cults and radiates a mystical energy that will leave you in contemplation.

Located on the outskirts of the village of Tejeda, it is set in an exceptional area that offers spectacular views over the rest of the island. A trekking trail of almost 5 kilometers starts from this singular spot, if you feel like it!

• Journey time from the port of Las Palmas: 1:20 a.m. by car
• Tourist attractions: history, hiking, landscape

Maspalomas (recommended accommodation)

Maspalomas is the ideal base for discovering the extraordinary landscapes of southern Gran Canaria. Source: freepik.

Located at the southernmost tip of the island, the seaside resort of Maspalomas offers a wide range of tourist accommodation and is perfectly connected to the rest of Gran Canaria. It’s the recommended base for your stay on the island.

On the way down from Nublo Rock, you’ll have the chance to stop off at the Camel Safari Park. Here you can meet camels and dromedaries lounging on the warm ground, ready to accompany you on a little stroll!

For your evenings out, Maspalomas offers a wide range of restaurants, bars and nightclubs, if you’re in the mood to party! In fact, Maspalomas is one of Europe’s leading pride destinations.

• Journey time from Rocher Nublo: 1h by car
• Tourist attractions: accommodation, shops, nightlife, beaches

Day 2

Sunrise over the Maspalomas Dunes

The dunes of Maspalomas are one of the island’s key tourist spots and lead to a heavenly beach. Source: iStock.

A must-see on Gran Canaria is the exceptional site of the Maspalomas dunes. For this second day, we encourage you to get up a little before the sun to admire the first rays caressing the dunes.

• Journey time from Maspalomas: 10 to 20 minutes from the center on foot!
• Tourist attraction: landscape, unique experience

Hike to Güigüi beach

The Canaries are full of secluded coves that only the bravest can reach.

Nestled in the cliffs, Güigüi is a black sand beach as wild as it is secluded. A true hidden treasure of Gran Canaria. To reach it, set off on foot from the hamlet of Tasartico. Don’t forget water, a hat and good shoes!

The reward? An unspoilt cove, facing the immensity of the ocean, where time seems to stand still. But be warned: once you’re there, there’s no network. Just you, the sea and the silence. On the way back, you can stop off at the port of Mogán, a charming little fishing village with colorful houses and a typical island atmosphere.

• Journey time from Maspalomas to hike point: 1h by car
• Hiking time: approx. 2 hours each way
• Tourist attractions: hiking, beach, nature

Day 3

City of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the capital of the Canary Islands, and the most populous city in the archipelago. It is famous for its specialty cuisine and its Catholic cathedral. Source: freepik.

Founded in 1478, Las Palmas has dethroned Santa Cruz de Tenerife as the capital of the Canaries. It is now the archipelago’s most populous city and an important historical and economic landmark.

Set off mid-morning from Maspalomas to arrive at lunchtime in Las Palmas and explore the streets of the old quarters. If you’re lucky, you’ll find one of the many outdoor and indoor markets where you can sample some of the island’s specialties!

Don’t forget to visit the Canary Cathedral before heading back to the port to return to Tenerife. We advise you to book a late-afternoon ferry.

• Journey time from Maspalomas: 40 minutes by car
• Ferry routes: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Santa Cruz de Tenerife or Agaete to Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• Tourist attractions: historic town, culinary specialities

Getting started in Tenerife

The port of Santa Cruz, in front of the rugged mountains of the Canary island of Tenerife. Source: iStock.

To return to the island of Tenerife, it will take you no more than an hour and a half from the port of Las Palmas or Agaete. Enjoy a moment of relaxation, with your hair blowing in the wind, and why not grab a snack from the ship’s bar!

When you arrive at the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, head for Puerto de la Cruz. It’s in this town with its Caribbean island charm that you’ll find your second accommodation. There are plenty of places to eat and drink in the center.

• Journey time between Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Puerto de la Cruz: 30 minutes by car
• Tourist attractions: historic town, coastal roads, cruises

Day 4

On this fourth day, you’ll wake up to the sound of powerful Atlantic waves crashing against the craggy rocks of Puerto de la Cruz. In the light of the rising sun, you’ll discover the island of Tenerife and El Teide, its highest peak, in a whole new light. And the surprises will only begin this day!

Anaga Rural Park

Exploring Tenerife’s northern peninsula is an experience as magnificent as it is exhilarating. Source: Pexels.

Here we go again! You’ll take the road to the northernmost point of Tenerife, along a magnificent coastal road. Your goal? The rural park of Anagua, and the Mirador Pico del Inglés. Be enchanted by the virgin forest, spectacular precipices and unique ocean views.

• Journey time from Puerto de la Cruz: 45 minutes
• Tourist attractions: coastal roads, landscapes, hiking

Playa de Benijo

Benijo beach lies to the north of Tenerife and gives a strange feeling of being at the end of the world. Source: Pexels.

Look out! As you descend the steep hills of the rural park, you’ll find yourself facing the Atlantic in a setting where volcanic rock mingles with lush vegetation and sea spray.

You can take a break on this beach at the end of the world before having lunch at Mirador de Benijo, a cliff-top restaurant serving Tenerife specialities. If you’re lucky, you’ll even be able to eat on the panoramic terrace!

• Journey time from Anaga rural park: 45 minutes
• Tourist attractions: coastal routes, landscapes, gastronomy

Tenerife Auditorium

The Santa Cruz de Tenerife auditorium with the Anaga rural park in the background. Source: Pexels.

On your way back to Tenerife, don’t forget to stop off at the Tenerife Auditorium. This stunning monument was designed by the architect Santiago Calatrava, whose work includes Valencia’s Cuitat de les Arts.

Park close to the monument and take a stroll along the towpath, then sit in one of the terraced cafés to admire the sea and this strange building straight out of science fiction films. In fact, the auditorium was one of the filming locations for Doctor Who!

• Travel time from playa Benijo: 45 minutes
• Tourist attractions: coastal routes, landscapes, gastronomy

Day 5

Le Teide

The Teide volcano dominates Tenerife’s arid landscape. Source: Pixabay

Get ready to discover the desert side of Tenerife with an exhilarating ascent of Mount Teide, the highest peak in the Canary Islands. Perched at an altitude of 3,718 metres, this volcano, which has been dormant since 1909, dominates the archipelago and is often hidden in the clouds.

On the way, you can stop off at a visitor center to admire one of the site’s highlights, grab a bite to eat and relax. Le Teide is also a renowned astronomy site! Night excursions are available all over the island.

• Journey time from Puerto de la Cruz: 1:15 a.m.
• Tourist attractions: hiking, exceptional landscapes

Day 6

Masca

The small village of Masca, perched in the tropical heights of Tenerife, offers spectacular views of the sea more than 2,500 m below. Source: iStock.

A small village perched on a rock, Masca and its surroundings are one of Tenerife’s must-sees! Despite its high altitude, you can see the sea through a rocky corridor leading to the coast. At sunset, the corridor fills with light, creating a splendid play of shadows! To reach Masca, you’ll have to drive along very narrow, but safe, mountain roads. Be patient, and don’t hesitate to honk your horn as you enter a bend to indicate your presence.

• Journey time from Puerto de la Cruz: 1:15 a.m.
• Tourist attractions: exceptional landscapes, village with character

Garachico

The village of Garachico was rebuilt after a volcanic eruption over a hundred years ago. Source: Pexels.

Almost completely destroyed by the volcanic eruption of 1706, the coastal village of Garachico has risen from the ashes to become one of the most typical villages on Tenerife! Stop off on your way back from Masca to explore its historic seafront streets.

• Journey time from Masca: 50 minutes
• Tourist attractions: village with character, historic village, seaside setting

Day 7 (end of itinerary 1)

Los Cristianos

Los Cristianos is one of Tenerife’s main ports. This seaside resort attracts many tourists every year. Source: Pexels.

If you’ve planned your stay for 7 days, you can spend your last day in the Canaries onthe magnificent sandy beaches of Los Cristianos. The island’s second-largest town, it’s the ideal place to buy a souvenir in one of the many stores, swim in the clear water and take a stroll along the kilometre-long seafront.

If it’s your last day: Los Cristianos is a 17-minute drive from TFS airport (South) and an hour from TFN (North).

If your Canarian road trip continues: Los Cristianos is the port of departure for your next destination: the island of La Palma! We recommend renting accommodation in Santa Cruz de la Palma, the very town where your destination port is located. Go to the pier with your ticket in hand about 1 hour before your scheduled departure. Don’t have your ferry ticket yet? Book it now for the Los Cristianos – Santa Cruz de la Palma route!

• Journey time from Masca: 50 minutes
• Tourist attractions: village with character, historic village, seaside resort

Day 8

New day, new island! La Palma is one of the Canaries’ wildest and greenest destinations, with volcanism still active in some places.

Teneguía volcano

La Palma is one of the Canaries’ greenest and steepest islands, with a variety of volcanoes. Source: Pexels.

After your Canarian breakfast, take to the south of the island, towards the volcanic peninsula that gives the island its mystical and fascinating atmosphere. Your destination? The volcano of Teneguía: a lunar landscape with an incomparable view of the coast. You can stop off at the typical village of Los Canarios for a volcano hike! Don’t worry, Teneguía has been in Morpheus’ arms since 1971 and doesn’t look like waking up anytime soon.

• Journey time from Santa Cruz de la Palma: 45 minutes
• Tourist attractions: volcanic site, landscapes, hiking

Day 9

Porís de Candelaria

In Porís, time stands still and the houses are at one with the cliffs. Source: Pexels.

We suggest you visit a village with a unique character on the island’s west coast: blending in with the coastal caves, the village of Porís de Candelaria is a veritable architectural nugget. The site has two parking lots, from which hiking trails lead along the coast to the village.

With a round trip length of around 10 kilometers, this tour is of medium difficulty. But you’ll reach the village in just a few minutes from the parking lot!

If you decide to opt for a boat trip, you may be lucky enough to come across dolphins or whales relaxing on the Atlantic coast. A sight not to be missed!

• Journey time from Santa Cruz de la Palma: 1:30 a.m.
• Tourist attractions: village with character, end of the world, hiking

Day 10

Bajamar Beach

The Canaries are famous for their diverse beaches. Source: Pexels.

All good things must come to an end! But the good thing about the Canaries is that you can go back and discover something new every time. For your last day, and depending on our flight schedule, we suggest sunbathing on Bajamar beach. This lively stretch of sand is just a stone’s throw from Santa Cruz de la Palma, where we’ve recommended you find accommodation.

Back to Tenerife

Cast off and greet the island of La Palma from the stern of the boat. Now all you have to do is set a date to come back! In the meantime, once you’ve reached the port of Los Cristianos, head for the airport where you rented your car.

• Ferry route from Santa Cruz de la Palma to Los Cristianos de Tenerife
• Los Cristianos is 17 minutes from TFS airport (south) and an hour from TFN (north) by car.

Roadmap for your road trip to the Canary Islands

Here’s a quick summary of the article to help you get organized!

Day 1 – Grande Canary Islands

• Ferry: Santa Cruz de Tenerife → Agaete or Las Palmas (1:20 a.m.)
• Rocher Nublo – hiking, spectacular views
• Camel Safari Park (optional)
• Maspalomas – accommodation, beaches, nightlife

Day 2 – Gran Canaria Canaria

• Maspalomas dunes – sunrise
• Hike to Güigüi beach (2h round trip)
• Port of Mogán – charming stopover (optional)

Day 3 – Return to Tenerife

• Las Palmas de Gran Canaria – old town, cathedral
• Return ferry: Las Palmas or Agaete → Santa Cruz de Tenerife (1h20)
• Road to Puerto de la Cruz – accommodation

Day 4 – North of Tenerife

• Anaga Rural Park – hiking, landscapes
• Playa de Benijo – lunch with a view
• Auditorio de Tenerife – cultural stop

Day 5 – Teide

• Climbing Teide – volcano, view, visitor center
• Astronomy night tour option

Day 6 – Villages villages

• Masca – mountain roads, sunset
• Garachico – historic seaside village

Day 7 – Los Cristianos / Departure or continuation

• Beaches and walks in Los Cristianos
• Shopping, pre-departure relaxation or
• Ferry: Los Cristianos → Santa Cruz de la Palma (La Palma)

Day 8 – La Palma

• Volcan Teneguía – hiking, lunar landscapes
• Los Canarios – typical village

Day 9 – West coast of La Palma

• Porís de Candelaria – troglodyte village, hiking
• Optional boat excursion (dolphins, whales)

Day 10 – Return

• Bajamar beach – relaxation before departure
• Return ferry: Santa Cruz de la Palma → Los Cristianos
• Road to TFS or TFN airport

The key to a Canaries road trip: inspiration and ferries

What’s up? You’re ready to go, aren’t you? By following this itinerary, you’ll discover up to three Canary Islands and get to knowthe landscapes, cuisine, history and identity of this unique archipelago.

All that’s left to do is book your flights, car, accommodation and ferries. You can’t explore an archipelago without taking to the sea! You can buy your ferry tickets now on Ferryscanner or download the app to keep an eye on offers and always have your tickets to hand! On your way, the Canaries await you!