Family-Friendly Adventures in Teide National Park, Santa Cruz de Tenerife!

Teide National Park (Parque Nacional del Teide)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Teilde National Park

Morning: Arrival & Cable Car Ride

Start your adventure early by driving or taking a bus from nearby towns like Puerto de la Cruz or Los Cristianos to Teide National Park. The drive itself offers spectacular views and several photo opportunities. Once at the park, head straight to the Teide Cable Car base station. The cable car will whisk you up to near the summit of Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak at 3,718 meters. The ride offers breathtaking views of the volcanic landscape and the island. Remember to book your tickets in advance to avoid long waiting times.

Midday: Roques de Garcia Walk

After descending the cable car, enjoy a family-friendly walk around the Roques de Garcia. This relatively easy loop offers up-close views of unique rock formations, including the famous Roque Cinchado. The trail is about 3.5 km and takes roughly an hour to complete, perfect for little legs.

Afternoon: Educational Stop at the Visitor Centre

Post-lunch, head to the El Portillo Visitor Centre, where you can enjoy interactive displays and learn about the park’s volcanic formation, flora, and fauna. The centre also provides insights into the history and significance of the park through a family-oriented lens.

Late Afternoon: Stargazing

As evening approaches, prepare for a magical stargazing experience. Teide National Park is one of the best places in the world to observe the stars due to its high altitude and clear skies. Join a guided tour to learn about constellations and celestial stories, a perfect ending to your adventurous day!

Tips

- Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring layered clothing as temperatures can fluctuate.

- Don’t forget sunscreen, water, and snacks.

- Check the weather and cable car service beforehand to ensure a smooth trip.

Enjoy your family trip to Teide National Park, where education and adventure go hand in hand under the sun and stars!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Loro Park (Loro Parque)

Why Visit?

Welcome to Loro Parque in Tenerife, a paradise for animal lovers and adventure seekers alike! Here’s how you can make the most out of your visit to this wondrous park:

### Morning Arrival

Start your day early to beat the crowds. Loro Parque is accessible by car or the free express train from Reyes Católicos, which offers a scenic ride into the heart of the park. Arrive by 9:30 AM to fully enjoy the day.

### Katandra Treetops

Begin your adventure at Katandra Treetops right after the entrance. It’s a free-flight aviary where you can walk among a variety of exotic birds from Australia and Asia. Kids will love the thrill of birds swooping close, and the hanging bridges add to the excitement.

### Orca Ocean

Next, head to Orca Ocean for the Orca show, which starts around 11 AM. Get ready to be mesmerized by the intelligence and grace of these magnificent creatures. Don’t miss the informative talks by trainers about conservation and orca behaviors.

### Lunch Break

Around noon, stop at Patio del Loro for a family-friendly meal with views of lush greenery. They offer meals suitable for children and adults alike.

### Planet Penguin

After lunch, visit Planet Penguin, which houses an iceberg with over 200 penguins. It’s the world’s largest penguin enclosure, replicating Antarctic conditions. It’s not only a unique experience but also educational, as you learn about penguin species and their habitats.

### Kinderlandia

Spend your afternoon in Kinderlandia, an African village-themed kids’ area with climbing walls, bridges, and slides, designed to let kids blow off some steam while parents relax.

### Parrot Show

Wrap up your visit with the famous Parrot Show, where colorful parrots perform tricks and showcase their problem-solving skills. It’s both entertaining and a chance to learn about Loro Parque’s parrot conservation efforts.

### Departure

As the park closes, stroll through the lush botanical gardens near the exit, a perfect end to a fulfilling day.

Each attraction is within walking distance, with clear signs guiding you. The park also offers rental strollers for little ones tired from a day of excitement. Enjoy your visit to Loro Parque, where education and conservation meet fun and adventure!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Monje Winery (Bodegas Monje)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Monje Winery (Bodegas Monje), Tenerife

Morning Arrival

Start your day with a scenic drive to Bodegas Monje, located in the picturesque region of El Sauzal in northern Tenerife. Easily accessible by car, it’s about a 25-minute drive from Santa Cruz de Tenerife via the TF-5 highway. Upon entering, marvel at the stunning views of Mount Teide and the Atlantic Ocean, setting the stage for an unforgettable visit.

Guided Winery Tour

Kick off your Monje experience at 11:00 AM with a guided tour. Learn about the five generations of the Monje family"s wine-making legacy, which dates back to 1750. The tour is engaging for adults and children alike, exploring the vineyards and traditional wine-making processes. Discover local grape varieties such as Listán Negro and Tintilla, which thrive in the volcanic soil of the region.

Wine and Mojo Workshop (Optional for Adults)

While the kids enjoy a juice tasting, adults can partake in a Wine and Mojo workshop. Mojo is a traditional Canarian sauce that pairs excellently with local wines. This hands-on workshop starts at 12:30 PM and provides insight into Canarian culinary traditions.

Lunch at the Winery’s Restaurant

After the workshops, head to the winery’s restaurant for a delightful meal. Enjoy dishes crafted from local ingredients, offering tastes that complement the wines perfectly.

Leisurely Afternoon

Post-lunch, take a leisurely stroll around the estate. The peaceful surroundings and lush vineyards provide a perfect setting for a family walk. Capture the beauty of the landscape and spend some quality family time amidst nature.

Departure

Wrap up your visit by 3:00 PM, leaving with not only a bottle of your favorite wine but also cherished memories of a day well spent exploring one of Tenerife’s iconic wineries.

End of Itinerary

Ensure every member has comfortable footwear and a camera to capture the panoramic views and special moments at Bodegas Monje!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Masca Valley

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure to Masca Valley, Tenerife"s hidden gem nestled in the Teno Mountains. This enchanting valley, often compared to the landscapes of Jurassic Park, promises breathtaking views and a thrilling exploration experience.

Morning: Journey to Masca Village

Start your day early by driving or taking a bus from Los Gigantes or Santiago del Teide to Masca Village. The road, known for its sharp bends and stunning vistas, is an adventure in itself. Once in Masca, explore the quaint village with its traditional Canarian houses perched precariously on the mountainside. Visit the small museum in the village to learn about the local history and culture. Don"t forget to grab some local snacks from the village shops for energy.

Midday: Hike the Masca Gorge

Post exploration, gear up for a 3-hour hike down the Masca Gorge. This trek is suitable for families with older children (above 8 years) and is a great way to immerse in nature. As you descend, marvel at the ancient rock formations, lush flora, and possibly spot native birds like the Barbary Falcon. The trail ends at the beautiful Masca beach, a perfect spot for a picnic and some rest.

Afternoon: Boat Trip and Return

From Masca beach, take a pre-booked boat trip to Los Gigantes. This relaxing ride not only gives your legs a break but also offers a chance to spot dolphins and pilot whales in the surrounding waters. The boat trip concludes with a view of the majestic Los Gigantes cliffs from the sea—a spectacular finale.

Practical Tips

- Ensure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and carry plenty of water, sunscreen, and hats.

- Book the boat trip in advance to secure your spot.

- Check the weather conditions and trail status before setting out.

This journey to Masca Valley will leave your family enriched with nature, adventure, and lifelong memories!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Los Roques de García

Why Visit?

Day Trip Itinerary to Los Roques de García for a Family

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Start your adventure early by driving or catching a bus from any major town on Tenerife to the Teide National Park. The drive itself is scenic, offering breathtaking views of the volcanic landscape. Aim to arrive at the base of the park by 9 AM. Once at the park, gather at the Parador de Las Cañadas del Teide, a hotel and hub for visitors. Here, you can grab a map and use the restroom before you embark on your trek.

Mid-Morning: Roque Cinchado and Surrounding Formations

From the Parador, take a leisurely stroll towards the iconic Roque Cinchado, just a short walk away. Known for its unique, bulbous shape, Roque Cinchado is famously pictured with Mount Teide in the background, offering a perfect photo opportunity. Engage the kids by explaining that this rock formation is often called the "Stone Tree" due to its shape and is one of the most emblematic natural sculptures of the Canary Islands.

Lunch Break: Picnic with a View

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated area near Roque Cinchado. The surrounding landscape, characterized by dramatic rock formations and the towering Teide volcano, provides a stunning backdrop for a family meal.

Afternoon: Educational Trail

Post-lunch, head to the nearby trail that loops around the area, which takes about an hour to complete. This easy trail is well-marked and suitable for children. As you walk, point out the various volcanic rocks and formations. Explain how the intense volcanic activity has shaped the landscape of Tenerife, making it a geological treasure.

Late Afternoon: Return and Relax

Wind up your exploration by 4 PM and head back to the Parador for some rest, or to enjoy a coffee while the kids indulge in some ice cream. Depart from the park by 5 PM, carrying memories of a unique, educational day out amidst some of nature"s most fascinating creations.

Note: Always check the weather and trail conditions before heading out. Wear appropriate footwear and carry sun protection and sufficient water for the day.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.