Tenerife is part of the Canary Islands archipelago and is washed by the Atlantic Ocean. It is the most densely populated island in Spain. The locals affectionately call Tenerife the island of eternal spring; tourists adore it. This island will be a real discovery for adults and children alike. Here are 13 interesting facts about Tenerife and, at the same time, proof that your family holiday here will turn into an inspiring adventure.
Fact 1. The black sand beaches
In Tenerife, you can see a unique natural phenomenon — black sand beaches. The islanders owe this miracle to the local volcano Teide. Many centuries ago, after an eruption, the lava painted the snow-white sands the colour of the night sky. Despite their intimidating appearance, Black beaches are entirely non-toxic and a tourist favourite destination.
Fact 2. The giant cockroaches
A peculiar and very curious attraction of Tenerife is its giant, well-fed cockroaches the size of a matchbox. They can be found not only indoors but also in the streets. They are immortal (well, almost). During experiments, scientists have proved that these insects can safely live without a head for another two weeks after separating from the body. After this time, they die of boredom (just kidding). They die of starvation.
Fact 3. The island's most unusual cave
If you're a fan of exciting travel and mysterious places, you'll want to go straight to Tenerife's underground labyrinth, known locally as Wind Cave (Cueva del Viento). This volcanic formation is a world record holder in terms of length. The lava tunnel complex is the 5th longest in the world.
Fact 4. A unique island beer
Connoisseurs of the alcoholic beverage will undoubtedly want to try a local beer exclusive called Dorada. This craft beer is produced only in one place on the planet — on the island of Tenerife. People who have had a chance to try the island drink note that it has a spicy but, at the same time, mild taste and a peculiar aroma.
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Fact 5. Not just in Egypt
The island of Tenerife even boasts its pyramid complex. This attraction is called Guimar. It is said that the place where the pyramids are located has an inexplicably powerful energy. It is no coincidence that mystics and magicians from all over the planet come here to feed on the power of artefacts. Will you dare to check it out?
Fact 6. The largest gathering of penguins
One place you should go as a family in Tenerife is the world's largest penguinariums in Loro Parque. Penguins? In Spain? That's a twist. Rides and shows await you, where you can be a spectator or a participant. Give your children this unforgettable holiday, and they will thank you.
Fact 7. Night under the Stars
There is one exotic and, at the same time, exhilarating feature among the island's tourist attractions. Only some travel agencies will offer it, so check in advance to see if it is part of the entertainment programme.
If you're brave enough, head straight to the volcano for an overnight stay at the Altavista mountain tourist base.
Stunning views, scenery in the spirit of sci-fi films and bursting emotions are guaranteed. To climb the Teide volcano, you should take warm clothes with you. In the evening and night, the temperature here drops from +25 °C to 0 °C.
Fact 8. For the superstitious
Another interesting fact about Tenerife: the unluckiest day on the island, as well as in the whole country, is not Friday, the thirteenth. The Spaniards are most afraid of the day that falls on the thirteenth of Tuesday.
Fact 9. Tenerife is in Spain AND in Africa…
Although Tenerife is an autonomous region of Spain, it lies 300 km off the west coast of Africa. As it is on the African tectonic plate, geographically it is in Africa. In terms of everything else, it is a part of Europe. Spain is considered European, so the Canary Islands are European too.
Fact 10. Carnival is almost like in Rio
When planning a trip to Tenerife, try to get to the famous Santa Cruz Carnival. This event is second only to the world-famous Carnival in Rio de Janeiro in scale and grandiosity: the same extravaganza, unforgettable colour and crazy costumes of beautiful girls. In short, take it. The large-scale processions are usually held from the end of January to March.
Fact 11. Place of film legends
Undoubtedly, many of you have watched the films Journey to the Center of the Earth (1977), Doctor Who (2005), Rambo: Last Blood (2019), Fast & Furious 6 (2013) and Fury of the Titans (2010). But only some know that the most exciting scenes of these movies were filmed on the island of Tenerife. Moviegoers and pilgrims to the location of the shootings, welcome!
Fact 12. A place that inspires masterpieces
By the way, this fact will also be of great interest to fans of the legendary band Queen. It was here, in Tenerife, in 1971, that young Brian May, the lead guitarist of the rock band Queen, while he was working on his PHD as an astrophysicist, started writing the song Tie Your Mother Down, which is on the list of iconic tracks.
Fact 13. A grandiose fireworks battle
Every year on 3 May, the village of Los Realejos on the island of Tenerife hosts a competition for the most spectacular fireworks display. The contestants are the inhabitants of two of its streets and, simultaneously, the owners of the pyrotechnic companies.
Since the competition between the competing companies has been organised for a long time and is heated, the teams get increasingly sophisticated yearly. That's why you're guaranteed a splendid show lasting at least three hours.
We agree Tenerife is worth visiting to feel its temperament, get into the unique atmosphere and live in the same rhythm with this exotic island for some time. To feel at home from the first minutes of your stay in an unfamiliar country, get some helpful information, which you will find on the pages of our website.
