Tenerife, one of the most popular islands in the Canary Islands, is an ideal destination for nature lovers, especially for those interested in cetacean watching. In its crystal-clear waters, both dolphins and whales can be spotted throughout the year, making the island one of the best places in the world to enjoy such activities. The waters of the Atlantic surrounding Tenerife serve as a natural habitat for various species of cetaceans, with sightings primarily occurring in the Strait of La Gomera, an area rich in marine biodiversity. To experience this fascinating activity, Karat offers its clients the opportunity to organize personalized excursions, providing an exclusive whale and dolphin watching experience in a comfortable and professional setting.
Dolphins in Tenerife
Tenerife is home to at least 21 different species of cetaceans, with one of the most common sightings being the bottlenose dolphins. These animals, known for their intelligence and social behavior, are easy to observe in the waters near the island, especially in the southern and southwestern regions. Bottlenose dolphins often form large groups, providing a spectacular experience for observers.
The common dolphin is another species that frequents the waters of Tenerife. With a slimmer and faster body than the bottlenose dolphin, the common dolphin is known for its acrobatics and jumps, making it a fascinating spectacle for those on boat tours. Additionally, dolphins often swim close to the boats, increasing the opportunity for up-close observation.
Whales in Tenerife
Although dolphins are the most common cetaceans in Tenerife, pilot whales (or short-finned whales) are also frequently seen in the area. These whales, found in family groups, can often be seen in the Strait of La Gomera and the waters near Los Cristianos and the Costa Adeje coast. Pilot whales are known for their cooperative and social behavior within the groups, and seeing them swim together is an impressive experience.
In addition to pilot whales, it's also possible to spot other species of whales, such as the blue whale, fin whale, and sperm whale, although these sightings are less frequent due to their migratory habits. The sperm whale, in particular, is known for its deep dives in search of food, making its sighting a special experience.
Curiosities about Cetaceans in Tenerife
Privileged Spot for Sightings: The Strait of La Gomera, which separates Tenerife from La Gomera, is known as one of the areas with the highest density of cetaceans in the world. Thanks to the marine currents and the depth of the ocean, the waters in this region provide an ideal location for spotting a variety of species.
Year-round Sightings: One of the most attractive aspects of Tenerife is that cetacean watching is not limited to a specific season. Due to the temperate climate and favorable ocean conditions, it is possible to observe dolphins and whales year-round, making it an ideal destination in both winter and summer.
Responsible Sightings: It is important to highlight that cetacean-watching activities in Tenerife are carried out responsibly and with respect for the environment. The companies organizing these tours adhere to established guidelines to minimize the impact on cetaceans, avoiding getting too close to the animals and ensuring their well-being.
Additional Activities: In addition to cetacean watching, many of the boat tours offer the opportunity to engage in snorkeling or diving, allowing visitors to explore even more of the island's marine biodiversity, including species such as sea turtles and tropical fish.