GOAT guide to Teide National Park

 

The majestic and magnificent Mount Teide, formed by a series of volcanic eruptions starting over three and a half million years ago, stands 3718m above sea level, and is the highest point of the Canary Islands and Spain.  With fascinating breath-taking scenery and unforgettable cerulean blue sky, this marvel of biodiversity and natural history really is a must-see for anyone visiting Tenerife.  

Like most Tenerife visitors, the first time I saw Mount Teide was through an aeroplane window.  It was dusk, the volcano was black against a purple sunset sky, the guitar riff of Pink Floyds ‘Shine On You Crazy Diamond’ had just kicked in on my walkman, and I stared through the window with a mix of awe and admiration.  

You’ll be happy to know our emblematic Teide is just as jaw-dropping up close as it is from twenty thousand feet.

Teide National Park trips and excursions come in all shapes, sizes, energy levels, and to suit all budgets. We have organised island bus tours, buggy, quad, or jeep safaris, private tours, trekking, stargazing, you can rent-a-car and drive yourself there, jump off it on a tandem paraglide, or even wave at it from a helicopter.  

 

The informative bit

 

Our mighty Teide is actually a stratovolcano, which means created from thousands of eruptions, built up on lava flows and pyroclastic material, and his last eruption, which lasted ten days, was 18th November 1909.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Teide National Park covers 190km2 of outstanding beauty, with craters, rock formations, lava tubes, and vents, proving a dramatic backdrop to the flora and fauna.  

The volcanos caldera (cauldren) is called ‘Las Cañadas’ and sits at 2km altitude, with a diameter of 17km.  

The iconic ‘Los Roques de Garcia’ rock formation emerged from ancient landslides.  Once there you’ll be compelled to take the classic Tenerife tourist photo of ‘Roque Cinchado’, also known as ‘el dedo del Dios’ (Gods finger), with Teide looming large in the background. 

Mount Teides cable car opened in 1971, and the base station at the caldera floor is 2356m above sea level.  The cable car ascent takes 8 minutes to reach the base of the volcano summit at 3555m.  This upper station, known as ‘La Rambleta’, is home to Spains highest public telephone, and La Fortaleza and Pico Viejo vantage points, from where to fully take in the spectacular panorama.  

For environmental reasons, national park officials control the number of visitors allowed to the 3718m summit and trekking to the peak now requires a permit organised ahead of your trip.  Taking the journey up you’ll be safely monitored by a national park guide. 

It’s a wonderful experience sitting on the peak knowing you’re currently the very highest thing in Spain.  You feel as though you’re on top of the world.  

 

Impress your friends and family with ‘Teide Fun Facts’!

 

When you see the national park lavascape you’ll think you’ve just entered an immense film set, and you’re not wrong.  The most recent ‘Clash of the Titans’ was filmed here, along with ‘Wrath of the Titans’, and the thriller ‘Intacto’, starring Max Von Sydow.  ‘One million years B.C’ was also shot here, and if you haven’t seen that particular 1966 classic, you may be more familiar with the chamois leather bikini-clad Raquel Welch, whose poster of the film adorned Andy Dufrasnes cell in ‘The Shawshank Redemption’.  

Our volcanos current status is dormant, but he is not extinct.  In 2018 a popular British tabloid reported, with video footage of the smoking stack, that Teide was erupting following a series of microquakes.  In the time it took Tenerifans to look skywards, scratch our heads, and say ”que?”, it was discovered that the ‘esteemed’ news publications footage was actually a volcano in Hawaii.  We can only think the journalists ex-wife was holidaying in Tenerife at the time and he wanted to make her stay more interesting.

Teide National Park is a renowned venue for athletic high altitude training.  The barometric pressure at this altitude level is ideal to boost red blood cells and increase stamina.  Among those using Teides ideal conditions have been Nigel Benn, Frank Bruno, Chris Froome, and Bradley Wiggins.  Team Sky held their 2016 training camp here while preparing for their successful Tour de France win.

 

The GOAT Top Tips

 

Make sure whatever you take your photos with is fully charged!  

It may be baking on the beach, but it’s fresh up here.  Always take warm clothing regardless of what the weather is doing down on the coast, and if you’ve got your chamois leather bikini ready to recreate the Raquel Welch pose, be sure to have a friend ready with an extra jumper and hot drink close by.

However you’d like to visit Teide National Park, just let us know and The GOAT will save you valuable holiday time in the search for your ideal trip.  With constantly changing covid regulations many services have been restricted, and we can advise you what is available.  In less restrictive times the options are plentiful.  We have bus and coach tours in big groups or small, and for different durations.  There are private tours of maximum 6 people for a more personal guide.  You may want to incorporate your Teide visit into a full island tour, which also takes in the famous dragon tree of Icod de Los Vinos, Garachico and it’s lava pools, and the rumoured pirates mountain-top enclave of Masca.  Explore the national park on a jeep safari, go on or off-road in a buggy or quad bike.  Teide sunset and stargazing trips in big, or more personal groups, from a guided tour of the constellations, to making a star-filled night of it including dinner at a fine local restaurant.  

 

In conclusion

 

Contact us via email or whatsapp and tell us what you’re interested in.  We’ll get back to you with up to the minute information, availability, prices, and advice.  Everything from pick-up points, what day would be best for weather conditions, and of course, which Pink Floyd album provides the best soundtrack.  At no extra cost the GOAT advisor can meet you in the south of Tenerife and bring the excursion shop to you, armed with videos and on the spot schedules.  

 

Message us!…It’s going to be GOAT!

 

Links: 

Teide National Park trips and excursions   https://goatexcursions.com/?toursearch=1&s=teide

 

UNESCO World Heritage Site    https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1258/ 

 

High altitude training   https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2012/may/23/bradley-wiggins-tour-de-france

GOAT guide to Boat Trips

Fancy bobbing about in the big blue on a boat?  Of course you do, it’s brilliant!  There are such an amazing variety of Tenerife boat trips that searching through the lot can easily leave you with a scrollers-thumb injury.  Add to that the constantly changing covid-19 regulations playing havoc with boat schedules that once you’ve clicked on your pick you can be disappointed to find that it’s not currently available.  This is why we at GOAT offer our free personal booking service with up to date information to match you up with your ideal aquatic jaunt. Whether that’s whales and dolphins watching with the family, a fishing expedition, or private hire for your select few, we work with an extensive list of reputable boat tour companies with options to suit all budgets. Here are the many ways in which you may splice the mainbrace on the ‘Island of Eternal Spring’.

The Tenerife Fleet: there are big boats, catamarans of every size, large and small sailing and motorboats, those with glass bottoms, speed boats, luxury yachts, a submarine, and a Viking ship.

What do they do: whale and dolphin watching, sightseeing, sunset cruising, swimming and snorkelling, entertaining the kids, partying, scuba-diving, sea fishing, turtle visiting, and booze-cruising, either en-masse, a smaller group, a tour for 8, or private hire of a boat (with or without crew) just for you and your friends, or a special occasion with a loved one.

Timetables and sailing times: Each boat company keeps their own departure schedule so you can find one to suit, whether you’re an early bird or enjoy a lay-in.  Choose from two-hour short jaunts perfect to test your sea-legs (or your childs attention span), going up to five-hour ocean adventures. 

Additional details: some tours offer drinks, others include snacks, a buffet, or a full lunch, the shorter trips may not stop, but most 3 hours and upwards include a swim and snorkel, there may be a free pick-up/drop-off service from your door (or nearest designated point), guides that speak your language, onboard kids activities, and wheelchair accessibility.

Departure points: Boat trips depart from several ports including Puerto Colon, Las Galletas, Los Cristianos, and Los Gigantes.  Once you’re out in the big blue you’ll have the magnificent south-western coastline to marvel at and, depending on which tour you’re on, the spectacular cliffs of Los Gigantes and Masca bay, caves, coves, and beaches, or the fish farm by the Palm-Mar cliffs. 

What to bring with you:

Gents -sunscreen 

Ladies – sunscreen, camera, a cap, water-resistant bag, a sarong, towel, a smaller towel, a book, flat shoes, SPF20 lip balm, spare swimsuit, inflatable pillow, and a cardigan.

Kids – a parent carrying all of the above

Party booze cruise – sunscreen and your best dance moves.

*In line with virus regulations, you should bring your own snorkel mask*

If they liked it then they would’ve put a Flag on it

The ‘Blue Flag’ is a certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education, and is awarded only to boats and companies which meet safety and service standards, and respect the environment and wildlife.  The whales and dolphins who happily flourish in our waters have to be protected, so care is taken not to interfere with them or their habitat.  It can’t actually be guaranteed that you will see them on your boat tour as they’re not on the payroll and obliged to show up, but your experienced captain will know their favourite hang-outs so you have to be unlucky not to get a glimpse.  We of course only work with Blue Flag certified companies.

Top Tips

Tenerife is blessed with a year-long temperate climate, with trade winds saving us from the searing heat of our Morrocan neighbours.  In winter months you can enjoy the sun on the beach while Mount Teides peak is covered in snow.  But while the Atlantic looks calm from the shore it may not be so peaceful further out.  Having a heads-up regarding the weather conditions can really make a difference to your excursion.  There may be a calima on the way, or certain days predicted better than others, so give us a shout and we’ll let you know if you need to pack a sou’wester. 

For the best choice and range of options, it’s advisable to book at least a couple of days in advance.  With that said, you are on holiday after all and last-minuters are always welcome at GOAT.  So when you’re sat enjoying your barraquito and are suddenly overcome with the urge for a sea-bound adventure, drop us a message and we’ll let you know late availability without making you walk the plank.

In conclusion

Contact your GOAT advisor via the WhatsApp button or email, tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll get right on it, give you options, and deliver your tickets. 

With Tenerife boat trips in particular there are such a variety of excursions to choose from.  So if you’re in the south of Tenerife, why not request a visit by a GOAT advisor who, for no extra charge, can meet you at your hotel, or even your favourite cafe, armed with videos, photos, schedules, and up to the minute information on all your options.  With trips for every budget, we’ll find you an excursion that really floats your boat!

GOAT guide to Masca

 

The GOAT Guide to Masca

If you google ‘best day trips in Tenerife’, Masca will pop up. The ancient hamlet atop a mountain range is one of the most visited sites on the island. Historically a Guanche settlement, a refuge from invading Spaniards, witches lair, and rumoured pirates hideout, if you’re looking to have your timbers shivered at an altitude of 600 metres, there’s literally nowhere better.  With a selection of rustic restaurants offering typical Canarian fare, shops selling handmade souvenirs, a craft centre, museum, and tiny picturesque square, and 18th century church, Masca is a truly memorable day out.

Big shout out to the Teno Massif!

Masca is located in the north-west of Tenerife on the Macizo de Teno volcanic formation. An area of wild cypress trees, lush towering palms, bright flora and cacti. The isolated village comprises traditional buildings and stone pathways, running along a ridge punctuated by a rocky pinnacle. Below is the Masca Barranco, which cuts down to the ocean between the cliffs of Los Gigantes. Its remoteness made an ideal location for native Guanches to evade the Spanish conquerors who finally took Tenerife in 1496 after years of trying.

Magic, Piracy, and a dog with an underbite.

Relics and carvings of the Guanches show their belief in the magical and religious, and it’s said the hamlet was a place of witchcraft and practising mystics. Pirates frequented these parts during the 16th century, but it’s a point of discussion whether or not Masca was their enclave. Back in those days, when the trek up from the bay was no doubt rougher, it would have taken a good few hours of climbing to reach the village. Imagine how much longer if you’re hauling treasure, have a wooden leg, an overweight parrot, and a skin-full of rum. But when you’ve experienced the intriguing atmosphere of Masca, especially at low light with a touch of mist, you’ll want it all to be true.

We first went to Masca thirty years ago, and I’m overjoyed to say that not much has really changed since, aside from more visitor facilities and a larger choice of souvenirs. Back then we’d sat in the taverna ready to order a bit of lunch, and Igor appeared at our table. He had a crazy look in his eye, a quirky tuft of hair, and protruding bottom teeth. He wasn’t there to take our order, he’s a dog, but by the intensity by which he was checking us out I rather fancy he was the mystic guardian of his old pirate masters buried treasure. Once satisfied we’d just come for some tapas and not to steal his doubloons, he mysteriously vanished.

More hairpins than Toni&Guy

The journey by road to Masca is part of the fun. Driving there is not for the inexperienced nor faint-hearted. Nervous passengers may need to breathe in when negotiating the inch-space between themselves and a bus coming in the opposite direction. It’s narrow, steep, and you might feel like you’re on an episode of Top Gear. Otherwise going with an organised bus trip, or a private tour, you still get the thrill and spectacular scenery, but with an experienced driver at the wheel, and almost all of them do it sober now.

Just kidding, they could do it with their eyes shut but please don’t ask them to prove it.

En-route from the Santiago del Teide direction, a stop-off at the Cherfe Mirador will offer you a cracking 360° panorama, taking in the hamlet, the neighbouring islands of La Gomera and La Palma, the mountains of Teno, Santiago Valley, and a less often pictured western side view of Teide.

The famous Masca Gorge trail leading down to the beach has now been re-opened, but with restrictions. The closure came a couple of years ago when a group of holidaymakers, ignoring a bad weather warning ban of the area, were stranded in the barranco in storm conditions. Luckily a goat herder spotted them and led them to a cave to shelter, and emergency services rescued them the following day, but this brought to light safety measures which should be put in place, with planned checkpoints, phone signal access, permits, and repairs to the jetty. The 8.5km ravine walk from the village down to the rocky beach tucked into the Acantilados of Los Gigantes takes around 3 hours. Trekking down is not too strenuous but can be tricky in parts, especially if it’s been raining. Much like the return journey home from the pub, the ascent takes longer, and a reasonable fitness level and sturdy thighs are required.

Once operational, boat taxis and trips pick-up and drop-off at the Masca beach jetty, but as yet that option is still closed.

Every which way but loose

There are a variety of ways to enjoy this amazing place from all different angles, choose from:

a private tour (maximum 6 people), bus tour, quad, jeep safari, wave at it from the sea on a boat trip, or overhead from a helicopter, trek to it, through it, and around it, drive yourself there, or if you’re not in Tenerife just yet, stare at it lovingly on google maps.

A must for trekkers is the walk of Teno Rural Park, known as Camino Real, the royal walk, departing from Santiago del Teide and finishing at Masca, treading in the footsteps of ancient Guanche royalty. Organised trekking tours operate the nature walk, also with the option of a pick-up from Masca, to take you on a search for whales and dolphins from Los Gigantes harbour.

In conclusion

Whichever way floats your GOAT, Masca is an exceptional experience, charming, magical, and beautiful.  Contact us and we will find your ideal excursion there, with the latest information and schedules, and no extra charge for the personal service and ticket delivery to your door.  And when you do get to Masca, be sure to look out for Igor, he might have mellowed by now and willing to give up where that treasure is.

 

…IT’S GOING TO BE GOAT!

GOAT guide to Jetski

If crochet and the ancient art of whittling is your idea of a good time, then renting a jetski in Tenerife may not be your thing. However, if slicing through an undulating cobalt ocean at the foot of a volcano with the sun on your shoulders really floats your Kawasaki, then you’ve come to the right place my friend.

What better way to get familiar with our blue planet with the wind blowing through your hair (or bouncing off your head if you happen to be follically challenged), than a bracing jaunt about the Atlantic Ocean. Of the many reputable water sports providers operating in the south of Tenerife, these are the established outings:

20 minutes circuit – four buoys anchored out in the sea in a square formation. You travel in one direction, you can take it easy, or go fast and overtake so long as you give plenty of space of course.

40 minutes safari – yes it’s a safari!.. but don’t expect giraffes. With a variety of departure points, you’ll be travelling along our spectacular south-western coastline.

1 hour safari – still no giraffes, but you’ll have sixty minutes to enjoy the sights, sounds, and waves.

2 hour safari – while stopping for a break on the two-hour outing you’re able to dismount your trusty water horse for an invigorating swim, or relaxing float. This is a great opportunity for a bit of snorkelling too as the waters here are wonderfully clear, however, due to virus restrictions you should bring your own snorkel mask.

Single or double – if you don’t want your style cramped you take the single option. Alternatively, you can double up with two to a jetski, either with one designated driver, or taking it in turns to drive (as long as the passenger taking over is of eligible age).

 

Rules and regulations

You need to be at least 16 years of age to drive a single jetski.  To drive while carrying a passenger requires the driver to be a minimum of 18, and the passenger a minimum of 8 years old.  If you’re blessed with the looks of a youthful cherub it’s a good idea to bring proof of age with you, you lucky thing.

The GOATs top tips 

First and foremost, don’t forget the sunscreen, even if it’s cloudy.

If you value something that hasn’t been physically grafted onto your body, please remember while jetskiing there is a chance you’ll lose it.  In the depths just outside Playa de las Americas is a confused manta ray wearing a lovely pair of shades that fell off the back of a parascending boat. To avoid squinting all the way you could invest in a cheap pair, or a cap instead, that you won’t be shedding tears for if it goes for a swim without you.

First-timers to jetskiing in an ocean are frequently surprised to find that it’s a bit bigger and lumpier than they imagined.  This adventure is not solely for extreme sports enthusiasts by all means, but to really enjoy your excursion it’s good to get advice on which one suits you, along with what the weather may be doing on that day or time. So if it’s testing the water with a twenty-minute circuit session, an adventurous meander, or a majestic marathon, get your recommendation based on our local knowledge.

Before the ever-changing covid restrictions there were a good variety of busy jet-ski companies offering different options, such as a pick-up service for the two-hour safari, jetski package deals (with parascending, fly-fish, banana, or crazy UFO ride), and departing from either a beach, marina, or port. Businesses understandably are now operating reduced services on certain days and times. Trawling through google to find your ideal trip takes time, whereas we know who’s doing what, and when, so let us do the work and you’ll have more time to chill before your joyride.

In conclusion

If you already know exactly which jet ski rental you want, simply message the GOAT Tenerife Excursions Booking Service, and we will check the availability for your chosen date, then book, confirm, and deliver your tickets to you at your hotel, apartment, or meeting point.

For more information on jet-skiing, or for any other Tenerife excursion, again just message us and we’ll happily tell you all you need to know.  For no extra charge, ask to meet up with an advisor and we’ll arrive armed with photos, videos, schedules, options, and the best current deals.

It’s going to be GOAT!

 

GOAT guide to Tenerife Excursions

GREETINGS!

..and welcome to our first GOAT Tenerife Excursions Personal Service blog post!  Now, I have to be honest here, I don’t really read blog posts, but I’ve written loads of them, from Australian plumbing, South African phone apps, to a Russian online dating service.  But this time it’s different, because this time, it’s personal.  The GOAT, and the wonderful island of Tenerife are both very close to my heart, so when, during our pandemic lockdown, the idea was born to bring the excursion personal service online, I’m there with bells on.

 

So what’s the Big Idea

 

There are a staggering amount of different excursions around Tenerife, and not just jet-skiing through our crystal blue ocean.  We have gladiator horses, vineyards, stargazing, helicopters, private boat cruises, magical pine forest treks, day trips to neighbouring Canarian islands, viking boats, a submarine, a hilarious drag show, snorkelling with turtles, and a 28 metre high vertical waterslide… and that’s just the tip of the volcano.

With a grand knowledge of Tenerife tourism, amassed from thirty years of living and working on this magnificent island, the GOAT is in the right position to advise you on what there is to see and do, when and where, and at the right price.  So you simply message us, we’ll give you all your options and up to the minute information using our local knowledge and professional Tenerife excursion partners.

If you’re based in south Tenerife, for no extra cost, you can request a visit, and a GOAT advisor will bring the excursion shop to you, with videos, photos, schedules and all the best offers.  You take your time, make a choice, and get back to us.  We book, confirm, take payment, and deliver your tickets, and you go and make some wonderful holiday memories.

Everyone’s a winner!

 

The informative bit….  Get familiar with ‘The Rock’

 

Tenerife is known as ‘the island of eternal spring’ thanks to its year-long temperate weather.  With our subtropical oceanic climate we are blessed with a glorious annual average temperature of 23 degrees celsius, which is regulated by north eastern trade winds and gulf air currents.  With a variety of micro-climatic weather zones, our lush green north facing mountain slopes see the most cloud and rain, whereas the southern coastline is afforded the most sunshine.

Temperature drops with altitude and in winter months the famous 3718m Mount Teide will be wearing his thick snow overcoat while you’re lapping up the rays on the beach.  Teides peak is the highest point in Spain, and the volcanos national park land is the location for altitude training, the famous sports stars who have physically prepared here include Nigel Benn, Bradley Wiggins, and Chris Froome.

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands at 2,034 sq km, and sits around 300km from the west coast of Africa.  The Canarian archipelago rose up from the floor of the Atlantic Ocean millions of years ago, created by a series of underwater eruptions.

 

The historical bit… Tenerife through the ages

200 B.C  the first human habitation of the island, believed to be Berbers from North Africa.

1341  The Canary Islands first appear on a map.

1402  Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and El Hierro are conquered by Spain.

1492  Cristobal Colon, a.k.a Christopher Columbus, stops off en-route to the Americas.

1495  Spanish Conquistadors take Tenerife following two years of fighting with the native Guanches.

1706  The Trevejo volcano erupts, burying the city and port of Garachico.

1797  A failed attack at Santa Cruz by the British leaves Admiral Nelson armless.

Late 19th century  Santa Cruz and Puerto de la Cruz start to welcome tourists.

1936  Considered a threat by the Spanish government, General Francisco Franco is sent to Tenerife to keep him out of the way.  After 3 months he returns to Spain, starts the Civil War, and becomes ruler of Spain.

1960’s  Tourism boom in north Tenerife.

1971  Mount Teides cable car service starts.

1972  Loro Parque opens, recognised in 2018 by Trip Advisor, after some 50 million visitors, as the best zoo in the world.

1975  General Franco dies, the dictatorship ends, Juan Carlos becomes Spanish king.

1978  Named for the Queen Sofia, Tenerifes south airport opens, and the tourism boom of the south commences.

2008  Siam Park opens, and currently has won the Trip Advisor Travellers Choice Award for best waterpark in the world six times in a row.

2020  Global pandemic chaos.  During quarantine The GOAT Tenerife Excursions Personal Service goes live online to rapturous applause.

2121  You read this blog and with our help start planning which brilliant excursions you’re going to take!

 

Tenerife is currently home to 966,400 residents, and before the covid-19 pandemic, we welcomed an estimated 5 million visitors each year.  With our UNESCO world heritage sites, biosphere reserves, national park land, beaches, night life, watersports, Canarian culture, cuisine, festivals, and magnificent landscape, the island is rightfully one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world.

 

So now you know our beautiful island, why not experience it for yourself.  By land, from the air, or on the ocean, you’ll have an unforgettable time.  And whatever you choose, be sure to contact us for all your excursion needs.

 

IT’S GOING TO BE GOAT!