Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
The Los Gigantes kayak route is a guided trip of about 2 to 2.5 hours from the Los Gigantes marina in the west of Tenerife, paddling at the foot of the cliffs that give the village its name, with a stop to swim and snorkel in a cove. It is done in double kayaks and, on many offers, with a support boat.
It is one of the best-known kayak routes on the island because of the scenery. This page explains what it is like, what level it requires and what to know before you go.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Guided kayak route under the Los Gigantes cliffs |
| Departure | Los Gigantes marina (Santiago del Teide) |
| Duration | About 2–2.5 hours in the offers reviewed |
| Kayak | Double and stable; single for those with experience |
| Support | Support boat on several offers |
| Stop | Swimming and snorkelling in a cove |
| Requirements | Able to swim, on the offers reviewed; minimum age depends on the company |
| Price | Depends on the duration and the equipment included |
What you see
The Los Gigantes cliffs are vertical walls of volcanic rock that drop straight into the sea and reach several hundred metres in height. From the kayak you see them from below, with their layers of lava and their seabirds, and halfway along there is a cove for a swim.
At the snorkelling stop, fish typical of rocky seabeds, such as parrotfish (vieja), salema and damselfish (fula), are common, as one of the operators describes.
What happens
- Meeting at the port about 15 minutes beforehand.
- Equipment and briefing: kayak, paddle, life jacket and snorkelling gear.
- Paddling along the coast, following the guide, under the cliffs.
- Stop in a cove for swimming and snorkelling.
- Return to the port.
Who it suits
- Beginners with normal fitness.
- Couples and families with children from the minimum age.
- Anyone who wants to see the cliffs up close without going by boat.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- Anyone who cannot swim: the offers reviewed require it.
- Shoulder or back problems.
- Young children: on some offers they sit in the middle of the kayak between two adults.
- Rough seas: the route may be shortened or cancelled.
How to choose well
- Actual time on the water?
- Is there a support boat?
- Double or single kayak?
- Is snorkelling gear included?
- Minimum age, and how do children go?
- How many people per guide?
- What happens if the sea is rough? Rescheduling or refund?
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Kayak, paddle and life jacket | Included | Sizes |
| Snorkellingling gear | Common | Whether it is included |
| Guide | Included | Language |
| Support boat | On several offers | Whether there is one |
| Insurance | Common | That it is included |
Logistics: parking in Los Gigantes
Parking near the Los Gigantes port is often difficult, and the port’s own car park charges a fee, as one of the operators warns. Arrive with time to spare: departures are punctual.
Safety
- Life jacket on for the whole route.
- Do not go closer to the foot of the cliff than the guide says: there may be rockfalls.
- Water-resistant sun protection.
Weather and sea
- The west coast is usually sheltered, but wind and swell can change conditions.
- Morning departures usually have calmer seas.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure.
- Duration.
- Equipment included.
- Group or private.
What to bring
- Swimwear, towel and a change of clothes.
- Water-resistant sun protection and a cap with a strap.
- Water.
- A dry bag for your phone, if one is not provided.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| Kayaking with turtles in the south | Kayak and snorkelling in Tenerife |
| Seeing the cliffs from a speedboat | Speedboat sea safari |
| Walking down to the sea | Masca gorge hike |
| Seeing cetaceans | Whale and dolphin watching |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need experience?
No. Double kayaks are stable and the guide explains the basics.
How long is the route?
About 2–2.5 hours on the offers reviewed.
Do you need to be able to swim?
On the offers reviewed, yes.
Can children come?
Yes, depending on the company’s minimum age; young children usually sit in the middle of the kayak with adults.
Is there a swimming stop?
Yes, in a cove, with snorkelling.
Where can you park?
Around the port; it is often difficult, and the port car park charges a fee.