Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
Canyoning in Tenerife is the guided descent of ravines, combining walking, down-climbing and abseiling with a rope and harness. Most of the island’s canyons are dry, with volcanic walls and vertical abseils; only a few regularly carry water.
Many canyons lie within protected natural areas and the activity is regulated by the Cabildo. This page explains what they are like, what the rules require and how to choose a descent suited to your level.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Guided canyon descent with abseils and down-climbs |
| Type of canyons | Mostly dry; few with permanent water |
| Levels | From beginner descents with short abseils to very vertical descents |
| Duration | Half day or full day |
| Regulation | General Cabildo authorisation in protected areas, with some canyons excluded |
| Groups | Maximum 20 participants in protected areas, under the Cabildo authorisation |
| Equipment | Harness, helmet, ropes and descender, provided by the company |
| Price | Depends on the canyon, the duration and the group |
What the Cabildo regulates
The Cabildo de Tenerife has established a general authorisation for canyoning in certain canyons within protected natural areas, as published by Tenerife ON. Its conditions include:
- Active tourism companies, organisations and individuals can apply, provided they meet the conditions.
- Groups may not exceed 20 participants.
- A federation card is no longer compulsory for everyone, but the organiser or guide must carry their accreditation and have obtained the informed consent of the participants.
- The environment must be respected: no noise, discharges or disturbance.
- Some canyons are excluded for conservation reasons or because they are in restricted-use areas, for example several in Buenavista del North and Los Silos.
Ask the company which canyon the activity takes place in and whether it is covered by the authorisation.
Types of descent
| Type | What it offers | Suits you if… |
|---|---|---|
| Dry beginner canyon | Short, not very vertical abseils | It is your first time |
| Vertical canyon | Long, free-hanging abseils | You have experience |
| Wet canyon | Pools, jumps or slides | You are interested in the water side (limited offer) |
| Private | Your group only | You want to tailor the level |
What happens
- Meeting and handing out of equipment.
- Briefing on technique for abseiling and safety.
- Approach on foot to the head of the canyon.
- Descent with abseils, down-climbs and stretches on foot.
- Exit via a path or to a pick-up point.
Who it suits
- People with good fitness looking for adventure.
- Beginners, in beginner canyons with a guide.
- Groups of friends.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- Severe vertigo.
- Knee, back or shoulder injuries.
- Under-18s: the minimum age depends on the company and the canyon.
- Anyone expecting jumps and slides: most of Tenerife’s canyons are dry.
How to choose well
- Which canyon, and is it covered by the Cabildo authorisation?
- What level is required? Length of the highest abseil?
- Is it dry or wet?
- What training does the guide have? Ask about a canyoning sports instructor qualification or equivalent.
- What equipment is included?
- Is insurance included?
- How many people per guide?
- What happens if there is rain or a weather warning?
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Qualified guide | Included | Qualification |
| Harness, helmet, ropes, descender | Included | Condition of the equipment |
| Wetsuit | Only in wet canyons | Sizes |
| Insurance | Compulsory for active tourism companies | That it is included |
| Transport | In some offers | Area |
Safety
- Rain: canyons can flood suddenly. No descents take place during a rain warning.
- Rockfalls: always wear your helmet.
- Follow the guide’s instructions at every abseil.
Weather
- Dry canyons can be done almost all year round.
- After heavy rain, some canyons carry water temporarily, but the risk also increases.
- In summer, the approaches are hot.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure.
- Canyon and difficulty.
- Duration.
- Group or private.
- Transport.
What to bring
- Hiking or canyoning shoes with good grip.
- Tough clothing you do not mind damaging.
- Water and food.
- Sun protection.
- A change of clothes for afterwards.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| Climbing with a guide | Guided climbing in Tenerife |
| Demanding hike through a ravine | Masca gorge hike |
| Underground adventure | Cueva del Viento visit |
| Flying | Tandem paragliding in Tenerife |
Frequently asked questions
Do you need experience to go canyoning?
Not in beginner canyons with a guide.
Do Tenerife’s canyons have water?
Most are dry. Few carry water permanently.
Do you need a permit?
In protected areas, a general Cabildo authorisation applies, with conditions. Some canyons are excluded.
How many people can go in a group?
In protected areas, a maximum of 20 participants.
What equipment do you need?
Harness, helmet, ropes and descender, which the company usually provides.
Can you do it in the rain?
It is not advisable: canyons can flood suddenly.