Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
An excursion to the north of Tenerife covers the La Orotava valley: the historic centre of La Orotava, with its houses with wooden balconies, Puerto de la Cruz, its Botanical Garden and the viewpoints over the valley. It is done by vehicle with a guide and walks around the old towns.
It is the option for anyone staying in the south who wants to see another Tenerife: greener, more humid, with traditional architecture and a different pace. This page helps you know what you will see and what to ask before choosing.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Excursion through the La Orotava valley and the central north coast |
| Usual stops | La Orotava old town, Puerto de la Cruz, Botanical Garden, valley viewpoints |
| Duration | Half day or full day, depending on the departure area |
| How much walking | Walks around historic centres, with slopes in La Orotava |
| Climate | More cloud and humidity than in the south |
| Format | Shared, small group or private |
| Tickets | Not usually included |
| Price | Depends on the provider, the format and the pick-up area |
What you see
La Orotava
A town whose historic centre was declared a historic-artistic site in the 1970s. Its sloping streets preserve mansions with wooden balconies, churches and gardens. Among the most visited places are the Iglesia de la Concepción, the Casa de los Balcones and the Jardines Victoria.
Puerto de la Cruz
One of Tenerife’s first tourist resorts. It combines the old town and the fishing harbour with seafront promenades and natural pools.
Botanical Garden (JardÃn de Aclimatación de La Orotava)
Although its name refers to La Orotava, it is in Puerto de la Cruz. It was created by Royal Order of Charles III on 17 August 1788 to acclimatise tropical species. It is run by the Instituto Canario de Investigaciones Agrarias (ICIA) and opens from 9:00 to 18:00, except on 1 January, Good Friday and 25 December. Turismo de Tenerife estimates a visit of 45 minutes to an hour and a half.
Valley viewpoints
From viewpoints such as the Mirador de Humboldt you can see the La Orotava valley with Teide in the background on a clear day.
Icod de los Vinos and Garachico lie further west. If they interest you, see the Masca, Teno and Garachico excursion.
What happens
- Pick-up in your area.
- Viewpoint over the valley.
- Guided walk around La Orotava’s old town.
- Puerto de la Cruz: old town, coast and free time.
- Botanical Garden, on some offers.
- Food, usually at your own expense.
- Return.
Formats
| Format | What sets it apart | Suits you if… |
|---|---|---|
| Shared | Price per person | You want the standard route |
| Private | Tailored pace and stops | You are travelling as a group or family |
| With a winery | Visit and tasting in the north | See the Tenerife wine route |
| Cultural theme | A historical thread through several towns | See the cultural tour of Tenerife |
Who it suits
- Travellers staying in the south who want to get to know the north.
- Fans of traditional Canarian architecture.
- People interested in gardens and botany.
- Anyone who prefers a day with less mountain road than other routes.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- Anyone looking for guaranteed sunshine: the north gets more cloud because of the trade winds.
- People with reduced mobility: La Orotava’s old town has very steep streets.
- Anyone who wants wild nature: look at Anaga or Teno.
How to choose well
- Which stops are included, and how long is each one?
- Is it a guided tour in La Orotava or free time?
- Is entry to the Botanical Garden included?
- Is there a stop at a valley viewpoint?
- Where do you eat?
- Group size and type of vehicle?
- Is the guide licensed and is the vehicle licensed?
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Transport and guide | Included | Language |
| Walk in La Orotava | Included | Guided or free |
| Botanical Garden | In some offers | Whether entry is included |
| Casa de los Balcones or other interiors | Not always | Whether you go in |
| Food | Not included | Planned time |
Safety and requirements
- Slopes: comfortable shoes with good soles for La Orotava.
- Natural pools and the north coast: the sea can be dangerous; respect the notices and flags.
- Accessibility: check which stops are accessible.
Weather and time of year
- Cloud and drizzle: common in the north, especially in winter and spring.
- Temperature: usually a little cooler than in the south.
- Festivals: in La Orotava, the Corpus Christi flower and sand carpets are one of the best-known events; if your visit coincides, expect more people and possible road closures.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a figure: there are not enough directly comparable prices for this route.
The price depends on:
- Format: shared or private.
- Pick-up area.
- Tickets included, such as entry to the Botanical Garden.
- Duration.
What to bring
- A light or waterproof jacket.
- Comfortable shoes.
- Sun protection.
- Some cash for tickets or food.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| The north-west (Masca, Garachico, Icod) | Masca, Teno and Garachico excursion |
| Several areas with Teide in one day | Full-day Tenerife tour |
| History and heritage across several towns | Cultural tour of Tenerife |
| Wine in the north | Tenerife wine route |
| Your own private route | Tailor-made private tour of Tenerife |
Frequently asked questions
What can you see in the north of Tenerife in a day?
La Orotava’s old town, Puerto de la Cruz and the Botanical Garden are the most common combination, with a valley viewpoint.
Is the Botanical Garden in La Orotava?
No. It is called the JardÃn de Aclimatación de La Orotava, but it is in Puerto de la Cruz.
Is the weather better in the north or the south?
The south is usually sunnier and drier. The north has more cloud, but it is greener.
Do you have to walk much?
Not much, but La Orotava’s streets are steep.
Does it include Icod and Garachico?
Not on this route. They are in the north-west and have their own excursion.
Can it be combined with Teide?
Yes, on full-day excursions or on a private tour.
Is lunch included?
Usually not.
