The Canary Islands are an archipelago off the coast of northwestern Africa. There are 8 main islands. These are Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro and La Graciosa.
Together they have a population of 2.2 million people. Most of this population can be found on the islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
The Canaries were created by volcanic activity. This activity is also responsible for the Canaries distinctive black beaches. Mount Teide, a volcano on Tenerife, is a popular tourist destination. It is also the highest mountain in Spain.
The Canaries are a popular tourist destination with people coming to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine. The islands are also popular with expats looking for somewhere warm and affordable to retire. Roughly 10% of the population is made up of expats.
There is plenty to do apart from enjoying the good food and weather. A variety of adventure sports are available as well as dolphin cruises and other marine activities. There are water parks and other attractions for the whole family.
Learn more about towns on the islands:
Santa Cruz de Tenerife – The Canary’s capital and a great place to visit
Thanks to the thriving tourist industry flights are available all year round.
Flying time from London to Tenerife is about 4 hours 30 minutes.
From Seville to Tenerife is 2 hours 15 minutes.
Madrid to Tenerife is 2 hours 55 minutes flying time.
Ferries are available to travel between the main islands.
The ferry from Santa Cruz, Tenerife to Las Palmas, Gran Canaria takes just under 5 hours.