Canary Island Hopping: Everything You Need to Know

Island hopping in the Canary Islands is an unforgettable experience. Each of the seven main islands has its own unique charm, from volcanic landscapes and white sand beaches to vibrant local cultures. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or simply looking for some sun, island hopping is the best way to experience everything the Canary Islands have to offer.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about island hopping in the Canaries, from where to start and how to plan, to tips on booking tickets and finding budget-friendly options.

Which Islands Should You Visit?

The Canary Islands are home to seven main islands:

• Tenerife: The largest island, famous for Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak, and its lively capital, Santa Cruz.
• Gran Canaria: Known for its bustling nightlife, beautiful beaches, and stunning dunes in Maspalomas.
• Lanzarote: A volcanic island with surreal landscapes, including the Timanfaya National Park.
• Fuerteventura: Best known for its world-class beaches and water sports, especially windsurfing.
• La Palma: An island paradise for hikers and stargazers, with lush forests and clear night skies.
• La Gomera: A hidden gem known for its ancient forests and hiking trails.
• El Hierro: The smallest island, ideal for eco-tourism and peaceful escapes.

Best Starting Point for Island Hopping

Most island hopping itineraries begin in either Tenerife or Gran Canaria, as both islands have the largest airports and more frequent ferry connections. Tenerife’s Los Cristianos port is a key hub for ferries, while Gran Canaria’s Las Palmas port offers extensive connections to the other islands.

If you're flying into the Canaries, Tenerife South (TFS) and Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) are your best entry points, with regular flights from Europe and beyond. Starting in either of these islands will give you easy access to the rest of the archipelago.

How to Get Around: Flights or Ferries?

The two main modes of transport for island hopping in the Canary Islands are ferries and flights. Each has its pros and cons, depending on your budget, time, and the experience you're looking for.

Ferries: Scenic and Budget-Friendly

For those seeking a more scenic journey, ferries are the way to go. Naviera Armas and Fred. Olsen Express are the two main ferry operators connecting the islands. Ferries are an affordable and relaxing way to travel between the islands, with beautiful ocean views and the chance to spot dolphins along the way.

• Cost: Ferry tickets usually range from €20 to €60, depending on the distance between islands.
• Duration: Shorter trips, like between Tenerife and La Gomera, take about an hour, while longer routes (e.g., Gran Canaria to Lanzarote) can take up to 6-7 hours.
• Booking: You can book ferry tickets directly from the ferry operator websites or through ticket aggregators. It’s usually cheaper to book in advance, but last-minute tickets are often available too, especially in off-peak seasons.

Flights: Fast and Convenient

If you're pressed for time or hopping between islands that are farther apart (such as Tenerife to Lanzarote), flights are your best option. Binter Canarias and Canaryfly are the main domestic airlines offering short flights between the islands.

• Cost: Flights typically cost between €30 and €100, depending on the season and how far in advance you book.
• Duration: Most flights take between 30 and 60 minutes.
• Booking: To get the best deals, book your flights early via airline websites or online travel agencies like Skyscanner.

Tips for Buying Tickets

• In Advance: For the lowest fares, it’s best to book your ferry or flight tickets ahead of time, especially during the high season (July-August and December-January).
• Last-Minute: If you're traveling in the off-peak season, you can often score last-minute ferry or flight tickets at discounted prices. However, availability can be limited during holidays or festivals, so keep that in mind.
• Island Resident Discount: If you’re a Spanish resident or EU citizen with a registered address in the Canary Islands, you’re eligible for a 75% discount on inter-island travel. Make sure to bring proof of residency when booking your tickets.

Best Island Hopping Routes

For first-timers, a popular route is starting in Tenerife, then hopping to La Gomera for its hiking trails, followed by Gran Canaria for a mix of beaches and city life. From Gran Canaria, you can head to Fuerteventura for beaches, and finally finish your trip in Lanzarote for its dramatic volcanic landscapes.

Alternatively, for a more off-the-beaten-path itinerary, consider visiting La Palma, El Hierro, and La Gomera, which offer more tranquility and a closer connection to nature.

Budget-Friendly Island Hopping Tips

1. Book in Advance: Early bookings save you money, especially with flights.
2. Use Ferries for Shorter Routes: Ferries are usually cheaper than flights for shorter distances, such as between Tenerife and La Gomera.
3. Travel Off-Peak: If you can, avoid the summer and winter holiday rush to score cheaper tickets and avoid crowds.
4. Mix It Up: Use a combination of ferries and flights for longer and shorter routes to save both time and money.

The Scenic Way: Exploring the Canaries by Ferry

If you're more about the journey than the destination, take the scenic ferry routes between the islands. The trips between Tenerife and La Gomera or Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura offer stunning coastal views, giving you a unique perspective of the islands from the sea. Some ferries even pass through whale and dolphin watching zones, offering unforgettable encounters with marine life.

Island hopping in the Canary Islands is a perfect adventure for travelers who want to experience diverse landscapes and cultures within one trip. With a bit of planning, your island-hopping adventure will be both seamless and unforgettable.