Tenerife is more than just the sun and sea that we know from the tempting photos in travel brochures, designed to lure people into dreaming of a sunny getaway.
Let’s be honest: for many, Tenerife is synonymous with beaches, all-you-can-eat buffets, and cocktails with tiny umbrellas. And there’s nothing wrong with that—don’t get me wrong. But if you think that’s all the island has to offer, you’re doing yourself and the locals a great disservice. So, dear tourist, take off those sunglasses, close your minibar, and join me on a journey to the real Tenerife.
The Local People
The people of Tenerife—whom we call Tenerfians—are incredibly friendly, but behind their polite smiles lies a proud community deeply connected to their heritage. They are kind and welcoming when you ask them, in broken Spanish, where the nearest supermarket is. But deep down, they wish you’d asked for the nearest guachinche.
No, those are not beach umbrellas. Guachinches are small, family-run eateries, often hidden in the mountains, where you can taste the most authentic Canarian dishes. Imagine a plate of carne fiesta—succulent, garlicky pork marinated in spices—or ropa vieja, a stew that might remind you of a Flemish classic but with an entirely different local twist. Naturally, you’ll have to stray from the beaten path to find them.
The Local Dialect
The language of Tenerife is Spanish, but with its own unique Canarian rhythm. If you listen carefully, you’ll hear words like guagua (bus) and chacho (buddy or mate). Try slipping those into a conversation and watch how the locals react. But be warned: these words are not for casual hotel bar chats. They’re a bridge to the soul of the islanders. Use them correctly, and you’ll gain a friend for life; misuse them, and you’ll probably be kindly corrected.
Lost Traditions
From carnival to rural wisdom—ah, the traditions!
The Carnival of Tenerife is an explosion of colors, music, dance, and joy. It’s often compared to Rio de Janeiro’s, but did you know this festival is deeply rooted in local customs and history? Lesser known are the traditional Canarian wrestling matches (lucha canaria) and the arrastre de ganado (cattle-dragging competitions) held in the mountains. It’s raw, pure culture, and proof that Tenerife is much more than sun, sea, beaches, and cocktails.
Hidden Corners and Forgotten Stories
Let’s stop talking about Teide National Park for a moment—yes, it’s stunning, but did you know that Anaga, one of the island’s oldest regions, has forests that look like they were plucked straight from a fairy tale? Walking through its misty laurel forests feels like stepping back in time hundreds of years.
Or what about the cave dwellings of Chinamada, where a handful of families still live just as their ancestors did? These are places most tourists never visit, simply because they never look beyond their sunbeds.
And then there’s history. Tenerife has a rich prehistoric past thanks to the Guanches, its original inhabitants. Their mysterious pyramids in Güímar? They’re not just a fantasy conjured up by Thor Heyerdahl; they actually exist and are well worth a visit. But you won’t find these stories in glossy travel brochures.
The Temptation of Laziness
I get it. Most tourists stick to their resorts because it’s easy. The pool is right there, the sangria keeps flowing, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you rent a car and drive to Masca—just like everyone else.
But here comes my wagging finger: you’re missing out on the real Tenerife. The Tenerife of warm, proud people, of hidden gems, and of a culture so deeply rooted that it can be felt in every rock and tree.
Time to Get Up!
So, dear traveler, my challenge for you is simple: go exploring. Talk to the locals, visit a guachinche, get lost in Anaga, and let the sun be your only guide. Tenerife is an island of contrasts—wild nature and refined culture. But to discover it, you must step out of your comfort zone and dare to look beyond the first cocktail menu.
And if you do? I guarantee you an experience that no sunbed or all-inclusive buffet could ever provide.
A Final Tip
To truly get to know Tenerife, here’s a final tip: The website Tenerife Connect currently features 333 articles – this one included – about everything and anything related to, from, and about Tenerife. Use the search function and a strong keyword, and I’m sure your curiosity will be satisfied.
Guy Devos © Photography
Tenerife: More Than Sun and Sea ©
More TRIVIA can be read [HERE].
Interested in Tenerife?
Subscribe to our newsletter and always stay informed about the news on Tenerife.
Enter your first name and a valid email address below. Then click on Subscribe.
