Things To Do
in La Orotava
La Orotava is a town located on the northern coast of Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands. It is known for its historic colonial architecture, including the impressive Church of Our Lady of Conception. The town is surrounded by lush green landscapes and picturesque gardens, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
La Orotava also hosts traditional festivals and events that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the stunning Casa de los Balcones, an iconic example of Canarian architecture. Take time to explore its beautiful gardens and craft shops.
After lunch, head to the Botanical Garden of La Orotava to admire its extensive collection of tropical plants. Enjoy a leisurely stroll and soak in the vibrant colors and scents.
Finish your day by having dinner at a local restaurant, trying traditional Canarian dishes. Enjoy the sunset from a viewpoint overlooking the valley.
Start your morning with a hike to the Mirador de Humboldt for breathtaking views of the Orotava Valley. Capture photos of the stunning landscapes and clear skies.
After your hike, relax with a packed picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty. Afterwards, visit the nearby Parque Nacional del Teide for more scenic views.
As night falls, indulge in stargazing at Teide National Park, one of the best places in the world to see the stars. Grab a light dinner in the park’s visitor center.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with views of Mount Teide and lush landscapes.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical architecture and traditional festivals.
- Pleasant climate year-round, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
- Access to numerous hiking trails and nature parks.
- Close proximity to the coastal areas and beaches.
- Limited public transportation options can make it difficult to access nearby cities.
- The area can be touristy, especially during peak seasons, which may affect the local experience.
- Higher living costs compared to other areas of Tenerife.
- Some areas can experience heavy rainfall, especially in winter months.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in La Orotava
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful natural landscapes and scenic trails in the La Orotava region through hiking. There are various routes available catering to different skill levels, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
Immerse yourself in the lush greenery and diverse plant life at the Botanical Garden of La Orotava, showcasing a wide variety of exotic flora. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoy the serene environment.
Embark on a day trip to the nearby Teide National Park, where you can marvel at the impressive volcanic landscapes, including the iconic Mount Teide. Engage in activities such as nature walks, birdwatching, and stargazing.
Tours
Uncover the best of La Orotava with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in La Orotava
Visit one of these nice places.
This viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of La Orotava, the coast, and Mount Teide.
Located in the historic district, this viewpoint offers picturesque vistas of the town and its traditional Canarian architecture.
Known for its beautiful gardens and views over the Orotava Valley, this viewpoint provides a tranquil setting for photography.
Food in La Orotava
La Orotava Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty stew made with shredded beef, chickpeas, potatoes, and a medley of aromatic spices. This dish can be found at traditional Canarian restaurants like Casa Pache in La Orotava.
Must-Try!
This classic Canarian dish consists of small, wrinkled potatoes boiled in salt water and served with a tangy and spicy red or green mojo sauce. Don't miss trying this at Tasca El Olivo, a charming restaurant nestled in the heart of La Orotava.
A delightful dessert made from ground almonds, lemon zest, sugar, eggs, and cinnamon. For an authentic taste of this sweet treat, head to La Casa Lercaro, a historic building where you can savor traditional Canarian cuisine.
Unique Experiences
Get to know La Orotava better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this lively market to savor the vibrant colors and aromas of locally grown fruits, vegetables, and fresh seafood. Be sure to sample the delicious street food offerings, such as empanadas and bocadillos, from the market stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In La Orotava, it's important to show respect for religious festivals, such as Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the Fiesta de la Cruz (Festival of the Cross). Participating in these events with reverence and understanding their significance to the local community is highly appreciated.
When visiting places of religious or cultural significance, it's respectful to dress modestly and avoid wearing beachwear or clothing that may be considered too casual. This demonstrates consideration for local customs and traditions.
Greetings in La Orotava usually involve a handshake, especially when meeting someone for the first time. It's also polite to address people using their titles and surnames, such as 'Don' or 'Doña', to show respect. Additionally, maintaining eye contact during conversations is considered a sign of attentiveness and respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of La Orotava with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in La Orotava
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not widely practiced in La Orotava, Spain. It is not expected but appreciated for exceptional service in restaurants and hotels.
In La Orotava, Spain, cash is widely used for smaller purchases, while credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in larger establishments. Contactless payment methods are also increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into La Orotava.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit La Orotava, with pleasant temperatures and the famous La Orotava Flower Festival in May.
Expect warm weather, lively festivals, and crowded streets as it is a popular tourist season.
Mild weather and the wine harvest season, offering a chance to taste local wines.
Cool temperatures but still enjoyable, with Christmas festivities and beautiful scenery.
La Orotava at Night
Hiking in La Orotava
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park featuring the iconic Mount Teide, offering various hiking trails with spectacular views of the volcano and surrounding landscapes.
A popular hiking area known for its scenic ravine and waterfall, providing a well-marked trail suitable for families and nature enthusiasts.
The highest peak in Spain, this challenging hike allows you to reach the summit of Teide, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
A beautiful hiking route that takes you through rich vegetation and offers views of the surrounding valleys and coastal areas.
A biosphere reserve featuring lush forests and diverse flora, with numerous trails for hikers of all levels, providing a glimpse of Tenerife's natural beauty.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into La Orotava through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach La Orotava by plane.
The closest international airport located approximately 25 km from La Orotava, serving mainly domestic flights and some international routes.
An international airport located about 90 km from La Orotava, serving a larger number of international flights and tourist destinations.
Located approximately 130 km from La Orotava, this airport facilitates both domestic and some international flights, primarily to mainland Spain and neighboring islands.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in La Orotava, comprising the majority of the population.
Local inhabitants of the Canary Islands, including those with indigenous and mixed heritage.
A smaller group, including expatriates from various countries, particularly from Europe.
This group includes immigrants from Latin America and Africa, contributing to the cultural diversity.
The Soul of La Orotava
Discover the essence of La Orotava through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is extremely popular in La Orotava, with local clubs and a passionate fan base supporting both professional and amateur teams.
Basketball has a strong following in La Orotava, with community clubs promoting the sport among youth and adults alike.
Athletics is popular in La Orotava, with various events and competitions held throughout the year, encouraging participation across all age groups.
Given its coastal location, surfing is a popular sport in La Orotava, attracting both locals and tourists to its beautiful beaches.
Volleyball is enjoyed by many in La Orotava, with local leagues and competitions fostering both recreational play and competitive spirit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Orotava.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While La Orotava's traditional cuisine heavily features meats and seafood, many restaurants and cafes offer a selection of vegetarian dishes and can accommodate vegan preferences upon request. El Vegetariano de la Orotava is a fantastic option for those seeking delectable plant-based fare.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can savor a range of gluten-free options at eateries in La Orotava. Look out for establishments like Tasca La Carambola, which provide delectable dishes without gluten-containing ingredients.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of La Orotava with these cultural adventures.