30 Mar 2013

A tour of the Canary Islands

From time to time, we are asked if it is possible to have an island hopping holiday in the Canary Islands, travelling by plane or ferry in between each one. It's a lovely idea and what a wonderful journey that would be. Unfortunately, it's not quite that easy because the islands are not in a close cluster as one might imagine. If travelling from, for example, the airport in El Hierro in the south west of the Canaries to the airport in Lanzarote in the north east, the distance is approximately 430 miles. But at least, every single one of the islands has its own ferry port and airport - in fact, Tenerife has two airports!
So with options of both flights and ferries, it really is worth doing a little exhaustive checking to find not just the right method of transport on the right day but also the right price.
Now it might not be on your mind to travel between the islands. Maybe your aim is to holiday on La Palma, La Isla Bonita, and you want to get there are quickly and easily as possible. I can't say I blame you with the snowy northern European weather at the moment. Oh yes, I've tried it and can fully understand the appeal of enjoying some winter sun in the Canary Islands!
However, if the direct flights to La Palma don't quite suit you then it might be well worth considering travelling via Tenerife - especially as Naviera Armas ferries are offering tickets between Los Cristianos in the south of Tenerife and La Palma for just 16€ each way. Very handy for the south international airport of Reina Sofia and a bit of a cruise thrown in!
Mm, at that price, I could perhaps consider a little island hoping ...