On the west coast of Tenerife, a breathtaking coastline unfolds, dominated by the imposing cliffs of Los Gigantes, creating an indescribably beautiful terrestrial marine landscape. Located in the municipality of Santiago del Teide, the Marine Special Conservation Zone, Teno Rasca, extends along its coast, declared Europe's First Whale Sanctuary in 2021, a distinction awarded by the Whale Alliance.
This international recognition reinforces Santiago del Teide's position as a destination committed to the development of differentiated tourist products that promote ecotourism, sustainability, respect, and responsible cetacean observation. This commitment is shared by companies operating in the municipality, specifically within the Los Gigantes Marina, adhering to the Sustainability Charter.
Cetacean watching adds to the array of tourist attractions in this southwestern municipality of Tenerife, home to a colony of over 500 tropical pilot whales moving in an area spanning 22 kilometres between the Punta Rasca Lighthouse in Arona and Punta de Teno. Throughout the year, the Canary Islands host 26 of the over 79 cetacean species worldwide, including dolphins, orcas, and blue whales.
Moreover, this activity can be enjoyed year-round, thanks to the favourable climate of the islands, one of the best internationally, characterised by a constant spring-like temperature throughout the 365 days of the year.
Santiago del Teide actively participates in the "Network of municipalities for the implementation of the transnational ecotourism strategy through the creation of thematic ecotourism products" ECO-TUR2 MAC2/4.6c/394. The project aims to implement the transnational ecotourism strategy by optimizing and structuring ecotourism offerings, as well as improving conservation and awareness actions for the natural and cultural heritage of the cooperation area.
This initiative has enabled the municipality to create several thematic ecotourism products, including "Ecotour Azul," which encompasses all activities that can be carried out in its privileged marine environment, such as cetacean watching.
