Dolphins in Tenerife: What You Can and Cannot Do
Tenerife is one of the best places in Europe to see dolphins, but it is important to know that swimming with dolphins is NOT allowed in Tenerife or anywhere in the Canary Islands. Unlike other tourist destinations around the world, the Canary Islands are strongly committed to the protection of dolphins and whales. For this reason, you cannot swim, bathe, or interact freely with them in the ocean.
Instead, Tenerife offers different ways to enjoy and learn about dolphins responsibly: educational shows in animal parks, close encounters under supervision, and guided boat excursions to see dolphins and pilot whales in the wild.
Dolphin Show and Encounter at Aqualand Tenerife
Aqualand Costa Adeje is a popular water park and home to one of the most highly rated dolphin shows in Europe. Visitors can watch dolphins perform impressive behaviors while also learning about their intelligence, communication, and relationship with their trainers.
In addition to the show, Aqualand offers a special program called the Dolphin Encounter. This is not swimming with dolphins, but rather a chance to get close to them under the guidance of professional trainers. You can learn about their diet, behaviors, and conservation while being just a few steps away from these wonderful animals.
It is important to note that the Dolphin Encounter can only be booked upon arrival at the park. Spaces are limited, so visitors interested in this activity should plan to secure it early in the day.
Dolphins at Loro Parque
Loro Parque, located in Puerto de la Cruz, is world-renowned for its dedication to animal welfare and conservation. Here, visitors can enjoy an unforgettable dolphin show where the animals demonstrate their agility and intelligence in a large pool designed to replicate their natural environment as closely as possible.
At Loro Parque, there are no swimming or direct encounter programs with dolphins. Instead, the park focuses on education and raising awareness about the importance of marine conservation. The shows highlight how extraordinary dolphins are while also delivering a clear message: they are species that must be respected and protected.
Wild Dolphin and Pilot Whale Watching in Tenerife
Tenerife is one of the best places in Europe for dolphin and whale watching tours. From harbors such as Puerto Colón, Los Cristianos, and Los Gigantes, multiple licensed boats depart daily to observe dolphins and pilot whales in their natural habitat.
One of the most common residents is the bottlenose dolphin, but Tenerife is also famous for its population of pilot whales, which live permanently off the coast. Depending on the season, visitors may also see other species passing through the waters of the Canary Islands.
These tours are strictly regulated. Only boats with the official “Barco Azul” license are authorized to approach dolphins and whales. The rules are clear:
- You cannot swim with dolphins or whales in the ocean.
- You cannot touch, feed, or disturb them.
- Boats must keep a respectful distance to ensure the animals are not stressed or forced to change their behavior.
This regulation ensures that visitors can enjoy an authentic and unforgettable experience while guaranteeing the safety and well-being of the dolphins and whales.
Why Swimming with Dolphins Is Not Allowed
Many travelers wonder why Tenerife does not allow swimming with dolphins like in other parts of the world. The answer is simple: the Canary Islands prioritize the protection of cetaceans over tourist entertainment.
Allowing tourists to swim with dolphins would disrupt their natural behavior, cause unnecessary stress, and risk their health. Instead, Tenerife promotes encounters that are ethical, sustainable, and respectful.
By watching dolphin shows in controlled environments and joining whale watching tours with licensed operators, visitors can learn more about these fascinating animals while contributing to their conservation.
Conclusion: The Best Way to See Dolphins in Tenerife
In Tenerife, you cannot swim with dolphins, but you can still enjoy incredible experiences:
Aqualand Tenerife: Dolphin show and the chance to book the Dolphin Encounter at the park.
Loro Parque: Educational dolphin shows that focus on awareness and conservation.
Whale and dolphin watching tours: See dolphins and pilot whales in the wild with licensed Barco Azul boats.
These options make Tenerife one of the top destinations in Europe for observing dolphins in a responsible and ethical way. Protecting marine life is part of the Canary Islands’ philosophy, ensuring that both visitors and dolphins benefit from every encounter.
