DRIVING IN THE CANARY ISLANDS

Driving in the Canary Islands can often feel as though you are on roads inside a volcano, such is the rugged nature of the landscape. It’s a beautiful part of the world that is ripe for exploration, and the best way to do that is via a car rental in the Canary Islands (check prices on Voiture Fuerteventura). While there are several different islands in this archipelago, it is Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote that get the bulk of the tourist trade. Whichever island you choose to spend time on, you are going to want to learn the rules of the road before you hop in your rental car. Let’s take a closer look at what you need to know when driving in the Canary Islands.

The first thing you need to be aware of is that you will be driving on the right side of the road in this part of the world. Every passenger in the vehicle, front and back, needs to be wearing a seat belt at all times. If you wear glasses, be aware that you need to have a second pair with you when you are the driver, just in case something happens to your main set. Speed limits should be well posted and easy to spot, but the maximum speed in the city is 45 km/h, while the top speed on the motorways comes in at 120 km/h. It’s never a good idea to drink and drive, but if you have a beer or wine with dinner, be aware that the limit is 50mg per 100ml of blood for experienced drivers, and 30mg per 100ml if you are a driver with less than two years experience.

WHAT TO SEE

Now let’s take a quick look at some of the spots you can explore on the four main islands:

Tenerife

Mount Teide is probably the number one tourist destination on Tenerife, and you can find it in a beautiful National Park, where there are plenty of other things to see and do. The most colourful spot on the island is Loro Parque, which is home to all manner of different parrots. The Guimar Pyramids are also a must-see, as are the Los Gigantes Cliffs, which you can see from land or ocean.

Fuerteventura

There are several boat trips you can take from Fuerteventura, but a trip to Isla de Lobos is a must. You can hit the beach there, or perhaps spot some wild birds as you explore the lighthouse. If you are a fan of watersports, the Fuerteventura is the place to be, as it’s a hotspot for surfers, kiteboarders, and windsurfers.

Gran Canaria

This is an island with a rich history, and you can get a little taste of what it was like back in the day by visiting Pueblo Canario. If it’s a glorious photo opportunity you are looking for, you need to visit Roque Noble, an 80-meter high piece of volcanic rock that is a UNESCO protected site.

Lanzarote

You will feel as though your rental car has been dropped on another planet when you drive into Timanfaya Volcano Park. Things are a little more serene, not to mention stunningly beautiful in the subterranean space at Jamos del Agua. It’s a collapsed lava tube that has been turned into one of the most incredible places you will ever visit.