12 Best things to do in Garachico, a lovely town in Tenerife

Published on February 23, 2021
TenerifeThings to do in Tenerife
Garachico tenerife
View of Garachico from above

Garachico was once Tenerife's most prosperous port and it had a commercial connection with Europe, as well as Africa and the Americas. Unfortunately, the town has suffered a series of unfortunate events, including one of the most severe eruptions in Tenerife's history, which has altered the course of history for Garachico.

A bit about the history of Garachico

The town was founded in the 15th century by a banker by the name Cristobal de Ponte and it soon became the commercial port of Tenerife, with various maritime connections with Europe and the new world.

After the first half of the 16th century, the town of Garachico was struck with misfortune and bad luck, as it was hit by various diseases, like the plague and also massive fires, that had destroyed big areas in the city and around it.

It wasn't until the 5th May 1706 that Garachico was hit by its worst misfortune: the massive eruption of the Montana Negro volcano destroyed the town in totality and its inhabitants, the one which survived, had to flee to other areas of the island.

Since then the town was slowly rebuilt and now it's flourishing once again, with tourism being an important part of the local economy. The development of the Sports and Fishing Port is also another source of economic activity. The sports dock is around 20,000 square meters and the fishing around 9,500 square meters, with a wide esplanade attached.

Day trip to Garachico, one of the most charming towns in Tenerife

Garachico is one of the most popular day trips for people who want to explore Tenerife and wish to discover authentic places, with typical Canarian architecture and food. Also, Garachico is one of the most beautiful towns in Tenerife, so we absolutely recommend visiting this side of the island.

The town is located in the northwest part of the island and if you decide to stay in this here for more than one day, you'll have easy access to explore many beautiful places in the northern part of Tenerife.

Garachico seems to check all the boxes, with beautiful natural scenery, natural pools for a fantastic swim, a charming square to chill and relax, plus small restaurants that serve fresh fish and seafood.

If you have a car rental and are on the lookout for a day trip, Garachico will provide a beautiful and scenic drive, especially if you're coming from the south of the island.

Convento san francisco tenerife garachico
San Francisco Convent

What to do in Garachico - best places to see

The best thing to do in Garachico is to walk on its narrow streets and discover all the historic buildings in town. Our list also includes 2 places from where you can get spectacular views of the town of Garachico.

1. Plaza de la Libertad

The main plaza in Garachico, typical Spanish with big trees and a beautiful gazebo where you can relax and have a coffee or a drink.

2. Ex Convent of San Francisco

This is an iconic building in Garachico, situated right next to Plaza de La Libertad.

3. Church of Our Lady of the Angels 

Iglesia Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles is a religious ensemble, along with San Francisco Convent, that dates back to the days of the founding father of Garachico.

Teide tenerife 600 250

4. Roque de Garachico

This is the famous islet situated right in front of Garachico, with a surface of 5 ha. It is today a protected space, known under the name Monumento Natural del Roque de Garachico.

It has an interesting fauna and flora, with endangered species such as the Pardela Chica, the Petrel de Bulwer and the Paíño de Madeira, as well as some migratory species that nest in it.

5. The natural pools El Caleton

This place is extremely popular during the summer months when tourists and locals come to swim in the natural pools. These pools were formed after the 1706 eruption and what once was a symbol of destruction, is now a place to be enjoyed and a reminder of the force of nature.

6. Playa de Garachico

A sheltered beach in the old bay of Garachico with good swimming conditions. It is located to the west of the urban area. We usually stop in this area just to grab an ice cream from the small shop across the road from the beach called Heladeria El Abuelo, which does a really nice ice-cream with lots of flavors.

7. Fortress of San Miguel

An old building dating back to 1575, with a square plan and very thick walls. If you go inside and you climb to the top you can get a good view of how the lava from the volcanic eruption has created the natural pool El Caletón.

Currently, Castillo San Miguel as a building is incorporated into the cultural activity of the city, housing the Heritage Information Center.

8. Plaza Juan Gonzales de la Torre

A smaller plaza, with lots of old and lovely buildings around.

9. Museum of Sacred Art

Open during weekends and situated behind the Santa Ana Church.

10. Parque de la Puerta de Tierra​

This is a lovely small park and it won't take you long to discover it. It feels like a green oasis, with a lot of trees and flowers and it is ideal if you just want to take a break from all the walking and relax for a bit.

11. Mirador Garachico

On the TF820 road, located at 460 m altitude on the road from Icod de Los Vinos towards the south of Tenerife. From here you get an expansive view of the town and there's actually a nice restaurant at this viewpoint, so you can stay for lunch and enjoy the view a bit longer.

12. Mirador El Guincho

Located on Camino de las Cabezadas, in the area of El Guincho. After passing through the recently built tunnel, on the right side of the road, you can stop at this viewpoint to get a nice view of the town and also Roque de Garachico, plus the new marina.

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