In the vibrant heart of the Canary Islands lies a haven of lush tropical beauty, a canvas painted with a vivid palette of colors and life—the Tenerife Botanical Gardens. This sanctuary stands as a testament to nature’s artistic splendor, offering an unforgettable journey for every visitor. Before delving into the captivating world of these gardens, let’s explore the optimal ways to reach this tropical paradise.
Tenerife, well-connected and accessible, provides various transportation options. Opting for a car rental proves to be one of the most convenient ways, offering the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. The well-maintained and signposted roads make navigation easy for even first-time visitors. For an extraordinary experience, consider a cabriolet rental. Driving a convertible through Tenerife’s open roads, with the wind in your hair and the sun on your skin, adds an element of adventure, setting the stage for the tropical paradise awaiting you at the Tenerife Botanical Gardens.
Established in 1788 by King Carlos III, the Tenerife Botanical Gardens were initially designed to cultivate species from the tropics, taking advantage of the Canary Islands’ ideal climate for their survival. Over the years, the gardens have flourished, now housing an incredible variety of tropical and subtropical plants from around the world.
Upon entering the gardens, the air is filled with the enticing scent of exotic blooms, and a symphony of colors unfolds. The gardens form a living mosaic, with each plant contributing its unique charm to the masterpiece. It’s a place where the beauty of nature is not just seen but felt, where every breath is infused with the essence of the tropics.
Wandering through serene pathways reveals a multitude of plant species. The gardens boast a collection of stunning orchids, vibrant bromeliads, and unique cacti. The majestic ‘Drago Milenario,’ a dragon tree believed to be over 1,000 years old, holds a place of honor in the garden.
The Tenerife Botanical Gardens stand out for their rich biodiversity. From towering palm trees to the smallest ferns, each species plays a vital role in the garden’s ecosystem. The gardens also contribute significantly to conservation efforts, safeguarding many endangered species and supporting global initiatives to preserve biodiversity.
The focus on education is another distinguishing feature of the Tenerife Botanical Gardens. Regular workshops and guided tours aim to raise awareness about the importance of plant conservation. It’s a place where learning and leisure seamlessly coexist, allowing visitors to gain new insights while immersing themselves in the beauty of nature.
Beyond being a visual feast, the gardens provide a haven for the senses. The sounds of nature—the rustle of leaves, the chirping of birds, the gentle flow of water from numerous fountains—all contribute to a tranquil atmosphere. It’s an escape from the daily hustle and bustle, a place to reconnect with nature and find inner peace.
For refreshments, the garden’s café offers a selection of snacks and drinks, providing the perfect spot to take a break and soak in the views of the stunning landscape. Several restaurants in the vicinity offer local and international cuisine for a more substantial meal.
The Tenerife Botanical Gardens offer an enchanting destination that captures the essence of the tropics. Every turn reveals a new discovery, and the magic of nature unfolds with every step. It’s a place that offers both relaxation and stimulation, where visitors can truly connect with the wonders of the natural world.
The Palmetum of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, part of the Botanical Gardens, stands as a unique attraction that shouldn’t be missed. This artificial hill of 120,000 square meters specializes in palm trees, providing impressive views of the ocean—a picturesque scene straight from a postcard. The Palmetum features a large system of waterfalls, streams, and ponds, adding a soothing ambiance to the overall experience.
The history of the Palmetum is as fascinating as its flora. Built on a former landfill shut down in 1983, development of the gardens began in 1995. Despite a pause in development due to funding constraints, the gardens continued to thrive. Public guided tours commenced in 2013, and the garden was officially inaugurated in 2014. Since then, it has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists, featuring school programs and regular exchanges with other institutions.
The entrance to the Palmetum is marked by a building housing a reception, a small shop, and a palm museum. The museum is a must-visit for those interested in the rich diversity of palm species. The Ethnographical Palm Museum, a semi-subterranean structure partly covered in vegetation, is another notable feature. Although still under construction, it promises to be an exciting addition to the garden’s facilities.
The Palmetum includes the Octagon, or El Octógono, a half-sunken shade house designed to host the most delicate species. This area is a dense display of tropical plants, crisscrossed by winding paths, streams, bridges, and waterfalls—an enchanting exploration of the tropical world.
The living collections of the Palmetum are truly remarkable. As of 2016, the gardens included at least 1853 plant taxa, focusing on island floras. The palm collection is particularly impressive, with 573 taxa. The Palmetum’s dedication to conservation is evident, with 420 plant taxa on the IUCN red list, including 73 critically endangered and two extinct in the wild.
Other well-represented plant families in the garden include Amaryllidaceae, Asparagaceae, Apocynaceae, Bromeliaceae, Fabaceae, Malvaceae, and Moraceae. The Palmetum’s biogeographical sections offer an immersive experience, with each section dedicated to the palm flora from different areas of the world.
Whether you’re a botany enthusiast, a nature lover, or a traveler seeking the beauty of Tenerife, the Botanical Gardens is a destination that will etch lasting memories.
