Tenerife is a paradise in the Canary Islands. With sandy beaches, tropical climates, and a rich cultural heritage, it’s a must-do destination on anyone’s bucket list.
But part of Tenerife’s appeal is the lesser-known fact of its many banana plantations, or “bananera” as they are also called. They are an integral part of the island economy, exporting to the mainland supermarkets of Spain and throughout Europe. Driving through Tenerife, you’ll see the landscape filled with fields of bananas. You can also see the multi-generational impact that these plantations have, as most of them are run by single or multiple families in the area.
If you are looking for an authentic Tenerife experience, it’s worth taking a couple of hours out of your beach day to go inland and see how it has influenced the surrounding communities and way of life here.
[This page may contain affiliate links to trusted partners.]
Why Bananas?
The agricultural conditions of Tenerife are perfect for growing bananas and have been doing so since the 19th century. You will discover how the island has enriched volcanic soil, warm weather, and a subtropical climate. It’s ideal conditions for the plátano de Canarias, a smaller but flavorful and sweet banana that can only be grown in the Canary Islands with these specific conditions.
Most of the northern side of the island focuses on this export. Several island plantations offer self-guided and local guide-led tours outside popular towns such as Puerto de la Cruz and La Orotava. Finca Las Margaritas is the largest and most well-known of the banana plantation tours. Casa del Plátano is a small museum that focuses on explaining banana economics and education while also allowing you to explore a small plantation on its side.
What to Expect on a Banana Plantation Tour
Education and Interactive Experience
Part of the experience is learning the traditional farming techniques and cultivation. Start with planting and follow the steps to harvesting and packaging before shipping. Some might let you get hands-on experience assisting with more manageable tasks requiring only a keen eye and some manual labor. Doing this will make you feel much more like a local than a tourist.
Sample Banana Related Products
You can have the whole experience by sampling some of these tasty bananas straight from the tree. Notice the taste difference compared to those in the supermarket. The banana plantations also want to offer you an assortment of banana-related food and products. These include dried banana snacks, jams, and banana-flavored liquor. We recommend the wine, especially for your trip or to take home with you.
Panoramic Outdoor Views
It’s not all about the beach life here. With the lush acres of the plantation and a backdrop of the ocean or mountains, it’s a perfect opportunity to take some fantastic pictures for your photo album and social media. The surrounding fields and buildings are a wonderful place.
You’re Supporting Ecotourism and the Local Community!
Ecotourism is becoming more popular in the travel and tourism climate. So why not jump on the bandwagon? Many of the banana plantations in Tenerife have been implementing sustainable practices to reduce their carbon footprint, such as water conservation with advanced irrigation techniques. Other practices, like permaculture, keep the soil prosperous and do not ruin future plantings. Because of this, places like Banana Eco Plantation have become nearly 100% self-sufficient.
This is a perfect addition to any travel itinerary for Tenerife. Most tours only take 60-90 minutes, after which you can explore independently or head off onto your next adventure. Part of the enjoyment here is these unique local experiences you can’t find anywhere else.