Sea Turtles in the Canary Islands
The Atlantic loggerhead is the most faithful resident of Tenerife's waters
A marine reptile to protect
The sea turtle is one of the most endearing creatures you can encounter while diving in Tenerife. The Canary Islands are a major feeding and resting area for the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta), listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Our divers are lucky enough to spot them regularly, year-round.
Species present in the Canaries
Loggerhead turtle
Caretta caretta
The most common species in our waters. Recognizable by its large head, the loggerhead can live more than 80 years and weigh up to 130 kg. It feeds on jellyfish, molluscs and crustaceans. Often spotted resting on rocky bottoms or surfacing to breathe.
Green turtle
Chelonia mydas
Rarer than the loggerhead, the green turtle is occasionally observed in Canarian waters. Herbivorous, it feeds on algae and seagrass. Its presence is linked to Atlantic currents that carry juveniles from the Caribbean.
Must-visit sites
El Puertito
The most famous sea turtle spot in the Canaries. A colony of loggerheads lives there permanently, accustomed to divers. An encounter is almost guaranteed at shallow depth.
Montana Amarilla
Turtles regularly frequent the sandy bottoms, mainly to rest. It is not uncommon to cross paths with two or three during the same dive.
El Condecito
Turtles regularly come to feed in the seagrass beds and shallow rocky areas of this beginner-friendly site.
How to approach turtles respectfully
Never touch them
Touching a turtle is prohibited and causes it significant stress. Observe from a distance and let them move freely.
Never encircle them
Never block a turtle's path, especially towards the surface. It needs to surface to breathe regularly.
Stay below them
Position yourself below the turtle rather than above. You will have a magnificent view of its shell lit up by the light.
Photograph the shell
Each turtle is identifiable by its unique shell pattern. Your photos contribute to scientific monitoring programmes.
Swim with turtles in Tenerife
Our guides know the sites and times when turtles are most active. An experience accessible to all levels.
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