12 Fun Facts About the Canary Islands You Didn’t Know

The Canary Islands are more than just a sun-drenched vacation spot off the coast of Africa. These volcanic islands hold stories that intertwine science, history, and myth in the most surprising ways.

In this article, you’ll discover unexpected facts about the islands that range across time, nature, and culture. If you’ve only known the Canaries as a beach destination, prepare to see them in a new light.

The Islands Sit on an Active Volcanic Hotspot

Volcanic activity formed the entire archipelago, and eruptions still occasionally shape its terrain. In 2021, La Palma’s Cumbre Vieja volcano erupted for nearly three months, altering the island’s coastline and displacing thousands. Despite the destruction, the eruption added a new landmass, creating a surreal black lava landscape. Scientists monitor the region closely because of its geological instability.

One of the World’s Oldest Trees Lives Here

In Tenerife, the Drago Milenario tree is a living relic believed to be over 800 years old. This dragon tree oozes red sap that gave rise to local legends calling it “dragon’s blood.” It was considered sacred in Guanche mythology, the belief system of the islands’ original inhabitants. You can visit it in Icod de los Vinos, where it’s protected like a national treasure.

The Name Has Nothing to Do With Birds

Despite the familiar yellow bird connection, the Canary Islands were named after dogs. Ancient Roman texts mention large dogs found there, leading to the Latin name Canariae Insulae, or “Islands of the Dogs.” Even the islands’ coat of arms features two dogs holding up the shield. The birds were later named after the islands, not the other way around.

Home to Europe’s Largest Lava Tube

Lanzarote’s Cueva de los Verdes is a six-kilometer lava tube formed over 4,000 years ago. It’s one of the longest in the world and features an underground auditorium used for concerts. Walking through it feels like entering a natural cathedral with walls sculpted by molten rock. Its secret chamber, used historically as a hiding place from pirates, adds to its allure.

A Stargazing Paradise That Limits Light Pollution

La Palma is one of the best places on earth to see the night sky, thanks to its clear atmosphere and protective laws against light pollution. The island is home to the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory, where astronomers study deep space phenomena. Tourists can visit public observation decks offering breathtaking Milky Way views. Even NASA and the European Space Agency use the site for research.

Unique Whistle Language Still in Use

In La Gomera, locals use “Silbo Gomero,” a whistled language that carries over valleys and cliffs. Developed initially to communicate across the island’s rugged terrain, it’s now taught in schools to keep the tradition alive. The language can mimic Spanish sentences and has even been used in public announcements. UNESCO recognized it as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Christopher Columbus Stopped Here on His Voyages

Before crossing the Atlantic, Columbus docked in the Canaries for supplies and ship repairs. He stayed longest in La Gomera, where local governor Beatriz de Bobadilla reportedly gave him logistical support. Some believe he also had a personal relationship with her, adding drama to the tale. Today, you can visit the preserved house where he is said to have stayed.

The Spanish Spoken Here Sounds More Caribbean Than European

You’ll notice that Canarian Spanish has a softer, more melodic quality than the version spoken in mainland Spain. It is heavily influenced by Latin American dialects and includes dropped consonants and different verb forms. “Ustedes” is commonly used instead of “vosotros,” and the “s” at the end of words often disappears. This dialect reflects centuries of travel, trade, and migration across the Atlantic.

Bananas Here Taste Sweeter Than Anywhere Else

Canarian bananas, smaller and denser than those exported worldwide, are a local obsession. Their flavor comes from volcanic soil and a long ripening period in perfect climate conditions. Locals even hold banana festivals celebrating the fruit’s importance to the economy. European Union laws protect them under a special designation of origin.

A Unique Carnival Rivals Brazil’s in Color and Energy

Tenerife’s Santa Cruz Carnival is one of the biggest in the world, attracting hundreds of thousands each February. The celebration features dazzling costumes, elaborate floats, and intense competitions for Carnival Queen. It combines Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences into a cultural spectacle. Some events go on all night, blending pageantry with street-level party culture. 

An Island Is Named After Fire

Fuerteventura’s name translates to “Strong Fortune” or “Strong Wind,” but ancient texts referred to it as “Herbania” or the “Island of Fire.” While not volcanic in activity today, it earned the name due to its dramatic heat and arid conditions. Its desert-like landscape contrasts with the greener islands nearby. Windsurfers and kiteboarders flock here for its constant Atlantic gusts.

Guanches Mummified Their Dead Like Egyptians

The indigenous Guanches practiced mummification long before the Spanish conquest. They used techniques involving smoke, herbs, and wrapping to preserve bodies for centuries. Archaeologists have found these mummies in hidden cave tombs across Tenerife and Gran Canaria. This practice hints at complex religious beliefs and rituals comparable to those of ancient civilizations.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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