Where Are the Canary Islands? Complete 2025 Guide

In this guide

1. Map & Location
2. The Islands
3. How to Get There
4. Climate & Best Time
5. Key Facts
6. FAQs

Map & Location

If you’re asking “where are the Canary Islands”, here’s the simple breakdown: the archipelago sits between latitudes 27°–29° N in the Atlantic Ocean, off the northwest African coast. The nearest mainland is Morocco, while mainland Spain lies over 1,000 km to the northeast. Politically, the islands belong to Spain and the European Union, even though they are geographically close to Africa.

• Ocean: Atlantic
• Distance to Africa: ~100–125 km (closest point)
• Time zone: WET / WEST (same as Lisbon/London)
• Coordinates: approx. 27°–29° N, 13°–18° W
• Political status: Spain (EU), Autonomous Community

The Islands of the Archipelago

There are eight main islands in the Canaries—each with a distinct character:

Tenerife

The largest island; home to Mount Teide (Spain’s highest peak), cosmopolitan Santa Cruz, and diverse microclimates.

Gran Canaria

Known for its circular shape, golden beaches, and the capital Las Palmas—one of the two co-capitals of the autonomous community.

Lanzarote

Volcanic sculptures, Timanfaya National Park, and César Manrique’s visionary architecture.

Fuerteventura

Endless dunes and winds—perfect for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and shoreline road trips.

La Palma

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve; lush trails, starry skies, and ravines carved by ancient lava flows.

La Gomera

Terraced hills, Garajonay laurel forest, and the UNESCO‑listed whistled language, Silbo Gomero.

El Hierro

The smallest and farthest west; pioneering renewable energy and pristine dive sites.

La Graciosa

Officially the eighth island since 2018; sandy tracks, no high‑rise buildings, and tranquil beaches.

How to Get There

Wondering not only where are the Canary Islands but also how to reach them? It’s straightforward:

• By air: Direct flights from Madrid/Barcelona and major European hubs (London, Paris, Berlin, Rome). Main airports: Tenerife South, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura.
• By sea: Regular ferries connect islands to mainland ports like Cádiz and Huelva, and inter‑island lines run multiple times daily.
• Between islands: Short hops by ferry or plane (usually 30–60 minutes).

Climate & Best Time to Visit

The Canaries are nicknamed the Islands of Eternal Spring. Thanks to the Atlantic and trade winds, temperatures remain mild year‑round. If you searched where are the Canary Islands because you plan a trip, expect winter averages around 18–22°C (64–72°F) and summer around 24–29°C (75–84°F), with local variations by altitude and island.

• Warm, sunny winters—prime for hiking and city breaks.
• Trade winds cool summers—great for beaches and watersports.
• Microclimates: coastal sun vs. lush highlands; always check local forecasts.

Key Facts (2025)

• Population: ~2.26 million
• Currency: Euro (€)
• Language: Spanish (with local features)
• Highest point: Mount Teide (3,715 m / 12,188 ft)

• Area: ~7,500 km² across 8 main islands
• Time zone: WET/WEST (UTC 0/ +1 in summer)
• Origin: Volcanic archipelago
• UNESCO: Several Biosphere Reserves & protected areas

FAQs: “Where Are the Canary Islands?”

Are the Canary Islands in Spain or Africa?

Both, in a way: they are located off the African continent but are politically part of Spain and the EU.

How far are the Canary Islands from Africa?

Roughly 100–125 km (62–78 miles) at the closest point, depending on the island.

Why are they called the Canary Islands?

Likely from the Latin Canariae Insulae (Island of Dogs), not from canary birds—though the small songbird is native to the region.

What is the best time to visit?

Any time of year thanks to the stable climate; choose winter for hiking and summer for beaches and wind sports.

Which island should I choose first?

Tenerife (variety), Gran Canaria (beaches + city), Lanzarote (volcanic art), Fuerteventura (winds and dunes), La Palma (stargazing), La Gomera (forests), El Hierro (diving), La Graciosa (slow travel).

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