What to Buy in Tenerifeand Where to Find It

Tenerife is not just a destination for paradise beaches and volcanic landscapes; it is also a haven for lovers of local crafts and gastronomy. If you're looking for an authentic souvenir or a special gift, the island offers a wide variety of traditional products that reflect its culture and traditions. From unique handicrafts to gastronomic delights with a designation of origin, here’s what to buy and where to find it.

Traditional Handicrafts

Manta Esperancera

One of the most emblematic textile pieces of Tenerife, the manta esperancera is a thick wool cape traditionally used by the island’s highland inhabitants to protect themselves from the cold. Though no longer in common use, it remains a symbol of Tenerife’s cultural heritage.

📍 Where to buy it:

  • La Orotava Craft Market: Here, you’ll find a variety of handmade traditional textiles.

  • Specialty shops in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and La Laguna: Some souvenir stores offer modern versions of this blanket.

Canarian Embroidery (Calados Canarios)

This delicate lacework involves unraveling linen or cotton fabrics to create intricate geometric patterns. Passed down through generations, it is one of Tenerife’s most traditional crafts.

📍 Where to buy it:

  • Craft workshops in La Laguna and Güímar: These offer authentic, handmade embroidery pieces.

  • Tenerife’s craft markets: Particularly at traditional fairs like the Pinolere Craft Fair.

Timple

The timple is a small string instrument with a unique sound, essential in Canarian folk music.

📍 Where to buy it:

  • Specialty music stores in Santa Cruz and La Laguna: Some well-known ones include "Música y Cultura Canaria" and "El Rincón del Timple."

  • Craft fairs and markets: Occasionally, you can find timples handcrafted by local luthiers.

Gastronomic Delights

Mojo Picón

Mojo is the signature sauce of Canarian cuisine. It comes in two varieties: red mojo (spicy) and green mojo (milder, made with cilantro). It is commonly served with traditional papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes).

📍 Where to buy it:

  • Nuestra Señora de África Market (Santa Cruz de Tenerife): A great place to find artisan mojos in different flavors.

  • Gourmet stores and local supermarkets: Many offer handcrafted mojos.

Gofio

Gofio is a flour made from toasted cereals, dating back to the diet of the indigenous Guanches. Today, it remains a staple in Canarian cuisine.

📍 Where to buy it:

  • Molino de Gofio La Salud (Santa Cruz de Tenerife): A traditional mill where you can buy freshly ground gofio.

  • Supermarkets and local markets: Most sell different varieties of gofio (wheat, corn, mixed, etc.).

Tenerife Wines

The island has five wine appellations: Abona, Tacoronte-Acentejo, Valle de Güímar, Valle de La Orotava, and Ycoden-Daute-Isora. Thanks to its volcanic soil and climate, Tenerife’s wines have a distinctive character.

📍 Where to buy it:

  • Local wineries such as Bodegas Monje (El Sauzal) and Bodega Reverón (Vilaflor): They offer wine tastings and tours.

  • Specialty stores and supermarkets: Canarian wines can be found in gourmet shops and large supermarkets.

Artisanal Cheeses

Tenerife’s cheeses, mainly made from goat’s milk, are highly valued for their rich flavor and quality. Some are coated with gofio or paprika for a unique taste.

📍 Where to buy it:

  • Montesdeoca Cheese Factory (Adeje) and Benijos Cheese Factory (La Orotava): Local producers of award-winning cheeses.

  • Traditional markets and food fairs: Such as the Pinolere Cheese Fair.

Bienmesabe

This delicious Canarian dessert is made with almonds, honey, eggs, and sugar—a must-try for those with a sweet tooth.

📍 Where to buy it:

  • Pastry shops and gourmet stores: Notably, "Casa del Bienmesabe" in La Orotava.

  • Local product markets: Many small producers sell homemade versions of this dessert.

Natural Products

Aloe Vera

Thanks to its climate, Tenerife produces high-quality aloe vera, known for its regenerative and healing properties—ideal for skincare.

📍 Where to buy it:

  • Aloe Park Tenerife (Arona): A plantation dedicated to aloe vera cultivation.

  • Natural cosmetics shops and pharmacies: They sell pure aloe gels and creams.

Honey with Designation of Origin

Tenerife produces unique types of honey, especially from tajinaste and retama del Teide flowers, thanks to its volcanic flora.

📍 Where to buy it:

  • Casa de la Miel (El Sauzal): A center specializing in Canarian honey production and sales.

  • Farmers' markets and local fairs: Small producers sell artisanal honey varieties.

Shopping Tips in Tenerife

  • Visit local markets and craft fairs: These are the best places to find authentic, high-quality products.

  • Choose products with a designation of origin: This guarantees authenticity and quality.

  • Shop at specialty stores and cooperatives: You'll support local producers and find unique items.

Taking home a piece of Tenerife—whether through crafts or gastronomy—not only helps you remember your trip but also supports the island’s traditions and economy. Explore Tenerife and discover its treasures! 🌴🛍️