Tenerife South Airport Car Hire
Tenerife's holiday resorts offer most things that tourists want, whether you just like to relax on the beach or by the pool, try out the water sports or hit the nightclubs. However, there is so much more to this island that should be explored, including Spain's highest mountain. Hiring a car is the best way to discover the real Tenerife.
At Tenerife South Airport, the car rental offices can be accessed from the baggage reclaim areas and the arrivals hall. There are also offices in the resorts if you don't want to drive from the airport. The most convenient, and mostly the cheapest way of renting a car is to book online as far in advance as you can. In this way the paperwork will be waiting for you when you arrive and you are guaranteed to get the sort of vehicle you want.
Rental Tips
Take care when using comparison websites as the cheapest option might not be the best. Always read the small print to make sure there are no hidden charges. Choose a company that offers a 'full to full' fuel policy so you only pay for the fuel you use.
There is usually basic insurance included in the price, but you will be required to leave a large deposit to cover any damage incurred. If you want to take out full cover, it is cheaper to do it at the time of booking. You could also choose to purchase a separate rental car insurance policy which covers the excess in the case of an incident. This can be for a one-off hire or an annual policy.
Documentation
The rental agent will want a credit card in the driver's name, your passport, booking number and your driving licence. Since the changes to the UK driving licence, you might also need to show a code. Details of the change and how to obtain the code are on the UK government website here.
Before Getting on the Road
Once you've got the keys to your hire car it is worth taking some time to check inside and out for any damage. Don't forget the windows, lights, wheels and tyres. Note down any damage or scratches on the rental form and take photos. This can save a lot of grief later on when you can show damage was pre-existing.
Before driving, get comfortable with the controls. When you do get going, especially if you're not used to a left-hand drive vehicle, take it easy until you are confident with the roads.
What to See in Tenerife
The central focal point in Tenerife is Mount Teide. At 3,718 metres, this is highest mountain in Spain and is located in the oldest national park in the Canary Islands. Taking the cable car to the top gives you amazing views of the whole group of islands. Take extra clothing with you though as, even in summer, it can be very cold at the top.
Masca is claimed to be the "most beautiful village in Tenerife" and is set on a ridge in the west of the island. The drive to Masca is not for the nervous with narrow roads winding up through hairpin bends, but the stunning views provide their own rewards.
The hamlet of Taganana sits among the Anaga mountains in the north. The little white houses stand out against the rugged landscape and the cliffs rising from the Atlantic Ocean. For a completely different aspect of Tenerife, you can visit the volcanic tunnels of Cueva del Viento (Cave of Wind). Guided tours are available through the extensive lava tubes with their galleries, hollows and unusual plant life.
Tenerife even has its own pyramids which look similar to those in Mexico and Peru. The origins and age of Pirámides de Güímar are not known but there are several theories. There is a botanical garden, museum and exhibition centre at the site.
These are just a few of the many fabulous sights on Tenerife, which you can drive to. For more sights, visit our top 10 attractions page here.