Tenerife Carnival 2026: Complete Guide – All Events in Santa Cruz
So you’ve heard Tenerife throws the second biggest carnival on the planet after Rio.
That’s not just tourism marketing—250,000+ people packed Plaza de España in 1987 to watch Celia Cruz perform, setting a world record that stood for decades. In 2019, Piñata Saturday pulled 400,000 revelers into the streets. This isn’t some curated tourist experience. This is a Canarian institution where 999 out of 1,000 people actually wear costumes, the parties genuinely run until sunrise, and the whole thing costs a fraction of what you’d spend in Rio.
The 2026 edition runs January 16 through February 22 with the theme “Ritmos Latinos” (Latin Rhythms), and yes, it’s absolutely worth building a trip around. 🎭
What “Latin Rhythms” Actually Means for Your Experience
The 2026 theme won a public vote with 34% support, beating out options like “Hollywood” and “Asian Pop Culture.” This year’s carnival celebrates samba, salsa, merengue, bachata, and reggaeton—expect the music, costumes, floats, and overall energy to channel Latin American vibrancy.
The official poster features Celia Cruz herself, a nod to her legendary 1987 performance. The artistic team leading everything is described as the youngest in carnival history, and they’ve already confirmed international artists are booked (names still under wraps as of January 2026).
Last year’s theme was “Secrets of Africa,” which brought Senegalese drum traditions and Nigerian artistic influences. The shift to Latin Rhythms means more familiar dance music for most visitors—if you’ve ever been to a Latin night at any club anywhere, you’ll feel right at home when the comparsas start their batucada drumming at 2 AM. 🥁
Tenerife Carnival 2026 street party with colorful costumes and crowds dancing in Santa Cruz Plaza de EspañaTenerife Carnival Queen candidate wearing massive 80kg elaborate costume at 2026 Gran Gala electionTenerife Carnival 2026 street party with colorful costumes and crowds dancing in Santa Cruz Plaza de España
The Complete Schedule Breakdown (So You Can Actually Plan) 📅
Here’s where most guides fail you—they give you vague “mid-February” dates. Not helpful when you’re booking flights. The carnival spans 38 days total, but the energy levels vary dramatically depending on when you show up.
🎪 PHASE 1: Contest Season (January 16-31)
The first phase is all about the competitions—if you’re into the authentic local scene and want to see where carnival rivalries really heat up, this is your time.
Date
Event
Why It Matters
Jan 16-30
Murgas Elimination Rounds
Watch neighborhood singing groups battle it out at Recinto Ferial—sharp satire, intense local pride, fewer tourists
Jan 31 (Fri)
Murgas Adult Finals
THE big deal for locals, treated like a sports championship—tickets sell out in minutes, atmosphere is electric
👑 PHASE 2: The Galas (February 2-11)
This is when the spectacle kicks into high gear—massive costumes, national TV broadcasts, and the events everyone talks about.
Date
Event
Why It Matters
Feb 2 (Sun)
Children’s Queen Gala
Young contestants in miniature fantasy costumes—family-friendly and genuinely adorable
Feb 4 (Tue)
Senior Queen Gala
Celebrates Tenerife’s elder queens with dignity and style—a beautiful tradition
Feb 7 (Fri)
Comparsas Contest
Brazilian-style dance troupes compete with synchronized choreography and thundering drums
Feb 11 (Tue)
Gran Gala de Elección de la Reina
The main event—candidates in 80-170kg costumes reaching 5+ meters tall, broadcast nationally and internationally
The Queen’s gala is the spectacle everyone talks about. These aren’t costumes—they’re mobile architectural installations that require engineering degrees to construct and wheels to move. The gala broadcasts across Spain and via satellite worldwide. 📡
Queen candidates wear costumes weighing 80-170kg and reaching 5+ meters tallTenerife Carnival Queen candidate wearing massive 80kg elaborate costume at 2026 Gran Gala electionTenerife Carnival Queen candidate wearing massive 80kg elaborate costume at 2026 Gran Gala electionTenerife Carnival Queen candidate wearing massive 80kg elaborate costume at 2026 Gran Gala election
🎉 PHASE 3: Street Carnival Week (February 13-22)
This is what most travelers are here for—when Santa Cruz transforms into one massive street party.
Date
Event
Why It Matters
Feb 13 (Fri)
Cabalgata Anunciadora (Opening Parade)
Street carnival officially begins—more locals, fewer tourists, excellent for authentic vibes
Feb 14 (Sat)
Festival de Ritmo y Armonía + Carnaval de Noche
Valentine’s Day parade featuring all comparsas, then Latin legends Tito Nieves, Milly Quezada, Elvis Crespo, and Grupo Ráfaga perform 🎤
Feb 15 (Sun)
First Carnaval de Día
Daytime party—great for families and those who prefer chaos with sunlight ☀️
Feb 16 (Mon)
Gala Dragnaval + Carnaval de Noche
Drag show at Plaza de la Candelaria, then the busiest night of the entire carnival
Feb 17 (Tue)
Coso Apoteosis
THE main parade—The Queen and her court on floats, dozens of comparsas, murgas, confetti explosions—this is the money shot 🎊
Feb 18 (Wed)
Entierro de la Sardina
Burial of the Sardine—carnival’s wildest, weirdest finale (more below!)
Feb 20 (Fri)
Coso Infantil + Carnaval de Noche
Children’s parade by day, party continues by night
Feb 21-22
Piñata Weekend
Second Daytime Carnival Saturday, then grand fireworks finale Sunday 🎆
Crowded Tenerife Carnival night party at Plaza de España with stage lights colorful costumes and thousands of peopleCrowded Tenerife Carnival night party at Plaza de España with stage lights colorful costumes and thousands of peopleCrowded Tenerife Carnival night party at Plaza de España with stage lights colorful costumes and thousands of peopleCrowded Tenerife Carnival night party at Plaza de España with stage lights colorful costumes and thousands of peopleCarnaval de Tenerife 2026: Guía completa
🐟 The Entierro de la Sardina: Carnival’s Wildest Finale
February 18 brings one of carnival’s most bizarre, theatrical, and unforgettable traditions—the Burial of the Sardine (Entierro de la Sardina). This isn’t just another parade. It’s a mock funeral procession for a giant papier-mâché sardine that marks the symbolic death of carnival itself.
Picture this: thousands of people dressed as grieving widows—traditionally men in drag, complete with black veils, dramatic makeup, and over-the-top mourning attire—wailing theatrically as they follow a massive sardine float through the streets. The atmosphere is part funeral, part comedy show, all carnival chaos. 😭
The procession winds through central Santa Cruz before reaching Avenida Marítima, where the sardine meets its fiery fate. The giant fish is set ablaze in a ritual that symbolizes purging carnival’s excesses and making way for Lent. Locals call themselves “chicharreros” (after the chicharro fish), making this ceremony deeply connected to Tenerife’s fishing heritage and identity.
Why You Can’t Miss It:
It’s peak carnival absurdity—nowhere else will you see mass grief for a fake fish
The crowd participation is off the charts—everyone commits to the bit
Historically significant: organized since 1972 by carnival legend Enrique González Bethencourt (founder of NiFú-NiFá)
The spectacle of the burning sardine against the night sky is genuinely stunning
It represents carnival’s spirit of transgression and satire in the most Tenerife way possible
💡 Pro Tips:
Wear black to join the widows. Bring tissues for fake crying. The more theatrical your grief, the better. This is your chance to fully commit to the carnival madness one last time before everything ends.
The tradition dates back centuries across Spain—even Goya painted it in 1812—but Tenerife’s version brings extra intensity because, well, it’s carnival. After weeks of non-stop partying, the Burial of the Sardine gives everyone permission to be gloriously ridiculous one more time before reality returns.
Burial of the Sardine ceremony Tenerife Carnival 2026 with mourners dressed as widows following giant sardine floatBurial of the Sardine ceremony Tenerife Carnival 2026 with mourners dressed as widows following giant sardine floatBurial of the Sardine ceremony Tenerife Carnival 2026 with mourners dressed as widows following giant sardine floatBurial of the Sardine ceremony Tenerife Carnival 2026 with mourners dressed as widows following giant sardine floatBurial of the Sardine ceremony Tenerife Carnival 2026 with mourners dressed as widows following giant sardine floatBurial of the Sardine ceremony Tenerife Carnival 2026 with mourners dressed as widows following giant sardine floatBurial of the Sardine ceremony Tenerife Carnival 2026 with mourners dressed as widows following giant sardine float
Getting There from Wherever You’re Staying 🚌
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is on the island’s northeast coast. If you’re in the touristy south (Costa Adeje, Playa de las Américas), you’re looking at 78-83 km and need to plan transportation carefully.
From South Tenerife (Costa Adeje/Las Américas), TITSA bus routes 110 (express, ~55 min) and 111 (with stops, ~75-90 min) run every 20-30 minutes during the day. Night service 711 runs hourly from 10 PM to 5:30 AM. Single fare is €9-10 without a card, or €6-7 with a TenMas/Bono card—definitely get the card if you’re making multiple trips.
During carnival, TITSA adds over 4,200 extra journeys and 300,000 additional seats. The Santa Cruz bus interchange operates 24 hours on Fridays, Saturdays, and Carnival Monday. Other nights it closes at 3 AM.
From North Tenerife (Puerto de la Cruz), you’re only 35-40 km away. Bus 100 (express, ~35 min) or 102 (with stops, ~50-55 min) both run frequently and get reinforced during carnival.
Conectividad a Tenerife Aeropuerto sur y norte
🏠 Where to Stay: Nests Hostels Has You Covered
The secret move: Stay in La Laguna at Aguere Nest instead of Santa Cruz. This UNESCO World Heritage town sits just 9-10 km from the carnival action, connected by Tram Line 1 which runs every 5-10 minutes during peak times and operates 24 hours on carnival weekends. Accommodation is more available and you’ll experience authentic Canarian life.
Staying in Puerto de la Cruz?Puerto Nest is perfectly positioned—and Puerto runs its own carnival concurrently (February 1-28), so you can experience both!
Los Amigos Nests Hostels Tenerife SouthPuerto Nest Hosatel – Puerto de La Cruz – TenerifeAguere Nest Hostel San Cristobal La Laguna – near Santa Cruz de Tenerife
🎟️ Save with Nest Pass
Beat the carnival price surge with Nest Pass—our special rate that locks in the same price even during peak carnival dates:
20% off for weekly stays its mean 7 days 203€
30% off for monthly stays its mean 750€ 28 days
While other accommodations triple their prices during carnival, Nest Pass keeps you at regular rates. Book early and actually afford to party! 💪
Important: Do not drive. Parking is essentially impossible during carnival, and most of central Santa Cruz closes to traffic for parades. The municipality literally begs visitors to use public transport.
Nests Hostels: Your Nest Pass is the ticket to exploring the Canary Islands
🎊 Where the Actual Parties Happen
Santa Cruz transforms into distinct zones during carnival:
Plaza de España and Plaza de la Candelaria form the main hub—stages, food stalls, DJs spinning until dawn. This is where you’ll find the densest crowds on peak nights.
Avenida de Anaga and Avenida Marítima (the seafront) host the parade routes. The Coso Apoteosis rolls down here on February 17, and this is where you want to position yourself for maximum spectacle.
The Cuadrilátero (carnival quadrilateral) is the designated street party zone in central Santa Cruz. Within this area, Calle San José features “coches decorados”—cars converted into mobile sound systems blasting music through the night.
Recinto Ferial (Trade Fair Center) on Avenida de la Constitución hosts all the formal galas and competitions. It’s right on the waterfront near the stunning Auditorio de Tenerife.
Everything’s walkable once you’re in central Santa Cruz. Plaza de España to Recinto Ferial takes about 15 minutes on foot. The bus interchange is 10-15 minutes from the main action.
Plaza de España transforms into an all-night party zone during carnival weekTenerife Carnival 2026 street party with colorful costumes and crowds dancing in Santa Cruz Plaza de EspañaCoso Apoteosis main parade Tenerife Carnival 2026 with Queen float comparsas dancers and confetti on Avenida MaritimaCoso Apoteosis main parade Tenerife Carnival 2026 with Queen float comparsas dancers and confetti on Avenida MaritimaCoso Apoteosis main parade Tenerife Carnival 2026 with Queen float comparsas dancers and confetti on Avenida Maritima
What to Actually Expect at Carnaval de Noche 🌙
The night parties don’t really kick off until after midnight. By 2 AM, you’ll be shoulder-to-shoulder with 200,000+ people on peak nights (Carnival Monday is traditionally the busiest). Multiple stages run live music—expect a lot of Latin genres given the 2026 theme—plus DJs, impromptu drum circles, and sound systems on every other corner.
Safety: Despite the chaos, carnival is remarkably safe. Police presence is heavy, medical posts dot the carnival area, and a dedicated carnival hospital exists for people who overdo it. Your main concerns are pickpockets (use a secure bag against your body) and staying hydrated (especially if drinking).
Alcohol: Drinking in the streets is generally tolerated during carnival. Glass bottles are restricted in many areas. Pace yourself—these parties literally run until 6 AM.
What locals actually do: There’s a tradition called “vacilar”—basically roasting each other’s costumes and engaging in banter with strangers. This is expected. Don’t just stand around observing. Compliment someone’s ridiculous outfit. Accept that random person’s offer to dance. The whole point is participation. 💃
Burial of the Sardine ceremony Tenerife Carnival 2026 with mourners dressed as widows following giant sardine floatTenerife Carnival 2026 street party with colorful costumes and crowds dancing in Santa Cruz Plaza de EspañaTenerife Carnival 2026 street party with colorful costumes and crowds dancing in Santa Cruz Plaza de España
How Murgas and Comparsas Actually Work
You’ll hear these terms constantly. Understanding them transforms carnival from “loud party” to “deeply layered cultural event.”
Murgas are satirical singing groups of about 40 people who spend all year crafting biting social commentary set to music. They sing with distinctive kazoo-like whistles and percussion, roasting politicians, scandals, and society. The lyrics are sharp, often hilarious, always pointed. Groups represent specific neighborhoods, and their rivalry during competitions generates genuine local passion. Even if you don’t speak Spanish, watching a murga performance at a street corner while confused locals around you crack up is a memorable experience. The granddaddy of all murgas is Afilarmónica NiFú-NiFá—they still perform, and catching them is a highlight.
Comparsas are the dance troupes channeling Brazilian carnival energy. Think synchronized choreography, batucada drumming, and costumes dripping with feathers and sequins. These groups bring the samba-style spectacle to parades and compete in their own contest on February 7. When a comparsa passes you during a parade, the bass from their drum sections literally vibrates your chest.
The dynamic tension between murgas (satirical, verbal, traditionally Spanish) and comparsas (rhythmic, physical, Latin American influence) creates carnival’s unique flavor. You’re not just watching one thing—you’re watching two different cultural traditions duke it out for attention.
Murga group performing at Tenerife Carnival 2026 with kazoo whistles satirical costumes at Recinto FerialMurga group performing at Tenerife Carnival 2026 with kazoo whistles satirical costumes at Recinto FerialMurga group performing at Tenerife Carnival 2026 with kazoo whistles satirical costumes at Recinto Ferial
Realistic Budget for a 4-Day Carnival Experience 💵
You can absolutely do this on a shoestring.
Accommodation: At Nests Hostels, dorm beds start at €12-28/night in our Tenerife locations. With Nest Pass, lock in 20% off for weekly stays or 30% off for monthly stays—way better than carnival-inflated prices elsewhere. Aguere Nest Hostel in La Laguna and Puerto Nest Hostel are your best bets for easy carnival access.
But as mentioned before, the whole island of Tenerife, as well as the nearby islands, will be celebrating Carnival, so it will be accessible from everywhere — including all our Nests Hostels in Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
Food and drink: Street snacks are €1-3. A “menú del día” (lunch special) runs €7-12 and feeds you properly. Local beers—Dorada and Tropical—cost €2/pint at most places. A shot is €3. There are also several minimarkets in the area. If you find a “guachinche” (traditional family restaurant), you’ll get a full meal for €10-15. Pro tip: don’t eat at tourist-facing restaurants on the parade route—prices spike.
Costumes: This is non-negotiable. You WILL feel awkward without one—nearly everyone participates. Chinese bazaars and supermarkets sell basic costumes for €15-25. A wig, mask, or accessory set costs €5-10 if you’re going minimal. The Casa del Carnaval museum shop sells costumes too. Street stalls pop up everywhere during carnival weeks. Or DIY it: pack a feather boa, face paint, and a ridiculous hat from home. 🎭
Carnaval en Puerto de la Cruz 2025 Puerto Nest hostelCarnaval santa cruz de tenerife 2024 El Carnaval de Santa Cruz de Tenerife se inicia oficialmente con la “Cabalgata Anunciadora”, un desfile lleno de color y alegría
The Ticket Situation (Most Events Are Free) 💰
Here’s what nobody tells you upfront: the best parts of Tenerife Carnival cost nothing.
All street parties free. Opening Parade free. The Coso Apoteosis main parade free (to stand and watch). Daytime carnivals free. Burial of the Sardine free. Every night of Carnaval de Noche when you’re dancing in Plaza de España until 5 AM—completely free.
The ticketed events are the galas and contests held at the Recinto Ferial (the massive trade fair center designed by Santiago Calatrava). Queen Election Gala, Murgas Finals, Comparsas Contest, Drag Gala—these typically run €5-15 each. Sounds cheap until you learn tickets sell out within an hour of release. In 2025, all 20,000 seats vanished in under 60 minutes.
💡 Pro Tip:
Reserved parade seating runs €40-65 if you want guaranteed views, but honestly, finding a spot on the route early is free and often better for atmosphere.
Comparsas dance troupe with feather costumes batucada drums Brazilian style dancing at Tenerife Carnival 2026Comparsas dance troupe with feather costumes batucada drums Brazilian style dancing at Tenerife Carnival 2026Comparsas dance troupe with feather costumes batucada drums Brazilian style dancing at Tenerife Carnival 2026
Southern Tenerife Alternative: Los Cristianos Carnival
If you’re based in the south and can’t make Santa Cruz, or want to extend your carnival experience, Los Cristianos International Carnival runs March 5-16, 2026 with a space theme (“We’re heading straight to space!”). This is smaller—around 125,000 total attendees—but still substantial. The Gran Coso parade on March 15 rolls down the famous “Golden Mile” (Avenida de Las Américas) past the Hard Rock Cafe.
The timing works perfectly: hit Santa Cruz for the main event (ending February 22), stick around the island, then catch Los Cristianos starting March 5. Double carnival trip. 🚀
Puerto de la Cruz also runs its own carnival concurrently with Santa Cruz (February 1-28), though smaller. If you’re staying at Puerto Nest, you can experience both carnivals easily!
Recinto Ferial trade fair center Tenerife where Queen Gala and murgas finals take place during Carnival 2026Carnaval en Puerto de la Cruz 2025 Puerto Nest hostelCarnaval Costa Adeje Los Cristianos Duque Tenerife 2025
Instagram-Worthy Moments and Where to Find Them 📸
The Queen Election Gala costumes are genuinely jaw-dropping. These aren’t costumes—they’re mobile architectural installations that require engineering degrees to construct. At 80-170 kg and up to 5 meters tall, they’re unlike anything you’ve seen. Getting into the gala requires tickets, but broadcast footage and photos flood social media immediately after.
For parade photography, the Coso Apoteosis (February 17) delivers maximum color—arrive by early afternoon to stake out a spot on Avenida de Anaga with good sightlines. Daytime carnivals (February 15 and 21) offer better natural lighting for photos than the night street parties.
Official hashtags: #RitmosLatinos, #CarnavalSC26, #CarnavalDeTenerife, #YoSoyCarnaval. Follow @carnavaldetenerife and @nestshostels for real-time updates and to share your carnival adventures!
Tenerife Carnival transforms Santa Cruz into Europe’s biggest street party every FebruaryTenerife Carnival transforms Santa Cruz into Europe’s biggest street party every FebruaryTenerife Carnival transforms Santa Cruz into Europe’s biggest street party every February
The One Thing That Makes Tenerife Different from Rio 🌟
Rio is spectacle at scale—stadium seating, samba schools as competitive teams, and a price tag to match. Tenerife is grassroots chaos in the best way. The cost barrier is almost nonexistent. Participation isn’t just welcomed—it’s expected. The murgas tradition injects genuine social commentary and local humor into what could otherwise be pure hedonism.
When Franco banned carnival from 1937-1977, Tenerifeans kept celebrating anyway under the sanitized name “Winter Festivities.” This wasn’t something imposed by a tourism board. It survived dictatorship. That history matters.
The carnival twinned with Rio in 1984 specifically because of the parallel energy. But Tenerife gives you something Rio can’t: accessibility. You can show up as a backpacker, stay at Nests Hostels (even cheaper with Nest Pass), spend almost nothing, and leave having experienced one of Europe’s largest street parties from the inside, not the cheap seats.
Pack a costume. Memorize the phrase “¡Viva el Carnaval!” Book your bed at Nests Hostels now before carnival week fills up. And prepare to not sleep much between February 13-22. This is the real deal. 🎉
Ready to Experience Tenerife Carnival 2026?
Don’t let carnival week accommodations sell out. Book your stay at Nests Hostels and lock in our special Nest Pass rates before prices surge.
Why Tenerife Beats Rio – Grassroots accessibility, genuine participation, and backpacker-friendly pricing
This complete guide covers everything from the €5-15 ticketed galas to the 100% free street parties, budget accommodation at Nests Hostels, transportation hacks, and the bizarre traditions that make Tenerife Carnival Europe’s wildest party.
Fotos from 2025 and previous carnivals, source: https://carnavaldetenerife.com/
FAQ’s about Tenerife carnival 2026
What’s the theme of the Tenerife Carnival 2026?
The theme of the Tenerife Carnival 2026 is Ritmos Latinos (Latin Rhythms), a celebration inspired by the vibrant sounds of samba, salsa, merengue, bachata, and reggaeton across Latin America.
When is the Tenerife Carnival 2026?
The Tenerife Carnival 2026 runs from January 16 through February 22, 2026 with three distinct phases: Contest Season (Jan 16-31) featuring murgas competitions, The Galas (Feb 2-11) including the spectacular Queen Election Gala on February 11, and Street Carnival Week (Feb 13-22) when the main parades and street parties happen!
Where is the Tenerife Carnival celebrated?
Most events take place in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island’s capital. Many towns across Tenerife also organize their own carnival activities, including Puerto de la Cruz (running concurrently) and Los Cristianos (March 5-16, 2026).
How can I get to the Carnival from the south of Tenerife?
From the south, TITSA bus routes 110 (express, ~55 min) and 111 (~75-90 min) run every 20-30 minutes during the day. Night service 711 runs hourly from 10 PM to 5:30 AM during carnival. Plus, you can stay at our Nests Hostels in the south (Duque Nest, Arena Nest, El Médano Nest, Las Eras Nest) and join our organized group trips to Santa Cruz!
Where to stay to enjoy the Tenerife Carnival 2026?
Stay at our Nests Hostels across Tenerife! Aguere Nest in La Laguna is just 9-10 km from the carnival with a tram that runs 24 hours during carnival weekends. We also have Puerto Nest, El Médano Nest, Duque Nest, Arena Nest, Las Eras Nest, Los Amigos Nest, and Ashavana Nest – all organizing group trips to Santa Cruz during carnival week! With Nest Pass, you can switch between hostels and explore different areas of the island.
What are the must-see events at Tenerife Carnival 2026?
Don’t miss these highlights: Gran Gala de Elección de la Reina (Queen Election Gala) – February 11 Cabalgata Anunciadora (Opening Parade) – February 13 Coso Apoteosis (Main Parade) – February 17 Entierro de la Sardina (Burial of the Sardine) – February 18 Carnaval de Día (Daytime Carnival) – February 15 & 21 Gala Dragnaval – February 16
Is it necessary to dress up for Tenerife Carnival?
It’s not mandatory, but 999 out of 1,000 people wear costumes – you’ll definitely feel awkward without one! A colorful costume is the best way to dive into the carnival spirit. Basic costumes cost €15-25 at local shops, or you can DIY it with a feather boa and face paint from home.
What other activities can I do in Tenerife during carnival?
Beyond carnival, enjoy a Surf Camp at Nests Hostels, hike Teide National Park, explore northern beaches, discover charming villages, or join our other island activities. Join our WhatsApp group at check-in to stay connected with the Nests Community and find out about group excursions!
What should I wear to Tenerife Carnival?
Anything goes! The more creative and colorful, the better. Most people wear full costumes, but you can also go with themed accessories like wigs, masks, or face paint. Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be dancing and walking for hours. For the Burial of the Sardine on February 18, wear black to join the mock funeral procession!
Where to buy costumes for Tenerife Carnival?
You’ve got plenty of options! Chinese bazaars and supermarkets sell basic costumes for €15-25. The Casa del Carnaval museum shop has official carnival merchandise. Street stalls pop up everywhere during carnival weeks. Or bring supplies from home and DIY it – feather boas, face paint, and a ridiculous hat go a long way!
Is Tenerife Carnival safe for solo travelers?
Absolutely! Despite crowds of 200,000+ people, carnival is remarkably safe with heavy police presence, medical posts throughout the carnival area, and a dedicated carnival hospital. Your main concerns are pickpockets (use a secure crossbody bag) and staying hydrated. The atmosphere is welcoming and friendly – solo travelers easily meet people and join the party!
Do I need to book accommodation in advance for Tenerife Carnival?
YES! Book as early as possible – accommodation fills up fast and prices can triple during carnival dates. That’s why Nest Pass is so valuable: it locks in 20% off weekly stays and 30% off monthly stays even during peak carnival pricing. While others pay inflated rates, you’ll enjoy regular prices at any of our Nests Hostels locations!
What is the Burial of the Sardine in Tenerife Carnival?
It’s carnival’s wildest finale! On February 18, thousands of people (traditionally men in drag) dress as grieving widows in black and follow a giant papier-mâché sardine through the streets in a mock funeral procession. The sardine is then set on fire on Avenida Marítima, symbolizing the death of carnival and the purging of excesses before Lent. It’s theatrical, absurd, and absolutely unforgettable!
What’s the difference between murgas and comparsas?
Murgas are satirical singing groups (~40 people) who roast politicians and society with sharp humor, kazoo-like whistles, and percussion. They represent specific neighborhoods and compete intensely. Comparsas are Brazilian-style dance troupes with synchronized choreography, batucada drumming, and elaborate feathered costumes. Together, they create carnival’s unique tension between Spanish satire and Latin American spectacle!
When is the Queen Gala at Tenerife Carnival 2026?
The Gran Gala de Elección de la Reina (Queen Election Gala) takes place on Tuesday, February 11, 2026 at the Recinto Ferial. Candidates parade in costumes weighing 80-170 kg and reaching 5+ meters tall! Tickets (€5-15) sell out within an hour of release – follow @carnavaldetenerife on Instagram for ticket announcements. The gala broadcasts nationally across Spain.
Can I get discounts for carnival week at Nests Hostels?
Absolutely! Our Nest Pass locks in the same price even during carnival peak dates – while other accommodations triple their rates! Get 20% off for weekly stays and 30% off for monthly stays. Dorm beds at Nests Hostels start at €12-28/night. Book early to secure your spot and beat the carnival price surge!
What’s included in Nest Pass for Tenerife Carnival?
Nest Pass gives you 20% off weekly stays and 30% off monthly stays at any of our Tenerife locations, including during carnival week when prices elsewhere skyrocket. You get flexibility to switch between hostels, access to our organized group trips to Santa Cruz carnival, and you’ll stay connected through our WhatsApp community to meet fellow travelers and join activities!
Is there public transport during carnival nights?
Yes! TITSA adds over 4,200 extra journeys during carnival. The Santa Cruz bus interchange operates 24 hours on Fridays, Saturdays, and Carnival Monday (other nights until 3 AM). Night bus 711 runs hourly from 10 PM to 5:30 AM from the south. Most importantly, the Tram Line 1 from La Laguna runs 24 hours on carnival weekends – perfect if you’re staying at Aguere Nest!
Live Experiences!
Experience the thrill and dive deeper into island life our Nest Team can help you book activities on-time or in advance!
From hidden beaches to authentic experiences! Discover the best of Tenerife with local insider tips: spectacular beaches, hiking trails, vibrant events, and the most authentic guachinches where locals eat.
Spacious shared and private rooms with bathrooms, each bed with curtains and a plug for added privacy. Our fully equipped kitchen has everything you need. The highlight? The terrace—perfect for relaxing, enjoying meals, barbecues, or playing instruments, all while soaking in the island’s relaxed vibe.
Nest Hostels is the largest hostel chain in the Canary Islands, and we’re proud to call Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Ibiza our homes.
9 hostels, 1 pass
With the NEST PASS, you can explore multiple islands at your own pace. Stay at any of our hostels across Tenerife and Gran Canaria and switch locations freely.
Our hostels are located in prime spots across Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Ibiza (Ibiza has no Nest Pass), offering you the best of island life and easy access to local attractions.
Stay with us to enjoy exclusive discounts for stays of 7+ days, make new friends, and dive into the local culture. Our hostels provide a unique and friendly environment for all travelers.
You can easily get the NEST PASS by visiting our website and booking in any of our hostels for 7-28 or more days. You will automatically get the discount and be registered under the Nest Pass offer
There's a Nest for you Discover Our 11 Hostels
Each Nest has its own vibe —
but a few things are always the same: a great location (that's our top priority), comfort, and a community feeling that makes you want to stay longer.
Ibiza Hostal Flamingo in Es Canar. Just 300m from the beach, featuring a pool, private rooms with ensuite bathrooms, air conditioning, and WiFi. Book your...
Ashavana Hostel offers private double and single rooms with shared or private bathrooms and balconies, all just a stone's throw from El Médano beach. It's...
Los Amigos Nest Hostel offers private double and single rooms with shared or private bathrooms and balconies, just a short walk from La Mareta beach....
Rooms with sea views, a large garden, terrace, and pool, with the beach just outside. Co-working space and a spacious kitchen with a buffet breakfast...
Located in Punta Brava, our hostel in North Tenerife invites you to dive into a real Canarian experience. Surrounded by local culture, nature, and authentic...
