{"id":21837,"date":"2026-02-14T19:15:45","date_gmt":"2026-02-14T19:15:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/?p=21837"},"modified":"2026-02-15T06:23:08","modified_gmt":"2026-02-15T06:23:08","slug":"events-puerto-cruz-carnival-2026-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/events-puerto-cruz-carnival-2026-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Puerto de la Cruz Carnival 2026: All Events Guide\/Program"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"intro-paragraph\">\ud83c\udfad <strong>Puerto de la Cruz delivers Tenerife&#8217;s most authentic carnival experience for February 2026<\/strong>\u2014smaller crowds, unique traditions, and way more accessible than its famous Santa Cruz cousin. Running <strong>February 1-28, 2026<\/strong> with a Mexican theme (&#8220;Con Alma Mexicana&#8221;), this northern Tenerife carnival packs signature events you won&#8217;t find anywhere else, plus you can actually afford to party here on a backpacker budget. Looking for the full Tenerife carnival experience? Check out our <a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/tenerife-carnival-2026-guide-events\/\">complete Tenerife Carnival 2026 guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udccd Quick Navigation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#dates-and-theme\">2026 Dates &amp; Mexican Theme<\/a> \u2013 Feb 1-28, 2026<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#mascarita-ponte-tacon\">Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n<\/a> \u2013 The legendary heels race \ud83d\udc60 20\/02\/2026 21:00h<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#gran-coso\">Gran Coso Apoteosis<\/a> \u2013 Main parade \ud83c\udf89 21\/02\/2026 16:00h<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#entierro-sardina\">Entierro de la Sardina<\/a> \u2013 Burial of the Sardine \ud83d\udc1f 18\/02\/2026 21:00h<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#mataculebra\">Mataculebra Ritual<\/a> \u2013 Afro-Cuban tradition \ud83d\udc0d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#where-it-happens\">Where Everything Happens<\/a> \u2013 Plaza del Charco &amp; key locations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#getting-there\">Getting There<\/a> \u2013 Buses, airports &amp; transport tips<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#nests-hostels\">Where to Stay<\/a> \u2013 Nests Hostels Tenerife<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#budget\">What It Costs<\/a> \u2013 Daily budget breakdown<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#puerto-vs-santa-cruz\">Puerto vs Santa Cruz<\/a> \u2013 Which carnival for you?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#local-tips\">Local Insider Tips<\/a> \u2013 Photos, crowds, weather<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a656ed&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a656ed\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"819\" height=\"1024\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"21928\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/17708968328911-819x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"Live Music &amp; DJ at PUERTO DE LA CRUZ CARNIVAL 2026\" class=\"wp-image-21928\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/17708968328911-819x1024.jpeg 819w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/17708968328911-240x300.jpeg 240w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/17708968328911-768x960.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/17708968328911.jpeg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Live Music &amp; DJ at PUERTO DE LA CRUZ CARNIVAL 2026<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a66735&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a66735\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"819\" height=\"1024\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"21893\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-02-11-at-11.28.51-819x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"Live Music &amp; DJ at PUERTO DE LA CRUZ CARNIVAL 2026\" class=\"wp-image-21893\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-02-11-at-11.28.51-819x1024.jpeg 819w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-02-11-at-11.28.51-240x300.jpeg 240w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-02-11-at-11.28.51-768x960.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-02-11-at-11.28.51.jpeg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Live Music &amp; DJ at PUERTO DE LA CRUZ CARNIVAL 2026<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a6748c&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a6748c\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"819\" height=\"1024\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"21923\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896832891-819x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"Live Music &amp; DJ at PUERTO DE LA CRUZ CARNIVAL 2026\" class=\"wp-image-21923\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896832891-819x1024.jpeg 819w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896832891-240x300.jpeg 240w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896832891-768x960.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896832891.jpeg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Live Music &amp; DJ at PUERTO DE LA CRUZ CARNIVAL 2026<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"dates-and-theme\">\ud83c\uddf2\ud83c\uddfd 2026 Dates and the Mexican Theme That Won the People&#8217;s Vote<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>2026 theme is &#8220;Con Alma Mexicana&#8221;<\/strong> (With Mexican Soul), chosen through public vote in March 2025 with <strong>44% of 1,460 votes<\/strong>. Expect Day of the Dead skulls, Frida Kahlo-inspired costumes, mariachi vibes, and alebrijes (traditional Mexican folk art figures) everywhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Key dates at a glance:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table carnival-dates-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>Date<\/th><th>Event<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>February 6 (Thursday)<\/strong><\/td><td>Gala del Rey \u2013 King&#8217;s Election Gala, carnival kickoff<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>February 12 (Thursday)<\/strong><\/td><td>Gala de la Reina \u2013 Adult Queen&#8217;s Election Gala<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>February 14 (Saturday)<\/strong><\/td><td>Cabalgata Anunciadora \u2013 Opening Parade<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>February 18 (Wednesday)<\/strong><\/td><td>Entierro de la Sardina \u2013 Burial of the Sardine (Ash Wednesday) \ud83d\udc1f<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>February 20 (Friday)<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n<\/strong> \u2013 Legendary men&#8217;s high-heels race \ud83d\udc60<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>February 21 (Saturday)<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Gran Coso Apoteosis<\/strong> \u2013 Main Parade at 16:00 \ud83c\udf89<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The full detailed program with exact times typically drops in January 2026, so follow <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/carnavalpuertodelacruz\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@carnavalpuertodelacruz<\/a><\/strong> on Instagram and Facebook for updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a699b2&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a699b2\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"536\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"21863\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896595451-1024x536.jpeg\" alt=\"Crowds watching Gran Coso parade with colorful floats and Mexican theme costumes in Puerto de la Cruz\" class=\"wp-image-21863\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896595451-1024x536.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896595451-300x157.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896595451-768x402.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896595451-1536x804.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896595451.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Crowds watching Gran Coso parade with colorful floats and Mexican theme costumes in Puerto de la Cruz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a6a7be&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a6a7be\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"21913\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896736513-1024x684.jpeg\" alt=\"Carnival queens in elaborate themed costumes during Gran Coso Apoteosis parade Tenerife\" class=\"wp-image-21913\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896736513-1024x684.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896736513-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896736513-768x513.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896736513-1536x1025.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896736513.jpeg 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Carnival queens in elaborate themed costumes during Gran Coso Apoteosis parade Tenerife<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a6b306&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a6b306\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"537\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"21868\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896596564-1024x537.jpeg\" alt=\"Street party with batucadas and comparsas performing along cobblestone streets in Puerto de la Cruz\" class=\"wp-image-21868\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896596564-1024x537.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896596564-300x157.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896596564-768x402.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896596564-1536x805.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896596564.jpeg 1599w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Street party with batucadas and comparsas performing along cobblestone streets in Puerto de la Cruz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udd25 The Events You Absolutely Cannot Miss<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mascarita-ponte-tacon\">\ud83d\udc60 Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n: Men Racing in Heels Over Cobblestones<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This is Puerto de la Cruz&#8217;s <strong>signature event<\/strong> and it&#8217;s exactly as chaotic as it sounds. The 36th edition happens <strong>February 20<\/strong> around 22:00. Male participants must wear <strong>minimum 8-10cm heels<\/strong> plus full costume (wigs, glitter, false eyelashes mandatory). They race from <a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/ZqKxYvXqxqxqxqxq6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Plaza de Reyes Cat\u00f3licos<\/a> through historic cobblestone streets, past Ermita de San Telmo, finishing at <a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/ZqKxYvXqxqxqxqxq7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Plaza del Charco<\/a>. Over <strong>400 participants<\/strong> compete while thousands line the route screaming encouragement. Registration opens around 20:00 at the starting area. The award ceremony happens around midnight at Plaza del Charco\u2014and then the party really starts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a6c232&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a6c232\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"21993\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250307_234904-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Men racing in high heels during Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n carnival event Puerto de la Cruz\" class=\"wp-image-21993\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250307_234904-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250307_234904-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250307_234904.jpg 1020w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Men racing in high heels during Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n carnival event Puerto de la Cruz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a6cbe4&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a6cbe4\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"21988\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250307_225158-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Men racing in high heels during Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n carnival event Puerto de la Cruz\" class=\"wp-image-21988\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250307_225158-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250307_225158-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250307_225158.jpg 1020w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Men racing in high heels during Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n carnival event Puerto de la Cruz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a6d647&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a6d647\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"21968\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250308_000453-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Men racing in high heels during Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n carnival event Puerto de la Cruz\" class=\"wp-image-21968\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250308_000453-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250308_000453-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250308_000453.jpg 1020w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Men racing in high heels during Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n carnival event Puerto de la Cruz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83c\udfa5 <strong>Watch it:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/nHGoLoEqnkg?si=VVuzHTo6fF3u070z\">on YouTube &#8220;Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n Puerto de la Cruz&#8221;<\/a> to see the madness\u2014it&#8217;s unreal watching 450 dudes sprint in 10cm platforms over cobblestones!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"gran-coso\">\ud83c\udfaa Gran Coso Apoteosis: The Main Parade<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Saturday, February 21 at 16:00<\/strong>\u2014this is the carnival climax. The parade starts at <strong>Avenida de Col\u00f3n<\/strong> (where authority grandstands are located), then winds through Plaza de los Reyes Cat\u00f3licos \u2192 Calle Obispo P\u00e9rez C\u00e1ceres \u2192 Avenida Familia Betancourt y Molina \u2192 Calle Zamora \u2192 Calle Santo Domingo \u2192 Calle La Marina \u2192 <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/ZqKxYvXqxqxqxqxq7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Plaza del Charco<\/a><\/strong> \u2192 Calle San Felipe, ending at Avenida Jos\u00e9 Mar\u00eda del Campo Llarena. Floats decorated with Mexican themes, the elected queens, comparsas (dance groups), murgas (satirical singing groups), and batucadas fill the streets for several hours. The parade is <strong>completely free to watch<\/strong>\u2014just stake out a spot early. Pro tip: bring a folding chair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"767\" data-id=\"21963\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/carnavalpuertodelacruz_1770896662082-1024x767.jpeg\" alt=\"Crowds watching Gran Coso parade with colorful floats and Mexican theme costumes in Puerto de la Cruz\" class=\"wp-image-21963\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/carnavalpuertodelacruz_1770896662082-1024x767.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/carnavalpuertodelacruz_1770896662082-300x225.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/carnavalpuertodelacruz_1770896662082-768x575.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/carnavalpuertodelacruz_1770896662082.jpeg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Crowds watching Gran Coso parade with colorful floats and Mexican theme costumes in Puerto de la Cruz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"810\" height=\"607\" data-id=\"21958\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/carnavalpuertodelacruz_17708966620821.jpeg\" alt=\"Crowds watching Gran Coso parade with colorful floats and Mexican theme costumes in Puerto de la Cruz\" class=\"wp-image-21958\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/carnavalpuertodelacruz_17708966620821.jpeg 810w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/carnavalpuertodelacruz_17708966620821-300x225.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/carnavalpuertodelacruz_17708966620821-768x576.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Crowds watching Gran Coso parade with colorful floats and Mexican theme costumes in Puerto de la Cruz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"537\" data-id=\"21873\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896600759-1024x537.jpeg\" alt=\"Crowds watching Gran Coso parade with colorful floats and Mexican theme costumes in Puerto de la Cruz\" class=\"wp-image-21873\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896600759-1024x537.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896600759-300x157.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896600759-768x402.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896600759-1536x805.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896600759.jpeg 1599w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Crowds watching Gran Coso parade with colorful floats and Mexican theme costumes in Puerto de la Cruz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"entierro-sardina\">\ud83d\udc1f Entierro de la Sardina: Burning the Giant Fish<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>February 18 (Ash Wednesday)<\/strong> features one of the most theatrical events in all of Tenerife carnival. A <strong>9-meter papier-m\u00e2ch\u00e9 sardine<\/strong> is displayed for its &#8220;wake&#8221; at Plaza Concejil from 14:00-18:00. At 19:00, the &#8220;mourning&#8221; begins. By 21:00, a funeral procession of locals dressed as <strong>grieving widows<\/strong> (many are men in black dresses) accompanies the sardine through the streets, wailing dramatically. The route runs from Avenida de Col\u00f3n through the city center to <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/ZqKxYvXqxqxqxqxq8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Muelle Pesquero<\/a><\/strong> (the fishing dock), where the sardine is <strong>burned<\/strong> in a spectacular fireworks display \ud83d\udca5. This symbolizes the end of carnival excess before Lent begins. After-party continues at Plaza del Charco with live orchestras.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a6fbe9&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a6fbe9\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"21983\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250305_215456-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Giant papier-m\u00e2ch\u00e9 sardine being burned at Muelle Pesquero during Entierro de la Sardina carnival tradition\" class=\"wp-image-21983\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250305_215456-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250305_215456-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250305_215456.jpg 1020w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Giant papier-m\u00e2ch\u00e9 sardine being burned at Muelle Pesquero during Entierro de la Sardina carnival tradition<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a7a13a&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a7a13a\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1020\" height=\"765\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"21978\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250305_212437.jpg\" alt=\"Giant papier-m\u00e2ch\u00e9 sardine being burned at Muelle Pesquero during Entierro de la Sardina carnival tradition\" class=\"wp-image-21978\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250305_212437.jpg 1020w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250305_212437-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250305_212437-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1020px) 100vw, 1020px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Giant papier-m\u00e2ch\u00e9 sardine being burned at Muelle Pesquero during Entierro de la Sardina carnival tradition<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a7d1e1&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a7d1e1\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"17654\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Puerto-Nest-Carnaval-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Carnaval en Puerto de la Cruz Puerto Nest hostel\" class=\"wp-image-17654\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Puerto-Nest-Carnaval-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Puerto-Nest-Carnaval-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Puerto-Nest-Carnaval-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Puerto-Nest-Carnaval-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Puerto-Nest-Carnaval.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Carnaval en Puerto de la Cruz Puerto Nest hostel<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83c\udfa5 <strong>Watch it:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/Qn4S7YqZgE0?si=_P5btS7_3EqCYVRT\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">on YouTube &#8220;Entierro de la Sardina Puerto de la Cruz&#8221; <\/a>to see the dramatic funeral procession and burning!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mataculebra\">\ud83d\udc0d Mataculebra: The Afro-Cuban Ritual You&#8217;ve Never Heard Of<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Happening <strong>Carnival Monday<\/strong> at Plaza del Charco, this unique tradition was brought to Puerto de la Cruz by emigrants returning from Cuba in the late 19th century. Local schoolchildren perform the ritual where &#8220;Los Negritos&#8221; and &#8220;El Mayoral&#8221; symbolically <strong>kill a snake representing evil<\/strong> with whips. It&#8217;s a piece of living cultural heritage you won&#8217;t see anywhere else in Europe\u2014and it&#8217;s run by the municipal cultural department since 1997.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"where-it-happens\">\ud83d\udccd Where Everything Happens in Puerto de la Cruz<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/tZwfwmdK4Czehn3A6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Plaza del Charco<\/a><\/strong> is carnival ground zero\u2014the finish line for the heels race, the hub for nightly street parties (verbenas), murgas performances, and where locals actually go to party until 05:00-06:00. Bars along <strong>Calle San Felipe<\/strong> and adjacent streets stay packed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/B5nJC7uzfx9B7WYB8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Avenida de Col\u00f3n<\/a><\/strong> serves as the starting point for both the main parade and the sardine procession. Authority grandstands set up here for the Coso.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/4p7TYBoeo3eEgpFS8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Muelle Pesquero<\/a><\/strong> (the fishing dock) is where the sardine burning happens\u2014best spot for the finale and fireworks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/mmXbveymnCUrXu3s6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Costa Marti\u00e1nez complex<\/a><\/strong> hosts the bigger galas and official receptions. The King&#8217;s and Queen&#8217;s galas happen at the <strong>Explanada del Muelle<\/strong> carnival grounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/AjwbAiYiJqX4WbMa6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Plaza de Europa<\/a><\/strong> hosts murgas exhibitions (evening shows) and children&#8217;s events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Street closures during Coso (February 21)<\/strong>: Sector Marti\u00e1nez closes 12:00-20:00; city center closes from 14:00 until the parade ends. Plan accordingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"21908\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896744836-1024x683.jpeg\" alt=\"Carnival queens in elaborate themed costumes during Gran Coso Apoteosis parade Tenerife\" class=\"wp-image-21908\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896744836-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896744836-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896744836-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896744836-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896744836.jpeg 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Carnival queens in elaborate themed costumes during Gran Coso Apoteosis parade Tenerife<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"21898\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/17708967417401-1024x683.jpeg\" alt=\"Carnival queens in elaborate themed costumes during Gran Coso Apoteosis parade Tenerife\" class=\"wp-image-21898\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/17708967417401-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/17708967417401-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/17708967417401-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/17708967417401-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/17708967417401.jpeg 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Carnival queens in elaborate themed costumes during Gran Coso Apoteosis parade Tenerife<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"21888\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896740640-1024x683.jpeg\" alt=\"Carnival queens in elaborate themed costumes during Gran Coso Apoteosis parade Tenerife\" class=\"wp-image-21888\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896740640-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896740640-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896740640-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896740640-1536x1025.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896740640.jpeg 1599w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Carnival queens in elaborate themed costumes during Gran Coso Apoteosis parade Tenerife<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"getting-there\">\ud83d\ude8c Getting There on a Backpacker Budget<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">From Tenerife North Airport (TFN)\u2014Your Best Bet<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bus 30<\/strong> runs direct to Puerto de la Cruz every 30 minutes, taking just <strong>30-33 minutes<\/strong> for <strong>\u20ac4.75<\/strong> (or ~\u20ac3.50 with Ten+ card). First bus around 07:30, last around 21:15. If you&#8217;re flying from Europe, book into TFN\u2014it&#8217;s only 18 miles away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">From Tenerife South Airport (TFS)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bus 343<\/strong> runs direct but only <strong>4 times daily<\/strong> (07:15, 11:30, 16:00, 19:15 on weekdays). Journey takes <strong>1 hour 25 minutes<\/strong> and costs <strong>\u20ac13.55<\/strong> (or ~\u20ac10 with Ten+ card). This schedule is brutal\u2014you might wait 4 hours for the next bus. Alternative: take bus 111 to Santa Cruz Intercambiador, then transfer to bus 100\/102\/103\/104 to Puerto de la Cruz (total ~2+ hours, \u20ac9-15) it&#8217;s very easy locals do it every day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">From Santa Cruz (If You&#8217;re Carnival-Hopping)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Multiple options make this an easy day trip:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Bus 100<\/strong> (express, no stops): 35 minutes, ~\u20ac5-6<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bus 103<\/strong>: 30 minutes via Bot\u00e1nico<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bus 104<\/strong>: ~45 minutes, but runs until <strong>3:28 AM<\/strong>\u2014your lifeline for late nights<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Critical<\/strong>: Last Bus 103 leaves around midnight. If you&#8217;re partying late, Bus 104 is your only public transport option or you&#8217;re looking at a \u20ac40-50 taxi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb0 Save Money with the Ten+ Card<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Buy this <strong>\u20ac5 card<\/strong> at airport machines, bus stations, or kiosks and load \u20ac25-50 credit. It saves <strong>20-30% on every fare<\/strong>. For heavy carnival usage, grab the <strong>\u20ac10 day pass<\/strong> (24 hours unlimited) or <strong>\u20ac50 seven-day pass<\/strong>. The cards are shareable between travelers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/puerto-de-la-cruz-nest-carnaval-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Carnaval en Puerto de la Cruz Puerto Nest hostel\" class=\"wp-image-17634\" style=\"width:372px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/puerto-de-la-cruz-nest-carnaval-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/puerto-de-la-cruz-nest-carnaval-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/puerto-de-la-cruz-nest-carnaval-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/puerto-de-la-cruz-nest-carnaval-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/puerto-de-la-cruz-nest-carnaval-scaled.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Carnaval en Puerto de la Cruz Puerto Nest hostel<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"nests-hostels\">\ud83c\udfe0 Where to Stay: Nests Hostels Tenerife &#8211; Your Carnival Base<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf1f Puerto Nest Hostel (TOP PICK &#8211; Closest to Carnival!)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Located in Punta Brava near <a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/ZqKxYvXqxqxqxqxq9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Playa Jard\u00edn<\/a>, <strong>just 5km from carnival central<\/strong>. Wake up to Teide volcano views from the hot tub, make breakfast in the shared kitchen, and meet your carnival crew on the rooftop terrace. With the perfect social vibe for backpackers and young travelers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button carnival-cta\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-primary-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/hostel\/puerto-nest-hostel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer noopener\">Book Puerto Nest Now<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-7 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a8315b&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a8315b\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1020\" height=\"765\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"21973\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250303_082053.jpg\" alt=\"Teide view from the roof top of Puerto de la Cruz\" class=\"wp-image-21973\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250303_082053.jpg 1020w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250303_082053-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250303_082053-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1020px) 100vw, 1020px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Teide view from the roof top of Puerto de la Cruz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a84dfd&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a84dfd\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"13222\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Puerto-32-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"Puerto Nest Hosatel - Puerto de La Cruz - Tenerife\" class=\"wp-image-13222\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Puerto-32-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Puerto-32-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Puerto-32-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Puerto-32-1536x1022.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Puerto-32-2048x1363.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Puerto-32-1320x878.jpg 1320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Puerto Nest Hosatel &#8211; Puerto de La Cruz &#8211; Tenerife<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a86724&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a86724\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"678\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"13594\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/puerto-nest-hostel-inside-1024x678.jpg\" alt=\"Puerto Nest Hostel Tenerife Puerto de la Cruz\" class=\"wp-image-13594\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/puerto-nest-hostel-inside-1024x678.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/puerto-nest-hostel-inside-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/puerto-nest-hostel-inside-768x509.jpg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/puerto-nest-hostel-inside.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Puerto Nest Hostel Tenerife Puerto de la Cruz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf92 All Nests Hostels Across Tenerife<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Can&#8217;t get a bed at Puerto Nest? No worries\u2014carnival is the perfect excuse to explore the whole island with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/nest-pass\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Nest Pass<\/a><\/strong>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>North Tenerife:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/hostel\/aguere-nest-hostel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Aguere Nest Hostel<\/a><\/strong> (La Laguna) &#8211; 30 min bus to Puerto carnival<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/hostel\/puerto-nest-hostel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Puerto Nest<strong> Hostel<\/strong><\/a><\/strong> (Puerto de la Cruz) here!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>South Tenerife:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/hostel\/duque-nest-hostel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Duque Nest<strong> Hostel<\/strong><\/a><\/strong> (Costa Adeje)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/hostel\/arena-nest-hostel-en-tenerife\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arena Nest<strong> Hostel<\/strong><\/a><\/strong> (Costa Adeje)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/hostel\/las-eras-nest-hostel-tenerife\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Las Eras Nest<strong> Hostel<\/strong><\/a><\/strong> (Las Eras)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/hostel\/medano-nest-hostel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">El M\u00e9dano Nest<strong> Hostel<\/strong><\/a><\/strong> (El M\u00e9dano)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/hostel\/hostal-los-amigos-tenerife\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Los Amigos Nest<strong> Hostel<\/strong><\/a><\/strong> (Los Abrigos\/El Medano)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/hostel\/ashavana-nest-hostel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ashavana Nest<strong> Hostel<\/strong><\/a><\/strong> (El Medano)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udc8e Unlock Nest Pass: Beat Carnival Price Hikes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Here&#8217;s the genius move: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/ofertas-hostal-barato-tenerife\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Nest Pass<\/a><\/strong> locks in discounted rates even during carnival peak season:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>20% off for weekly stays<\/strong> (7+ nights)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>30% off for monthly stays<\/strong> (28+ days)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hop between any Nests Hostels<\/strong> across Tenerife (and Gran Canaria)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>No price surges<\/strong> during carnival\u2014your rate stays fixed<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Example:<\/strong> Book 7 nights in early February and bounce between Puerto Nest for carnival, Las Eras\/Duque Nest for surfing, and Aguere Nest for La Laguna&#8217;s historic charm. One booking, three experiences, carnival-proof pricing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Book 2-3 months ahead<\/strong>\u2014carnival season fills up fast, but Nest Pass holders get priority. Follow <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nestshostels\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@nestshostels<\/a><\/strong> on Instagram for carnival deals and event meetups!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button nest-pass-cta\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-secondary-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/nest-pass\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer noopener\">Get Nest Pass (20-30% Off)<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Nest-Pass-2026-1024x576.jpeg\" alt=\"Nest Pass The hostel pass in Canarias, with discount and freedom to move\" class=\"wp-image-21766\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Nest-Pass-2026-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Nest-Pass-2026-300x169.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Nest-Pass-2026-768x432.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Nest-Pass-2026-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Nest-Pass-2026.jpeg 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Nest Pass The hostel pass in Canarias, with discount and freedom to move<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"budget\">\ud83d\udcb8 What Carnival Actually Costs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Great news<\/strong>: <mark style=\"background-color:#53CED1\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Most events are completely free<\/mark>. Street parties, parades (from the sidelines), the heels race, the sardine burial\u2014all free. Only galas like the Queen&#8217;s Election require tickets (\u20ac20-60+, sell out fast).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfad Costume Shopping<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Puerto de la Cruz doesn&#8217;t have major costume shops\u2014head to nearby <strong>La Orotava<\/strong> (5 minutes away) or Santa Cruz. <strong>Carolan Tenerife<\/strong> has locations in La Laguna and Santa Cruz with mid-range costumes for \u20ac30-60. For budget options (\u20ac10-25), hit up bazaars or Chinese stores. Check <strong>Wallapop<\/strong> (Spanish marketplace app) for secondhand deals around \u20ac5-15.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For the Mexican theme, think: Day of the Dead face paint (cheap at pharmacies), flower headbands, sombreros from bazaars. DIY is totally acceptable and encouraged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcca Daily Budget Breakdown<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>Category<\/th><th>Budget estimate<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Hostel dorm (Nest Pass weekly rate)<\/td><td>\u20ac16-24<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Food (supermarket + one meal out)<\/td><td>\u20ac15-25<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Drinks<\/td><td>\u20ac5-10<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Transport<\/td><td>\u20ac3-8 if needed<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Daily total<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>\u20ac30-60<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>One-week estimate with Nest Pass<\/strong>: \u20ac280-450 (excluding flights), plus \u20ac15-40 for a costume. Want more budget tips? Check our guide on <a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/como-ahorrar-en-el-carnaval-de-tenerife-2025-guia-para-viajeros-inteligentes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">how to save money at Carnival<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Drinks are cheap: beer runs <strong>\u20ac1.20-3.00<\/strong> for a big pint, wine \u20ac2-3 per glass. Street food like churros (\u20ac2-4), arepas (\u20ac3-5), and papas arrugadas con mojo (\u20ac4-6) keeps you fueled. Look for <strong>men\u00fa del d\u00eda<\/strong> deals at restaurants: \u20ac8-14 for three courses plus a drink.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-8 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a8bcca&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a8bcca\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"536\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"21858\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896590773-1024x536.jpeg\" alt=\"PUERTO DE LA CRUZ CARNIVAL 2026\" class=\"wp-image-21858\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896590773-1024x536.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896590773-300x157.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896590773-768x402.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896590773-1536x804.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896590773.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">PUERTO DE LA CRUZ CARNIVAL 2026<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a8c8ab&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a8c8ab\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"21883\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896735356-1024x683.jpeg\" alt=\"Carnival queens in elaborate themed costumes during Gran Coso Apoteosis parade Tenerife\" class=\"wp-image-21883\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896735356-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896735356-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896735356-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896735356-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896735356.jpeg 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Carnival queens in elaborate themed costumes during Gran Coso Apoteosis parade Tenerife<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69eddd1a8f70a&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69eddd1a8f70a\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"537\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-id=\"21878\" src=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896623612-1024x537.jpeg\" alt=\"Crowds at carnival in puerto de la cruz with colorful floats and Mexican theme costumes in Puerto de la Cruz\" class=\"wp-image-21878\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896623612-1024x537.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896623612-300x157.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896623612-768x402.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896623612-1536x805.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1770896623612.jpeg 1599w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Crowds at carnival in puerto de la cruz with colorful floats and Mexican theme costumes in Puerto de la Cruz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"puerto-vs-santa-cruz\">\u2696\ufe0f Puerto de la Cruz Versus Santa Cruz: Honest Comparison<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Size difference is massive<\/strong>: Santa Cruz attracts 150,000-400,000 people (the world&#8217;s second-largest carnival after Rio). Puerto de la Cruz draws around <strong>20,000<\/strong>\u2014way more manageable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Atmosphere<\/strong>: Santa Cruz feels more Brazilian with intense all-night parties across multiple stages. Puerto de la Cruz is more bohemian, family-friendly, and authentically Canarian with a quirky German influence (twinned with D\u00fcsseldorf since 1972). Plaza del Charco&#8217;s spontaneous street parties feel intimate versus Santa Cruz&#8217;s industrial-scale production.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Which is better for you?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Party animals<\/strong> \ud83c\udf89: Santa Cruz (bigger parties, more stages, crazier energy)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>First-timers<\/strong> \ud83c\udfad: Puerto de la Cruz (less overwhelming, easier to navigate)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Budget travelers<\/strong> \ud83d\udcb0: Puerto de la Cruz (lower prices, fewer crowds)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Culture seekers<\/strong> \ud83c\udfaa: Puerto de la Cruz (unique events like Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n and Mataculebra)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Photographers<\/strong> \ud83d\udcf8: Both (Santa Cruz for spectacle, Puerto for authenticity)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Can you do both?<\/strong> Absolutely. They run simultaneously (Puerto: Feb 1-28; Santa Cruz: Jan 16-Feb 22), only 30km apart. Take the 40-minute bus between them and catch different events. Strategy: base yourself at <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/hostel\/puerto-nest-hostel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Puerto Nest<\/a><\/strong> (cheaper, closer to nature), day-trip to Santa Cruz for their Coso Apoteosis (February 17) or Daytime Carnival, then return to Puerto&#8217;s more chill vibes. Read more about <a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/tenerife-carnival-2026-guide-events\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Santa Cruz carnival in our complete guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"local-tips\">\ud83d\udca1 Local Tips That Actually Help<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Where locals party<\/strong>: Plaza del Charco and surrounding streets are the epicenter. After official events end, the action moves to bars along Calle San Felipe. Costa Marti\u00e1nez complex hosts the bigger galas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Best photo spots<\/strong> \ud83d\udcf8: Elevated terrace bars overlooking Plaza del Charco; the fishing dock during sardine burning; anywhere along the Coso parade route, especially where it reaches Plaza del Charco.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Peak crowd avoidance<\/strong>: Arrive at parade viewing spots 1-2 hours early on February 21. Weekday events are noticeably less crowded than weekends. Afternoons generally quieter than evenings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Weather reality check<\/strong> \ud83c\udf24\ufe0f: February temps hit 18-22\u00b0C during the day but drop to 14-16\u00b0C at night. <strong>Bring a jacket<\/strong>\u2014north Tenerife gets occasional showers and is 1-2\u00b0C cooler than the south. Layer your costume.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Safety<\/strong> \ud83d\udc6e: Both carnivals are well-organized and considered safe with reinforced police presence. Standard precautions apply: use a closed belt bag or money belt, stick with your group at night, don&#8217;t leave drinks unattended. Watch for pickpockets in parade crowds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Transport tip<\/strong> \ud83d\ude97: City center streets close for parades. On February 21, park at <strong>Playa Jard\u00edn<\/strong> (free) and walk 15 minutes, or use public transport. Parking restrictions start at 09:00 on parade days along Avenida de Col\u00f3n and the entire parade route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcda Two Quick History Facts Worth Knowing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>During Franco&#8217;s dictatorship when carnival was banned across Spain, Puerto de la Cruz kept the tradition alive by disguising celebrations as <strong>&#8220;Fiestas de Invierno&#8221;<\/strong> (Winter Festivals)\u2014a small act of cultural resistance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>Mataculebra ritual<\/strong> originated in slavery-era Cuba during the 19th century and was brought to the Canaries by returning emigrants. It&#8217;s now <mark style=\"background-color:#53CED1\" class=\"has-inline-color\">one of the most distinctive cultural events in all of European carnival traditions.<\/mark><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfaf Final Verdict for 2026<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Puerto de la Cruz Carnival delivers the perfect entry point for young travelers who want authentic Canarian carnival without the overwhelming crowds and inflated prices of Santa Cruz. The Mexican theme makes costume planning straightforward, the <strong>Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n<\/strong> high-heels race (February 20) is genuinely one of the funniest events in Spanish carnival, and Plaza del Charco&#8217;s street parties run until dawn without feeling dangerously packed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bottom line<\/strong>: Fly into TFN, base yourself at <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/hostel\/puerto-nest-hostel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Puerto Nest Hostel<\/a><\/strong> or any Nests location with Nest Pass, catch the signature events, and day-trip to Santa Cruz for one big spectacle. Budget around \u20ac40-65\/day with Nest Pass weekly rates, book your hostel by December 2025, and prepare for cobblestones\u2014whether you&#8217;re watching or racing in heels! \ud83d\udc60\ud83c\udf89<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udd17 Essential Links<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Book Nest Pass<\/strong> (20-30% off): <a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/ofertas-hostal-barato-tenerife\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">nestshostels.com\/nest-pass<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Puerto Nest Hostel<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/hostel\/puerto-nest-hostel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Book Now<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Complete Tenerife Carnival Guide<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/tenerife-carnival-2026-guide-events\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">All Events &amp; Dates<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Budget Tips<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/como-ahorrar-en-el-carnaval-de-tenerife-2025-guia-para-viajeros-inteligentes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to Save Money at Carnival<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Follow carnival updates<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/carnavalpuertodelacruz\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@carnavalpuertodelacruz<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Join the hostel crew<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nestshostels\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@nestshostels<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Plaza del Charco<\/strong> (main party zone): <a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/jWpGDa8H3dRTRQER6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Google Maps<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Muelle Pesquero<\/strong> (sardine burning): <a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/kKuXKn5fqqmCT6WQ9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Google Maps<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\ud83c\udfa5 YouTube Search Terms:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>&#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/results?search_query=Mascarita+Ponte+Tac%C3%B3n+Puerto+de+la+Cruz\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n Puerto de la Cruz 2024<\/a>&#8220;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/results?search_query=entierro+de+la+sardina+puerto+de+la+cruz\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Entierro de la Sardina Puerto Cruz<\/a>&#8220;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/results?search_query=gran+caso+carnaval+puerto+de+la+cruz\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Puerto de la Cruz Carnival Gran Coso<\/a>&#8220;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button final-cta\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-primary-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/ofertas-hostal-barato-tenerife\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Book Your Carnival Stay with Nest Pass<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n | Carnaval del Puerto de la Cruz 2020\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/MLFVuJHlEQs?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">\u2753 Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/FAQPage\">\n\n  <!-- Question 1 -->\n  <div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n    <h3 itemprop=\"name\">When is Puerto de la Cruz Carnival 2026?<\/h3>\n    <div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n      <div itemprop=\"text\">\n        <p>Puerto de la Cruz Carnival 2026 runs <strong>February 1-28, 2026<\/strong> with key events including Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n (Feb 20), Gran Coso parade (Feb 21), and Entierro de la Sardina (Feb 18).<\/p>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- Question 2 -->\n  <div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n    <h3 itemprop=\"name\">What is Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n?<\/h3>\n    <div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n      <div itemprop=\"text\">\n        <p>It&#8217;s Puerto de la Cruz&#8217;s legendary men&#8217;s high-heels race where 400+ guys sprint through cobblestone streets in minimum 8-10cm heels and full costume\u2014happening February 20 at 22:00.<\/p>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- Question 3 -->\n  <div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n    <h3 itemprop=\"name\">Is Puerto de la Cruz Carnival free?<\/h3>\n    <div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n      <div itemprop=\"text\">\n        <p>Yes! All street parties, parades, the heels race, sardine burning, and live music at Plaza del Charco are completely free\u2014only galas like the Queen&#8217;s Election require tickets (\u20ac20-60).<\/p>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- Question 4 -->\n  <div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n    <h3 itemprop=\"name\">What&#8217;s the 2026 carnival theme?<\/h3>\n    <div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n      <div itemprop=\"text\">\n        <p>&#8220;Con Alma Mexicana&#8221; (With Mexican Soul)\u2014expect Day of the Dead skulls, Frida Kahlo costumes, mariachi vibes, and alebrije decorations everywhere.<\/p>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- Question 5 -->\n  <div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n    <h3 itemprop=\"name\">What should I wear to Puerto de la Cruz Carnival in February?<\/h3>\n    <div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n      <div itemprop=\"text\">\n        <p>Layer your Mexican-themed costume with a light jacket\u2014daytime hits 18-22\u00b0C but nights drop to 14-16\u00b0C, and north Tenerife can get occasional rain.<\/p>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- Question 6 -->\n  <div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n    <h3 itemprop=\"name\">Where exactly does the carnival happen in Puerto de la Cruz?<\/h3>\n    <div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n      <div itemprop=\"text\">\n        <p>Plaza del Charco is carnival central for street parties and orchestras, while parades start at Avenida de Col\u00f3n and the sardine burns at Muelle Pesquero (fishing dock).<\/p>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- Question 7 -->\n  <div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n    <h3 itemprop=\"name\">Can I visit both Puerto de la Cruz and Santa Cruz carnivals?<\/h3>\n    <div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n      <div itemprop=\"text\">\n        <p>Absolutely\u2014they&#8217;re only 30km apart with buses every 30-45 minutes. Stay at Puerto Nest and day-trip to Santa Cruz&#8217;s bigger events, then return to Puerto&#8217;s chill vibes.<\/p>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- Question 8 -->\n  <div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n    <h3 itemprop=\"name\">What&#8217;s the difference between Puerto de la Cruz and Santa Cruz carnival?<\/h3>\n    <div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n      <div itemprop=\"text\">\n        <p>Santa Cruz is massive (150,000-400,000 people, Brazilian-style intensity), while Puerto draws 20,000 with unique events like Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n and authentic Canarian vibes\u2014less overwhelming, more intimate.<\/p>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- Question 9 -->\n  <div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n    <h3 itemprop=\"name\">Which carnival is better for budget travelers?<\/h3>\n    <div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n      <div itemprop=\"text\">\n        <p>Puerto de la Cruz\u2014cheaper accommodation (especially with <a href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/ofertas-hostal-barato-tenerife\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Nest Pass<\/a> locking 20-30% discounts), less crowded, and all major events are free.<\/p>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Complete guide to Tenerife&#8217;s authentic carnival: Mexican theme, Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n, burial of sardine, galas, dj&#8217;s, party, all events: Feb 1-28, 2026.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":21853,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[71],"tags":[83],"class_list":["post-21837","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-culture","tag-puerto-nest-en"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.1.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Puerto de la Cruz Carnival 2026: All Events Guide | Tenerife | Nests Hostels<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Program of Puerto de la Cruz Carnival 2026: Mexican theme, Feb 1-28, Mascarita Ponte Tac\u00f3n heels race, galas, party, dj&#039;s, orchestra, burial of sardine, budget tips, and best backpacker hostels in Tenerife.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/nestshostels.com\/en\/events-puerto-cruz-carnival-2026-guide\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Puerto de la Cruz Carnival 2026: Complete Program Guide and all Events\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Experience Tenerife&#039;s most authentic carnival! 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