Best times to travel around Tenerife by motorbike

A Motorcyclist's Paradise All Year Round

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is a destination that seems designed specifically for two-wheeled enthusiasts. With its privileged climate known as "eternal spring", exploring Tenerife by motorbike is a unique experience all year round. Its winding roads, volcanic landscapes, lush forests and views of the Atlantic Ocean make every route an unforgettable adventure.

But even in this motorcyclist's paradise, there are times of the year that can maximise your experience on two wheels. Motorbike hire Tenerife offers different advantages depending on the time of year you choose to visit the island. In this article, we will analyse in detail what are the best times to tour Tenerife by motorbike, considering factors such as the weather, the influx of tourists, the road conditions and the unique experiences that each season offers.

Tenerife's Privileged Climate for Motorcyclists

Before looking at each season, it is important to understand why Tenerife's climate is so exceptional. The island enjoys mild temperatures all year round, with highs rarely exceeding 30°C in summer and lows rarely dropping below 15°C in winter. This thermal stability is due to the trade winds and the influence of the Gulf Stream.

However, Tenerife has different microclimates due to its orography:

• South of the islandWarmer and drier, with less precipitation.
• North of the islandCooler and more humid, with more abundant vegetation.
• Mountain areasCooler temperatures, with the possibility of snow on Teide during the winter.

This climatic diversity in such a small territory (barely 2,034 km²) allows Tenerife motorbike enthusiasts to enjoy spectacular routes in any season, adapting the itinerary to the weather conditions of the moment.

Spring: The Ideal Season for the Motorcyclist

Climate and Conditions from March to May

Spring (March to May) is considered by many to be one of the best times to tour Tenerife by motorbike. Temperatures range between 18°C and 24°C, creating perfect conditions for long days on the bike without suffering from either excessive heat or cold.

Rainfall is scarce, especially from April onwards, and the days are getting longer, allowing you to take advantage of more daylight hours to explore the island. Motorbike hire Tenerife tends to offer more moderate prices than during the high summer season, and you'll find a wider choice of models available.

Recommended routes in Spring

During this season, the north of the island shows its maximum splendour. The Tenerife North motorbike rental allows you to explore greener and lusher landscapes, especially in spring when the vegetation is in full bloom. Some essential routes are:

1. Circuit through the Anaga Rural ParkWith its laurel forests, traditional villages such as Taganana and spectacular viewpoints. The TF-12 road through the Anaga mountain range offers technical curves and breathtaking views.
2. Orotava Valley RouteDeparture from Puerto de la Cruz, going up through La Orotava to the Humboldt viewpoint, where you can contemplate one of the most beautiful valleys of the Canary Islands.
3. Ascent of Mount Teide from the northern slopeIn spring, the contrast between the vegetation and the volcanic landscapes is particularly photogenic, and the temperatures are more pleasant than in summer for this ascent.

Summer: Guaranteed Sunshine and Perfect Nights

Climate and Conditions June to September

Summer (June to September) in Tenerife is characterised by temperatures ranging between 24°C and 29°C, with very pleasant night-time lows of around 20°C. Rainfall is practically non-existent, especially in June and July, when the average rainfall is less than 1mm.

During this season, Tenerife motorbike hire is at its most in demand, so it is advisable to book in advance. Prices tend to be higher and availability more limited, especially in August, when the island receives its largest influx of tourists.

Tips for Summer Riders

If you decide to explore Tenerife by motorbike during the summer, keep these tips in mind:

• Early departuresTake advantage of the early hours of the day, when temperatures are cooler and there is less traffic.
• Constant hydrationTemperatures may be high, especially in the south and at low altitudes.
• Adequate equipmentOpt for jackets and trousers that are ventilated but still provide the necessary protection.
• Sun protectionThe Canarian sun is intense, use sunscreen even on cloudy days.

Recommended Summer Routes

During the summer, Tenerife South motorbike hire is especially popular due to its drier and sunnier climate. Some ideal routes for this season are:

1. Southern coastal routeFrom Los Cristianos to El Médano, enjoying the ocean views and the sea breezes that cool the route.
2. Night ascent of Mount TeideA unique experience is to climb the Teide at sunset to watch the sun set and, afterwards, enjoy an incomparable starry sky. In summer, the night temperatures at high altitude are pleasant.
3. Route of the western viewpointsFrom Santiago del Teide to Los Gigantes, passing by the viewpoint of Cherfe, with spectacular views of the cliffs.

Autumn: The Best Kept Secret

Weather and Conditions from October to November

Autumn (October to November) is possibly the best kept secret for motorcyclists visiting Tenerife. Temperatures remain very pleasant, between 20°C and 26°C, and although the probability of rain increases slightly, especially in November, sunny days are still predominant.

Many experienced motorcyclists find that the best times to tour Tenerife by motorbike are April-June and September-November, when temperatures are moderate and there are fewer tourists. During the autumn, Tenerife motorbike hire companies tend to have better prices during this low season, and the availability of models is excellent.

Advantages of Autumn Travel

• Fewer touristsRoads are less congested, especially in tourist areas.
• Lower pricesBoth in accommodation and motorbike rental.
• Ideal temperaturesNeither too hot nor too cold.
• Warm seaIf you want to combine motorbike and beach, the ocean water maintains pleasant temperatures after the summer.

Recommended Routes in Autumn

Autumn is perfect for exploring the whole island, as conditions are favourable in both the north and south:

1. Circular route of the islandTake advantage of the good conditions to make a complete circular route, combining sections of the TF-1 and TF-5, with detours to the interior.
2. Masca and TenoThe road to Masca is one of the most spectacular and technical roads on the island. In autumn, with less traffic, you can enjoy it much more.
3. Wine routeThe tour takes in the area of La Orotava and Tacoronte, visiting wineries and enjoying the vineyard landscapes, which in autumn take on golden and reddish tones.

Winter: European Summer in the middle of January

Weather and Conditions from December to February

Winter (December to February) in Tenerife is what many Europeans would consider a mild spring. Temperatures range from 15°C to 21°C, with lows rarely dropping below 15°C in coastal areas. This is the time of year with the highest probability of rain, especially in December, although days of heavy rainfall are rare.

If you are looking for guaranteed sunshine, Tenerife south is your best option even in the colder months, as this area maintains a drier and sunnier climate all year round. In the north, rainfall is more frequent, but it's also what keeps the landscape green and lush.

Special Winter Considerations

• Thermal equipmentEspecially if you plan to climb in mountainous areas, where temperatures can drop considerably.
• Possibility of snow on TeideIn the winter months, snow may be encountered at higher elevations, which may limit access to certain routes.
• Reduced sunshine hoursThe days are shorter, so plan shorter routes or leave earlier.
• Waterproof clothingAlthough infrequent, it is advisable to carry some waterproof clothing in case of a downpour, especially in the north.

Recommended Winter Routes

1. South CoastThe Tenerife south motorbike rental allows you to enjoy coastal routes with pleasant temperatures even in the middle of the European winter.
2. Almond Blossom RouteIf you visit the island at the end of January or February, don't miss the spectacle of the almond blossom in Santiago del Teide, an explosion of white and pink that contrasts with the volcanic black.
3. Vilaflor and surroundingsThe highest village in Spain offers spectacular routes through pine forests, with views of the sea and the Teide.

Seasonal Safety Tips

Recommended Equipment per Station

Spring and Autumn:

• Mid-season jacket and trousers
• Thin but protective gloves
• Light waterproof layer (especially in the north)

Summer:

• Ventilated equipment with guards
• Well ventilated helmet
• High sun protection
• Constant hydration

Winter:

• Thermal layers under the equipment
• Thicker gloves
• Neck protection
• Thermal lining in the jacket

Seasonal Road Safety Precautions

The Tenerife motorbike climate is exceptional, with temperatures rarely dropping below 15°C even in winter, but each season presents its own challenges:

Spring and Autumn:

• Occasional showers possible in the North
• Temperature changes between coast and mountains
• Occasional wind in exposed areas

Summer:

• Intense heat in the middle of the day
• Increased traffic in tourist areas
• Possible haze (suspended dust from the Sahara)

Winter:

• Possibility of ice in high areas (Teide).
• Shorter days limiting driving hours
• Increased chance of rain, especially in the north

Conclusion: What is the Best Time to Visit Tenerife by Motorbike?

Thanks to Tenerife's favourable climate, it is possible to enjoy two-wheeled tours 365 days a year. However, if I had to recommend the best seasons, they would be:

1. Late spring (May)Perfect temperatures, long days, lush vegetation and fewer tourists than in summer.
2. Early autumn (October)Similar to May, but with warmer seas after the summer and cheaper prices.
3. Winter (January-February)For those fleeing the European continental cold, it is an excellent option to enjoy spring temperatures when their home countries are below freezing.

The motorbike rental Tenerife allows you to explore this fascinating island at any time of the year. The key is to adapt your routes and equipment to your chosen season, and always take into account the island's different microclimates. My final tip? If you have a choice, opt for the transitional months (May and October) to enjoy the best that Tenerife has to offer a motorcyclist: good weather, less congested roads and more affordable prices.

And you, do you dare to discover Tenerife on two wheels? Whatever the season you choose, an unforgettable experience awaits you on the island of eternal good weather.