It’s no surprise, sitting off the coast of northwest Africa, that this collection of islands is reliably warm. But, really, each island possesses its own micro-climate. The good news for sun-worshippers is that wherever you go, blue skies prevail for much of the year.

‘Trade winds’ from the northeast are an almost ever-present. And this means that the islands closest and most exposed to the African mainland tend to be hottest in summer. In Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, daytime temperatures routinely nudge 30 Celsius and can get hotter still when ‘Calima’ winds come straight form the Sahara, sometimes carrying haze and dust. The more western islands, such as Tenerife and La Palma, enjoy more of a moderating influence from the surrounding sea. But we’re only talking about a few degrees. Think warm and sunny and you won’t be far wrong. And because of the breeze, the sun’s strength can be deceptive. Sunscreen is essential in summer. And after a day at the beach, thanks to warm and balmy evenings, 'al fresco’ life can continue into the night.

It does rain occasionally though. Especially on the more mountainous islands of Tenerfife and El Hierro, cloud is more common, with drizzly rain possible, even in mid-summer. So if you’re hiking in the uplands, a waterproof is handy.

Wintertime brings a milder, less intense heat. But even in the depths of December or January, apart for the odd damp day, you can expect fine and warm weather much of the time. And with temperatures ranging from the high teens to the low 20s Celsius, the Canary Islands provide a perfect antidote to escape the winter blues back home.

Quick facts about

Canary Islands

Capital:

Currency:

Las Palmas, Santa Cruz