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Canary Islands |
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Introduction |
The canary islands are the tips of volcanoes that were pushed up from the Atlantic Ocean sea bed over 20 million years ago. They are located to the West of Morocco in Saharan Africa and span a total area of 7447 square kilometers. There are seven major islands, starting from the East these are, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, La Gomera, La Palma and El Hierro.
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The first of the Canary Islands, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, were formed approximately 20 million years ago by volcanic eruptions. Next, at about 12 million years came Gran Canaria followed by Tenerife and La Gomera. Relatively youngsters, at about two to three million years ago were La Palma and El Hierro. |
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Although part of the same volcanic group, the islands differ greatly in character. Fuerteventura and Lanzarote in the East are very dry and arid and almost lacking in colour due to the lack of vegetation. Were it not for the fact that it is an island, Lanzarote would be considered part of the Sahara. La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro in the West are lush and green, largely covered in deep ancient forests. |
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Hot winds from the Sahara ensure that the islands enjoy a warm climate all year round with temperatures averaging 18°c in the winter and 24°c in the summer. Combined with some superb beaches, entertainments and water sports the Canary Islands make the perfect holiday destination. |
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