How to Plan a Perfect Canary Islands Elopement
How to Elope in the Canary Islands in 2025-2026
We’re Tony & Jane – a wedding and elopement photographer and videographer duo, partners in work and life, and long-time chasers of light in wild places. Over the years, we’ve helped hundreds (not kidding!) of couples ditch the traditional weddings in favor of something more intentional and personal – their Canary Islands elopement.
An elopement in the Canary Islands shouldn’t feel like just a backup plan. It’s a statement. Volcanic coastlines, black sand beaches, cloud forests, moonlike deserts – all this packed into 7 sun-soaked islands floating off the African coast.
This guide brings together everything we’ve learned shooting elopements in Tenerife, La Palma, Lanzarote, and beyond: where to go, what to know, and more pro tips from someone who has a huge experience to share!
Contact us, and let’s craft your dream day!
Why Elope in the Canary Islands?
If you’ve never stood on the edge of a volcanic cliff with salt on your skin and a sky that just keeps going, it’s hard to explain. The Canary Islands don’t just give you a backdrop – these magical islands create a special vibe for your day. They make space for something quieter, more intentional. This isn’t a place of polished villas and Pinterest-perfect altars (though you can find that too). It’s where you can get married with your feet in warm sand, surrounded by wind-sculpted rock and waves that don’t care about timelines. It’s real, and that’s why we keep coming back.
☀️ Because the Weather Says Yes
The Canaries don’t have a wedding season. With a spring-like climate all year-round, you can elope in February or September and still get that golden hour glow. Most days hover between 18–28°C, the rain is rare, and the skies stay wide open. That means more flexibility, fewer crowds, and no stressing over backup plans.
🌋 Because the Landscapes Look Unreal
Every island has its own pulse. Tenerife gives you volcano trails and ancient forests. Lanzarote looks like a minimalist painting carved in stone. La Palma? Deep green silence. Gran Canaria swings between Sahara-style dunes and alpine pines in a single afternoon. You can shape your day around what moves you—sunrise on a mountaintop, vows by the ocean, and dinner under the stars!
✈️ Because It’s Closer Than You Think
Despite feeling worlds away, the Canaries are easy to reach from just about anywhere in Europe. Direct flights from London, Berlin, Madrid, Paris – you name it. No visa stress for USA/EU/UK citizens. Once you land, you’ve got ferries and shorter flights connecting the islands, so multi-location elopements are totally doable. And can help you plan the whole thing!
💸 Because It’s Affordable, But Doesn’t Feel Cheap
This is the most shocking: you can elope in the Canary Islands on a smaller budget without giving up style or experience. Many of the most dramatic “venues” are just open nature. Vendors are talented and experienced, but don’t come with huge wedding price tags as they once eloping in Norway or drumroll…Iceland, of course! It’s possible to spend wisely and even spoil yourselves on what actually matters to you.
The Best Elopement Locations of the Canary Islands
from the most iconic spots to hidden gems
Choosing the right location for your elopement isn’t just about views—it’s about vibe. Do you want something untamed? Secluded? Windswept? Luxe-but-still-you? The Canary Islands give you a whole moodboard of unique landscapes, and the best part is… most of them are wildly under the radar, so you definitely won’t lose any part of the intimacy eloping in the Canaries.
Tenerife: The Big One
Tenerife has range. You’ve got Teide – Spain’s highest peak, towering above lava fields like you’re getting married on Mars. Then it has Anaga, with all its misty trails and Jurassic-era tropical forest. The beaches vary wildly: from golden sand in Las Teresitas to black volcanic shores in Benijo.
You can have an ocean and a volcano during your Tenerife elopement experience. You can hike, swim, stargaze, and say your vows—all in one day.
Vibe: Epic, dramatic, and versatile.
Top picks: Mount Teide (sunrises and sunsets there are unreal), Anaga Forest, and Los Gigantes.
Heads up: Teide and Anaga require permits – worth it, just buy admission ahead.
Lanzarote: Minimalist & Mars-like
This island is a lava flow and silence. Stark, open, powerful. If you’re drawn to clean lines, earthy tones, and surreal backdrops, Lanzarote might be your best European place to elope. The volcanic textures here make for an incredible contrast, perfect for modern wedding aesthetics.
Vibe: Minimal, cinematic, architectural.
Top picks: Timanfaya National Park, Famara cliffs, Playa del Papagayo.
Heads up: Sunsets hit different here – dress up in layers once eloping at Lanzarote.
La Palma: Lush, Quiet, Deep Green
La Palma is all about tropical magic and intimacy. Dense forests, hidden trails, gorges wrapped in mist. It’s quieter than the other islands, which makes it ideal if you want a totally secluded Canary Islands intimate wedding experience. Want a cherry on top?! La Palma has some of the clearest skies for stargazing in the world. Such a unique thing to do once eloping at La Palma!
Vibe: Wildly romantic, peaceful, grounded.
Top picks: Caldera de Taburiente, La Cumbrecita, Los Tilos rainforest.
Heads up: The island’s terrain is steep, so prepare decent shoes with amazing grip!
Gran Canaria: all The Landscapes
Gran Canaria throws everything at you: desert, forest, city, cliffs, beaches. It’s like five countries in one place. If you want to explore without changing islands, this is your best bet. Roque Nublo is our favorite sunrise elopement location at Gran Canaria – it’s a bit of a hike, but so worth it. One more unique location to elope at Gran Canaria is Dunas de Maspalomas – a location that feels surreal, as if you’re getting married amid the desert with golden sand.
Vibe: Adventurous, diverse, multi-look elopements.
Top picks: Maspalomas dunes, Roque Nublo, Agaete cliffs.
Heads up: The interior roads are winding—time your travel carefully.
La Gomera: Off-Grid Magic
This one takes a little extra effort to get to. You’ll definitely need a ferry. But once you’re there? It’s calm. Raw. The kind of place where you slow down without meaning to. The forests feel enchanted, and the beaches are often empty. It’s a full reset. La Gomera is the right place for completely secluded Canary Islands weddings and elopements.
Vibe: Sacred, secret, soulful.
Top picks: Garajonay National Park, Valle Gran Rey, Playa del Inglés.
Heads up: Logistics takes a bit more effort, but it’s worth every step.
Not Sure Where to ELOPE?
And you don’t have to choose just one! A lot of our couples split their elopements over 2 and even 3 (!) days and 2–3 islands. A ceremony on Teide, a day-after session in Lanzarote’s lava fields, a barefoot beach dinner on La Palma. It’s totally doable with a little planning, and we can help with that.
Dreaming About the Adventure of a Lifetime?!
Let us Help you Elope in Tenerife!
Can You Legally Elope in the Canary Islands?
Let’s get straight to it: if neither of you lives in Spain, you can’t legally marry in a civil ceremony here – not in Tenerife, not in Lanzarote, not even in Gran Canaria. Spanish law requires at least one partner to be a legal resident to register a civil marriage. That might sound like a deal-breaker, but hang tight—it really isn’t.
Symbolic VS Legal Elopements in Tenerife & Canary Islands
This is what 90% of our couples choose. You handle the legal stuff quietly back home—at your local registry office or town hall—either before or after your trip. Then you come to the Canary Islands for the real moment: your vows, your ceremony, your connection, in a setting that actually feels like you.
You’re not losing anything. You’re gaining freedom to:
- Choose any location, any time, no legal restrictions
- Skip the paperwork hassle and focus on your true intentions and experience
- Create a day that’s about you—not logistics
Symbolic ceremonies are just as meaningful as official ones. We’ve shot numerous symbolic ceremonies where the commitment and the intimacy were far deeper than some of the “legal” weddings.
Same-Sex Marriages in the Canary Islands
Same-sex marriage has been officially legal in Spain since 2005, including the Canary Islands. If one of you lives here, you can get legally married through a civil ceremony, just like any other couple. We’ve worked with many LGBTQ+ couples over the years, and their elopements and weddings in the Canary Islands were just fantastic and welcoming.
TL;DR
- Not a resident? Legal marriage = no. Symbolic ceremony = 100% yes.
- Resident of Spain or Canary Islands? Legal civil marriage is possible.
- Same-sex couples? Absolutely legal—if one of you is a resident.
When Is the Best Time for A Canary Islands Elopement?
Here’s the good news: there’s no bad season to elope in the Canary Islands. That’s not just a tourism tagline – it’s so real. The Canary Islands have some of the most consistent weather anywhere in Europe, which can be compared to Madeira, maybe. Most days sit comfortably between 18°C and 28°C (that’s 64–82°F). Rain is rare. Snow only happens up on Mount Teide—and only in winter, which honestly makes for some pretty wild contrast shots if you’re into that. You can plan an outdoor ceremony in January and still catch golden light and warm air. But depending on the kind of vibe you’re after, a few months might suit you better than others.
Spring
March-May
What it’s like: Clear skies, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. The landscapes are greener, especially in the north of Tenerife and La Palma. This is when everything feels fresh – like the islands are waking up after winter (which, to be honest, is barely a winter).
Average temps: 20–25°C (68–77°F)
Best for: Hiking, coastal spots, and couples wanting soft light without the summer heat.
Summer
June–August
What it’s like: Bright, dry, and reliably hot, especially on the lower, southern coasts. Inland and higher-elevation spots stay cooler. Sunrise and sunset are your (and our) best friends in avoiding harsh midday sun, eloping in summer months.
Average temps: 24–30°C (75–86°F) on the coasts; cooler in the highlands
Best for: Early morning or sunset wedding ceremonies, beach elopements, and couples who don’t mind a bit of heat.
Pro Tip: Go north or go high. Anaga, Teide, and inland routes stay cooler.
Fall
September–November
What it’s like: Our personal favorite time to elope in the Canary Islands. The water is warm, the light is golden, and the crowds thin out. September still feels summery, while October and November have that slow, dreamy energy that’s perfect for intimate elopements.
Average temps: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
Best for: Everything. Honestly. This is the sweet spot.
Winter
December – February
What it’s like: Like spring elsewhere. Cool mornings, warm afternoons, clear skies. You might need a jacket in the evening or at the altitude. Some of the most surreal views happen this time of year—Teide with a dusting of snow above and sun-soaked beaches below.
Average temps: 18–23°C (64–73°F) on the coast; 5–10°C (41–50°F) on mountaintops
Best for: Couples escaping cold winters at home, elopements around the holidays, and stargazing nights.
A Quick Note on Microclimates
On islands like Tenerife and Gran Canaria, the north and south can feel like different seasons. The north is much greener and cloudier. The south is drier, sunnier, and warmer. Inland areas and high altitudes (like Mt.Teide or La Palma’s summits) get cold fast once the sun drops.
Our tip: Always check the spot-specific forecast – not just the island average and layer up, even in summer.
Experience something epic!
Ready to Have Your Own Elopement adventure
in the Canary Islands?
Let’s make your dreams A reality.
Travel and Logistics Tips for Your Tenerife Elopement
Flying TO Canary Islands For your Wedding Day
Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote all have good flight options from most major European cities. If you’re heading to Tenerife, South Airport (TFS) is closest to the beaches. North Airport (TFN) is better for the forest and mountain areas.
La Palma, Fuerteventura, and El Hierro also have airports, but you’ll probably need a connection through Madrid or another Canary Island.
Getting Between Canary Islands
Ferries are easy and reliable. You can take your car if you want more freedom. Flights between islands are short and frequent, usually 30 to 45 minutes. Binter is the local airline. It’s solid, just watch baggage rules if you’ve got camera gear or a dress to carry.
Weather + Landscape
The islands can be unpredictable. It might be sunny on the coast and cloudy up in the hills. Bring layers—especially if you’re heading up Mount Teide or into the forest.
Walking to a cliff or beach in hiking clothes is one thing. Doing it in a wedding dress is another. Plan extra time. Bring water. Wear something you can move in.
Timing Is Everything
Ceremony at golden hour? Backtrack 90 minutes and plan every leg of your route. Ferry times, hiking paths, car drop-offs, bathroom breaks—it all adds up.
Build in buffer time. And never underestimate how long it takes to hike in a dress or suit.
HOW DO YOU GET AROUND DURING YOUR CAnary Islands ELOPEMENT?
Just rent a car! Most of the best elopement spots aren’t near towns or public transport. You’ll want the freedom to explore without waiting for taxis or buses.
In more remote areas, parking can be limited. Try to go early in the morning or close to sunset. And keep an eye on winding mountain roads—they take longer than they look on a map.
Our tips while driving around the islands:
- Some locations (like Mount Teide or Anaga) have tight schedules for access or limited entry after sunset.
- Parking near trailheads or photo spots can be limited.
- Automatic cars are not very common and sell out very fast. Book early if you’re not comfortable driving a manual gearbox.
- A small SUV will be a decent pick for driving hilly and often pretty narrow roads, especially in the mountain areas.
Canary Islands Wedding & Elopement Photographers
Hey, we’re Tony & Jane Iskra, your elopement photographer and videographer in the Canary Islands and Tenerife!
We’ve been capturing intimate weddings being destination elopement photographers long before they were a trend, and since 2016, we’ve documented over 300 love stories in some of the world’s most breathtaking places.
We believe the best moments happen outdoors, where nothing’s staged and everything feels real. That’s what we love most: helping couples plan their elopement days that are simple, soulful, and completely theirs.
We’d be honored to help bring your elopement at Tenerife or anywhere across the Canary Islands to life!
Kind words
more reviews
“Thank you guys so much, and I highly recommend anyone eloping or celebrating something special abroad to reach out to Iskra photography.”
Michael + Alexandra
Canary Islands Elopement Packages
Prices for our Canary and Tenerife Elopement and Wedding Packages start at 5500 Euros and depend on the amount of working time & add-ons you will choose. All of the packages include:
Prices START at €5.500
Get In Touch
If you’re looking for a elopement photographer and you connect with our work, we would love to hear from you! Please allow 48 hours for a response.
Together with Tony Iskra, they are ISKRA Photography - a husband & wife duo shooting in Iceland and beyond.
- Ponta de São Lourenço Elopement with Heartfelt Vows and the Epic Sunset in Madeira - June 22, 2025
- Fanal Forest Misty Elopement in Madeira - June 22, 2025
- How to Plan a Perfect Canary Islands Elopement - June 14, 2025
