Because nobody wants their Canary Islands holiday ruined by a trip to A&E
Right, let’s talk about something that’s not exactly the most glamorous part of planning your Tenerife getaway, but honestly? It’s probably one of the most important things you’ll read before you go.
I’ve spent years watching tourists stumble into pharmacies looking like lobsters, or worse, ending up in hospital because they thought they were invincible under that gorgeous Atlantic sun. Trust me, a bit of preparation goes a long way when you’re 1,300 miles from your GP.
The Tenerife Sun: Beautiful but Brutal
Here’s the thing about Tenerife’s sun that catches everyone off guard. You’re sitting at roughly 28°N latitude, which means you’re getting some seriously intense UV rays year-round. Add in the fact that you’re on an island surrounded by reflective water, and suddenly that “gentle” winter sunshine can leave you looking like a beetroot.
I learned this the hard way during my first visit. February in Tenerife felt lovely and mild compared to the grey drizzle back home, so naturally, I thought I could skip the factor 50. Big mistake. Huge.
Your sun safety essentials:
- Factor 30 minimum, but honestly, go for 50
- Reapply every two hours, no exceptions
- Seek shade between 11am and 3pm
- Wear a proper hat (not just a baseball cap)
- Don’t forget your feet, ears, and the back of your neck
The locals will tell you that even they’re careful during the midday hours. If people who live here year-round are taking precautions, you definitely should be too.
Finding Medical Help When You Need It
Pharmacies: Your First Port of Call
Spanish pharmacies (farmacias) are absolute lifesavers, and thankfully, they’re everywhere in Tenerife. Look for the green cross sign, and you’ll find knowledgeable pharmacists who can help with everything from sunburn relief to upset stomachs.
Most pharmacists speak at least basic English, especially in tourist areas like Playa de las Américas or Puerto de la Cruz. They can provide over-the-counter medications and often give brilliant advice about minor ailments.
What you can get without prescription:
- Ibuprofen and paracetamol (though brands might be different)
- Antihistamines for allergic reactions
- Rehydration salts
- After-sun lotions and burn treatments
- Basic first aid supplies
Pro tip: Download a translation app before you go. Being able to show a pharmacist exactly what’s wrong can save you a lot of pointing and charades.
When to Head to Hospital
Tenerife has excellent healthcare facilities, but knowing when to use them can save you time and stress. The island has several hospitals, with Hospital Universitario Nuestra Señora de Candelaria being the main public hospital.
Go to A&E (Urgencias) if you have:
- Severe sunburn with blistering or fever
- Signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke
- Serious injuries from activities or accidents
- Chest pain or breathing difficulties
- Severe allergic reactions
For less urgent issues, there are numerous private clinics throughout the island that cater specifically to tourists. Yes, you’ll pay more, but you’ll likely be seen faster and the staff will definitely speak English.
Travel Insurance: Don’t Even Think About Skipping It
I cannot stress this enough: get travel insurance. Proper travel insurance. Not just the basic cover that comes with your bank account.
Medical treatment in Spain can be expensive for non-EU residents, and even with an EHIC or GHIC card, you might face charges for certain treatments or medications. A comprehensive travel insurance policy should cover:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Repatriation if needed
- Lost or stolen medication
- Activity-related injuries (if you’re planning on hiking or water sports)
The NHS website has excellent information about using your GHIC card abroad, but remember, it’s not a substitute for proper travel insurance.
Staying Hydrated: More Important Than You Think
Dehydration sneaks up on you in Tenerife. The combination of sun, sea air, and probably a few more sangrias than usual can leave you feeling rough pretty quickly.
Signs you’re not drinking enough:
- Headaches (often mistaken for hangovers)
- Dizziness when standing up
- Dark yellow urine
- Feeling unusually tired
Carry water with you everywhere. I mean it. Those little bottles from the hotel minibar aren’t going to cut it when you’re hiking in Teide National Park or spending the day at the beach.
Food and Water Safety
The tap water in Tenerife is generally safe to drink, though it might taste a bit different due to the desalination process. Most hotels provide bottled water, and it’s readily available everywhere.
When it comes to food, use common sense. Tourist areas have high standards, but if you’re venturing off the beaten track:
- Choose busy restaurants with high turnover
- Be cautious with seafood in very hot weather
- Stick to bottled water for ice in drinks
- Fresh fruit you can peel yourself is usually fine
Activity Safety: Adventures with Precautions
Tenerife’s landscape is stunning but can be challenging. Whether you’re hiking Mount Teide, exploring the Anaga Mountains, or trying water sports, a few precautions can prevent accidents.
For hiking:
- Tell someone your planned route
- Start early to avoid midday heat
- Carry more water than you think you need
- Wear proper footwear (flip-flops don’t count)
- Check weather conditions, especially at altitude
For water activities:
- Only swim at lifeguarded beaches
- Respect red flag warnings
- Be aware of strong currents, especially on the north coast
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life
Emergency Numbers You Need to Know
Keep these numbers saved in your phone:
- 112: General emergency number (police, fire, ambulance)
- 061: Medical emergencies
- 062: Guardia Civil (rural police)
The operators speak multiple languages, including English, so don’t worry about the language barrier in genuine emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need vaccinations for Tenerife? No special vaccinations are required for Tenerife. It’s part of Spain and the EU, so standard UK vaccinations are sufficient.
Can I get my regular medication in Tenerife? Bring enough for your entire trip plus a few extra days. While many medications are available, they might have different names or require a prescription from a Spanish doctor.
What if I lose my EHIC/GHIC card? You can apply for a temporary replacement certificate online through the NHS website, but this takes time. Travel insurance is still essential.
Are there any dangerous animals or insects? Tenerife is remarkably safe in terms of wildlife. No dangerous snakes, spiders, or insects to worry about. The biggest risk is probably jellyfish in the water during certain times of year.
A Final Thought
Look, I’m not trying to scare you off your Tenerife holiday. The island is genuinely one of the safest destinations you could choose, with excellent healthcare and infrastructure. But a little preparation and common sense can make the difference between a holiday you’ll treasure forever and one you’d rather forget.
Pack that sun cream, get your insurance sorted, and then go enjoy everything this incredible island has to offer. Just remember to drink water between those piña coladas, yeah?
Safe travels, and don’t forget to send me a postcard from the beach while I’m stuck here in the rain!
