Tenerife in March: Holy Week, the Southern Carnival and Spring

Holy Week: the island turns solemn

March brings the most moving tradition on the calendar. For Holy Week (21–28 March 2027), the UNESCO old town of La Laguna becomes a stage of candlelit processions, centuries-old brotherhoods and muffled drums — among the most beautiful in Spain. The south holds its own dramatic version, with the Passion re-enacted through the streets of Adeje by hundreds of local participants.

The southern carnival

The carnival season is not quite over. After Santa Cruz closes its fiesta at the end of February, the south throws its own relaxed Carnaval de Los Cristianos in early-to-mid March — parades, galas and the traditional burial of the sardine, all a few degrees warmer and more laid-back. The carnival guide explains how the two fiestas differ.

Spring arrives

March is when the island turns green: almonds blossom in the west, wildflowers cover the hiking trails of Anaga and the north, and the Teide cable car may still show a dusting of snow on the summit — a magical contrast with 22°C days on the coast.

Still great value

March sits neatly between winter sun and Easter crowds, which the best time to visit guide confirms. Book somewhere to stay around Holy Week early, fill the days with the things to do list, and the how many days plan still fits comfortably.