Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África
Tenerife
The Gastronomic Heart of Santa Cruz
The Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África is much more than just a place to shop: it is the gastronomic soul of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, a space where the entire island showcases its finest products. Inaugurated in 1944, its colonial-style building with a tower and interior courtyard is reminiscent of South American markets, and it's no coincidence: Santa Cruz has always looked across the Atlantic.
The market stalls are a living catalog of Tenerife's pantry: mangoes, papayas, avocados, and Canary Islands bananas in the fruit section; fresh and aged goat and sheep cheeses in the dairy area; daily fish — viejas, samas, chernes — in the fishmongers with crushed ice; and subtropical flowers that perfume the aisles. The vendors, many of second and third generation, are the best gastronomic guides on the island.
The Sunday Flea Market and Neighborhood Life
On Sunday mornings, the market overflows its walls: a street flea market extends through the surrounding streets with stalls of antiques, vintage clothing, crafts, and organic products. The neighborhood comes alive with street musicians, families strolling, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the cafes surrounding the plaza. It's the most vibrant time of the week for the locals of Santa Cruz.
Visit between 8:00 and 12:00 to see the market in full swing. The fruit stalls offer free tastings. Don't leave without trying the artisanal cheeses from the interior of the island and a freshly squeezed tropical fruit juice. The market closes in the afternoons and on Mondays.
The Mercado de África is where Tenerife shows itself unadorned: a hive of aromas, voices, and flavors that no supermarket can ever replace.
LIVVO Tip: Go in the morning to experience the market at full activity and try freshly prepared dishes.
More to see in Tenerife
Parque Nacional del Teide
The volcanic landscape of El Teide defines the centre of the island with rock formations, lava flows and vast volcanic plains. The scenery changes with altitude, from arid zones to high mountain terrain with open views.
Roques de García
A group of volcanic formations within Parque Nacional del Teide, including the iconic Roque Cinchado. The trail allows visitors to explore this environment on foot with views of El Teide.
Parque Rural de Anaga
An area of laurel forest with trails through mountains, ravines and viewpoints. The green, misty landscape contrasts sharply with the rest of the island.
Los Gigantes Cliffs
Volcanic walls that drop vertically into the sea along the western coast. The height and scale of the cliffs are best appreciated from the water or from viewpoints.