Swimming with dolphins is not an activity commonly associated with European vacations, even in the waters off the coast. While dolphins are not common in the cooler northern waters, the warmer currents around Spain's Canary Islands provide the ideal habitat. Although many tour companies offer sighting tours, it is illegal in the Canary Islands to swim with wild dolphins. To stay within the law and experience the exhilaration of swimming with dolphins, head to the Aqualand marine park.

Step 1 Plan your vacation itinerary in advance to include the Aqualand marine wildlife park in Tenerife. Although Aqualand has locations in Tenerife and Gran Canaria, the park in Tenerife is the only one that offers the chance to swim with dolphins. Book at least three days in Tenerife to allow flexibility when scheduling a dolphin swim.

Step 2 Call the Aqualand park in advance to schedule a Dolphin Training tour, especially if you are traveling during the summer or over a holiday. The swims happen during training sessions and have limited availability, so booking in advance increases your chances of securing a spot. If you do not speak Spanish, ask a fluent speaker to call on your behalf to ensure that you get all of the details. Have your credit card ready when you call to pay for the ticket.

Step 3 Visit Aqualand in person to inquire about open dolphin swims if you are booking after you get to Tenerife. If you do not have time, ask your hotel's front desk staff to make arrangements; many hotels in Tenerife employ English speakers to accommodate international travelers.

Step 4 Wear a swimsuit that will not come off easily when you are pulled through the water, and bring a bag to hold your belongings; you can leave the bag in a locker while you swim. Bring a camera to give to a staff member or friend to photograph your adventure.

Step 5 Arrive at Aqualand at least 30 minutes in advance; buy a general admission ticket and a dolphin show ticket and head to the Dolphinarium to check in for the Dolphin Training tour. Find the guide and be the first to volunteer to swim with the dolphins during the show. Dolphin swims happen during the public dolphin show, and only a few people are chosen.

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