The Orotava continues to be one of the most perfect locations to celebrate Christmas: to shop, wander through its streets, savour the delectable local cuisine, admire the historical and artistic heritage, and the vast array of cultural and recreational offerings available during this festive season. Moreover, for many, it is regarded as the most stunning nativity scene route in Tenerife and perhaps even across the Canary Islands, with visits forming a unique experience that has become a cherished tradition over time, drawing both locals and tourists alike.
This year marks its seventeenth edition, featuring 28 nativity scenes distributed across the municipality in various homes, squares, and both public and private establishments. The Taoro Bethlehem Association, in partnership with the local council, has produced a brochure containing details on each nativity scene, including schedules, locations on the map, suggested itineraries, and a section for stamping participation to enter a raffle for various prizes. To qualify, at least four nativity scenes must be visited and stamped, as indicated in the brochure, which is available both in print at designated points along the route and for download on the internet at laorotava.es.
To enhance the visitor experience, the Bethlehem Association has organised several routes. For schoolchildren, there is a programme titled “Beleneando through La Orotava”, expecting participation from 1,500 students across educational institutions island-wide. In collaboration with Be-canary Slow & Sustainable Tourism, guided tours are set to take place under the name “The road that leads to Bethlehem”, showcasing the iconic nativity scenes in the historic centre. This guided tour is available from December 2 to January 2, occurring on Mondays in Spanish – German, and on Thursdays in Spanish – English at 5:00 p.m. Lasting 2.5 hours, it provides participants with insights into the secrets and details of the La Orotava nativity scenes, ranging from biblical episodes to everyday life portrayals. The price for this activity is 10 euros for adults, while children can enjoy a 40% discount. Furthermore, guided tours are also accessible for associations and groups at reduced rates based on group size, encouraging the involvement of local communities. Reservations can be made via their website: https://tours.be-canary.com.
For those keen to explore nativity scenes located beyond the central area, which tend to be less frequented, a route has been organised in association with the “El Tesoro de la Concepción” Museum Collection, titled “By bus to Bethlehem”. These tours will take place on December 13, 16, 18, and 20 at 6:00 p.m., with a price of 10 euros, and registration can be made via WhatsApp at 670058009. Additionally, a night route is planned for mid-December to visit the nativity scenes scattered throughout the town. All routes will be led by professional guides, and it is anticipated that over 50,000 individuals will take part in the XVII Nativity Scene Route.
The La Orotava nativity scenes, altruistically constructed each year by various locals, are notable for their diversity and cultural richness. Some emulate a Hebrew style, while others depict landscapes and traditional scenes from the Canary Islands. Among the collection, there are also unique creations, such as an innovative nativity scene constructed with Playmobil figures, which introduces a contemporary and playful element to this time-honoured tradition.
The mayor of Orotava, Francisco Linares García, acknowledges the “extraordinary work” undertaken by the local nativity scene makers over several months, resulting in “genuine works of art.” This effort holds immense value, deserving appreciation for the substantial time they dedicate voluntarily to provide the community with this enjoyable experience.
Linares also emphasises the contribution of the Taoro Bethlehem Association “for its remarkable efforts in revitalising this tradition at a time when it was fading and for successfully curating a route of such significance.”
Established in 2008, the Taoro Villa de La Orotava Bethlehem Association comprises over 70 members, including individuals, associations, and businesses. Their goal is to preserve, care for, and promote the tradition of setting up nativity scenes each Christmas, and they carry out various annual activities, including nativity scene workshops.
