Buggy Safari Adventure 700cc

Tenerife Buggy Safari Adventure 700cc: A Balanced Taste of Adventure and Nature

If you’re looking for a way to explore Tenerife beyond the usual coastal resorts, the Buggy Safari Adventure 700cc offers a fun, relatively short escapade into the island’s varied landscapes. For around $231.52 per group, you spend about three hours behind the wheel of a 700cc Arctic buggy, cruising through Teide National Park, passing traditional Canarian villages, and enjoying some local food stops. The tour promises off-road thrills, spectacular views, and a chance to see a different side of Tenerife—away from the crowded beaches.

Two things we truly appreciate about this experience are the opportunity to drive a unique Arctic buggy—something you can’t find everywhere—and the stunning vistas of Mt. Teide and the surrounding volcanic landscape. It’s also nice that the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easier. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that some reviews mention discrepancies between the description and actual stops, plus the safety and cleanliness of the buggies. This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of driving, scenic views, and local flavor, especially those comfortable with off-road driving and willing to share the experience with a small group.

Key Points

• Adventure on four wheels: Off-road driving adds excitement to the scenic journey.
• Spectacular vistas: Views of Mt. Teide and Tenerife’s volcanic landscapes are a highlight.
• Local flavors: Stops for homemade wine and cheese give you a taste of Canarian culture.
• Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and mobile tickets simplify planning.
• Small-group experience: Up to six travelers keep the tour intimate.
• Mixed reviews: Some mention inconsistencies in stops and buggy cleanliness.

Exploring Tenerife on a Buggy: What You Can Expect

We love the idea of seeing Tenerife from a different perspective—driving through rugged terrains and traditional villages that are often missed on standard tours. The tour begins at an ecological farm, setting a tone that emphasizes nature and sustainability. From there, you’ll hop into your 700cc Arctic buggy—a vehicle that promises both a thrilling off-road experience and a comfortable ride along paved roads.

The centerpiece of the trip is the visit to Teide National Park, home to Spain’s highest peak. Here, you’ll stop at pictorial viewpoints like Mirador de Ucanca, where the panoramic views of the volcanic landscape are breathtaking. Our experience suggests the scenery here is genuinely spectacular, with vast lava fields and volcanoes stretching into the distance.

One of the main highlights is the opportunity to drive off-road, which adds a visceral sense of adventure and offers access to more secluded spots. The adrenaline rush from navigating dirt paths and uneven terrain is balanced by moments of calm as you pause to admire the astonishing scenery.

A stop at Vilaflor, a charming Canarian village, provides a glimpse into traditional island life, with narrow streets, local architecture, and a chance to stretch your legs. A later stop includes sampling homemade wine and cheese, adding a delicious local flavor to the day. However, some reviews note that not all stops match what’s advertised—one reviewer was disappointed that they only paused at a single viewpoint and didn’t get to experience the promised multiple stops or food tastings, with the buggies also being extremely dirty.

The Itinerary in Detail: What the Day Looks Like

Starting Point: Ecological Farm and Introduction

Your adventure kicks off at an ecological farm, where a local guide will brief you on the day’s plan. This is a good time to ask questions and get acquainted with your vehicle—a 700cc Arctic buggy designed for both comfort and off-road capability. The small group size (max six) ensures personalized attention, which is great for safety and to get the most out of your guide’s insights.

Scenic Drive to Mt. Teide

From here, you’ll follow winding roads towards Teide National Park. The route is peppered with stunning viewpoints—Vilaflor, for instance, is a picturesque Canarian village with traditional stone houses and a relaxed pace.

Off-Road Thrills

The off-road section is what many find most enjoyable. Expect dirt tracks that test your driving skills, and moments where you’ll feel the power of the Arctic buggy as you navigate uneven terrain. It’s a chance to get a little adrenaline on an otherwise scenic drive. One reviewer, Derek, called it a “great holiday motoring adventure” and appreciated the winding mountain roads.

Mt. Teide and National Park

The centerpiece is the volcanic landscape of Teide National Park, full of lava fields and towering peaks. Our guide described stopping at various viewpoints, capturing photos, and soaking up the breathtaking scenery. The park’s otherworldly environment is a highlight that most travelers will remember.

Cultural and Tasting Stops

You’ll visit Vilaflor, a well-preserved Canarian village that provides a break from the drive, offering a glimpse into local life. Later, there’s a stop for homemade wine and cheese, which adds a flavorful touch. These stops are intended to offer local culture and culinary delights, though at least one review suggests that the stops may be more limited than advertised.

Return and Drop-off

The tour concludes back at your starting point, with time to reflect on the impressive views and off-road moments. The hotel pickup and drop-off make transportation hassle-free, especially if you’re staying in southern Tenerife.

The Reality Versus Expectations

While the tour promises several stops for viewing, tasting, and photo opportunities, some travelers report discrepancies. For instance, one reviewer noted that the tour only stopped at one viewpoint and did not include multiple tasting or sightseeing opportunities as described. Plus, the condition of the buggies was called into question, with reports of very dirty vehicles.

That said, the guide (Michael) was praised for being very friendly and engaging, which can make or break the experience. If you value a small, intimate group and are comfortable with off-road driving, this tour could be the perfect adventure for you. However, if you’re seeking a more structured and polished experience with guaranteed multiple stops and food tastings, you might want to consider alternatives.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This buggy safari is ideal for adventure travelers who enjoy driving and want to see Tenerife from a different perspective. It’s particularly suited for those comfortable with off-road driving and keen on scenic views, especially of Mt. Teide and the volcanic landscape. If you appreciate local food and wine, and are okay with some minor inconsistencies in the itinerary, you’ll find this tour a fun and memorable slice of island life.

However, families with young children might want to check age restrictions and driving requirements, as children must be accompanied by adults. Expect a small group atmosphere, which can be both a benefit and a drawback depending on your preferences.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 3 hours, a perfect short outing if you’re pressed for time but still want a taste of Tenerife’s wild side.
• Price: At around $231.52 per group, this isn’t a bargain, but considering the included hotel pickup, guide, and use of helmets, it offers a fair value for an adventure experience.
• Meeting Point: Conveniently located in Tenerife, with easy access via public transportation or taxi.
• Weather Dependence: The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• Driving License: Required if you plan to drive. Confirm your license’s validity beforehand to avoid surprises.
• Group Size: Up to 6 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience but also means booking in advance is wise.

Final thoughts

This buggy safari offers a mix of adventure, scenic vistas, and local flavor in a compact 3-hour window. It’s perfect for those who want to get off the beaten path and enjoy some off-road driving combined with stunning views of Tenerife’s volcanic landscape. The small group size and included transportation make it convenient, and the guide’s friendliness adds a personal touch. Just be aware that some travelers have experienced less variety in stops than expected, and vehicle cleanliness may vary.

If you’re seeking a fun, active way to explore Tenerife and don’t mind a bit of unpredictability, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. It’s best suited for adventurers and nature lovers who appreciate a local, authentic experience with a touch of thrill.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are provided from southern Tenerife locations, making the experience hassle-free.

How long does the tour last? The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you enough time for driving, sightseeing, and tasting without feeling rushed.

Do I need a driving license? Yes, a valid driving license is required if you want to drive the buggy.

Can children participate? Children must be accompanied by an adult, but check specifics regarding age limits if this is a concern.

What is the group size? The tour is limited to a maximum of six travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for all weather conditions? The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

What should I bring? Bring comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor driving, and don’t forget your camera for the panoramic views.

Are the buggies comfortable? The buggies are designed for off-road capability, but some reviews mention they can be very dirty, so plan accordingly.

Is the experience value for the price? Considering the scenic views, off-road adventure, and included transportation, many find it to be a worthwhile splurge, especially if you love active outdoor pursuits.

Would I recommend this tour? Yes, especially for those looking for an active, scenic outing with a small group and a friendly guide—just keep expectations aligned with the reviews regarding stops and vehicle cleanliness.

In summary, the Buggy Safari Adventure 700cc in Tenerife offers a spirited way to see the island’s volcanic heart, with enough off-road action and cultural stops to keep most travelers satisfied. It’s perfect for those craving a blend of scenery, adventure, and local flavor, provided they’re comfortable with some unpredictability and a small-group setting.