Experience the Charm of Gran Canaria in a Classic VW Buggy
If you’re after a truly unique way to see Gran Canaria, this 70’s VW Buggy Tour offers a fantastic blend of vintage fun and breathtaking landscapes. Starting from Sunset Beach Meloneras, you’ll spend around three hours cruising along scenic roads, exploring canyons, coastal vistas, and charming villages. At just $214 per group up to two people, it’s a surprisingly good value for a memorable experience that combines sightseeing with the thrill of driving a classic vehicle.
What we particularly love about this tour is how personalized the experience feels – whether you’re behind the wheel or enjoying the ride with a guide. The vintage Volkswagen buggies aren’t just for show; they’re well-maintained and allow you to feel connected to the landscape in a way that modern buses or cars simply can’t match. Plus, the opportunity to drive on mountain roads offers a sense of adventure and freedom, making this trip stand out from typical sightseeing tours.
One point to consider is that drivers need to be over 25 and hold a valid driving license. If you don’t meet these criteria, don’t worry—your guide will happily handle the driving. Also, weather conditions can influence the tour, so it’s worth checking the forecast beforehand. This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy driving, scenery, and a touch of nostalgic flair, especially those over 25 who want a more interactive experience.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic Vintage Vehicles: Ride in well-maintained 1970s Volkswagen buggies that add charm and character to your adventure.
- Stunning Scenery: Expect views over Arguineguin, the coast, and the Maspalomas lighthouse, along with canyon drives and mountain panoramas.
- Personalized Experience: If you’re over 25 and licensed, you can drive your own buggy, making the trip more engaging.
- Expert Guides: Guides like Philippe are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and care, enhancing the experience.
- Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel free up to 24 hours in advance—ideal for flexible travel plans.
- Family Friendly: Suitable for travelers over 6 years old, but note that drivers must be over 25.
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A Detailed Look at the VW Buggy Tour
Starting Point: Sunset Beach Meloneras
The journey kicks off at Sunset Beach Meloneras, a popular resort area known for its relaxed vibe and scenic coastline. The starting location is convenient for most travelers staying in the southern part of the island. It’s a good place to gather, get familiar with your vehicle, and meet your guide before heading out into the landscape.
The Breathtaking Coastal and Mountain Routes
From the outset, the tour promises a mix of coastal views and mountain roads. You’ll pass through beautiful spots like Maspalomas, famous for its sand dunes and lighthouse, which you’ll catch glimpses of in the distance. The scenery is frequently described as “fabulous” and “remarkable,” and the open-top buggies add a real sense of freedom and wind-in-the-hair fun.
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Your stops are carefully chosen to maximize the visual and cultural experience. You’ll have several photo opportunities, with many reviews mentioning “Instagram-worthy shots.” One highlight is a stop at a quaint Canarian village, where your guide offers a complimentary beverage—a perfect moment to relax and soak in the local atmosphere. The Maspalomas lighthouse and views of the coast are often singled out as unforgettable sights.
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Mountain Drive and Refreshments
Many reviewers rave about the mountain roads, which are challenging but exhilarating, especially for those who enjoy a spirited drive. One guest noted, “We arrived at the top to be welcomed by a great taverna and stopped for some light refreshments.” These stops aren’t just scenic—they help break up the drive and give you a chance to chat with your guide and fellow travelers.
Who Drives? And What About the Cars?
If you’re over 25 with a driver’s license, you can take the wheel—an experience that many reviews describe as “fun,” “memorable,” and “a highlight of the trip.” For those not meeting these criteria, the guide will drive you, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy the views and the adventure. The cars are classic, but well-maintained, and the open design makes the whole trip feel like a breath of fresh air.
The Guide and Overall Experience
Guides like Philippe receive high praise for their friendliness, local knowledge, and flexibility. Many guests mention how they appreciated their guide’s effort to make the day special, from offering free transport to sharing insights about the island. This personal touch turns a scenic drive into a memorable journey.
Duration, Cost, and Practical Details
At three hours, the tour is long enough to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The $214 price includes the rental of the buggy and a complimentary drink—considered good value given the personalized nature of the experience. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and you’ll need to bring your driver’s license if you plan to drive.
Weather and Booking Tips
The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions, so check the forecast before booking. Flexible booking is offered, with full cancellation allowed up to 24 hours in advance, which is handy if your plans change unexpectedly.
Why This Experience Works for Travelers
This buggy tour appeals most to adventurous travelers who love driving and are eager to see the island from a different perspective. It’s especially suitable for those seeking a more personalized, fun, and memorable way to explore Gran Canaria’s natural beauty. The combination of scenic stops, knowledgeable guides, and vintage cars ensures that you’ll leave with plenty of photos, stories, and good vibes.
It’s also an excellent choice for couples or small groups wanting an intimate experience rather than a crowded bus tour. The driver’s license requirement means that some travelers may need to be in their late 20s or older, but for those who qualify, the chance to drive a classic VW is worth it.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For the price, this tour delivers a highly personalized, scenic, and fun experience. The vintage VW buggies are the real star, offering both charm and a sense of adventure that modern vehicles can’t match. The guides’ friendly approach and impressive knowledge make the trip more than just a drive—they turn it into a storytelling journey.
If you’re someone who appreciates off-the-beaten-path experiences, loves classic cars, or simply wants a different way to see Gran Canaria, this tour hits the mark. The mix of stunning vistas, charming stops, and the thrill of driving makes it a highlight for many visitors.
However, if you’re not comfortable with mountain driving, or if you prefer a more relaxed, less interactive sightseeing style, you might find this too adventurous. Also, ensure you meet the age and license requirements beforehand.
This VW Buggy tour provides a fun, scenic, and culturally authentic slice of Gran Canaria, ideal for those seeking memorable stories and fantastic photos.
FAQs
Do I need a driver’s license to participate?
Yes. To drive the buggy yourself, you must be over 25 and hold a valid driver’s license. If not, the guide will drive you.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Children over 6 years old can join, but they can’t drive. It’s best suited for families with older kids or adults.
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including stops for photos and refreshments.
What is included in the price?
The price covers the 3-hour excursion, the rental of the vintage buggy, and a complimentary beverage (coffee, tea, soda, or water).
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.
What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license if you plan to drive. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor driving, and don’t forget sunglasses or sunscreen.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.
What about the weather?
The tour depends on good weather conditions. Check the forecast and be prepared for possible changes in plans.
Are there any hidden costs?
No. The listed price includes everything needed for the tour, plus the included beverage.
This 70’s VW Buggy Tour offers a delightful way to combine scenic beauty, nostalgic charm, and a dash of adventure. Whether you drive or ride along, you’ll leave with a collection of memorable views, stories, and a deeper appreciation for the natural splendor of Gran Canaria.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Gran Canaria
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