Tenerife Private Tour: Full-Day Volcanic South

Discover Tenerife’s Volcanic South in a Private Day Tour

This full-day adventure in South Tenerife takes you through some of the island’s most captivating volcanic landscapes. For a price of $854 per group (up to 2 people), you’ll enjoy a personalized experience led by a local guide, traveling in a sleek, environmentally friendly Mercedes electric van. The tour lasts around 8 hours, offering plenty of opportunities to see Tenerife’s hidden volcanic gems, learn about its fiery origins, and savor some authentic local views.

What makes this experience especially appealing is the chance to explore away from the crowds, with stops at lesser-known volcanic sites and charming villages like Arico Nuevo. Plus, the driver-guide ensures a smooth, informative journey with plenty of interesting commentary. We love the fact that this private tour offers a flexible, intimate setting—perfect for couples or small groups eager for an in-depth, customized day.

On the downside, it doesn’t include entrance tickets to attractions like museums or the Teide cable car, so you’ll need to plan for those separately if interested. Also, the tour involves a lot of driving and walking on uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with active exploration.

If you’re keen on understanding the volcanic history of Tenerife, enjoy small-group intimacy, and love discovering scenic, off-the-beaten-path locations, this tour would suit you perfectly. It’s especially ideal if you want a knowledgeable guide to bring the island’s volcanic stories to life.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private group with a dedicated, expert guide, ensuring a tailored and intimate day.
• Volcanic Landscapes: Explore over 90 volcanic formations, including lava fields and striking craters.
• Authentic Villages: Visit local spots like Arico Nuevo and enjoy scenic stops that reveal Tenerife’s cultural roots.
• Stunning Views: Drive through Teide National Park with vistas of Spain’s highest peak and volcanic scenery.
• Flexible Itinerary: Multiple stops for photos, guided tours, and free time, allowing for a relaxed pace.
• Eco-friendly Transport: Travel in a luxury electric van, minimizing your carbon footprint while enjoying comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Tenerife Private Full-Day Volcano Tour

Getting Started: The Pickup & Electric Van Experience

Your day begins with a pickup from your accommodation or designated meeting point, depending on where you stay in Tenerife. The tour uses a luxury electric Mercedes van, which is a real plus for eco-conscious travelers wanting comfort without emissions. The quiet, smooth ride sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead. It’s nice to know that the transport is private, meaning no crowded buses or large groups—just your small group and your guide.

Why this matters: The electric vehicle offers a serene journey, making the scenic drives even more enjoyable. Plus, the private setup allows your guide to tailor the experience to your interests, which many travelers find adds value that large tours can’t match.

First Stop: Exploring the Volcanic Origins at Arico Nuevo

After about 40 minutes in the electric van, you arrive at Arico Nuevo, a small, charming village where volcanic activity has left visible marks. Here, your guide will take you on a short walk, sharing insights about how millions of years of eruptions shaped Tenerife’s landscape.

We loved the way the traditional houses, with their volcanic stone walls and bright colors, tell stories of powerful eruptions. The landscape’s unusual hues—reds, browns, and black—are a testament to the island’s fiery past. As one reviewer noted, “the volcanic rocks create a spectacular landscape,” and you’ll see that firsthand.

Next Stop: Ensenada Pelada & Montaña Roja

Driving nearby, you’ll visit the dramatic formations of Ensenada Pelada and Montaña Roja, volcanic cones that contrast sharply against the clear coast. These are some of the most striking sights, where the vibrant colors of the lava flows and ash deposits create a photographer’s paradise. Expect quick stops for photos and short walks to appreciate the scale and detail of these formations.

Travelers often comment on how these stops are “far from the crowds,” offering a peaceful and authentic experience of Tenerife’s volcanic landscape. Be prepared for some uneven terrain if you choose to walk closer to the formations.

Panoramic Views & Endemic Flora

The tour continues through Arona, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of more than 90 volcanic formations. Your guide will point out endemic plants that have adapted to the harsh volcanic environment. It’s fascinating to see how life persists and even thrives in such seemingly inhospitable areas—something we found particularly inspiring.

Drive Through Teide National Park

The highlight for many is the drive through Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to Spain’s highest mountain, Mount Teide. While the tour doesn’t include the cable car, the panoramic views of the volcano’s crater and surrounding lava fields are breathtaking. As one review mentions, “a great introduction to the volcanic past of the island,” and the scenery here is truly otherworldly.

Authentic Villages & Hidden Gems

Stops at villages like San Miguel de Abona and Vilaflor provide a glimpse into local life and traditions. Expect scenic views, quaint streets, and perhaps a chance to sample local pastries or enjoy some free time. One reviewer loved the “stunning landscapes with hidden places,” which gives you a sense of the tour’s depth beyond just volcanic sites.

Flexibility & Personal Touch

Throughout the day, multiple short stops allow for photos, guided explanations, or just soaking in the view. The tour’s itinerary is flexible enough to give you time to explore or relax, making it a perfect way to customize your experience. Plus, the guide’s knowledge shines through—many reviews mention “a fantastic, helpful guide” who knows the island’s volcanic secrets.

Cost & Value Consideration

While $854 might seem steep for just two people, the private nature, luxury transport, and personalized guide make the experience highly valuable. It’s a comprehensive way to learn about Tenerife’s volcanic history, see remote landscapes, and enjoy the comfort of your own vehicle. If you compare this to larger group tours or self-driving, the price reflects the intimacy and expert guidance provided.

Final Stop & Drop-off

The tour wraps up with a scenic drive back, dropping you off at one of 22 different locations across Tenerife. This flexibility means you can easily continue exploring or head back relaxed after a full day of discovery.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private tour appeals most to travelers who appreciate customized experiences and want to learn about Tenerife’s volcanic origins from a knowledgeable local. It’s ideal for small groups or couples eager for an intimate, distraction-free exploration. If you’re interested in off-the-beaten-path sites and enjoy scenic drives with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour hits the mark.

It’s also well-suited for those who value sustainable travel, given the electric vehicle, and for anyone eager to see the diverse volcanic forms that have shaped the island’s landscape. Keep in mind, it’s not designed for those with mobility issues or those seeking a leisurely, museum-style visit—this is about active exploration amidst nature’s powerful displays.

Food and cultural stops are limited, so if local cuisine or cultural experiences are a top priority, plan to dine separately. But for genuine scenic beauty, volcanic geology, and a highly personalized experience, this tour delivers.

FAQ Section

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the tour uses a private, luxury electric Mercedes van, providing a comfortable and eco-friendly way to travel around Tenerife’s volcanic sites.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the route is set, the multiple stops for photos, guided tours, and free time give you some flexibility to focus on areas of particular interest.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour is not recommended for people with mobility impairments, as some stops involve walking on uneven terrain.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a jacket, and a small backpack for personal belongings are advisable, especially since Tenerife’s microclimates can vary.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there will be free time during the day to enjoy a meal at your own expense.

Can I join if I’m traveling solo?
The experience is designed for private groups, so if you’re solo, you can book the tour, but the price remains per group, not per person.

Does the tour include visits to Mount Teide’s cable car?
No, the tour does not include the cable car or time for that activity; it focuses on the volcanic landscape and scenic drives.

Final Thoughts

This private full-day tour of Tenerife’s volcanic south offers a rare chance to see some of the island’s most stunning geological features in a relaxed, personalized setting. From the colorful lava fields and dramatic cones to the quiet villages and scenic national park drives, it’s a comprehensive way to connect with Tenerife’s fiery heart. The knowledgeable guide and eco-friendly transport make it a responsible choice that doesn’t compromise on comfort or insight.

If you’re a traveler who loves nature, authentic landscapes, and learning from a local expert, this tour provides a rich, immersive experience that’s hard to beat. It’s especially great if you want to escape touristy crowds and discover the island’s hidden volcanic treasures at your own pace.

Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, a couple seeking a special day out, or simply someone eager to see Tenerife’s rugged beauty, this tour promises a memorable adventure rooted in the island’s volcanic soul.