Tenerife: Coastal tour in a Jeep Wrangler to Los Gigantes and the South Coast

Tenerife: Coastal tour in a Jeep Wrangler to Los Gigantes and the South Coast

If you’re craving a mix of adventure, scenic views, and authentic fun on Tenerife, this self-drive Jeep tour is worth considering. For around $259, you get to take the wheel of a classic Jeep Wrangler—a manual transmission beast—along the rugged south coast, visiting the iconic Cliffs of Los Gigantes and ending with a refreshing dip in the ocean at Balito beach. It’s a small-group experience, with up to 4 people per vehicle, which makes for a personalized and lively outing.

What we love about this experience is how flexible and engaging it is: you’re not just a passenger; you’re the driver, navigating scenic routes at your own pace. Plus, the inclusion of professional photos and a local guide who shares interesting anecdotes adds a layer of authenticity and local flavor that’s hard to beat. The chance to enjoy cold drinks and snacks along the way makes it feel relaxed, making this an ideal escape from the busier, more structured tours.

A potential consideration is the driver’s license requirement—you must be at least 21 years old with a valid license held for at least two years, which might limit some travelers. Also, since the tour involves driving on tracks and asphalt, those expecting a purely scenic bus trip might find the self-driving aspect a bit more demanding than a typical sightseeing excursion.

This tour fits best for adventure-seeking travelers, small groups or families comfortable with manual gear, and anyone eager to see Tenerife’s volcanic landscapes and coastline from a new perspective. If you enjoy driving, exploring off-the-beaten-path spots, and a touch of spontaneity, this will suit you perfectly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Self-Drive Freedom: You get to control your own adventure in a classic Jeep Wrangler.
• Iconic Spots Visited: Cliffs of Los Gigantes and a seaside swim at Balito.
• Inclusive Experience: Cold drinks, snacks, professional photos, and local stories included.
• Limited Group Size: Up to 4 people per vehicle for a personal touch.
• Flexible Booking: Book now, pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Driver Requirements: Must be 21+, with a valid physical driver’s license held for at least 2 years.

In-Depth Review of the Tenerife Jeep Coastal Tour

Starting Point and Vehicle Experience

From the moment we saw the authentic Jeep Wrangler, we knew this was going to be more than just a sightseeing bus ride. Driving a manual transmission vehicle ourselves, we felt a genuine sense of freedom that many organized tours don’t offer. The Jeep, with its rugged charm, feels well-suited for exploring Tenerife’s varied terrain—from smooth asphalt roads to dirt tracks that wind through volcanic landscapes.

The group size—no more than 4 per vehicle—keeps things intimate and lively. The driver must be at least 21 with a valid license, which ensures safety and legal compliance. If you’re traveling with friends or family who also want to drive, you can reserve extra vehicles, but do note that each driver requires their own license and reservation.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at Unit 13 B, where you’ll meet your guide (whose local stories and anecdotes add color to the experience). Once behind the wheel, your route takes you along the south coast, famous for its volcanic scenery, banana plantations, and hidden coves.

Your first major stop is the Cliffs of Los Gigantes. These towering sea cliffs, rising up to 600 meters, are a breathtaking sight—an impressive display of nature’s power. You can marvel at their rugged formation, often casting dramatic shadows as the sun moves across the sky. We loved the way our guide shared stories about the formation of these cliffs, helping us appreciate their geological history.

After soaking in the views and snapping plenty of photos (professional photos are included), your journey continues towards Balito beach. Here, you get a break from the vehicle, with the option to dip in the sea. The water is welcoming and clear, perfect for a quick refresh after the drive. It’s a great spot for leisure and relaxing, with the added bonus of being less crowded than some other beaches.

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Highlights and Experiences

What makes this tour stand out is how it combines adventure and relaxation. Driving along coastal roads reveals Tenerife’s volcano-shaped landscapes, dotted with green patches of banana trees and rocky outcrops. We appreciated the local anecdotes shared by our guide, which gave us a richer understanding of the island’s history and geography. For example, we learned about the volcanic activity that shaped the terrain and the island’s agricultural traditions.

The photos taken during the trip are high quality and serve as memorable keepsakes. Knowing these are included gives you one less thing to worry about during the busy day.

The snacks and drinks are simple but thoughtful—fresh sandwiches and soft drinks—that keep you energized without breaking the bank. It’s these small touches that enhance the experience, making it feel less like a tour and more like a day out with friends.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts around several hours, which balances sightseeing with ample time for stops, swimming, and photo opportunities. Booking is straightforward, and the option to reserve and pay later adds flexibility, especially if plans change.

The cost of $259 per group (up to 2 people) is reasonable when you consider the included vehicle, guide, photos, snacks, and insurance. If you’re traveling with more than two in your group, an extra fee applies per additional passenger, which still makes it a good value considering the personalized experience.

Since the tour involves driving on tracks and asphalt roads, it’s best suited for those comfortable with manual cars and who enjoy a bit of driving. The requirement for a valid physical driver’s license and age limit might exclude some travelers, but it guarantees safety and proper licensing.

Authenticity and Personal Touches

Our reviewer, Vanesa, raved about the experience: “La actividad está genial para ver una buena parte del sur de la isla de una manera diferente.” She appreciated the off-road routes and volcanic landscapes, mentioning how Piero, the guide, made the experience memorable. The small group setting allows for more personalized interactions and genuine stories, making it feel less like a tourist trap.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience will appeal most to adventure travelers who like to take control of their journey, enjoy off-road driving, and prefer a personalized atmosphere. It’s perfect for small groups or families with older children who are comfortable behind the wheel. If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic drive with a bit of thrill and local insight, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Tenerife coastal Jeep tour offers an engaging blend of scenic driving, local storytelling, and refreshing sea swims in an intimate setting. The opportunity to drive your own vehicle and customize your stops makes it stand out among typical sightseeing options. The inclusion of professional photos and snacks enhances the overall value, making it a worthwhile choice for those who crave a bit of adventure with their sightseeing.

While it’s best suited for drivers over 21 with a valid license and travelers comfortable with manual transmission, the experience rewards those looking for authentic exploration beyond the usual bus routes. If you enjoy off-road drives, coastal views, and small-group intimacy, this tour offers a memorable way to discover Tenerife’s south coast.

In short, it’s a fun, flexible, and personalized adventure that provides a fresh perspective on the island’s landscapes and coastline—ideal for those seeking a mix of exploration and relaxation.

FAQ

Do I need a special license to drive the Jeep?
Yes, you must have a valid physical driver’s license that’s at least 2 years old and be over 21. Temporary or digital licenses are not accepted.

Can I bring more than two people in the vehicle?
Yes, but additional passengers require an extra fee per person. The base price covers up to 2 people, and larger groups need to reserve extra vehicles or pay extra per passenger.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best for travelers over 2 years old. Children should also have their own ID or passport, and anyone under 2 might not be suitable due to safety considerations.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID, driver’s license, and any necessary items for swimming. Wear comfortable clothing, and note that high heels, flip-flops, and large luggage are not permitted.

Are there any restrictions on what I can wear?
Yes, avoid high-heeled shoes, sandals, shorts, short skirts, and any other prohibited items listed in the terms. Also, smoking, alcohol, and drugs are strictly forbidden.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the Jeep Wrangler, professional guide, photos, snacks, insurance, and jackets if needed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case your plans change.

Is this tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, the tour is offered in Spanish, Italian,, and English, accommodating diverse travelers.

This self-driven Jeep adventure in Tenerife combines scenic beauty, personal exploration, and small-group intimacy—a fantastic way to see the island with a sense of freedom and fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: