Half Day Family Buggy Teide Nacional Park Morning or Sunset

Exploring Tenerife with a Buggy: An Adventure for the Whole Family

If you’re craving a taste of adventure combined with breathtaking scenery, this Half Day Family Buggy Teide National Park tour offers a unique way to see some of Tenerife’s most iconic spots. For about $405.35 per group (up to four people), you get roughly 3 to 4 hours of driving fun in new, high-quality buggies that reach up to 2200 meters above sea level. The tour includes hotel pickups from Los Cristianos and Playa San Juan, beverages, pizza, and all the gear needed to stay comfortable and safe.

One of the standout features is the up-close experience with Tenerife’s volcanic landscape—it’s not just a drive through a park but a chance to feel the terrain under you, with gloves, jackets, and eye masks provided. Plus, the stunning viewpoints and informative guide commentary help you appreciate the island’s volcanic history and natural beauty. It’s perfect for families who enjoy a bit of thrill and want to explore off the beaten path.

However, there are some considerations. The cost might seem high for what’s essentially a sightseeing drive, especially if expectations for a more comprehensive or immersive experience aren’t met. As some reviews point out, the organization can be a bit lacking, and the stops are quite brief. This tour suits travelers who prioritize scenic views, fun driving, and light educational content over long, detailed excursions.

If you’re looking for an active, memorable outing that combines off-road fun with spectacular vistas, this tour could be just right. It’s especially appealing for families or groups who want to share an adventure, enjoy photos at iconic viewpoints, and taste local pizza after some exhilarating driving.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The tour offers panoramic vistas of La Gomera, Pico Viejo, and Mount Teide.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for groups, with all gear included and options for pickup.
• Short but Scenic: Focuses on three main stops, each about 30 minutes, providing quick, impactful sightseeing.
• Informative Guides: Guides share local history and volcanic facts, enriching the experience.
• Price vs. Value: The cost may seem high for some, given the limited duration and organization issues noted in reviews.
• Good for Photographers: The stops at viewpoints provide excellent photo opportunities.

The Full Experience: What’s It Really Like?

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at Avenida Isora 38680 in Guía de Isora, with free pickup from Los Cristianos and Playa San Juan. Additional pickup options are available for a fee, making it convenient for visitors staying in those areas. The private transportation ensures a relaxed start, and the group size is limited to 20, which helps keep things personalized.

The Buggies and Equipment

You’ll be driving brand-new buggies—the best on the market—reaching impressive heights of 2200 meters. The gear supplied includes gloves, jackets, and eye masks, which are especially useful if you’re sensitive to wind or dust. The driver must have a valid driving license and wear closed shoes—a small but important detail for safety.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Mirador de los Poleos
This highland viewpoint is a hidden gem with views stretching toward La Gomera, and on clear days, you might catch El Hierro or La Palma on the horizon. As one review states, the view of the Atlantic and the surrounding volcanic terrain create a calming yet awe-inspiring atmosphere. The brief hour-long stop is perfect for snapping photos and taking in the crisp mountain air.

Stop 2: Pico Viejo
This dramatic volcanic crater played a role in Tenerife’s volcanic history, erupting in 1798. The landscape here is striking, with layers of solidified lava and vivid red, black, and ochre hues. From the viewpoint, you’ll get sweeping panoramas of the Teide National Park and the coast beyond. As one traveler noted, the views tell a story of the island’s fiery past and geological beauty.

Stop 3: Mount Teide
The towering highest peak in Spain, Mount Teide, forms the centerpiece of the park. Standing at the base, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet—surreal volcanic terrain surrounds you, and the moonlike landscape makes for memorable photographs. The ground is made up of lava flows, and the colors are striking. This stop provides a powerful sense of scale and geological history.

Highlights and Practicalities

Throughout the tour, you’re encouraged to keep an eye out for endemic plants like the flowering Teide bugloss, which can grow up to 3 meters tall, and spot wildlife such as canaries, rabbits, and hedgehogs. The guide shares snippets of local history and geology, adding depth to the adventure.

Food and Refreshments

Included in the tour is pizza and soda, ideal for recharging after some bumpy off-road driving. The pizza dough and toppings are a simple but satisfying way to end the adventure, especially after the scenic stops that are often quite brief.

The Reviews: Real Voices

While most travelers are pleased with the stunning views and fun ride, some express disappointment over organizational issues. One review laments, “We drove to the viewpoint for 1 hour, took some pictures and went back (another hour). Everything was unorganised,” highlighting that the itinerary feels rushed and the timing can be unpredictable.

Another traveler mentions that expectations for a more immersive experience weren’t met and that the value for the price might not justify the expense for some. That said, the views and the thrill of driving seem to outweigh these shortcomings for many.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families or groups who want a fun, scenic adventure that isn’t overly long. It suits those who enjoy off-road driving and are curious about Tenerife’s volcanic landscape without committing to a full-day tour. The brief stops and easy pace make it accessible for most age groups, provided drivers hold a valid license and wear closed shoes.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking in-depth geological exploration or a more organized, comprehensive experience, as some reviews suggest the short stops and limited organization can be a drawback. Also, consider the cost—if you’re on a tight budget, you might find similar scenery via less expensive options or self-guided drives.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

In the end, this buggy tour offers a mix of fun, scenic beauty, and light education. The stunning viewpoints, unique landscapes, and the thrill of off-road driving make it a memorable outing—especially if you’re looking for a family adventure. The included pizza and beverages add a nice touch, making it feel like a relaxed day rather than a rushed sightseeing trip.

For those who value authentic experiences that combine adventure with spectacular scenery, this tour is worth considering. Do keep expectations in check regarding organization and duration—it’s more of a quick highlight reel than a deep dive into Tenerife’s volcanic story. If you’re after a fun, scenic, and active outing for your group, this buggy tour provides a good balance of adventure and awe.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, free pickup is offered from Los Cristianos to Playa San Juan. Other areas may require an extra fee.

What do I need to drive the buggy?
A valid driving license is mandatory, and you must wear closed shoes for safety.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 3 to 4 hours, with stops lasting about 30 minutes each.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the use of high-quality buggies, beverages, pizza, gloves, eye masks, jackets, and private transportation.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, if you want professional photos taken during the tour, that costs an extra €25 per buggy.

What are the main stops?
The tour includes Mirador Los Poleos, Pico Viejo, and Mount Teide.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While suitable for families, children must be able to handle the driving experience and meet safety requirements.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this experience good value for the cost?
It depends on what you’re seeking—if you want quick, scenic stops combined with a fun drive, many find it worthwhile. Some reviews note that organization could be better, so manage your expectations accordingly.

This buggy adventure offers a lively way to see Tenerife’s volcanic highlights, perfect for those wanting a dash of excitement and stunning views. Just be prepared for a short but sweet trip—some aspects might feel rushed, but the photographs and memories will last.