Discover the Magic of Gran Canaria in a Classic VW Buggy
Imagine cruising along scenic coastal roads and mountain paths in a real 1970s VW Buggy, driven by friendly guides who know every twist and turn of the island. For around $162.55 per group (up to four people), you get a 2.5-hour adventure that combines sightseeing, open-air fun, and a touch of vintage nostalgia. The tour starts at Sunset Beach Meloneras and takes you through some of Gran Canaria’s most stunning landscapes, with stops that include Arguineguin, a charming mountain village, and Mogan, a picturesque seaside town.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to drive authentic classic buggies from the 1970s—only three companies in Europe and ten worldwide offer this opportunity. Second, the guides, particularly Philippe and Simon, are praised for their warmth, knowledge, and ability to make everyone feel comfortable. We love the way they sprinkle in interesting stories and local insights, making each stop more meaningful.
One possible consideration? The buggies are manual transmission vehicles, which could be a surprise for those expecting an automatic. If you’re not comfortable with stick-shift driving, this could be a barrier. Nonetheless, this tour is ideal for those who want more than just a typical sightseeing bus ride — it’s perfect for adventurous spirits who enjoy driving and authentic experiences.
If you’re after a personalized adventure with plenty of beautiful scenery, friendly company, and a dash of vintage charm, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or small groups who want to explore the island at a relaxed pace, with stops for photos, drinks, and local sights.
Key Points
- Unique Classic Vehicles: Drive real VW buggies from the 1970s, rare across Europe and the world.
- Scenic Stops: Enjoy breathtaking views from Arguineguin, Mogan, and mountain canyon viewpoints.
- Expert Guides: Philippe and Simon are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach.
- Flexible Experience: Custom routes available if you share your wishes in advance.
- Value for Money: Price includes not just the ride but also drinks, photos, and personalized attention.
- Limited Group Size: Max of 4 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and relaxed experience.
Planning more time in Gran Canaria? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Deep Dive into the Classic VW Buggy Experience
Gran Canaria is a diverse island — with stunning coastlines, mountain ranges, and charming villages. This tour encapsulates that diversity in a way few other experiences can. The itinerary is designed to maximize scenic beauty and local flavor, with several carefully chosen stops that each add a layer of richness to your day.
The Coastal Drive to Arguineguin
The adventure kicks off with a beautiful drive along the coast to Arguineguin. This seaside town offers panoramic views over the Atlantic, and from a vantage point, you’ll see the famous Maspalomas lighthouse in the distance, along with the NASA space center — a fun nod to history and space exploration. The review mentions the roads here are “so smooth compared to UK roads,” making the drive even more enjoyable.
Mountain Canyon and Village Stop
Next, your guide takes you into the heart of the canyon, stopping in a small traditional Canarian village, Cercados de Espinos. Here, you’re treated to a drink stop (included in the price), and opportunities for photos amidst stunning mountain and canyon views. One reviewer describes these moments as “wonderful scenery,” emphasizing how the stops provide a real sense of the island’s natural beauty.
Scenic Landscapes and Mogan
Further along, you’ll explore impressive landscapes in the province of Soria, with more photo-worthy vistas. Then, the tour crosses through Mogan, a quaint fishing village with windmills and seaside charm. The guides make a point to slow down to admire these sights, and travelers note stopping here for pictures and a chance to stroll.
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The Experience of Driving a 70s VW Buggy
Driving the vintage buggies is perhaps the highlight. Many reviews mention the “fun” and “thrill” of handling a manual transmission, which adds a bit of adventure and skill to the ride. One reviewer said: “the buggy ran perfectly and was so much fun to drive,” highlighting the reliability and charm of these classic vehicles.
Customization and Flexibility
If you have specific sights or routes in mind, the team is happy to accommodate. You can contact them beforehand to study the best possible route, especially if you want a more personalized experience. This makes the tour more than a cookie-cutter activity — it becomes tailored to your interests.
Food, Drinks, and Photos
Included in the tour are coffee, tea, soda, and bottled water — perfect for staying refreshed during stops. Plus, all photos taken during the excursion are free and easily accessible on Facebook, allowing you to relive your adventure long after the day ends.
Guides and Atmosphere
From the reviews, guides Philippe and Simon shine. Travelers describe them as “friendly,” “knowledgeable,” and “making everyone feel comfortable.” One guest called Simon “the legend of Gran Canaria,” because of his humor and engaging style. This friendly approach turns a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable experience.
The Itinerary: What You Can Expect
- Arguineguin Viewpoint: Expect stunning coastal vistas and a chance to see the famous lighthouse and NASA site. The stop is about 10 minutes, enough for photos and taking in the scenery. Reviews emphasize the breathtaking views here.
- Cercados de Espinos: A small village nestled in the canyon, perfect for a quick drink and some photos. The stop lasts about 15 minutes, and travelers often mention how peaceful and scenic this spot is.
- Landscapes of Soria: You’ll enjoy impressive natural scenery that captures the rugged beauty of Gran Canaria’s inland. The 15-minute stop helps you soak it all in.
- Mogan: A picturesque fishing village, where you’ll see traditional windmills and the seaside. The 10-minute stop here is ideal for photos, and many enjoy the relaxed village atmosphere.
What the Stops Mean for You
Each stop is designed to give you a taste of local life and natural beauty, not just pass by on a bus. You’ll get moments for photos, relaxing drinks, and chatting about what you see — making the experience more immersive and personal.
The Practical Aspects: Price, Duration, and Group Size
At $162.55 for up to four people, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of drinks and photos. The duration of approximately 2 hours 30 minutes fits well into a day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. The small group size, limited to 4 travelers, ensures plenty of attention from guides and a more relaxed pace.
You should note that the manual transmission might pose a challenge for some, as only one reviewer mentioned this explicitly. If you’re comfortable driving stick, you’ll love the engagement and fun of handling a vintage vehicle. The tour also offers pickup from the meeting point, making logistics easier.
Authentic Experiences and Genuine Reviews
The enthusiasm from past travelers speaks volumes. Many reviews mention how guides Philippe and Simon go “above and beyond” to make the day special — whether by sharing stories, helping with photos, or adapting routes. A few key quotes:
- “Phil was so helpful — picked us up and dropped us off at the hotel after.”
- “Simon is simply great, making the whole trip worth it.”
- “They really make you feel welcomed and comfortable.”
The scenery gets plenty of praise, with comments about breath-taking views, serene mountain stops, and charming seaside villages.
The experience’s value is also clear — the price includes multiple stops, drinks, photos, and the thrill of driving a vintage VW Buggy. One reviewer described it as “the best tour of my life”, highlighting how fun and memorable it was, making it a worthwhile investment.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This activity is ideal for adventure-minded travelers who enjoy driving, scenic views, and small-group personalized experiences. Families with children over the age of 6, couples, and small groups looking for something different will find it particularly appealing. The vintage vibe adds a nostalgic touch, especially for car enthusiasts or those seeking a unique way to see Gran Canaria.
If you’re after a relaxing, cookie-cutter tour, this might not be your best choice, but for those craving authentic scenery, engaging guides, and a bit of vintage fun, it checks all the boxes.
FAQ
Are the buggies manual or automatic?
The buggies are manual, so you’ll need to be comfortable driving stick-shift vehicles. This adds to the fun but may be a consideration if you’re inexperienced with manual cars.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers, including families with children over 6, have enjoyed the experience. It’s best for those comfortable with driving or riding along with a driver.
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes, with time allocated for scenic stops, photos, and drinks.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the buggy ride, drinks (coffee, tea, soda, water), photos, and all fees and taxes. Pickup from the meeting point is also included.
Can I customize the route?
Yes, you’re encouraged to share your wishes beforehand to study the best possible route and tailor the tour to your interests.
Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, only up to 4 travelers per booking, allowing for a more personal and flexible experience.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How do I book?
Most travelers book about 29 days in advance; you can reserve via the provided link or contact the provider directly.
Final Thoughts
Driving a vintage VW Buggy in Gran Canaria offers a mixture of adventure, scenic beauty, and nostalgia that few other activities can match. The experienced guides make sure you’re comfortable and informed, while the stops allow for genuine appreciation of the island’s diverse landscapes. The small group size and inclusion of drinks and photos make this a well-rounded, value-packed option.
This tour suits those who love driving, enjoy authentic local scenery, and want an interactive, memorable experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a different way to explore Gran Canaria, this adventure promises fun, discovery, and a touch of vintage charm.
If you’re looking for an activity that combines spectacular views, engaging guides, and the thrill of vintage cars, this tour should be at the top of your list. It’s a fantastic way to see the island off the beaten path and create stories to tell long after your trip ends.
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