Balades Découverte Anaga & La Laguna

If you’re planning a day on Tenerife that combines scenic beauty, history, and local flavor, the Balades Découverte Anaga & La Laguna tour offers a well-rounded experience for just $88 per person. With pickup from your hotel in Playa de las Américas, this full-day excursion takes you from the legendary beaches to lush forests and historic streets. Led by a knowledgeable French-speaking guide, you’ll visit Las Teresitas Beach, explore the Anaga Rural Park, taste traditional Canarian cuisine, and stroll through the UNESCO-listed streets of La Laguna.

Two things we love about this experience? First, the chance to walk through the endemic laurel forests—a rare and remarkable ecosystem that’s different from the typical beach holiday. Second, the opportunity to sample authentic Canarian dishes in a local restaurant, which adds a genuine flavor to your trip.

A possible consideration? The tour is not suitable for children under 8 or travelers with mobility issues, so if you’re traveling with young kids or require assistance, you might want to explore other options.

This tour fits best for travelers eager to see the island’s natural wonders and historic towns without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. If you like a mix of nature, culture, and cuisine, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit a UNESCO Heritage site and explore the Anaga Biosphere Reserve.
• Diverse Highlights: See beaches, forests, rural fields, and historic streets all in one day.
• Local Cuisine: Savor traditional Canarian dishes and local wine in a genuine setting.
• Expert Guidance: Enjoy insights from a French-speaking guide familiar with Tenerife’s culture and landscape.
• Comfort & Convenience: Bus transport, hotel pickup, and drop-off make this a hassle-free option.
• Limited for Some: Not suitable for children under 8 or those with mobility challenges.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Day in Tenerife: What to Expect from Your Tour

Starting at the Beach: Our journey begins with a stop at Las Teresitas Beach, located in the village of San Andres. This beach is famous for its golden sand, imported from the Sahara, and calm waters—perfect for a quick walk or a photo before heading inland. You might find it a relaxing start to the day, especially if you love the sound of waves and the feel of sand underfoot.

Exploring Anaga Rural Park: Next, we head into the Anaga Rural Park, a designated Biosphere Reserve celebrated for its pristine natural resources. The guide will take us across much of the Anaga massif, where we’ll witness the dense, humid laurel forests—endemic to the Canary Islands. For nature lovers, this part of the tour is the highlight, offering views that feel otherworldly and a chance to breathe in some fresh mountain air.

Village of Taganana: We’ll visit the village of Taganana, renowned for its terraced tropical fruit and vegetable fields and rugged coastal scenery. Here, you’ll see how local farmers cultivate their crops on steep hillsides, a practice that has persisted for generations. Some travelers have commented on how authentic and unspoiled the village feels—an ideal spot to absorb local culture.

Traditional Lunch: The tour includes a lunch at a Canarian restaurant, where you’ll taste regional specialties like papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes), fresh fish, or local cheeses, paired with a glass of local wine. The meal is served in an authentic setting, making it more than just a quick lunch—it’s an immersion into the island’s culinary traditions.

Cruz del Carmen Lookout: After lunch, we’ll visit the Cruz del Carmen, an ancient crossroads at 920 meters altitude. Historically, this point was pivotal for connecting highland hamlets to La Laguna and the coast, making it a strategic and scenic spot. You’ll appreciate the panoramic views of the Anaga Mountains and the lush forests below.

Historic La Laguna: Finally, we arrive at La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its perpendicular cobblestone streets and well-preserved colonial architecture evoke the feel of old Caribbean cities like Havana. Expect to admire convents, palaces, the cathedral, and 16th-century mansions, many featuring intricate Patios with tea-wood balconies. Walking through this historic center offers a tangible sense of Tenerife’s colonial past and its enduring charm.

End of the Day: After exploring La Laguna, we’ll return to the starting point, bringing the day’s adventures to a close. The entire experience is designed to balance scenic beauty, cultural insight, and local flavor—delivered in a relaxed, enjoyable manner.

The Details That Make It Worthwhile

Transportation: The tour uses a comfortable bus with hotel pickup and drop-off (from selected areas), so you won’t need to worry about navigating yourself around. This makes it especially appealing for those who prefer not to drive or deal with parking.

Guide: The French-speaking guide provides insightful narration, helping you understand the significance of each stop without feeling rushed. People often mention how friendly and knowledgeable the guide is, enhancing the experience considerably.

Price & Value: At $88, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Tenerife’s rural and historic sides without breaking the bank. Included are transportation, lunch with drinks, and guided commentary, which collectively add up to good value for a full day of diverse sights.

Group Size & Pace: While not explicitly stated, small to medium groups are typical for these tours, allowing for more personal interaction and flexibility. The pace is moderate—ideal for those comfortable walking but not looking for strenuous hikes.

Why This Tour Really Works for Travelers

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic experiences—whether it’s tasting local dishes, wandering through a UNESCO city, or walking among endemic forests—this tour hits all those notes. It provides a balanced mix of nature, culture, and cuisine, making it suitable for those who want a well-rounded day without resorting to organized hikes or overly touristy spots.

Nature lovers will especially enjoy the visit to Anaga’s laurel forests and the scenic mountain views. History enthusiasts will appreciate La Laguna’s well-preserved colonial architecture and the story-rich Cruz del Carmen lookout. And if you’re keen to sample authentic Canarian food in a traditional setting, the included lunch makes this experience stand out.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour from Tenerife offers a practical, enjoyable way to see some of the island’s most compelling sights while learning about local culture and enjoying regional flavors. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a full, varied day with minimal hassle—especially if they prefer a small group and a knowledgeable guide.

The emphasis on natural beauty—from forests to coastal villages—paired with cultural depth at La Laguna makes this a memorable outing. The price is fair, considering all included features, and the convenience of hotel pickup adds a layer of comfort that many travelers appreciate.

If you’re after a balanced day trip that showcases Tenerife’s landscapes and history, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember, it’s not designed for those with mobility issues or very young children, but for most other travelers, it offers a genuine taste of the island’s soul.

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FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 8 years old, as the pace and activities are geared more toward adult travelers or older kids comfortable with walking and outdoor exploration.

Are hotel pick-up and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from selected areas, making it convenient and avoiding the need for self-navigation.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, a jacket, and other comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor activities. Travel insurance is also recommended.

How long is the tour?
It’s an approximately 8-hour full-day experience, balancing sightseeing, walking, and relaxing meals.

What language is the guide in?
The guide speaks French, so this tour is ideal for French-speaking travelers. If you speak another language, check if there’s an option or other tours available.

Is there free time during the tour?
The itinerary is structured with specific stops, but the walking tour of La Laguna may provide some free time for exploring or shopping.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule changes.

How many people typically join the tour?
While not specified, tours like this usually operate in small to medium groups, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What are some highlights of the stops?
Expect stunning forest scenery, historic streets of La Laguna, a traditional Canarian lunch, and panoramic mountain views from Cruz del Carmen.

Is this tour suitable for anyone with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as some stops involve walking on uneven terrain or cobblestone streets.

Exploring Tenerife by joining this thoughtfully curated tour can turn an ordinary holiday into an immersive journey through the island’s natural and cultural soul. Whether you’re a keen hiker, history buff, or foodie, this experience offers a good mix that’s sure to enrich your time on the island.

You can check availability for your dates here: