Buggy tour to Teide in Tenerife

Buggy Tour to Teide in Tenerife: An Off-Road Adventure with Scenic Views and Knowledgeable Guides

Starting in the southern part of Tenerife, this 3-hour buggy tour offers a lively way to see some of the island’s most beautiful sights. It kicks off from a base in the Chafiras industrial estate, passing through charming towns and lush landscapes before reaching El Teide National Park. For around $226 per group (up to two people), you get private transportation, a buggy ride, snacks, and water—a package that overdelivers on experience for the price.

What makes this trip particularly engaging are the guided stops with panoramic views and the thrill of driving an open-top buggy. We love how the guides, like Alex and Mario, share insightful facts about Tenerife’s volcanic landscape, adding depth to the scenic beauty. The sense of freedom to cruise along dirt roads and winding mountain passes adds an adventurous touch that bigger tour buses can’t match.

However, a key consideration is the temperature fluctuation—it can get quite cold at higher elevations, especially as you approach 2,200 meters. You’ll want to dress warmly, as many reviews mention the need for jackets and gloves. Also, the tour explicitly avoids dirt roads, making it a smooth and fun drive, but if you’re eager for off-road thrills, this might not be the tour for you.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, learning about Tenerife’s volcanic nature, and don’t mind wrapping up warm. Families, small groups, and those looking for a memorable, less conventional way to explore Teide will find plenty to love here. It’s a great option for anyone wanting an active day with spectacular views and a touch of adventure.

Key Points

• Stunning scenic stops: including Vilaflor, Teide National Park, San Miguel de Abona, and Cho.
• Expert guides: like Alex and Mario, who share plenty of interesting facts about Tenerife’s volcanoes and landscapes.
• Comfortable ride: thanks to well-maintained buggies that are easy to drive, with restrictions for children based on size and age.
• Altitude and weather: the tour reaches up to 2,200 meters, so bundling up is essential due to the chilly conditions.
• No off-road driving: for those seeking a more rugged experience, this tour focuses on scenic dirt roads and mountain passes.
• Authentic local flavor: visits to typical Canarian towns and agricultural areas offer a glimpse into local life.

A Detailed Look at the Tenerife Buggy Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins in the Chafiras industrial estate, a practical spot easily accessible for most travelers staying in the southern part of Tenerife. The tour includes private transportation to the starting point, making the process smooth and comfortable. The group is small, capped at 14 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and allows the guides to give personal attention.

The tour lasts around 3 hours, a perfect length for those who want a substantial experience without it taking up the entire day. The mobile ticket and the option for pickup make it flexible and easy to plan around other activities.

The Scenic Journey Begins

Once underway, you’ll pass through various towns and landscapes, with stunning views of Tenerife’s coast and countryside. Travelers have praised the beautiful scenery and charming towns like Vilaflor, where you can breathe in fresh mountain air and stretch your legs for an hour. This stop, along with the visit to El Teide National Park, offers a spectacular chance to take photographs and soak in the patterns of volcanic rock and sweeping vistas.

Visiting Vilaflor and Teide National Park

Vilaflor is the highest village in Tenerife, and many reviews highlight the clean, cool air and natural surroundings. It’s a quiet spot, perfect for a quick stroll or just catching your breath before heading into the park. The stop at Teide National Park is arguably the highlight, with its majestic landscape and towering volcano.

You’ll have an hour here, enough time to take in the breathtaking views from 2,200 meters, snap photos, and perhaps contemplate the geological history that shaped the island. Guides like Alex impress with their knowledge, sharing insights that add depth to the scenery. One reviewer even noted, “Alex was an awesome guide and very knowledgeable!”

Small Town Charm and Canarian Agriculture

San Miguel de Abona and Cho offer a taste of local life. San Miguel has a quaint charm with lovely views, while Cho invites you onto dirt roads passing by traditional Canarian crops. This agricultural stop is appreciated for its authenticity, giving a glimpse into Tenerife’s rural side. Here, you can see the fruit and vegetable farms that sustain local communities and enjoy peaceful rural scenery.

Driving the Buggies

Driving the open-top buggy is the core of the experience. The vehicles are described as in excellent condition, easy to operate, and suitable for most drivers, with some restrictions for children based on age and height. Many reviews mention how much fun it was to drive along winding mountain roads, with some noting the breeze and chilly air—so bring layers.

Guides like Mario take extra care to make stops for explanation or photos, ensuring everyone gets a good look at the scenery. The opportunity to drive in comfort without the worries of off-road driving makes this accessible to most.

The Temperature and Clothing Tips

One recurring theme in reviews is the cold at higher elevations. At 2,200 meters, the temperature drops significantly, and many travelers found it necessary to wear jackets and gloves. The tour provider supplies jackets and gloves, but bringing your own layers can keep you more comfortable. The guides’ advice to dress warmly is echoed in multiple reviews, especially for those planning to stay at the top for photos.

The Return Journey: Coastal Views and Final Reflections

On the way back, you’ll enjoy views over Tenerife’s coast, with many travelers remarking on how beautiful the entire island looks from above. The tour concludes back at the starting point, leaving you with a sense of satisfaction from a day well spent in nature and adventure.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides. One shared that Alex was “full of knowledge and shared many facts,” while others highlighted Mario’s patience and helpfulness. The quality of the buggies and the scenic stops are also frequently mentioned as highlights, with many noting that the experience exceeded expectations.

Some mention a minor frustration about photos not matching their buggy, but the company responded promptly, showing good customer service. The overall tone is that this tour offers value for money—a memorable mix of fun, learning, and stunning visuals.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want an active, scenic day in Tenerife without the hassle of self-driving. It’s especially suited for small groups or families who enjoy driving a fun vehicle and want to learn more about the island’s volcanic origins. If you’re prepared for cold weather at higher elevations, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and a memorable adventure.

It’s also a good fit if you prefer guided stops with local insights rather than a rushed sightseeing drive. Those seeking a less off-road, more scenic experience will find this a great match.

The Sum Up

This buggy tour to Teide offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and educational insights. The well-maintained vehicles, small group size, and knowledgeable guides make it a standout choice for travelers looking for a more personal, engaging way to explore Tenerife’s volcanic landscapes. The stops at Vilaflor, Teide National Park, and rural farms enrich the experience, providing both natural beauty and cultural context.

While the chilly conditions at altitude are a consideration, the tour company’s preparation with jackets and gloves helps ensure comfort. For those who enjoy driving, stunning vistas, and learning about volcanoes, this tour delivers on all fronts.

It’s especially suited for families, small groups, and curious travelers eager to combine fun with a little education, all set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Teide. If you’re after a memorable day outside the typical tourist trail, this buggy adventure is worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides private transportation from the meeting point, making it convenient to start and end the experience comfortably.

Can children participate?
Children from 3 years old can ride in the 4-seater buggies, while in 2-seater buggies, they should be at least 1.20 meters tall. Always check with the provider if you have concerns about suitability.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including stops and driving time.

Will I be driving on off-road dirt roads?
No, the tour specifically does not include dirt roads—it’s on scenic mountain passes and paved routes suitable for a smooth ride.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, especially at higher altitudes. The company supplies jackets and gloves, but layering with your own clothes is recommended for comfort.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, as long as you can handle a short drive and walk at the stops. The drive itself is on accessible roads, and guides are attentive to safety.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.

In all, this buggy tour offers a lively, scenic, and educational way to explore Tenerife’s volcanic heart. It’s a day packed with stunning views, friendly guides, and enough adventure to satisfy most travelers.