From Tenerife South: La Gomera Full-Day Trip with Transfers

Heading to Tenerife and craving a taste of something different? This full-day trip to La Gomera offers a well-rounded glimpse into one of the Canary Islands’ most scenic and culturally rich destinations. Starting from Tenerife South, you’ll be whisked across the water by ferry, then explore the island’s stunning landscapes, lush forests, and historic sites—all in a small, friendly group. The tour typically costs around €90-€100 per person, lasts about 10 hours, and is perfect for curious travelers eager to see beyond the usual beach resorts.

What we love most? First, the chance to walk through Garajonay National Park and marvel at the ancient Laurisilva forest—an ecosystem that looks like something straight out of the dinosaur era. Second, the opportunity to sample traditional local foods like goat cheese and wine, paired with unique experiences like hearing the silbo gomero—a whistled language that’s as fascinating as the scenery.

A potential consideration? The tour involves a fair amount of driving and walking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day on the go. Also, since the lunch isn’t included, you’ll want to budget extra for meals. Still, those who love nature, history, and authentic cultural encounters will find this trip offers excellent value and memorable experiences.

If you enjoy guided adventures that balance scenery, culture, and comfort, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially ideal for travelers who appreciate small groups and personalized attention, as many reviews highlight the friendly expertise of guides like Basso.

Key Points

Small Group Experience: More personalized and less rushed than large bus tours.
Diverse Highlights: From volcanic formations to lush forests and historic villages.
Authentic Tastes: Traditional food and the unique silbo gomero.
Comfortable Transport: Private transportation and ferry rides for a smooth day.
Flexible and Informative: Experienced guides sharing detailed insights.
Good Value for Money: Comprehensive experience at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Tour Stands Out

This trip offers a thoughtfully curated adventure into La Gomera’s most captivating sights, making it more than just a sightseeing list. Starting from Tenerife South, the journey begins with a scenic ferry crossing to San Sebastián de La Gomera, a historic port that once served as Columbus’ jumping-off point to the New World. This makes the tour particularly appealing to those interested in the islands’ navigational past and colonial history.

The small group setup, often just a handful of travelers, means you’re unlikely to feel like a number. Guides like Basso receive glowing reviews for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make complex topics accessible. You’ll gain insights into the island’s biodiversity, volcanic origins, and unique traditions—not just passively but through engaging commentary.

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The Itinerary: A Balance of Nature, Culture & Scenery

Starting with the Ferry and the Transition from Tenerife

The day kicks off with a ferry ride, usually from Los Cristianos, that offers a chance to enjoy the ocean breeze and watch the scenery drift by. The ferry ride itself is a highlight for many, offering a different perspective of the islands and setting the tone for a day filled with natural beauty.

Once on La Gomera, the coach departs to explore the island’s changing landscape—dry, then humid, then lush. This contrast is striking and helps you understand how the island’s microclimates shape its environment.

Roque de Agando & Punta Belete Viewpoint

The first stop at Roque de Agando is a standout. This volcanic plug rises dramatically from the landscape, offering a perfect photo opportunity. It’s a symbol of La Gomera’s volcanic origins that makes you appreciate the island’s fiery past. Nearby, the Punta Belete viewpoint provides sweeping vistas of the coast and the rugged terrain, perfect for a quick photo and a breath of fresh air.

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Garajonay National Park & Laurisilva Forest

The heart of the tour is the Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you walk beneath towering laurel trees in the Laurisilva forest, a lush, tropical-looking ecosystem. Many reviews emphasize how magical this environment feels, almost like stepping back in time. Walking among ancient vegetation, you’ll see why this ecosystem has survived for millions of years, dating back to when dinosaurs roamed the earth.

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Rural Charm & Tasting Local Products

In the rural village of Chipude, you’ll get a taste of local life—visiting a pottery museum and tasting traditional foods like almogrote (spicy goat cheese) and local white wine. These small, authentic stops are what make the tour special, giving you a flavor of everyday life on La Gomera.

Valle Gran Rey & Scenic Canyons

The viewpoint of Valle Gran Rey is a true highlight. From here, you’ll see a dramatic canyon carved by lava flows and lush terraces descending towards the ocean. The views are often praised for their breathtaking beauty and the layers of volcanic rock visible from above.

Lunch & Cultural Experiences

While the lunch isn’t included, the tour stops at Laguna Grande or nearby restaurants offer the chance to try local cuisine in a scenic setting. During lunch, many travelers enjoy the chance to hear the silbo gomero, a whistled language still practiced today as a way of communication across the valleys, which adds an intriguing cultural dimension.

Historic San Sebastián & Columbus Connection

The final stop in San Sebastián de La Gomera allows time to explore the town’s historic sites like Torre del Conde and the Casa de Colón. Many reviews note that this is a fascinating conclusion, connecting the island’s past to world history—Columbus set sail from here to the Americas.

Transportation & Group Size: Comfort in a Small Group

The tour uses a private or small group vehicle, often a comfortable Mercedes van, which reviewers find preferable to large buses. This setup allows for more flexibility and a quieter, more relaxed experience. The transportation is well-organized, and the ferry ride is included, ensuring a seamless day without the hassle of organizing separate tickets.

How the Day Unfolds

Morning: Ferry from Tenerife South, transfer to vehicle, first scenic stops.
Mid-morning to Early Afternoon: Visit volcanic formations, Garajonay National Park, rural villages, and viewpoints.
Afternoon: Lunch, cultural stops, and scenic drives through villages.
Late afternoon: Return to San Sebastián, free time for exploration, then ferry back.

The overall pacing is designed to balance sightseeing, eating, and relaxing, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and ask questions.

The Food & Cultural Element

Many travelers cherish the culinary stops, where they can taste local cheeses, wines, and traditional stews. The silbo gomero demonstration during lunch is a memorable highlight, offering insight into a fascinating communication method that’s unique to La Gomera.

In the reviews, food quality varies. Some mention that the meat was raw or cold, but this seems to be an isolated issue rather than the norm. The emphasis on local products like gofio cookies and palm honey adds a genuine flavor of the island’s culture.

The Value & Who Should Consider This Tour

Considering the price—roughly €90-€100—and the multiple highlights packed into the day, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a rundown of La Gomera without the hassle of planning individual excursions. It’s a great way to see the island’s best viewpoints, forests, and towns in one day, making it perfect for those with limited time.

Those who enjoy small-group tours and personalized guides will find it particularly rewarding, as many reviews praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides like Basso, who make the experience engaging and informative.

Suitable for

Nature lovers eager to walk through ancient forests
History buffs interested in Columbus’ departure point
Foodies wanting to sample local cheeses and wines
Travelers seeking a relaxed, comfortable day with expert guidance
Visitors with limited time on Tenerife looking for a memorable island experience

Not ideal for those with mobility issues or very young children, as the tour involves some walking and uneven terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from key areas in Tenerife South are included, along with ferry tickets and transport on La Gomera.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning by around 6:30 pm.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, but there are stops at local restaurants where you can purchase traditional dishes.

What should I bring?
A passport or ID, a jacket for variable weather, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 12 or travelers with mobility impairments, as there is some walking and uneven terrain.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

This La Gomera full-day trip from Tenerife South is an engaging, well-organized way to see the island’s highlights—its volcanoes, forests, viewpoints, and charming villages—all in one manageable day. The combination of scenic drives, cultural stops, and natural wonders makes it a great choice for those who want a rounded experience without the hassle of independent planning.

Guided by friendly and knowledgeable hosts, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of La Gomera’s unique environment and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful escape into nature, this tour delivers authentic moments and breathtaking sights.

If you cherish small-group adventures, love discovering local customs, and want to see the best of La Gomera in a single day, this trip is hard to beat. Just remember to bring your curiosity—and your appetite for local cheese and wine.