Gran Canaria: 1 Hour 45 Min Afternoon Buggy Tour

Experience the Thrills of Gran Canaria’s Mountainous Terrain with a Buggy Tour

Imagine bouncing along dusty mountain tracks, weaving through valleys and canyons, and stopping at an archaeological site rich with history. For just $76 per person, you can indulge in a 1 hour 45-minute afternoon buggy adventure in the south of Gran Canaria, starting from Maspalomas. Guided by friendly locals and driven by your own buggy (with a free driver change option), this experience offers a unique way to see the island’s diverse landscapes.

What we love most is the hands-on driving experience, giving you a real sense of adventure, and the opportunity to switch drivers if you’re feeling brave or just want a break. Plus, the tour includes a stop at the historic La Fortaleza archaeological site, adding an educational element to the fun.

One thing to keep in mind is that drivers need at least one year of driving experience and should bring their driver’s license. Also, if you’re sensitive to dust or don’t want to get too dirty, you might want to bring a mask or cover. This tour is perfect for those who crave off-road excitement, love scenic mountain views, and don’t mind getting a little dusty in the process.

If you’re seeking an active, engaging outdoor activity that combines adventure with a taste of local history, this buggy tour could be just what you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Off-road adventure: Drive through valleys, canyons, and mountain tracks for a true off-road experience.
• Flexible driving: Enjoy the chance to switch drivers at no extra cost, making it fun for groups or families.
• Historical stop: Learn about the island’s past with a visit to La Fortaleza archaeological site.
• Inclusive for kids: Co-pilots can be children over 1 meter tall (roughly 4 years old), making it family-friendly.
• Transportation included: Free hotel pick-up and drop-off in many areas simplifies logistics.
• Duration & value: At 1 hour 45 minutes, it offers a substantial adventure at a reasonable price, often exceeding initial expectations in fun and views.

A Deep Dive into the Buggy Experience

What You Can Expect from the Itinerary

The tour begins with a convenient free pick-up from your hotel, typically in popular areas like Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, Meloneras, and surrounding towns. This door-to-door service saves you the hassle of finding a meeting point, which many travelers appreciate. Once at the site, you’ll receive a quick safety briefing, including the importance of your driver’s license and some tips on handling the automatic buggy.

Your drive takes you toward the mountains south of Gran Canaria, specifically heading in the direction of Fataga and Ayagaures. As you accelerate along dirt tracks and rugged paths, expect to get dust on your face and clothes – a sign you’re truly off the beaten path. Several reviews mention bringing old clothes because dust and dirt tend to cling.

The Riding Experience and Scenery

The 1 hour 45-minute duration is split between driving and scenic stops. The off-road goggles provided help protect your eyes from dust, but some reviews suggest bringing your own face masks for extra protection. The actual driving time often exceeds expectations; one reviewer reported being out for nearly three hours, with some saying it “was worth every penny.”

You’ll love the variety of terrain, from mountain trails to valley crossings. The views are often described as beautiful and inspiring, with multiple reviewers highlighting the stunning mountain vistas from the higher elevations. Some stops include photo opportunities that showcase the lush, rugged landscape.

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Stop at La Fortaleza

A highlight of the tour is the visit to La Fortaleza, an archaeological site where you can learn about the island’s ancient inhabitants. This stop adds a cultural dimension to the adventure, giving you a glimpse into Gran Canaria’s past amidst the natural beauty. It’s a brief but meaningful break, appreciated by those who enjoy combining adventure with learning.

The Guides and Group Dynamics

Guides are generally praised for being knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. One reviewer mentioned Rafael, who made the tour memorable with his chatty, easy-going style. The ability to switch drivers adds to the sense of flexibility and fun, especially for groups where some may prefer riding while others want to drive.

While the overall experience is positive, some reviews mention issues with organization and transportation logistics. For example, delays or last-minute booking constraints may affect your planning, so booking in advance is advisable.

Practical Aspects & Considerations

• Age & health: Children over 1 meter tall (about 4 years old) can be copilots. Tour is not suitable for children under 3 or those with altitude sickness.
• Clothing & accessories: Wear old clothes — dust is unavoidable, and some reviews mention the need for face coverings. The goggles are provided, but bringing a mask might be wise.
• Driving experience: Drivers need at least one year of experience, so ensure you have your license ready.
• Duration: The tour is officially 1 hour 45 minutes but can extend to nearly 3 hours, providing excellent value.
• Cost & value: For $76, you get a full off-road experience with some scenic stops and a cultural visit, which many find worth the price given the adventure and personalized attention.

The Real-World Perspectives: What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight how friendly guides make the trip enjoyable and memorable. “Rafael was lovely and chatty,” one reviewer said, emphasizing the importance of good guides in creating a relaxed, fun atmosphere.

Others appreciate the stunning views and off-road thrills — “beautiful scenes and good instructors,” as one review put it. The off-road driving received special praise, with many describing it as “great fun” and “worth every penny.”

However, there are some practical warnings. A few travelers mention speeding during pickup (up to 160 km/h in an 80 km/h zone), which can be uncomfortable or unsafe. Some also note extra costs like face masks (€7), so consider bringing your own or buying in advance to avoid rip-offs.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This buggy adventure is best suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor thrills, scenic views, and a hands-on experience. It’s great for families with kids (over 4 years old), groups of friends, or couples looking for a unique way to explore Gran Canaria’s rugged scenery. If you value friendly guides and genuine local experiences, you’ll find this tour a worthwhile adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This buggy tour offers an authentic taste of Gran Canaria’s wild side, combining off-road driving with stunning mountain vistas and a touch of history. For roughly an hour and a half of driving, many find the value exceeds expectations, especially given the personalized service and scenic variety.

While the organization and transport logistics may sometimes be inconsistent, the core experience—driving through rugged terrain, enjoying panoramic views, and learning about the island’s past—remains compelling. The friendly guides and flexible driver-switching add a personal touch that enhances the trip.

This adventure is ideal for adventurous souls looking for something active and memorable during their stay. It’s particularly suitable for those comfortable with dust, dirt, and a bit of speed, and eager to see Gran Canaria from a different perspective.

FAQ

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, you must bring your driver’s license, and drivers need at least one year of driving experience to participate.

Are children allowed to ride as copilots?
Yes, children over approximately 4 years old and 1 meter tall can be copilots, making it family-friendly.

What should I wear?
Old clothes are best, as dust and dirt can get everywhere. Goggles are provided, but bringing a mask might be helpful if you want extra protection.

Is transportation included?
Yes, there’s free pick-up and drop-off from many areas including Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, Meloneras, and others. However, last-minute bookings may have limited availability.

How long does the tour last?
Officially, the tour lasts 1 hour 45 minutes, but many travelers report being out for up to 3 hours due to additional stops and extended driving.

Can I switch drivers during the tour?
Absolutely. You can change drivers at no extra cost, which makes the experience more fun, especially for groups.

What about safety?
Guides provide safety instructions, and goggles help protect your eyes. Remember to follow their guidance and drive responsibly.

Are there any hidden costs?
Face masks are not included and cost around €7, so consider bringing your own or buying in advance. The price also includes off-road goggles.

What kind of terrain will I see?
You’ll drive through mountain tracks, valleys, and canyons—expect rugged dirt paths and scenic overlooks.

Is the tour suitable for people with health issues?
Not recommended for those with altitude sickness or serious health conditions, and you should be comfortable with physical activity and dust exposure.

This buggy ride in Gran Canaria balances adventure, scenery, and culture, making it a standout option for those wanting a fun, active day out. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling drive or a great story to tell, this experience delivers plenty of both.

You can check availability for your dates here: