Gran Canaria: Convertible Beetle Tour

Exploring Gran Canaria in a vintage Volkswagen Beetle convertible offers a playful, open-air way to see the island’s most stunning landscapes. For around $74 per person and lasting about 6 hours, this guided tour takes you through mountain passes, lush ravines, and charming villages. What sets this experience apart is the feeling of freedom as you drive through diverse terrains, from over 1500 meters high to the water reservoirs and valleys dotted with palm trees.

We love the chance to feel the wind in our hair and see the scenery from a driver’s seat, which is quite different from being a passenger on a bus. The guide’s local insights and the small-group vibe make it feel personal and relaxed. Plus, the included picnic lunch made from local products highlights the island’s flavors—a real treat for food lovers. One little consideration is that drivers must have a valid license, so if you’re not comfortable on mountain roads or driving a manual, double-check your skills beforehand.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who want a fun, hands-on experience and are comfortable driving in a relaxed, scenic setting. Families with older children or folks who enjoy quirky vehicles and spectacular views will find this especially appealing. If you’re after a less structured, more personal exploration of Gran Canaria’s mountains and villages, this tour could be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Authentic Convertible Experience: Drive your own vintage Beetle and feel the wind as you explore the island.
• Stunning Scenery: Pass through ravines, mountain roads, and valleys, with panoramic views at Pico de las Nieves.
• Local Culture & Food: Visit Canary villages, see aloe vera plantations, and enjoy a picnic with local products.
• Expert Guide & Small Groups: Guides like Isabella make the experience friendly and informative.
• Flexible & Accessible: Book now to reserve your spot, with options for pickup from multiple locations, and wheelchair accessibility.
• Value for Money: Combining scenery, driving, food, and guides at just $74 makes this a top value adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Gran Canaria Convertible Beetle Tour

If you’re craving a way to explore Gran Canaria that’s more active and personal than a typical bus tour, this Convertible Beetle tour might be just what you’re looking for. It blends the joy of driving a classic car with the thrill of discovering the island’s most scenic spots, all with the bonus of a knowledgeable guide to point out hidden gems. The price point of $74 balances affordability with a full day of memorable sights and experiences.

The Itinerary: A Journey Through Mountains and Valleys

The tour kicks off with pickup in one of seven locations—Playa del Inglés, San Agustín, Maspalomas, Meloneras, Bahia Feliz, Avenida de la Unión Europea, or Meloneras—making it convenient regardless of where you stay. Once aboard the vintage Beetle, the fun begins with a quick 20-minute drive to the first scenic stop.

The real highlight is the visit to Mirador Astronómico de la Degollada de las Yeguas, where you get a 15-minute photo op at an impressive viewpoint. Here, we loved the way the guide pointed out the landscape’s intricate details, making us appreciate the grandeur of Gran Canaria’s volcanic origins.

Next, the Aloe Vera Finca Canaria offers a 30-minute guided tour. While some reviews mention feeling the stop is a bit commercial, it’s still a chance to learn about a key local crop and see how aloe vera is processed. Many travelers find it interesting, especially if they’re curious about natural remedies.

As you head toward Ayacata for a 30-minute breakfast, you’ll start to see the island’s rural charm. The breakfast spot serves local dishes, boosting energy for the mountain climb ahead.

Then, the Pico de las Nieves—the island’s highest point—offers spectacular 30-minute sightseeing. Here, the views extend across the island, and many comment on how worth the effort it is to climb this high. We loved the panoramic vistas, which are especially striking on a clear day.

A quick stop in Tunte provides a 15-minute break in a traditional village setting. Visitors often comment on the quaint atmosphere and the chance to browse local crafts.

The Fortaleza de Ansite features a 15-minute photo stop. This ancient site offers a glimpse into Canary history and a chance to stretch your legs.

The tour concludes with some scenic views on the way back, and the group is transported to your original pickup point. The total experience is well-paced to give you a comprehensive taste of the island’s natural beauty and cultural charm without feeling rushed.

Driving & Vehicle Comfort

Traveling in a convertible Beetle isn’t just about the nostalgia; it’s about the sense of freedom and connection to the landscape. The cars are noted as easy to drive, and the small group size of up to 4 passengers per vehicle keeps things intimate and manageable. Reviewers praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides like Isabella, who help relax nervous drivers and share insightful commentary.

What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently highlight the stunning scenery and friendly guides. Gareth mentioned that seeing the mountains up close was a “wonderful experience,” emphasizing how accessible and enjoyable the drive is, even for those with little off-road experience. Michael appreciated that it was well-organized and loved the local knowledge shared, though he pointed out the aloe vera stop felt a bit commercial. Rob called it a “beautiful trip”, noting the good convertible cars and spectacular scenery. Lennertz appreciated the adaptability of the route—changing plans based on the weather—showing the tour’s flexibility.

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Why This Tour Works

The combination of driving your own vintage vehicle, seeing diverse landscapes, and learning about local culture makes this a well-rounded experience. It’s especially good for adventurous types who want to control their pace and enjoy a more personal connection with Gran Canaria’s scenery. The inclusion of local food and authentic stops enhances the value, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

Practical Tips

• Bring your driver’s license if you plan to drive; the tour is designed for those comfortable behind the wheel.
• Wear comfortable clothes suitable for mountain weather—layers are wise.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check in advance if you have specific needs.
• For families, children over 4 years are welcome, but keep in mind the driver license requirement.
• Consider the weather forecast; although the route is flexible, cloudy or rainy weather might affect visibility.

Overall Value

At $74, this tour packs a lot of spectacular scenery, cultural insights, and fun driving into a manageable day. It’s a unique way to see Gran Canaria that combines adventure, comfort, and local flavor—a worthwhile option for those seeking something more active than a typical bus tour but still with plenty of support and guidance.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you enjoy driving a classic car, want a personal and flexible experience, and love mountain and valley scenery, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for adventurous families with older children, couples looking for a romantic, playful day, or solo travelers eager to feel a part of the landscape. If you appreciate local food, cultural stops, and beautiful viewpoints, you’ll find this tour offers a genuine taste of Gran Canaria.

However, if you’re not comfortable driving or have mobility challenges, consider the accessible features or opt for a guided bus option. Also, if your schedule is tight or you prefer a shorter experience, check the tour times and availability to match your plans.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 4 years old are allowed, making it family-friendly, especially if they enjoy scenic drives and outdoor stops.

Do I need to drive if I join the tour?
No, but drivers must have a valid driver’s license. If you prefer not to drive, you can still join as a passenger. The tour is designed for a small group, so you’ll enjoy the scenery even as a passenger.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, with scheduled stops and sightseeing, offering a full but relaxed day.

Are the vehicles comfortable?
Yes, the convertible Beetles are noted as easy to drive and comfortable enough for a full day’s outing. The open-air aspect adds to the enjoyment.

What about food and drinks?
A picnic lunch made from local products is included, along with one soft drink. You might want to bring extra water or snacks for added refreshment.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check in advance for specific needs.

This Gran Canaria Convertible Beetle Tour offers a lively, engaging way to see the island’s mountains, valleys, and villages while enjoying the simple pleasure of driving a classic car in the open air. Perfect for travelers who crave a personal touch and authentic scenery, it’s a memorable and good-value way to explore Gran Canaria beyond the typical sightseeing routes.

You can check availability for your dates here: