Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a vibrant port city that offers more than just a gateway to the Canary Islands. Its lively streets, stunning coastal views, and proximity to dramatic landscapes make it an ideal base for exploring by tour. Whether you’re craving adrenaline, culture, or nature, Santa Cruz has a lot to offer. We’re particularly fond of the Tenerife Buggy Tour The Golden Mile for its energetic vibe and eye-catching photos, and the Contrasts of Tenerife Tour for its comprehensive peek into the island’s natural and historical highlights. Both deliver memorable experiences that showcase Tenerife’s diverse charm.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the eight best tours in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, from exciting off-road adventures to immersive cultural excursions. Each offers a different way to enjoy the island, helping you pick what suits your interests, pace, and budget.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of Tenerife tours designed to appeal to different interests. For thrill-seekers, the Buggy Tour is a lively, music-filled ride across the Golden Mile. Nature lovers will appreciate the Teno Waterfalls and Jungle Trek for its scenic hikes and waterfalls. Culture enthusiasts can opt for the Anaga and La Laguna VIP Tour, which combines wine tasting and heritage sites. Photography buffs will enjoy the Landscape Photography Workshop to improve their skills, and those curious about caves should consider the Las Palomas volcanic cave tour. For a splash of adventure, the Introductory Dive offers a beginner underwater experience, while the Western Tenerife Portraits Trip captures your memories with stunning backdrops. All these options promise a chance to see Tenerife from new angles.
Now, let’s explore each tour in detail to help you decide which fits your travel style best.
1. Tenerife Buggy Tour The Golden Mile
Rated 5/5 on the site with one review, this 45-minute buggy ride is more than just transportation — it’s a party on wheels. Starting in Spain, this colorful adventure takes you along the famous Golden Mile of Tenerife, a stretch known for its luxury hotels and lively atmosphere. The tour is packed with music, wigs, scenic stops, and plenty of adrenaline.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on fun and photo opportunities. You’ll pull over at unique spots along the Golden Mile to snap photos that capture Tenerife’s stylish side. If you love being the center of attention and want a lively, laughter-filled experience, this is perfect for you. It’s suitable for all ages, making it a family-friendly choice or a lively outing with friends.
The tour’s price is $116 per group (up to 2 people), offering good value given the lively atmosphere and quick pace. The party on wheels vibe is perfect if you’re looking for something energetic and memorable. The only downside? It’s quick, so if you want a longer adventure, you might want to pair it with other activities.
Bottom line: a fantastic, fun-filled ride that mixes scenic stops with pure entertainment, ideal for those wanting a lively, photo-worthy experience.
$116 per group up to 2
2. Volcanic caving Las Palomas Cave (ES-EN)
For just $29 per person, this two-hour walk and cave exploration takes you into the volcanic tubes formed during the 1949 eruption of San Juan Volcano. The Las Palomas Cave is a fascinating natural monument, offering a hands-on experience of Tenerife’s volcanic past.
The tour features a walkway built over the volcanic flow, where you’ll stroll through the lava tubes, then venture inside for about 30-45 minutes of exploration. The highlight is crossing along the walkway that winds over the volcanic flow, giving a real sense of how the island’s landscape was shaped. The cave itself is a dark, cool environment, perfect for photography and learning about volcanic activity.
This experience is best suited for those interested in geology or looking for a short, affordable adventure. It’s a good choice for families or curious travelers wanting a glimpse beneath Tenerife’s surface. Since the tour involves walking and some light exploration, moderate fitness is recommended.
Bottom line: an accessible, educational tour for curious explorers who want to see Tenerife’s volcanic heart firsthand without long hikes or complex logistics.
$29 per person
3. From Costa Adeje or Santa Cruz: Contrasts of Tenerife Tour
At around 9.5 to 10.5 hours, this comprehensive day tour hits the mark for travelers eager to see Tenerife’s varied landscapes and culture. Starting from Costa Adeje or Santa Cruz, it covers everything from Spain’s highest volcano to lush forests and historic streets.
The tour’s highlights include visits to UNESCO sites, the Anaga Forest, and the iconic Playa de Las Teresitas beach. You’ll explore the island’s natural beauty, with stops at scenic viewpoints and historical towns. The guide shares insights into Tenerife’s natural features as well as its cultural heritage, making it ideal for those who want a well-rounded experience.
Guests appreciate the long day’s value for the price, which includes transportation and guided commentary. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time who want to maximize their sightseeing without the hassle of planning. Keep in mind, the long day requires comfortable walking shoes and an interest in not just scenery but also history and local culture.
Bottom line: a full-day, immersive tour ideal for those wanting a deep dive into Tenerife’s diverse scenery and cultural sites in one go.
4. Tenerife: Anaga and La Laguna VIP Tour
For $323 per person, this private 6-hour tour offers a personalized experience of Tenerife’s most charming towns and landscapes. You’ll explore Anaga, a lush mountain region known for its dramatic cliffs, and La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site full of historic streets.
What sets this tour apart is its private transport and exclusive access to activities like wine tasting at the Casa del Vino. The guide customizes the itinerary to your interests, making it perfect for travelers who want a flexible, intimate experience. Visiting the Casa del Vino includes optional tastings, which some guests find a highlight, especially if they enjoy regional wines.
This tour is best suited for those who prefer comfort, exclusivity, and a deep dive into local culture. It’s a great choice for couples or small groups looking for a luxurious, tailored day. The high price reflects the premium experience and private transportation.
Bottom line: a refined way to explore Tenerife’s top cultural and scenic spots, ideal for travelers seeking comfort and customization.
$323 per person
5. Tenerife: Landscape Photography, Coaching Workshops 5 hrs.
Led by an award-winning photographer, this 5-hour photography workshop is designed for everyone—beginners and seasoned shutterbugs alike. You’ll learn how to use light, perspective, and your camera to capture Tenerife’s stunning scenery.
The workshop is flexible, with individual appointments available every day. It covers both mobile and DSLR cameras, making it accessible for those who only have their smartphone. The focus is on emotional insights and technical skills — a rare pairing that helps you see beyond just pressing buttons.
Guests praise the practical tips and the friendly, knowledgeable guide. “I learned so much about how to better use my camera,” wrote one reviewer. The workshop’s value lies in its personalized approach, making it suitable for all skill levels.
Bottom line: a perfect choice for photography enthusiasts eager to improve their skills in Tenerife’s picturesque settings.
$113 per person
6. Teno Waterfalls and the Tropical Jungle of Tenerife
This 6-7.5-hour guided hike takes you into the wild Teno Mountains, where you’ll trek through banana, avocado, and citrus plantations. The journey includes walking along jungle edges, swimming in natural springs, and visiting waterfalls.
Highlights include the Masca Gorge, with its photo stops, and scenic drives through rugged landscapes. The tour involves light canyoneering and hiking, appealing to active travelers. The itinerary also explores hidden corners of Tenerife, revealing the island’s lesser-known natural beauty.
It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and want a balance of hiking and sightseeing. The tour’s reviews note its beautiful scenery and photo opportunities, though the full day may be tiring for less active guests.
Bottom line: an adventurous, scenic trek perfect for those who want to explore Tenerife’s wilder side.
7. Tenerife: Introductory Dive for Cruise Ship Passengers
For just $135 per person, this beginners’ diving experience is tailored for cruise visitors stopping in Santa Cruz. After a short instructional briefing, you’ll enjoy a dive in crystal-clear waters up to 5 meters deep.
This is a perfect introduction to scuba diving, especially for those who might be nervous but want to try underwater. The experience is conveniently close to Santa Cruz’s port, minimizing travel time. Reviews highlight the professionalism of the instructors and the quality of the equipment.
It’s ideal for first-time divers or anyone curious about what it’s like to breathe underwater. Expect a short, safe, and memorable splash into Tenerife’s marine life.
Bottom line: a beginner-friendly, port-accessible dive experience for curious cruise passengers.
$135 per person
8. Western Tenerife Trip with Portraits of You
This full-day experience merges sightseeing with professional photography. It’s not just about seeing Tenerife, but also about living and capturing the moments. The tour visits the most expressive and photogenic spots, carefully chosen to reflect the island’s essence.
The highlight is the personal portrait session, creating lasting photos of you amid Tenerife’s stunning scenery. The guide emphasizes authenticity and connection, making each trip unique. It’s well-suited for travelers who love both exploration and photography, and want to return home with beautiful images.
The experience is tailored to your style and interests, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. It’s a chance to live in the moment and preserve it in photos.
Bottom line: ideal for travelers who want a personal, memorable journey captured in high-quality portraits.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. For a fast-paced, fun ride, the Buggy Tour offers thrills and great photos. If you prefer discovering Tenerife’s geological secrets, the Las Palomas Cave is a neat, affordable choice. For a full cultural and scenic experience, the Contrasts of Tenerife Tour packs in plenty of highlights. Want a personalized experience? The Anaga and La Laguna VIP Tour provides exclusivity and comfort. Photographers should consider the Landscape Workshop, while adventure lovers will enjoy the Teno Waterfalls hike.
Remember, booking early is wise, especially for popular activities like the buggy ride or private tours. Think about your fitness level, interests, and how much of Tenerife you want to see in one go. Whether you’re after adrenaline, culture, or photography, Santa Cruz de Tenerife offers a tour for that.
To sum it up, whether you’re looking for a quick adrenaline rush, a cultural exploration, or a scenic hike, Santa Cruz de Tenerife has something to suit your style. The Tenerife Buggy Tour The Golden Mile is perfect for lively, fun-seekers, while the Contrasts of Tenerife Tour suits those wanting an all-in-one day adventure. For a more personalized experience, the VIP Anaga and La Laguna Tour offers luxury and tailored insights. Don’t forget to book early — Tenerife’s tours fill up fast, especially in peak season. Whatever you choose, these experiences promise to deepen your connection with the island and create lasting memories.