Tenerife’s Best Quick Escape: The Round The Island Trip Without Teide VIP TOUR
If you’re visiting Tenerife and want to see the island’s top sights without fussing over transport or planning every detail yourself, this Round The Island Trip Without Teide offers a smooth, engaging way to get a broad taste of the island in about 8 to 9 hours. For $85.54 per person, you’ll hop into a comfortable air-conditioned minivan, with pickup and drop-off included—no need to worry about navigating the winding roads or figuring out how to get from La Laguna to Garachico.
What we particularly love about this tour is how it balances organized convenience with authentic exploration. Firstly, the small group size (max 7 travelers) really makes a difference—it’s intimate enough to ask questions and get personalized attention from your guide, Angel, who many reviews praise for his knowledge and good humor. Secondly, the inclusion of free Wi-Fi means you can share your awe-inspiring views in real time, or simply stay connected during the journey—something rare and appreciated in such tours.
One possible consideration is the fixed itinerary—while it covers key highlights, if you have specific interests or want to linger longer in certain spots, you might find the schedule somewhat tight. Also, pickup in the south of Tenerife incurs an extra fee, so if you’re based outside Santa Cruz or La Laguna, it’s worth factoring that into your budget.
This tour suits travelers eager for a comprehensive snapshot of Tenerife—especially first-timers who want an expert-guided overview of the island’s most picturesque and culturally significant sites without the hassle of self-driving or multiple bookings.
Key Points
- All-Inclusive Convenience: Pickup, transport, and guide service make this a hassle-free way to see Tenerife.
- Authentic Small Group: With only 7 travelers max, you’ll get personalized insights and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Diverse Highlights: From UNESCO-listed La Laguna to the towering Los Gigantes cliffs, the tour offers a wide variety of scenery and culture.
- Flexible Experience: While the itinerary is fixed, reviews praise the guide for adjusting to weather and interests, giving you a tailored feel.
- Value for Money: The price includes notable sites, knowledgeable guides, and WIFI, making it a well-rounded day trip.
- What to Consider: Pickup outside Santa Cruz/La Laguna costs extra, and the schedule might be tight if you want more time at each stop.
A Deep Dive Into the Experience
Starting at La Laguna
The tour begins early, with a pickup from Santa Cruz or La Laguna, both accessible locations. We loved the way the guide, Angel, set the tone with friendly commentary and a good sense of humor. La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the first stop. Here, we wandered through cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings, soaking in the history of Tenerife’s historic capital. The 45-minute visit leaves enough time to admire the architecture, snap some photos, and get a feel for the island’s past.
Exploring La Orotava
Next, the journey takes us to La Orotava, famed for its stately homes from the 17th and 18th centuries. The narrow streets here reveal a blend of tradition and beauty—think lush balconies and ornate facades. The 45-minute stop is just enough to stroll and imagine what life was like centuries ago. Many travelers noted the guide’s storytelling enriched the experience, making the history come alive.
Meeting the Endemic Dragon Tree
The highlight of the next stop is the El Drago Milenario—an ancient dragon tree believed to be over 3,000 years old. Standing in a small village, this endemic species offers a rare glimpse into the natural heritage of the Canary Islands. This 15-minute visit is a quick photo op but a memorable one, especially for nature lovers. The reviews repeatedly mention how special it is to see this ancient tree, unique to the islands.
Discovering Garachico
Garachico is often called Tenerife’s “little Pompeii” for its volcanic past. The town’s cobbled streets and volcanic rock formations tell stories of eruptions and resilience. Visitors can walk at their own pace, taking in the charming squares and the sea views. The 20-minute stop is praised for giving a good overview without feeling rushed, and many reviews highlight how understanding the volcanic influence helps appreciate the local culture.
Gazing from Los Gigantes
The Acantilado de los Gigantes offers one of the most iconic views—almost 1,000 meters of cliff towering over the Atlantic. The viewpoint provides sweeping vistas that are both humbling and awe-inspiring. The 15-minute stop allows for photos and a breath of fresh ocean air. Several travelers appreciated how the guide encouraged taking your time to absorb the scenery.
Visiting Candelaria
The final significant stop is Candelaria, home to the island’s largest church. While this isn’t a religious tour, the church’s architecture and the nearby statues of Guanche indigenous figures give a cultural context. It’s a fitting end to a day of exploring both natural and historical marvels. The 20-minute visit wraps up the tour with a sense of spiritual and cultural reflection.
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Why This Tour Works for Travelers
The small group format and expert guide make this trip stand out. Angel’s storytelling and flexibility, as mentioned in reviews, bring the stops to life, making each location more than just a quick photo opportunity. The included WIFI and air-conditioned transport add comfort, especially on Tenerife’s warm days.
Timing is well managed, with most stops allowing enough time to explore without feeling hurried—except perhaps if you want to linger longer at each site. The itinerary is designed to give a broad but balanced overview of Tenerife, blending natural wonders, cultural sites, and stunning vistas.
The price represents good value when you consider the transport, guide, and entry to sites (where applicable). While food and drinks are not included, many travelers mention packing snacks or enjoying local cuisine during free time, adding to the authentic experience.
Reviews highlight the guide’s extensive knowledge and personable approach, making the journey educational and fun, even when the weather isn’t perfect. Several mention how Angel adapted the plan during weather challenges, ensuring they still saw the key sights.
Practicalities and Tips
- Pickup areas in Santa Cruz and La Laguna are free, but south Tenerife pickups have an extra fee—plan accordingly.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and layers, since weather can change quickly in Tenerife.
- Bring sun protection—hat, sunscreen, sunglasses—and possibly a swimsuit and towel if you want to take advantage of the beaches or coastal stops.
- If you’re traveling with children or a small group (up to 7), this tour provides an intimate setting and flexibility.
- Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, providing peace of mind.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip is ideal for first-time visitors who want a rundown of Tenerife’s highlights without the hassle of car rentals or multiple local bookings. If you’re interested in culture, history, natural beauty, and spectacular views, you’ll find plenty to love. The small group size and attentive guide make it especially suitable for those who prefer a more personalized experience.
Travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace, but still want to see a lot in one day, will find this tour well-suited. It’s perfect if you want a snapshot of Tenerife’s most beautiful sites, along with insightful stories from someone who knows the local territory.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting from 9:00 AM and ending around 6:00 PM.
Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup from Santa Cruz or La Laguna is free. Pickup from the south or other areas incurs an additional fee.
What sites are visited during the tour?
You’ll visit La Laguna, La Orotava, the El Drago Milenario, Garachico, Los Gigantes cliffs, and Candelaria.
Is there an entrance fee for any sites?
No, all stops are free of charge, but the tour itself covers the sites’ highlights and provides commentary.
Can I customize the itinerary?
If you book with a group of five or more, you can suggest preferred stops or extend your time at certain sites.
What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, comfortable shoes, water, and possibly swimwear for seaside stops.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and children sharing with two paying adults qualify for a child rate.
How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is 7 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
What if the weather is bad?
The guide is flexible and will adjust plans if needed, so you’ll still see key sights even in inclement weather.
In the end, this tour offers a highly manageable, insightful, and scenic way to experience Tenerife’s diverse charms. Whether you’re marveling at cliffs, wandering historic towns, or enjoying natural landmarks, the combination of expert guiding and well-chosen stops makes for a memorable day. Ideal for those who want value, comfort, and a genuine taste of the island’s soul.
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