Exploring Tenerife in a single day might sound ambitious, but this Complete Island Tour with Masca makes it possible. For around $56, you’ll spend about nine hours discovering some of the most iconic spots of the island, from the coastal town of Candelaria to the rugged cliffs of Masca. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this trip promises a well-rounded taste of Tenerife’s landscapes, history, and traditions.
What we love about this tour is how efficiently it packs in a variety of experiences. You get to step into historic towns like La Orotava, admire dramatic volcanic scenery, and relax at natural pools—all in one day. The inclusion of local stories and cultural insights truly enriches the trip, making it more than just sightseeing. Another highlight is the scenic drive through rural parks, culminating at the stunning village of Masca, famous for its towering cliffs and traditional architecture.
A possible consideration is the pace; since the day covers many stops, you might find yourself with limited time at each location. If you prefer a slow, immersive visit to a single place, this tour may feel a bit rushed. Still, for those who want a broad overview and a snapshot of Tenerife’s diverse charm, it’s an ideal choice.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy seeing multiple sights in a limited time, appreciate guided insights, and are comfortable with some driving and walking. It’s especially appealing for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive introduction to Tenerife without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.
Key Points
- Variety of stops offers a well-rounded Tenerife experience, from cultural sites to natural landscapes.
- The expert guide enriches the trip with stories, history, and local knowledge.
- Scenic drives and breathtaking views are highlights, particularly in the Teno Rural Park and Masca.
- The cost provides good value, considering the inclusion of transportation, a guide, and multiple locations.
- Limited free time at some stops means travelers should be prepared for a quick visit.
- The tour’s pace suits those eager to see many spots but may not be ideal for those wanting a leisurely exploration.
A Deep Dive Into the Tenerife Complete Island Tour
If you’re after a thorough look at what this tour offers, we’ll break down each part of the day and what you can expect. This is an experience designed to maximize your exposure to Tenerife’s highlights, with a balance of cultural insights and stunning scenery.
Planning more time in Tenerife? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point: Convenience and Punctuality
The tour begins with a pickup at one of 21 different locations, many of which are centrally located hotels or popular tourist areas like Siam Park and Bahia del Duque. Pickup times are between 7:30 AM and 8:30 AM, so you’ll want to be ready early, which is a small trade-off for covering so much ground in a day. The transportation is via air-conditioned bus, which helps keep everyone comfortable despite the long day ahead.
First Stop: Candelaria
Your journey kicks off in Candelaria, a coastal town famous for the Basilica of Candelaria, a key religious site. Here, you’ll see impressive bronze statues of the Guanche Kings—an excellent introduction to Tenerife’s indigenous history. This stop is a great way to start understanding the cultural roots of the island before moving into more scenic and historic locales.
Second Stop: La Orotava
Next, you’ll visit La Orotava, often called the “heart of Tenerife’s traditional architecture.” Its cobbled streets, colorful balconies, and historic buildings like La Casa de Los Balcones give you a glimpse into local life and craftsmanship. The town square and church add to the sense of stepping back in time. The reviews highlight the charm of this area, with visitors appreciating the opportunity to see a town full of character and history.
More Great Tours NearbyThird Stop: Garachico
The coastal town of Garachico is a highlight for many, especially because of its volcanic past. After a volcanic eruption in 1706, the town’s natural lava pools, particularly El Caletón, have become a popular spot for photos and relaxing in natural surroundings. The Castle of San Miguel offers a peek into the island’s defensive history against pirates. Reviewers praise Garachico’s beauty and its well-preserved historic center, declared a Site of Cultural Interest.
- Whale Watching and Listening Eco Catamaran Tour with Food Tasting
- 3h Viking Cruise with Drinks, Whales watching & Swimming Time
- Whale and Dolphin Small Group Sailing from Tenerife South
- Forestal Park Tenerife Entrance Ticket
- Tenerife Whales and Dolphins Watching Experience in Catamaran
- Small Group Teide National Park Volcanic and Forest Wonders
Lunch Break: Flexibility and Local Cuisine
After these cultural visits, you’ll have free time for lunch—either on your own or at a recommended restaurant. Many travelers find this pause allows them to enjoy Canarian dishes like fresh fish or go for a quick coffee before heading into the more rugged landscapes. Since lunch isn’t included, you might want to budget some cash or check out local options, which many reviews note are plentiful and inviting.
Fourth Stop: Teno Rural Park
Proceeding into Teno Rural Park, you’ll enjoy a dramatic change of scenery—lush, winding roads surrounded by striking natural landscapes. The park’s winding mountain roads are a highlight, showcasing Tenerife’s volcanic origins and green terrain. This part of the trip prepares you for the highlight of the day: Masca.
Final Destination: Masca
Perched on the edge of towering cliffs, Masca is the image many picture of the island—tiny, traditional houses amid breathtaking vistas. The village’s architecture remains mostly untouched and offers a real sense of the enduring Canarian culture. Visitors often find the views here well worth the drive, and some appreciate the chance to walk to viewpoints or grab a drink while soaking in the scenery.
Return Journey and Drop-offs
The tour wraps up with a return to your original pickup point, with drop-offs at the same locations. The entire experience is a full 9 hours, making it a long but fulfilling day.
The Practicalities: Transportation, Guides, and Cost
You’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned bus, which is a plus considering the long distances and winding roads. The guide—multilingual in Spanish, English, and German—serves as the narrative backbone, sharing stories, historical context, and local tips, which many reviewers find adds significant value.
At $56 per person, the price seems reasonable for a full day of sightseeing, especially considering the included transportation, guide, and hotel pickup. Since lunch isn’t included, you’ll want to budget extra for meals, but the flexibility lets you choose what suits your taste and budget.
The tour’s length and multiple stops mean you’ll see a lot, but it also means some may feel rushed—particularly at Masca, where more time to relax or explore on your own could enhance the experience. This is a good option for those who prefer a broad overview over in-depth exploration of each spot.
What Travelers Say
Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, often mentioning guides like Juan who are friendly, passionate, and full of interesting stories. The spectacular views of landscapes and coastlines are another frequent highlight, with many noting that the scenery exceeded their expectations. The value for money is also a common theme—seeing so many diverse locations in one day at this price point offers strong appeal.
Some feedback points to the need for clearer communication about pickup times and locations, but overall, travelers find the experience well-organized and enjoyable.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is best suited for visitors who want a rundown of Tenerife in a single day. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but eager to see several highlights without the hassle of arranging transportation or guides yourself. The stops provide a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it appealing for those interested in a well-rounded introduction.
If you’re someone who values expert commentary and scenic vistas, or if you’re traveling with family or friends who want to tick off many Tenerife sights efficiently, this tour will serve you well. It’s less suited for travelers seeking a slow pace or a deep dive into any one location, but for a quick, energetic snapshot, it hits the mark.
Final Thoughts
For just over fifty dollars, this full-day tour offers excellent value—covering Tenerife’s most emblematic spots with the convenience of hotel pickup and an expert guide. The variety of stops ensures you’ll return home with a broad understanding of the island’s geography, culture, and history, all wrapped in a scenic drive through some of the most stunning landscapes the island has to offer.
While the pace might feel brisk at times, many travelers find that the sights and stories make up for it. If you want a cost-effective way to experience Tenerife’s highlights and are comfortable with some sightseeing on the move, this tour is hard to beat.
This experience is particularly well-suited for first-time visitors, small groups, or anyone eager for a snapshot of Tenerife’s diversity without the complexity of planning every detail. It’s a solid choice for those who value guided insights, scenic beauty, and good value.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is included from 21 different locations, mostly hotels and popular tourist spots.
What languages are available for the guide?
Tours are offered with guides speaking Spanish, English, and German.
How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts about 9 hours, depending on your pickup time and traffic.
Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, but you’ll have free time to choose your own meal or snack at a recommended restaurant.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a jacket for variable weather, and a face mask or protective covering are recommended.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the pace and stops are generally suitable for families, but consider your children’s comfort with long days and bus rides.
Are there any optional activities during the stops?
Most stops are sightseeing-focused, such as walking through towns or visiting viewpoints. Some may include walking down to viewpoints or beaches, but specific activities aren’t detailed.
What is the cost of the tour?
$56 per person, which provides excellent value considering the comprehensive itinerary and included transportation.
Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you flexibility in your planning.
This Tenerife full island tour offers an accessible, engaging way to taste the very best of the island’s geography, culture, and history—all in a day’s outing. If you’re looking for a whirlwind adventure that balances scenic drives, charming towns, and expert commentary, it’s worth considering.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Tenerife
- Tenerife: Teide National Park & Teno Rural Park Private Tour
- From Tenerife: Guided Tour to La Gomera with Ferry Ticket
- Tenerife: Coastal Sights to Woodland Heights Quad Tour
- Tenerife: Teide National Park Sunset & Stargazing Tour
- Tenerife: Motorcycle Guide Tour – Off Road
- Tenerife: kayak tour with animals and underwater scooters
More Tour Reviews in Tenerife
- Tenerife: Teide National Park & Teno Rural Park Private Tour
- From Tenerife: Guided Tour to La Gomera with Ferry Ticket
- Tenerife: Coastal Sights to Woodland Heights Quad Tour
- From Tenerife South: La Gomera Full-Day Trip with Transfers
- Rent a Boat with No License, Self Drive
- Mount Teide: Day Trip to Volcano Teide Without Cable Car
More Tenerife experiences we've covered
- Tenerife: Teide National Park & Teno Rural Park Private Tour
- From Tenerife: Guided Tour to La Gomera with Ferry Ticket
- Tenerife: Coastal Sights to Woodland Heights Quad Tour
- From Tenerife South: La Gomera Full-Day Trip with Transfers
- Rent a Boat with No License, Self Drive
- Mount Teide: Day Trip to Volcano Teide Without Cable Car
- Tenerife: Stargazing Walk in Teide National Park
- Tenerife. Stargazing at the Teide National Park
- Tenerife: Teide National Park Sunset & Stargazing Tour
- Tenerife: Motorcycle Guide Tour – Off Road
- From the south of Tenerife: La Gomera full day trip
- Tenerife: kayak tour with animals and underwater scooters