Imagine cruising up Spain’s highest peak in a sleek, three-wheeled vehicle with the wind in your hair—this is what the Tenerife Mount Teide Self-Drive Slingshot Tour offers. For $235 per group of up to two, you get the chance to take the wheel of a Polaris Slingshot, exploring some of the island’s most stunning landscapes with a guide to help you uncover its hidden gems. The tour lasts a good part of the day, taking you from South Tenerife into the volcanic heart of Mount Teide National Park, with plenty of scenic stops, breathtaking viewpoints, and cultural insights along the way.
What we love most about this experience is the combination of adrenaline and scenery—driving a sporty, open-air vehicle through forests, lava fields, and mountain roads brings a sense of freedom that’s hard to beat. Plus, the small-group format and included hotel transfer make it feel intimate and convenient, perfect for travelers who want a personalized adventure.
A possible consideration is the requirement for a valid driver’s license, which means this isn’t suitable for everyone. Also, since the experience is self-driven, it’s best for those comfortable with renting and operating a vehicle in a mountain environment. This tour suits travelers who seek excitement, love nature, and appreciate getting off the beaten path, especially those who enjoy scenic drives and panoramic views.
Key Points
- Unique self-drive experience with a Polaris Slingshot.
- Breathtaking viewpoints and photo stops at natural landmarks.
- Expert guide sharing insights on Tenerife’s geology, history, and culture.
- Scenic route through volcanic landscapes, pine forests, and mountain roads.
- Convenient hotel pickup and included snacks and water for comfort.
- Child-friendly for ages five and up as passengers.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
The Tenerife Mount Teide Self-Drive Slingshot Tour is a chance to combine adventure with natural beauty, all wrapped in a package that feels both fun and informative. Unlike traditional guided bus tours, this one puts you in the driver’s seat—literally. We loved the feeling of control as we navigated the winding roads leading up to Spain’s highest point, with stunning scenery unfolding at every turn.
Driving a Polaris Slingshot, a bold, three-wheeled vehicle with a sporty look, adds a sense of excitement that appeals to thrill-seekers. The tour’s route through forests, lava fields, and scenic mountain viewpoints offers plenty of photo opportunities—perfect for capturing memories or sharing on social media. According to one reviewer, Marco, “A wonderful experience combining the thrill of driving a sports car with breathtaking scenery,” which encapsulates what makes this tour special.
The small group size (up to two people per vehicle) ensures a more personal experience, with your guide available to share interesting facts about the island’s geology, history, and cultural points. The included hotel transfer in South Tenerife means you won’t have to worry about organizing transport—just relax and enjoy the ride.
Planning more time in Playa De Las Americas? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary: What You Can Expect
The tour begins with a brief safety and operational briefing, where you’ll learn how to handle the Polaris Slingshot. Once underway, you’ll follow a carefully curated route that takes you through some of Tenerife’s most scenic and geologically fascinating areas.
First, expect a drive through lush pine forests that blanket the lower slopes of the mountains. These areas are a cool contrast to the volcanic landscapes that dominate later in the journey. As you ascend, the terrain transforms into rugged lava fields, testament to the island’s volcanic past. Your guide will point out natural landmarks, sharing insights about the island’s volcanic activity and formation.
Key stops include viewpoints overlooking the Tenerife landscape—some with panoramic vistas of the coast, others offering close-up views of Mount Teide’s imposing presence. These stops are perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the scenery. A highlight often mentioned is pausing at a charming mountain café, where you can relax with snacks and drinks, all while enjoying views that stretch for miles.
Throughout the drive, your guide will share stories about Tenerife’s cultural heritage, from indigenous Guanche history to modern island life. These insights turn a scenic drive into an educational experience, giving you a broader understanding of the island’s identity.
What You Should Know Before Booking
The tour is not just about the thrill of driving—it’s about appreciating Tenerife’s natural beauty with a knowledgeable guide by your side. Since it’s child-friendly for ages 5 and up as passengers, families can enjoy the experience, though the driver must have a valid license.
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and closed-toe shoes, as you’ll be outdoors most of the time. The hotel pickup makes it easy to access the starting point, and the included snacks and water help keep you energized during the adventure.
While this experience offers excellent value—combining transportation, a guided route, and scenic stops—the cost of $235 covers just the driving and guide, which is reasonable considering the personalized nature of the tour. It’s a good idea to consider how much you value hands-on exploration and scenic photography when evaluating the price.
Authenticity and Real-World Feedback
The sole available review gives the tour a perfect 5-star rating, with Marco describing it as “a wonderful experience combining the thrill of driving a sports car with breathtaking scenery.” He emphasizes that it’s “definitely worth repeating,” which speaks to the memorable impact of this activity.
Other travelers might find that this experience excels in providing stunning views and good value for the price. The combination of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural insights makes it a standout option for those wanting to see Tenerife from a different perspective.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Will Love This Tour?
This tour suits adventurous travelers who enjoy being behind the wheel and want to experience Tenerife’s landscapes in an exciting way. It’s ideal for photo enthusiasts eager to capture sweeping views, and for families or groups looking for a shared experience that’s both fun and educational.
If you’re someone who appreciates a small-group environment with personalized attention, or if you want to skip the typical bus tours in favor of something more hands-on, this adventure will hit the spot. However, if you’re uncomfortable driving in mountain conditions or don’t have a valid license, this might not be suitable.
The Sum Up
The Tenerife Mount Teide Self-Drive Slingshot Tour offers a rare blend of thrill, scenery, and cultural learning that appeals to a broad range of travelers. The opportunity to drive your own sporty vehicle through volcanic landscapes, stopping at stunning viewpoints, makes this a memorable way to explore the island’s natural beauty.
For those who love adventure with a touch of sophistication, this tour strikes a nice balance between excitement and education. The included hotel pickup, snacks, and small-group atmosphere all add to the sense of comfort and personalized experience.
If you’re looking for an active, engaging way to see Tenerife’s highlights and don’t mind handling the vehicle yourself, this tour is a great value. It’s especially perfect for travelers craving a unique photo opportunity and a bit of adrenaline amidst some of the most iconic scenery in the Canary Islands.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 5 and up can ride as passengers, making it family-friendly. The driver, however, must have a valid license.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your driver’s license, sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and closed-toe shoes to stay comfortable and protected outdoors.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers an optional hotel transfer service in South Tenerife, making it easy to start your adventure without extra planning.
How long does the tour last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, the experience involves a scenic drive with stops, snacks, and sightseeing, likely spanning several hours.
What makes this tour different from others?
The self-drive element in a sporty Polaris Slingshot, combined with scenic viewpoints and cultural insights, provides a personalized and adventurous alternative to traditional tours.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility amid changing travel plans.