Tenerife Tour Mt. Teide and the Towns of Icod, Garachico, Masca

Tenerife Tour Mt. Teide and the Towns of Icod, Garachico, Masca: An Authentic Day on the Canary Island

This 7-8 hour guided excursion across Tenerife offers an inviting glimpse into the island’s most captivating landscapes and towns. For just under $50, you’ll visit iconic spots like Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain, and charming villages such as Icod de los Vinos, with its famous dragon tree, as well as the dramatic coastlines of Garachico and the picturesque, rugged village of Masca. The tour, operated by La Excursion, costs around $45.84 per person, with pickup offered from the south of Tenerife—making it an easy, hassle-free way to see the island’s highlights.

Two features we really appreciate include the inclusion of entrance tickets to Mount Teide National Park, which saves you time and money, and the small-group atmosphere (max 34 travelers), which often makes for a more personal experience. On the flip side, one potential downside is that many travelers feel the stops are quite short, limiting the chance to truly soak in each location. Still, if you enjoy a packed itinerary that hits the main sights, this tour offers excellent value.

This experience suits travelers who love stunning scenery, cultural sights, and a taste of rural Tenerife. It’s especially good if you’re comfortable with long days in a bus and appreciate knowledgeable guides who can share stories in multiple languages. Whether you’re visiting Tenerife for the first time or want a rundown, this tour provides a well-rounded adventure into the island’s natural and historic treasures.

Key Points

Stunning landscapes: The visit to Mount Teide National Park offers breathtaking views of volcanic terrain, making it a highlight for nature lovers.
Authentic towns: Stops in Icod, Garachico, and Masca provide a glimpse into Tenerife’s rural charm and history, not just tourist spots.
Efficient itinerary: The tour packs many sights into a single day, which is great for maximizing your time but means shorter stops at each location.
Guided storytelling: Having a guide who speaks multiple languages enriches the experience, though some reviews mention the challenge of following lengthy explanations.
Value for money: With entry fees included and a comprehensive itinerary, the price is quite reasonable for such a full day of exploration.
Potential rush: Several reviews note that the stops are quick, and some travelers wish for more time at favorite spots like Masca.

A Deep Dive into the Tenerife Tour Experience

If you’re looking for a day that balances natural grandeur with cultural charm, this tour ticks many boxes. Starting at 10:00 am from Los Cristianos, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned bus that whisks you around the north and central parts of the island. The journey is as much about the spectacular scenery as it is about the destinations, and the driver’s skill at navigating tight mountain roads is often praised—especially in the case of Masca, which is known for its narrow, winding route.

Mount Teide National Park: The Star of the Day

Your first stop is Mount Teide, Tenerife’s crown jewel. At 3,700 meters above sea level, this UNESCO World Heritage site boasts otherworldly volcanic landscapes. Entry to the park is included, so you can skip the lines and get straight into the scenery. Expect around an hour here, giving you enough time to appreciate the dramatic vistas, snap photos, and get a sense of the vast volcanic caldera.

Many reviewers mention the views from afar—some wish for more time or closer access. As one said, “We saw Mount Teide but from afar and had around 30 minutes to view and walk around.” Still, the scenery from the viewpoint is spectacular enough to satisfy most travelers, and the drive up the mountain is an adventure in itself.

Icod de los Vinos and the Dragon Tree

Next is Icod de los Vinos, a quaint town famed for its ancient dragon tree. This tree, estimated to be over 1,000 years old, is a living monument and a must-see for those interested in botany and local folklore. The town itself offers a charming glimpse into traditional Canarian architecture, and the free stay here allows you to soak in the ambiance and perhaps enjoy some local tapas.

One reviewer mentioned, “The town was delightful, and we learned a lot from the guide about the island,” highlighting that this stop offers genuine cultural insight. The dragon tree itself is a striking sight, though some note the limited time (about 60 minutes) makes it challenging to explore in depth.

El Drago Milenario: The Ancient Living Legend

Adjacent to Icod is the El Drago Milenario, another iconic dragon tree. This ancient specimen is estimated to be about 1,000 years old—a living fossil that’s well worth the short visit. The ticket is included, so you’ll have a chance to learn about its significance and take some memorable photos.

Garachico: Coastal Charm

Further along the coast, Garachico offers a mix of history and natural beauty. Once Tenerife’s most important port, the town was partially destroyed by lava flows in 1706, which created stunning natural pools with clear waters—perfect for a quick stroll and photo op. Several reviews note the short stop here—around 45 minutes—which some find insufficient to truly appreciate the town’s ambiance.

One visitor commented, “The natural pools and scenic streets made it a highlight,” though others felt the brief stop limited their experience. Still, it’s a picturesque spot that captures the island’s volcanic history.

Masca Valley: A Rugged Delight

The final stop is Masca, a tiny village perched high in the Teno Mountains. Its narrow roads and striking scenery have earned it a reputation as one of Tenerife’s most scenic and authentic spots. Be prepared for a heart-stopping drive along winding mountain paths—many travelers rave about the thrill and the views.

Once there, you’ll have about an hour, which many find too short given Masca’s photogenic streets and dramatic cliffs. One review praised the “dangerous but beautiful” road and the skill of the driver, Domingo. Many say that the landscape here feels like a snapshot of rural Tenerife, far from touristy areas.

The Pros and Cons of This Tour

Pros include:

• Diverse sights: A good mix of natural parks, historic towns, and rugged mountain scenery.
• All-inclusive entry tickets: No need to worry about extra costs at Mount Teide or El Drago Milenario.
• Knowledgeable guides: Many reviews mention guides who are well-informed and multi-lingual, making the experience more engaging.
• Value for the price: For around $45, you get a full day’s worth of sightseeing, transportation, and entrance fees.

Cons to consider:

• Short stops: Several travelers note that the time spent at each location is limited—often just 30-60 minutes—which can feel rushed.
• Bus crowding and multiple languages: With a maximum of 34 travelers, the group can feel large, and explanations in four languages may be hard to follow or tedious.
• Rough driving roads: The drive to Masca involves narrow, winding mountain roads that might not suit everyone, especially those prone to motion sickness.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re eager to see the best highlights of northern Tenerife in a single day and don’t mind a busy schedule, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate nature, scenic drives, and small-town charm, as well as those who enjoy learning from a guide who shares local stories and facts.

However, if you prefer more time at each spot or are sensitive to long bus rides, you might find this tour a bit hurried. It’s ideal for those who want a rough-and-ready overview rather than an in-depth exploration.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

• Dress comfortably and wear layers, especially since you’ll be at high elevations and in the sun at Mount Teide.
• Bring a camera and binoculars to capture sweeping views and maybe spot some wildlife.
• Prepare for the drive: If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider medication or sitting near the front.
• Eat beforehand or pack snacks, as the stops are brief.
• Reserve front seats if you want a better view, as they cost a bit extra but can significantly enhance the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, including service animals, but the long bus ride and mountain roads might be challenging for some. The tour is generally suitable for anyone able to sit for several hours and tolerate some walking during stops.

What languages are available during the tour?
The guide offers commentary daily in Spanish and English. If you need a different language, mention it when booking, as other languages may be available on specific days.

How early do I need to book?
Bookings are recommended at least 14 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and preferred seating.

Are there any included tickets or extras?
Yes, admission tickets to Mount Teide National Park and El Drago Milenario are included in the price, saving time and extra cost.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 10:00 am from Av. Juan Carlos I, 24 in Los Cristianos, with pickup from the south of Tenerife. The tour returns to the same meeting point.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Tenerife tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of the island’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and scenic landscapes. While the short stops and bus rides might not satisfy travelers seeking a more leisurely pace, it’s a fantastic way to cover a lot of ground quickly. The inclusion of entrance fees and knowledgeable guides helps ensure you get good value, making it an accessible option for most visitors.

If you’re looking for a full day of sightseeing with diverse highlights—from volcanic parks to historic villages—this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy scenic drives, authentic towns, and stunning geological features. Just be prepared for a busy day, and don’t forget your camera!

Whether this tour becomes your favorite or just a quick overview, it’s a chance to see some of the most iconic sights Tenerife has to offer without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.