VIP Tour Around Anaga and La Laguna

Set out on a Full Day of Tenerife’s Natural Beauty and Cultural Gems with the VIP Tour Around Anaga and La Laguna

If you’re looking to get a taste of Tenerife’s diverse landscapes and history without the hassle of organizing transport or worrying about schedules, this VIP tour might just be what you need. Priced at around $94.66 per person, it spans roughly 7 to 8 hours, taking you from the UNESCO-listed streets of San Cristóbal de La Laguna to the lush, ancient volcanic landscapes of Anaga Rural Park, finishing with a visit to a popular palm-lined beach and charming hamlet Taganana.

What we love about this experience is the ease of traveling in air-conditioned comfort—no trying to decipher bus timetables or navigating unfamiliar roads—and the opportunity to see some of the most breathtaking outdoor scenery Tenerife has to offer. The inclusion of lunch means you can relax and enjoy authentic Canary Islands dishes without searching for a good restaurant.

On the flip side, some reviews hint that timing can be tight, and not all guides are equally talkative or informative during free time, so be prepared for a packed itinerary. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day with a small group vibe, ideally those eager to combine culture, nature, and incredible views in one trip.

Key Points

• All-in-one day trip covering Anaga Rural Park, La Laguna, and coastal spots
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles tailored for small groups
• Guided experience with a driver/guide providing insights (though reviews vary on explanation quality)
• Includes lunch featuring local Canary Islands cuisine
• Ideal for travelers wanting a hassle-free, guided exploration of Tenerife’s natural and cultural highlights
• Some reviews mention limited free time and variable guide engagement

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point: Puerto de la Cruz at 8:00am

The tour kicks off early from the meeting point at the Tamaran office in Puerto de la Cruz. You’ll be greeted by your driver/guide and hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The group is capped at around 100 travelers, but it tends to be a more intimate experience, especially in small groups.

Stop 1: San Cristóbal de La Laguna

Your first destination is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of La Laguna, a city rich with history and lively streets. Walking through its old town feels like stepping back in time, with traditional architecture and cobblestone streets. Here, you’ll get about an hour to soak in the atmosphere, admire the historic buildings, and imagine what life was like centuries ago.

Some travelers find this brief stop a bit rushed, as one review noted, “Free time in the city was lost because the guide did not come to give explanations.” However, most agree it’s a worthwhile visit for its cultural charm and photogenic streets.

Stop 2: Parque Rural de Anaga

Next, you’ll venture into Anaga Rural Park, a region with volcanic origins dating back between 7 and 9 million years. This area is truly unique—home to laurel forests and rugged terrain that only this part of Tenerife offers. We loved the way the scenery changes from lush greenery to dramatic ravines, with outstanding coastal views.

Traveling through this ancient volcanic landscape provides a rare opportunity to see features that are exclusive to this part of the island. Expect to breathe in the crisp, mountain air and marvel at the untouched beauty. This stop lasts about an hour, giving you enough time to take photos and enjoy the tranquility of the forest.

Stop 3: Taganana and the Beach

The tour includes a visit to the famous beach in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, lined with palms and golden sand—perfect for snapping pictures or just relaxing briefly. It’s a classic Tenerife scene that captures the island’s sunny, laid-back vibe.

Then, it’s on to Taganana, a quaint coastal hamlet with rustic buildings and a peaceful atmosphere. This is a highlight for many travelers, who find the slow pace and authentic character of the town very appealing. Here, you’ll enjoy a traditional Canary Islands lunch, which is included in the tour fee. Several reviews praise the food, describing it as authentic and satisfying, making it a great chance to taste local flavors.

End of the Day: Return to Puerto de la Cruz

After a full day of sightseeing, your tour concludes with the return to your original meeting point, typically around 4:00-5:00pm, depending on traffic and timing.

The Experience: What We’re Really Getting

The comfort and convenience of having a guide and transportation included make this trip appealing, especially if you’re not keen on self-driving or organizing multiple excursions. The included lunch adds a lot of value, allowing you to enjoy traditional dishes without extra planning.

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides can make or break the experience. One reviewer called Urbano “the best guide we’ve had,” praising his detailed commentary and engaging storytelling. Others, however, felt that explanations during free time were sparse, and some found the journey less interactive than hoped. This variation underscores the importance of managing expectations—if you’re looking for a highly informative guide, check reviews beforehand.

Transport-wise, the air-conditioned vehicle is a plus, especially in Tenerife’s warm climate. The group size seems manageable, blending the social aspect of a tour with enough space to relax.

The price point offers decent value for a full day’s excursion, especially considering lunch and guided transportation are included. However, travelers should note that timing can be tight, and some reviews suggest that visiting fewer sites might allow for a more relaxed experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you enjoy guided trips that combine outdoor scenery with cultural visits, this tour is a solid choice. It’s perfect for those who prefer to leave the logistics to someone else and want a balanced mix of nature, history, and local flavor. Travelers keen on authentic experiences—like sampling Canary Islands cuisine—will find the included lunch a highlight.

However, if you’re someone who prefers lots of free time or in-depth exploration at each stop, this might feel rushed, especially during the city visit. The tour suits visitors with limited time on the island who want to see key sights efficiently without the stress of planning.

Final Thoughts: The Practicalities and Value

This VIP tour of Anaga and La Laguna offers a convenient way to experience Tenerife’s diverse charms in a single day, with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport. The scenic highlights, from lush laurel forests to rugged volcanic landscapes and historic towns, make it a well-rounded introduction to the island’s natural and cultural tapestry.

While some reviews point out that the guided explanations may vary and the timing is tight, most travelers appreciate the value of the included lunch and the ease of having everything arranged. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors or those wanting to tick off major highlights without the hassle of self-driving.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, well-organized day trip that balances outdoors and culture with comfort, this tour checks most boxes. Just be prepared for a busy schedule, and consider whether you prefer more free time and detailed guide insights.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs approximately $94.66 per person, including transportation, lunch, and a driver/guide.

How long does the tour last?
It runs about 7 to 8 hours, starting early at 8:00am and returning in the late afternoon.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at the Tamaran office in Puerto de la Cruz, with options for hotel pickup—just confirm at booking or call to arrange.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, especially those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking. It’s designed for groups up to 100, but tends to have a more intimate feel.

What should I bring?
Bring a coat, comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen, especially since you’ll be outdoors most of the day.

Will I have free time?
There’s some free time at La Laguna and the beach, but reviews indicate it can be limited, so plan accordingly if you want a deeper exploration.

Is lunch included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a local Canary Islands meal, which many reviews praise as authentic and satisfying.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a risk-free option if your plans change.

To sum it up, this VIP tour offers a practical and scenic day out, especially for those eager to see Tenerife’s natural beauty and historic sites without the stress of organizing multiple trips. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate guided comfort, authentic local cuisine, and a well-rounded overview of the island’s highlights.