Half Day Morning Buggy Tour in Teide National Park

A Closer Look at the Half Day Morning Buggy Tour in Teide National Park

This 3-hour buggy adventure in Tenerife offers a fun, active way to explore the island’s volcanic landscapes. Starting from Guía de Isora, you’ll zip along volcanic roads, wind past lush pine forests, and stop at breathtaking viewpoints, all while feeling the thrill of driving your own buggy. It’s an experience that balances adventure with natural beauty, perfect for those who want to see the island from a different perspective.

Two things I especially appreciate about this tour are its well-organized itinerary and the stunning scenery at each stop. The guides seem genuinely enthusiastic and knowledgeable, making you feel safe while still enjoying the adrenaline rush. Plus, the inclusion of local snacks and tapas at the end adds a satisfying touch to the day.

One consideration is the price, which might seem steep at over $200 for a group of two, but it’s balanced by private transportation, multiple scenic stops, and the overall experience of driving a buggy through diverse terrain. Keep in mind that a valid driver’s license and closed shoes are required—so this isn’t a good choice if you’re not comfortable handling a vehicle or don’t have the right footwear.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning panoramic viewpoints like Mirador Los Poleos offer incredible views of La Gomera and beyond.
• Unique volcanic landscapes such as Pico Viejo and Mount Teide give you a tangible sense of Tenerife’s fiery past.
• Fun and manageable driving with knowledgeable guides make the experience accessible for most drivers.
• Excellent value for those wanting a blend of adventure, scenery, and local culture, especially with included transport and optional photo packages.
• The tour’s small group size (up to 12 travelers) ensures a personalized, intimate experience.
• After the ride, enjoy local tapas and drinks while reminiscing about the stunning vistas and taking photos.

Exploring the Scenic Stops in Detail

Starting Point: Guía de Isora
Your adventure kicks off here, where you’ll be picked up in private transportation — a big plus if you’re staying in Los Cristianos, Playa San Juan, or nearby. The ease of pickup lets you relax and focus on the upcoming fun. The tour’s quick booking process and clear communication, as mentioned by previous travelers, make the whole experience hassle-free.

Mirador Los Poleos
The first stop is a 30-minute visit to this quiet highland viewpoint. It’s a treasure for lovers of wide-open vistas, with views stretching all the way to La Gomera, sometimes with El Hierro or La Palma peeking in. The surrounding volcanic terrain and pine forests add to the feeling of being in a pristine, untouched corner of the island. Expect a peaceful atmosphere—no crowds, just the wind, birds, and your camera. The absence of crowds means you get plenty of space to soak it all in.

Pico Viejo
Next, the tour takes you to one of Tenerife’s best volcano stories: Pico Viejo. This massive crater, known for its eruption in 1798, offers sweeping views of the lava layers and striking rock formations. It’s a short walk but delivers a visual punch with its vibrant colors — reds, blacks, ochres — and the sheer scale of the volcanic landscape. Looking out, you might spot distant islands or the coastline if the weather cooperates. As one review points out, the landscape here is “strange,” but that’s part of the charm—it’s like walking on another planet.

Mount Teide
The tour’s highlight is a visit to the base of Mount Teide, Spain’s tallest volcano at 3,715 meters. Standing here, I felt the silence and the sense of being in something both ancient and powerful. The ground’s terrain, with frozen lava flows and bizarre rock formations, provides fantastic photo opportunities. The views are breathtaking and really capture the scale of this volcano, which dominates the national park. This stop is brief but impactful, giving you a sense of what it must feel like to stand at the heart of the island’s volcanic power.

The Practicalities and Comfort Factors

Transport and Group Size
The tour offers private transportation, with a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a less crowded, more relaxed experience. This means you’ll have plenty of room to enjoy the scenery and perhaps even chat with your fellow adventurers. Pickup and drop-off services from key locations make logistics simple, and if you’re staying in popular tourist hubs like Los Cristianos or Playa San Juan, this is a real convenience.

Touring Equipment and Safety
Mandatory items include a driver’s license and closed shoes—sensible safety precautions that keep the ride fun and secure. Guides provide gloves, an eye mask, and a jacket, which come in handy given Tenerife’s variable mountain climate. The buggies are described as noisy but great fun, and their manageable size makes this experience accessible even for those new to off-road driving.

Cost and Value
At roughly $218 for a group of two, the tour isn’t cheap—but consider what’s included: private transport, multiple scenic stops, and the thrill of driving on volcanic roads. Reviews mention that for an extra $25, you can buy a photo package, which many find worthwhile as a souvenir. If you’re looking for a memorable, hands-on way to see Tenerife’s volcanic heart, this price is reasonable.

Who will love this tour?

This adventure suits active travelers who aren’t just content with sightseeing from a bus window. If you enjoy a bit of adrenaline, stunning landscapes, and learning about Tenerife’s volcanic past, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples, thanks to its intimate format and personalized touches.

Those who appreciate authentic experiences, with small touches like local tapas afterward, will get a nicely rounded day. But note: if you’re not comfortable driving or don’t have a driver’s license, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This buggy tour stands out as a lively, engaging way to explore one of Spain’s most iconic natural features. It combines scenic vistas, geological marvels, and a touch of adventure, making it a memorable part of any Tenerife trip. The stops at Mirador Los Poleos, Pico Viejo, and Mount Teide provide a well-rounded view of the island’s volcanic landscape, each offering unique photo opportunities and insights.

The included transportation and small group size add to the convenience and intimacy of the experience, while the optional photo package allows you to preserve your memories easily. The tour’s balance of adventure, landscape, and local flavor makes it a strong choice for travelers looking to get off the beaten path without sacrificing comfort or safety.

If you’re seeking a fun, active way to discover Tenerife’s volcanic scenery and enjoy some spectacular views, this tour is well worth considering. Just be sure to book in advance, bring your driver’s license, and prepare for a day full of adventure and striking vistas.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free pickup from Los Cristianos to Playa San Juan. If you’re staying elsewhere, you may need to arrange for an additional area pickup.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Absolutely. Driving license is mandatory to operate the buggy safely and legally.

What should I wear?
Closed shoes are required, and the tour provides gloves, an eye mask, and a jacket. Dress for mountain weather—it can be cooler and windier at higher elevations.

How long is the tour?
The total activity lasts about 3 hours, including stops, with additional time for pickup and drop-off.

What is included in the price?
Private transportation, soda, gloves, eye mask, and jacket are included. Photos are extra and cost around $25.

Can I buy photos after the tour?
Yes, there’s an option to purchase a photoshoot package for $25.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The minimum age isn’t explicitly stated, but the requirement for closed shoes and a valid driver’s license suggests it’s for adults or licensed drivers only.

Will I see Mount Teide up close?
You will visit the base of Mount Teide, but not summit it. Still, this offers a fantastic perspective on the volcano’s size and power.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

This buggy tour offers a mix of adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic local touches, perfect for travelers who want active exploration with a scenic payoff. It’s a lively, memorable way to get to know Tenerife’s volcanic soul.