Tenerife: Mount Teide, Icod, and Garachico with its natural pools!

Exploring Tenerife with a Focus on Relaxed Pace and Authentic Flavors

If you’re planning a day on Tenerife that avoids the typical rush and crowded spots, a tour that emphasizes personal pace and authentic experiences is worth considering. This particular excursion, organized by La Excursion, offers a 9-hour journey through some of Tenerife’s most iconic sites, including Mount Teide National Park, Icod de Los Vinos, and Garachico, with a special chance to swim in volcanic natural pools. What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on full flexibility—you can take photos, chat, and relax at each stop, all while avoiding the tourist hordes that often spoil the view.

Two standout features are the timing—the tour is scheduled outside the usual busy hours—and the personalized approach. Guests comment on friendly guides like “Juan,” who help with mobility needs and foster a welcoming atmosphere. Another favorite: the free time at each site—giving you space to soak in the surroundings without feeling hurried. That said, a possible drawback is the longer itinerary—some might find 9 hours a bit much, especially if they prefer a more compact sightseeing schedule. However, if you value relaxing exploration over ticking boxes, this tour’s thoughtful pacing is excellent.

Key Points and Takeaways

• Flexible pacing allows you to explore each location without feeling rushed.
• Off-peak scheduling means fewer crowds and a more intimate experience.
• Natural volcanic pools in Garachico offer a unique swimming experience you won’t find elsewhere.
• Personalized attention from guides like “Juan” can accommodate mobility needs and enhance your experience.
• The itinerary includes local breaks and a short visit to a cafe—perfect for a quick refresh.
• Multiple pickup points give you convenience, with pickup times starting as early as 9 a.m. for a full-day experience.

Discovering Tenerife’s Highlights at Your Own Pace

I love the way this tour turns the typical “sightseeing rush” on its head. Instead of hurrying from one site to another, you’re encouraged to enjoy each stop—taking photos, chatting with guides, or just soaking up the scenery. You’ll appreciate the timing: the tour departs early enough to beat the crowds at Mount Teide National Park, yet offers enough free time to explore Icod de los Vinos and Garachico at leisure.

This approach is especially valuable if you’re someone who prefers a balanced day—not just ticking points off a list but truly experiencing Tenerife’s charm. The guides seem genuinely committed to creating an authentic experience, and reviews mention how “Juan,” the guide, was helpful and friendly, even assisting travelers with mobility needs. Such personal touches make a difference.

One of the most distinctive features here is the stop at Garachico, where you can swim in natural pools made by volcanic lava. This is a unique experience: clear, fresh water set amid striking volcanic formations, perfect for a refreshing break. When I read reviews like “well organized,” and “friendly driver,” I get a sense that this is a well-run, thoughtfully paced tour. The fact that lunch isn’t included could be a small consideration, but it also allows you to choose what and where to eat—perhaps a local spot you’ll discover on your own.

Entering the Heart of Tenerife: Mount Teide

Mount Teide is the nucleus of Tenerife’s identity, and this tour’s visit to the national park offers a photo-worthy view and a guided tour. With around 75 minutes allocated for this stop, you’ll have enough time for photos, a brief walk, and some quiet moments at one of Spain’s most striking geological landmarks.

While the tour doesn’t include a cable car ticket, the guided element is valuable: it provides context about the volcano’s formation and significance. The timing here is key—visiting in the morning helps you avoid the bulk of the crowds, making your photos more personal and less crowded.

Tip: Bring your camera, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The high altitude and sun can be unforgiving, even on a cloudy day.

Exploring Icod de los Vinos and Its Famous Dragon Tree

The charming town of Icod de los Vinos is famous for its thousand-year-old dragon tree, which is a highlight of the tour. The guided tour here is worthwhile, giving you insights into the history and significance of this unique natural monument.

You’ll also get a chance to sample local wines and food, which adds an authentic flavor to your visit. The reviews mention that guides are friendly and accommodating, and the tasting is a memorable part of the experience. Spending around an hour here balances sightseeing with culinary delights—perfect for those who enjoy a more immersive approach.

Garachico’s Natural Lava Pools and Historic Charm

Perhaps the most visually distinctive stop is Garachico, a small town built on volcanic history. The highlight is the natural pools formed by lava flows, which are perfect for swimming. The tour allocates about 2.5 hours here, giving ample time for relaxing, sightseeing, and taking a dip.

Guests often comment on how beautiful and peaceful Garachico is. The pools are a marvel—crystal-clear and set amid striking lava formations. You’ll also get a chance to explore the town’s quaint streets, perhaps grab a quick snack or just enjoy the scenery.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Experience

The coach used for this tour is air-conditioned, and the schedule is intentionally designed to avoid peak tourist hours. Pickup points are conveniently located across South Tenerife, and the tour starts as early as 9 a.m., with a full day of activity.

Group sizes are manageable, and reviews note the friendly, helpful attitude of guides, making the experience feel personalized rather than overly commercial. The length of travel time between sites is reasonable—around 15 minutes to Garachico from Teide, with longer segments for scenic drives—so you won’t spend all day in transit.

While not suited for wheelchair users, the tour’s guides are praised for their helpfulness, which can make a difference if you have mobility concerns.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is particularly well-suited for travelers who value authentic, relaxed sightseeing over rushing from site to site. If you enjoy taking your time, capturing photos, and savoring local flavors, you’ll appreciate the flexibility this tour offers. It’s also ideal for those who want to avoid the crowds and visit some of Tenerife’s most iconic spots in a peaceful setting.

If you’re traveling with a group that includes mobility-challenged travelers, the guides’ assistance and the manageable schedule make this a feasible option. However, if you prefer a more compact, fast-paced tour, this might feel a bit leisurely.

Price and Overall Value

Considering the full-day experience, including hotel pickup, a professional guide, and visits to three top destinations, the value here is quite strong. The tour doesn’t include lunch, which gives you the freedom to choose your own meal, perhaps at a local restaurant or picnic spot, which can be a bonus for budget-conscious travelers.

The small group size and off-peak timing justify the price for those seeking a more intimate, authentic experience. The attention to detail—like assistance with mobility needs and the focus on leisurely exploration—adds to the overall worth.

Final Thoughts

This Tenerife tour offers a relaxed, personalized approach to seeing the island’s key highlights. The emphasis on avoiding crowds and having ample free time at each stop makes it stand out from more rushed excursions. The stops at Mount Teide, Icod de los Vinos, and Garachico are thoughtfully selected—each offering unique sights and experiences.

If you’re someone who prefers to experience a place at your own pace, enjoy authentic local flavors, and want a comfortable, well-organized day away from the crowds, this tour could be a perfect fit. The knowledgeable guides, scenic drives, and the opportunity to swim in volcanic pools make it a memorable day on Tenerife.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is included at your hotel or nearby locations across South Tenerife. Specific times start as early as 9 a.m., so check your pickup details carefully.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, giving plenty of time to explore each site without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, water, and casual clothes are recommended for the day’s activities.

Are there any age or mobility restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, but guides are known for helping travelers with mobility needs. It’s best to confirm specific assistance requirements beforehand.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, which allows you to pick a spot that suits your taste and budget at Garachico or Icod.

What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in Spanish, English, Italian, and French, ensuring diverse travelers can enjoy the experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its focus on relaxed pacing, authentic experiences, and avoiding crowds sets it apart. The personal touch from guides like Juan, and the opportunity for swimming in natural volcanic pools, make it memorable.

This Tenerife tour strikes a fine balance between sightseeing and serenity, perfect for those eager to connect with the island without the stress of busy tours. Whether you’re capturing photos, tasting local wines, or just soaking in the volcanic landscapes, it promises a day of genuine discovery at your own rhythm.