Island Tour Candelaria, La Orotava, La Laguna, Garachico, Masca

Review of the Tenerife Island Tour: Candelaria, La Orotava, Garachico, Masca

If you’re looking to get a broad taste of Tenerife in one day, this full-day guided tour promises just that—covering key spots from the warm south to the lush north, with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural stops. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing without the hassle of planning or driving themselves.

One of the biggest draws is how the tour strikes a balance between natural beauty and cultural highlights. I love how the visit to Candelaria brings you face-to-face with the island’s spiritual heart, where the Virgin of the Canary Islands is venerated. Equally appealing is the stop in La Orotava, where the typical Canarian houses with wooden balconies and beautiful gardens show off Tenerife’s charming architecture. Plus, the chance to see the El Drago Milenario, the oldest tree in the islands, is a real highlight—an ancient symbol of resilience and nature’s longevity.

However, a word of caution: some reviews point out that the tour’s timing can be tight, and at certain stops, you might feel rushed—particularly at sites like Garachico and Masca, where a few travelers wished for more time to explore or take photos. Another consideration is that food isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget around €16 for a meal, and the guide’s approach might sometimes feel more like a quick overview rather than an in-depth experience. Still, if your priority is seeing many highlights in a single day, this trip offers a good, cost-effective way to do so.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Diverse Itinerary: The tour covers a wide range of Tenerife’s most scenic and cultural spots, from religious sites to dramatic cliffs.
• Expert Guides: Many reviews praise the guides for their friendliness and multilingual abilities, making explanations clear and engaging.
• Value for Money: At about $71.71, it offers a full day of sightseeing with some entrance fees included, which adds to its appeal.
• Limited Time at Stops: Expect around 30-40 minutes at most locations, which is enough for a quick look but not for deep exploration.
• Comfortable Transport: An air-conditioned vehicle makes the long day more pleasant, especially when moving between different terrains.
• Food & Extras: Lunch is optional and not included, so plan for additional costs if you want to enjoy local Canarian cuisine.

Exploring the Highlights in Detail

Starting at Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Candelaria

This is arguably the spiritual heart of the Canary Islands, where the Virgin of Candelaria is revered. The basilica is home to a revered statue and is an essential site for understanding the local culture. You’ll appreciate the 20-minute visit included in the tour, which offers a glimpse into the island’s religious traditions. Several reviews, like Helen’s, mention that this was the best part of their experience, highlighting its spiritual and cultural significance. Since the entrance is included, it offers good value to get a sense of Tenerife’s heritage.

La Orotava: Canarian Charm and Architecture

This town is a real highlight for those interested in traditional Canary Islands architecture. The wooden balconies, the beautiful gardens, and the Casa de Los Balcones showcase the island’s history and craftsmanship. With about 40 minutes here, you’ll get a quick but meaningful introduction. One reviewer called La Orotava a “typical Canarian town,” emphasizing its authentic character. The presence of free entrance makes this stop particularly appealing, giving you a chance to stroll at your own pace.

The Ancient El Drago Tree

The El Drago Milenario is a symbol of the island’s natural history—an ancient, twisted dragon tree that’s estimated to be over a thousand years old. Inside a small farm, you can also taste local cuisine, which adds a fun local flavor. Reviews commonly mention that this is a not-to-miss stop, with the tree’s impressive stature leaving a lasting impression. The included entrance fee makes this a worthwhile cultural and natural visit.

Puerto de la Cruz: A Tourist Hotspot

This city is lively and diverse, offering everything from beaches to historical sites. It’s the most visited city on the island, and for good reason. You can observe the power of the Atlantic Ocean, stroll along the promenade, or just enjoy the bustling atmosphere. Some travelers appreciate the free aspect of this stop, although time is limited to about 30 minutes. Helen mentions checking the ocean’s strength here, hinting at the natural drama the coast can provide.

El Bosque de Erjos: Views of Mount Teide

A quick stop at Erjos provides a fantastic view of Mount Teide, Tenerife’s iconic volcano. Although brief, this moment offers travelers a chance to appreciate the island’s volcanic landscape. Considering the short 10-minute stop, plan to snap a quick photo and take in the scenery.

The Spectacular Acantilado de los Gigantes

The cliffs of Los Gigantes are truly breathtaking—towering 800 meters above the sea. Many reviewers describe it as hypnotizing and a “magnetic” sight. You’ll have about 30 minutes here to soak in the view and perhaps take photos. Since this spot is one of the most photographed on the island, it’s a fitting finale before heading back.

The Practical Side: Logistics, Price, and Who It’s For

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, making long drives more comfortable, especially considering Tenerife’s varied terrain. With a maximum group size of 30, you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd, though the group can sometimes feel rushed at stops, as some reviews suggest.

Cost and Value

At roughly $71.71 per person, the price is competitive. Entrance fees at two stops—Candelaria and El Drago—are included, which reduces some costs. Keep in mind that food isn’t included, so budgeting an extra €16 for a meal is wise. For a full day of sightseeing, the price offers decent value, especially given the diverse range of sites covered.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers eager to see a wide swath of Tenerife without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s perfect if you want a guided overview filled with picturesque views and cultural highlights. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer organized transportation and brief stops rather than deep dives into each site.

Potential Drawbacks

Some reviews note that timing can be tight, meaning you might be hurried through some sites. The lack of included lunch might be a downside for some, especially if you want a relaxing meal instead of grabbing snacks on the go. Plus, if you’re seeking a more immersive experience or more time at each stop, this tour may feel too rushed.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In short, this tour offers a convenient way to see many of Tenerife’s highlights in one day. It’s especially good if you’re short on time, on a budget, or prefer guided travel with minimal planning. The stops at Candelaria, La Orotava, and Los Gigantes are particularly memorable, and the guide’s multilingual skills are often mentioned as a plus.

That said, it’s not the best choice if you’re looking for deep exploration or personalized experiences. The limited time at each site, combined with the optional lunch expense, means you need to be comfortable with a somewhat brisk pace. Still, for many, this trip strikes a nice balance between value, variety, and comfort, giving a well-rounded glimpse of Tenerife’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

Who Should Consider This Tour

If you’re visiting Tenerife and want a guided overview that hits the main sights without the fuss of driving or organizing multiple excursions, this tour is a solid pick. It’s suitable for first-time visitors wanting an efficient introduction, families looking for a full but manageable day, and anyone interested in seeing both natural wonders and cultural sites.

However, if you’re a traveler who prefers more personalized or in-depth experiences, or if you want to explore at your own pace, you might want to consider other options or extend your stay at key sites like Garachico or Masca.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
This tour is marketed with pickup options, but some reviews indicate that the pickup conditions may change or require additional arrangements. It’s best to confirm directly with the provider.

How long is the total duration?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including stops and transportation time, making it a full day’s activity.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 30 travelers, which helps keep the experience manageable and conversational.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is optional and costs around €16. The tour does not include a meal, so plan accordingly.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, admission to Candelaria and El Drago are included, offering good value at those stops.

What languages does the guide speak?
Guides are often multilingual, typically speaking English, German, and Dutch, making explanations accessible to a diverse group.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, but consider individual mobility and stamina given the full-day schedule and limited time at stops.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and extra cash for food or souvenirs.

Will I see Teide on this trip?
While Erjos offers a view of Teide, the volcano itself isn’t a primary stop on this tour.

To sum it up, this Tenerife full-day tour offers a practical, scenic, and culturally rich snapshot of the island. It’s best suited for those wanting a well-organized, budget-friendly day with highlights, rather than a deep dive into any single site. Expect a busy schedule, friendly guides, and enough variety to leave you with a good sense of what makes Tenerife unique.