Exploring Tenerife on a Buggy: A Practical Review of the Afternoon 2Seater Teide Tour
Tenerife’s volcanic terrain and lush flora make it an island full of contrasts—perfect for a sightseeing adventure that combines scenic views with a touch of excitement. The Afternoon 2Seater Teide Buggy Tour offered by BuggyCanarias promises a fun, guided exploration of the island’s most striking landscapes, all from the comfort of a modern, two-person buggy. Unlike some tours that toss you into rough off-road terrain, this experience keeps things on well-maintained roads, making it a comfortable yet awe-inspiring ride.
What I particularly like about this tour is the hotel pickup from southern Tenerife, which takes the hassle out of logistics. It’s a big plus for travelers staying around Golf del Sur or Callao Salvaje. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly—one (whose name I’ve seen mentioned in reviews as “Carlos”) is especially adept at sharing stories about the volcanoes and national park. Plus, the panoramic views from 2,100 meters above sea level are genuinely breathtaking—perfect for snapping memorable photos.
A possible downside is that this tour is not off-road—so if you’re craving rugged adventure on dirt tracks, this might feel more like a scenic drive with gentle thrills. Also, the tour is limited to two participants per buggy, which makes it intimate but less flexible if you’re traveling solo or in a larger group. Still, the small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Comfort and Convenience: Hotel pickup from southern Tenerife simplifies logistics, especially for travelers without a rental car.
- Expert Guided Commentary: Guides share stories and history about Teide National Park and the volcanoes, enriching the experience.
- Breathtaking Views: Ascending to 2100 meters offers stunning vistas of volcanic terrain and dramatic landscapes.
- Photo Opportunities: Plenty of stops allow you to capture the rugged beauty and endemic plants like the Teide bugloss.
- Well-Maintained Vehicles: Modern, two-seater buggies make for a smooth, comfortable ride—no rough off-road driving involved.
- Limited Group Size: Small, private feel enhances the experience but means fewer seats per booking.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Las Chafiras.
An In-Depth Look at the Teide Buggy Tour
Starting Point and Logistics: A Smooth Beginning
The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, a convenience I appreciated because it meant I didn’t have to worry about finding a meeting spot or renting a car. The pickup covers areas from Golf del Sur to Callao Salvaje, which are popular bases for visitors. The transfer is comfortable and relaxed, allowing you to settle in with some anticipation of what’s to come.
Once at the starting point, you’ll be fitted with jackets, gloves, goggles, and an eye mask—all provided, which is helpful since it can get windy and dusty at higher elevations. The two-seater buggies are modern, and the instruction is straightforward, making it accessible even if you’ve never driven one before. Drivers must be at least 21 with a valid license—a practical rule that ensures safety and responsible driving.
Scenic Drive and Stops: Nature and Stories
The core of the tour is a scenic drive through Tenerife’s rugged landscape. As you follow mountain roads, your guide shares fascinating facts about the Teide National Park and the island’s volcanic history. It’s no mere sightseeing; the storytelling adds depth, making the scenery more meaningful.
One of the first stops is in Vilaflor, a charming mountain village. Here, you get about 10 minutes to stretch, take photos, and soak in the local atmosphere. The highlight for many is the Teide National Park, where you’ll spend around 20 minutes. You’ll see the iconic volcanic terrain, with its strange rock formations and endemic plants, like the Teide bugloss, which can grow up to 3 meters tall. Guides often point out other flora, like the Canarian pine, prized for its resilience against fire.
Next is a viewpoint where you can capture the sweeping vistas and look out over the landscape that seems to stretch forever. Each stop offers opportunities for photos, making it ideal for capturing the unforgettable scenery.
The Climb to 2100 Meters: A View Above the Clouds
The best part of the tour is reaching the elevation of 2,100 meters. From here, the views are stunning—a panorama that includes the volcanic craters and the distant Atlantic. It’s a moment that sticks with you and offers a real sense of how vast and dynamic Tenerife’s volcanic terrain is.
As you ascend, the guide often shares stories about the volcano’s eruptive history, adding context to the landscape. It’s not just a pretty view—each layer of basalt and ash tells a story of the island’s fiery past.
Returning and Photo Viewing: A Relaxed End
After about three hours of driving, stops, and sightseeing, you’ll head back to the activity provider’s office. Here, they display a selection of photos from the tour, which you can purchase if you wish—definitely worth considering if you want a keepsake of this unique experience.
The transfer back to your hotel is a comfortable way to wind down, often with some time to chat about the highlights of the day.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour suits travelers looking for a comfortable, scenic experience rather than rugged off-road adventure. It’s ideal for those with a valid driver’s license and a sense of curiosity about Tenerife’s volcanic landscape. The intimate setting, limited to two participants per buggy, makes it perfect for couples or two friends wanting a shared, personalized experience.
It’s especially appealing if you enjoy panoramic views and want a guided narrative about the island’s geology and flora. Since the tour involves some elevation, expect a cool breeze and windy conditions—so packing some warm clothes helps.
People with mobility issues or back problems should check with the provider, as the ride involves some comfort considerations. Pregnant women and children under 18 are not permitted, which is typical for safety reasons.
Overall Value
Given the three-hour duration, hotel pickup, professional guide, and beautifully maintained buggies, the cost reflects good value for a private, small-group experience. The added bonus of photo stops and educational commentary makes it more than just a scenic drive—it’s an engaging way to connect with Tenerife’s landscape.
Final Thoughts
This Afternoon 2Seater Teide Buggy Tour offers a balanced mix of comfort, scenery, and storytelling in a manageable time frame. You won’t be crashing through dirt trails or risking off-road mishaps, but you do get to enjoy the island’s volcanic grandeur from a new perspective. The views from high up are truly memorable, and the expert guides enhance the experience with stories that bring the landscape to life.
If you’re after a relaxing yet visually stunning adventure that’s easy to fit into an afternoon, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for couples or small groups looking to explore Tenerife in a unique way, without sacrificing comfort or safety.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour begins with a hotel pickup from areas between Golf del Sur and Callao Salvaje, making it convenient for island visitors.
What should I bring? Bring a camera, water, warm clothing, and gloves. The provided gear — jackets and goggles — helps protect against wind and dust.
What’s the age requirement for drivers? Drivers must be at least 21 and hold a valid driver’s license.
Are children allowed on this tour? No, children under 18 are not permitted due to safety regulations.
Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users? Yes, but you should contact the provider in advance to arrange pickup and ensure accessibility.
What’s included in the price? The cost covers hotel pickup and drop-off, gloves, jackets, goggles, insurance, beverages, and a guided tour.
How long is the tour? The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, with stops and photo opportunities along the way.
Can I buy photos taken during the tour? Yes, after the tour, a selection of photos will be available for purchase.
Is there off-road driving involved? No, the tour strictly uses paved or well-maintained mountain roads, ensuring a smooth ride.
In summary, the Tenerife Afternoon 2Seater Teide Buggy Tour is a fantastic way to see the island’s volcanic scenery comfortably and intimately. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives paired with interesting stories and want a memorable photo-worthy experience without the ruggedness of true off-road adventures.