If you’re hunting for an activity that combines scenic beauty, a touch of nostalgia, and a bit of adrenaline, then a buggy tour in Gran Canaria could be just the ticket. This experience offers the chance to drive a rare, fully operational VW 70’s Buggy—one of only a handful in Europe—while exploring some of the island’s most captivating spots. With a price of around $162.55 for up to four people, this tour strikes a good balance between affordability and the kind of memorable adventure you won’t forget quickly.
What sets this experience apart? First, the fact that you’re driving real vintage buggies from the 1970s, which is a pretty rare find even among car tours. The second is the personalized route options—if you tell the guides what you love, they’re happy to adapt the itinerary for a more tailored experience. The guides themselves—like Philippe and Simon—are praised for their warm, friendly attitude, which elevates the trip from a fun drive to a genuinely engaging storytelling journey.
I appreciate that this tour isn’t a cookie-cutter sightseeing bus ride. Instead, it’s about active participation, making it ideal for those who like to get involved. A notable highlight is the stops along the way, where you get to soak in stunning views, from the coast overlooking Arguineguin to mountain vistas and quaint villages like Mogán. While the landscape is breathtaking, one thing to keep in mind is that the drive is manual, which has been a mixed experience for some, especially if you’re expecting an automatic transmission. As a review points out, that’s something to consider if you’re less comfortable with stick-shift cars.
Key Points
- Unique vintage vehicles: Only a few companies in Europe offer the chance to drive 70s VW buggies, making it an authentic and nostalgic experience.
- Customized routes available: Guides are willing to tailor your trip based on your preferences, adding a personal touch to your adventure.
- Amazing vistas and stops: From coastal viewpoints to mountain landscapes, this tour offers plenty of spectacular photo ops.
- Engaged driving experience: Manual gearboxes challenge and entertain, especially for those who enjoy a hands-on drive.
- Friendly, knowledgeable guides: Philippe and Simon earn praise for their hospitality and storytelling, making each stop memorable.
- Good value for the price, considering the personalized service, scenic stops, and unique vehicle rental.
Exploring the Details: What You Can Expect

Let’s take a closer look at the itinerary and what makes each stop worth your time. The tour typically lasts around 2 hours 30 minutes, with plenty of scenic pauses to stretch your legs and snap photos. The meeting point at Sunset Beach Meloneras is convenient, and the activity includes pickup options, easing transportation concerns—especially if you’re staying in the southern part of the island.
Stop 1: Arguineguín
Your adventure kicks off with a drive along a lovely road by the sea, culminating at a viewpoint overlooking Arguineguín and the coast. The photo opportunities here are stellar, with views extending to the historic NASA space center—famous as the site featured during the Apollo 11 moon landing. As one delighted reviewer put it, the view of the lighthouse in Maspalomas and the horizon are well worth the quick stop, which lasts about ten minutes. It’s a perfect way to get your first taste of the island’s diverse scenery.
Stop 2: Cercados de Espinos
Next, your route takes you into the heart of a canyon, stopping in a small Canarian village called Cercados de Espinos. Here, you’ll be treated to a complimentary drink, a small gesture that adds to the friendly atmosphere. The stop is about 15 minutes long, offering a chance to relax, chat with your guides, and enjoy the mountain air. Multiple roadside stops give plenty of opportunities to soak in panoramic views of the mountain ranges and canyon formations.
Stop 3: Province of Soria
Another 15-minute pause highlights the stunning landscapes of the province of Soria. If you love nature photography or just want to breathe in the fresh mountain air, this is a highlight. Several reviewers have called this part of the tour “breathtaking” and mention how the scenic vistas are even more impressive in person than pictures can capture.
Stop 4: Mogán
Your journey into this charming village is a highlight—driving through Mogán’s narrow streets, then stopping at a traditional windmill before heading back down to the seaside. About ten minutes are allotted here, and many comments reflect how driving the buggy through the village feels like stepping back in time and adds a layer of authenticity to the experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Gran Canaria.
Why This Tour Feels Special

A standout feature is how customizable the experience is. If you contact the organizers, they’re happy to craft a route based on your interests—be it more mountain exploring, seaside views, or even tailored photo stops. The guides—Philippe and Simon—are frequently praised for their warmth and knowledge, making the day more than just driving in a vintage vehicle. You’ll love Simon’s lively storytelling and Philippe’s hospitality, which really makes the trip feel like visits with friends rather than just a commercial activity.
The ride itself earns high marks—especially for those who love the manual transmission challenge. As one reviewer put it, “the roads are so smooth compared to UK roads,” and the 1969 Buggy “ran perfectly,” making the drive smooth and enjoyable. Several travelers appreciated that the vehicles are authentic, which means you’re getting a real vintage experience rather than a modern rental.
Most reviews highlight how friendly and accommodating the guides are, often going above and beyond. For example, one reviewer mentioned how Philippe took care when their buggy ran out of fuel, ensuring a smooth experience despite minor hiccups. The tour also includes free photos to remember the day, which many find a bonus.
However, there is one notable consideration: all the cars are manual. Two reviews mention that this was a surprise and somewhat inconvenient for some guests, as only one person in the group could drive a stick-shift. If you’re not comfortable with a manual gearbox, you’ll want to let the guides know beforehand or consider whether this might affect your enjoyment.
Who This Tour Is Perfect For
This experience appeals mainly to adventure seekers who enjoy driving and exploring at their own pace. It’s great for families, couples, or groups of friends who want a personalized, memorable day under the sun. The small group size—up to four people—ensures a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, which many travelers love.
It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate authentic vintage vehicles and scenic drives. If you have a sense of humor, are friendly, and are comfortable with manual cars, you’ll find this tour engaging and fun. The off-the-beaten-path stops make it ideal for travelers wanting to see parts of Gran Canaria most travelers miss.
Lastly, because the tour can be tailored, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone with specific interests—be it landscape photography, nature, or simply enjoying a unique activity that creates lasting memories. The tour’s overall value is evident in the many glowing reviews mentioning good value for money and friendly hosts who genuinely want to make your day special.
The Sum Up

For those open to a driving adventure that combines vintage charm, stunning scenery, and friendly guidance, this buggy tour in Gran Canaria offers a compelling experience. The rare opportunity to drive real 70s VW buggies adds a nostalgic yet exhilarating element, making it stand out from typical island excursions. The stops are thoughtfully planned to showcase everything from coastal views to mountain landscapes, making each moment both visually appealing and engaging.
This tour’s strength lies in its personalized approach, expert guides, and the authenticity of the vehicles and settings. It’s a great value considering the scenic variety and the opportunity to drive a classic instead of just riding along. If you’re seeking a fun, hands-on activity that makes you feel like a local explorer, this experience is worth every penny.
However, be mindful that the manual transmission might not suit everyone, and that there’s no rush—most travelers agree that the leisurely pace, combined with good company, makes for a wonderful day out. Perfect for adventure lovers, vintage car enthusiasts, and those craving an authentic taste of Gran Canaria’s landscapes.
FAQ

Are the vehicles manual or automatic?
All the cars are manual, which means you’ll need to be comfortable with stick-shift driving. Some guests found this to be a surprise, so it’s worth checking with the guides beforehand if you’re unsure.
Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup from certain meeting points is offered, making transportation hassle-free, especially if you’re staying in the south of the island.
How long is the tour?
The typical duration is about 2 hours 30 minutes, including scenic stops and photo opportunities.
Can I customize the route?
Absolutely. The guides are happy to adapt the itinerary based on your interests, providing a more personalized experience.
What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers private transportation, all fees and taxes, the vintage buggy, drinks (soda, water, coffee/tea), and free photos of your adventure.
Is this suitable for children?
While most travelers of all ages enjoy the ride, the manual transmission might be a consideration for younger children or those less confident with stick-shift driving. Always check with the provider if you have specific concerns.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, hats, and comfortable clothing. The mountain stops can get warm, so packing a light jacket or layers is wise if you’re sensitive to temperature changes.
This unique buggy tour offers a blend of scenery, nostalgia, and adventure that’s hard to find elsewhere in Gran Canaria. It’s a genuine way to see the island’s contrasts—welcoming, scenic, and fun—making it an experience you’ll remember long after your trip.
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- Las Palmas: City, Harbor, and Beach Walking-Hiking Tour
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