Safari Cumbre Vieja

If you’re dreaming of spotting whales, dolphins, and other marine life amid stunning scenery, the Safari Cumbre Vieja tour aboard the Fancy II might catch your eye. This 2.5-hour excursion out into the waters near La Palma promises close encounters with cetaceans in their natural habitat, along with views of gorgeous sea caves and coastal landscapes. It’s a popular choice, with many booking it about two weeks in advance, making it clear that travelers find this outing appealing for its combination of wildlife, scenery, and the promise of an authentic maritime experience.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is the focus on wildlife observation—the chance to see dolphins jumping and whales blowing in the distance feels genuinely special and engaging. Plus, the scenery along the coast, including the famous caves like Cueva Bonita and Cueva Candelaria, adds a breathtaking backdrop to your marine adventure. However, it’s worth noting that the experience’s value can depend on weather conditions and sea activity, which influence wildlife sightings and boat comfort.

This tour is ideal for those who love nature, marine life, or simply want a memorable boat trip with scenic views. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace and don’t mind sharing the boat with up to 20 others. If you’re seeking a quick, wildlife-focused adventure with knowledgeable guides, this could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see dolphins, whales, turtles, and seabirds in their natural environment.
• Scenic Highlights: The coast, caves, and beaches like Playa de La Veta provide spectacular views.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable crew enhance the experience, sharing insights about marine animals and local geology.
• Practical Comforts: Complimentary bottled water and soda keep you hydrated during the journey.
• Booking & Accessibility: Easy to confirm online, with most travelers booking 17 days in advance; meeting point is accessible via public transport.
• Limited Duration: The 2.5-hour trip offers a quick but immersive marine adventure focused on wildlife spotting.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This tour sets sail from the coast of La Palma, aboard the Fancy II, a vessel designed to give you an unobstructed view of the sea and coastline. It’s about 2 hours and 30 minutes of cruising, with a focus on wildlife viewing and coastal scenery.

The journey begins at the Restaurante El Muelle in Tarajal, Santa Cruz de Tenerife. While the meeting point is outside the island’s typical tourist zones, it’s near public transportation, making it relatively straightforward to reach. Once aboard, you’ll head out into the Atlantic, where the crew’s main goal is to maximize your chances of spotting marine mammals.

Stop 1: Marine Wildlife and Coastal Views

During this phase, expect to see dolphins and, if lucky, whales such as pilot whales or other cetaceans. Multiple reviews mention how close the animals come—some travelers have been thrilled to see dolphins cavorting just meters from the boat, while others have caught glimpses of whales blowing or surfacing in the distance.

A reviewer shared, “It was an incredible adventure with an exceptionally pleasant and knowledgeable crew! We had the opportunity to witness whales, various fish, the untamed sea, cliffs, as well as coves and unique beaches.” This highlights the value of having guides who not only navigate but also offer insights into what you’re seeing.

Sea Caves and Coastal Landmarks

Beyond wildlife, the tour offers scenic views of sea caves like Cueva Bonita and Cueva Candelaria. These formations are spectacular to photograph, especially when the sunlight hits their natural arches and tunnels just right. The boat’s vantage point allows for a full appreciation of the rugged coastline and the sandy beaches like Playa de La Veta, which appears idyllic from the sea.

Some reviews mention disappointment or the ordinary nature of the scenery, but generally, the caves and coast are a highlight for visitors wanting to combine wildlife with stunning geology.

The Experience on the Boat

The vessel is described as “shabby” by a reviewer, which can be a concern for those seeking a plush or modern boat. However, it comfortably fits up to 20 travelers, maintaining an intimate atmosphere. Onboard, complimentary bottled water and soda are provided, helping you stay refreshed as you scan the horizon.

The crew’s knowledge is a standout point. One reviewer highlighted “an exceptionally pleasant and knowledgeable crew,” which truly makes a difference when trying to identify elusive cetaceans and answer questions about the local marine environment. Expect to be kept informed about marine species, local geology, and the importance of conservation efforts.

The Value of the Tour

At $79.35 per person, the price reflects a well-organized, wildlife-focused experience. You’re paying for the chance to see animals in the wild—something that’s unpredictable but often rewarding. The reviews reveal mixed opinions on the value, with some travelers feeling it’s a bit pricey for what they received, especially considering the boat’s condition and the brevity of the trip.

However, if wildlife sightings and scenic coastlines are your priorities, most agree that the guides’ expertise and the opportunity to see animals in their natural habitat justify the cost. The experience feels authentic and intimate, especially with small groups, which enhances the chance of sightings.

The Realities of Wildlife Sightings

While the tour emphasizes wildlife observation, it’s important to remember that cetaceans are wild and sightings are not guaranteed. Some travelers, like the one who wrote “razor-sharp and very cheery dolphins,” experienced close-up encounters, but others mentioned that the trip can sometimes be less eventful, especially if animals are not as active or visible.

Sea conditions and weather influence the likelihood of seeing dolphins and whales. The tour operates in most weather, but rough seas or high winds may limit wildlife activity or make the experience less comfortable.

Review Reflections and Honest Feedback

The reviews overall are mixed but leaning positive when it comes to guides and scenery. Julia_A described it as “an incredible adventure,” praising the crew’s knowledge and the chance to witness a variety of marine life. Conversely, one review called the boat “very shabby” and felt the experience was overpriced, highlighting that expectations should be managed accordingly.

A significant point within reviews is the value of a knowledgeable and friendly crew. They’re often the difference between a good trip and a forgettable one. The guides’ ability to identify species and share interesting facts make the trip more engaging.

Practical Considerations

• Booking and Timing: The tour is best booked about 17 days in advance to secure a spot, especially during peak season.
• Meeting Point: Located near public transport, but travelers should note that transfers from hotels are not included.
• Duration & Group Size: At 2.5 hours, it’s a quick but immersive marine outing. The group size caps at 20, maintaining a personal atmosphere.
• Weather & Conditions: Be prepared for possible sea sickness if prone, and dress accordingly—layers and sunscreen are advisable.
• What’s Included: Bottled water and soda keep everyone hydrated, but bring your own camera and perhaps a light jacket.

This experience is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking a scenic maritime adventure without a long commitment. It’s ideal for travelers who value expert guidance and are okay with the unpredictability of wild animal sightings. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a snapshot of La Palma’s marine life and coastline with a knowledgeable crew.

If you’re seeking a relaxing, scenic, and wildlife-centered trip, this tour fits that bill. However, if luxury or a guarantee of wildlife sightings are must-haves, you might want to investigate other options or prepare for some variability.

The Safari Cumbre Vieja tour offers a solid, wildlife-focused experience that combines marine animal sightings with the stunning scenery of La Palma’s coast and caves. Despite some concerns about boat condition and the variability of wildlife encounters, the chance to see dolphins and whales in their natural environment with the guidance of knowledgeable staff makes it worthwhile for many.

It’s well-suited for those who want a relatively short, engaging boat trip that emphasizes authentic encounters with nature. The experience provides a good balance between scenic beauty and marine life, making it a memorable part of any La Palma itinerary.

For travelers looking for a genuine, wildlife-oriented adventure, this tour is worth considering, especially if they prioritize expert guides and scenic vistas over luxury or high-end amenities.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, offering a compact but comprehensive marine experience.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Restaurante El Muelle in Tarajal, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain. The location is accessible via public transport.

Is transportation from hotels included?
No, hotel transfers are not included; you need to reach the meeting point on your own.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat trip, bottled water, and soda. No additional food or transport services are provided.

What animals might I see?
You can expect to see dolphins, whales (including pilot whales), turtles, and seabirds, depending on sea conditions.

Is the boat comfortable?
Some reviews describe the boat as “shabby,” but it comfortably fits up to 20 travelers and offers good visibility.

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

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate; it’s suitable for families, but keep in mind the boat’s condition and sea conditions.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, multiple reviews praise the crew for being friendly and well-informed about marine life and local geography.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, camera, maybe a light jacket, and personal items to stay hydrated and comfortable.

To sum it up, the Safari Cumbre Vieja tour offers a genuine opportunity to encounter marine life in a scenic setting, guided by experts who enhance the experience. It’s a good pick for travelers wanting an authentic, nature-focused adventure on La Palma, with the understanding that wildlife sightings are always a bit unpredictable.