Tenerife Full Island Tour

If you’re looking to see the best of Tenerife without the hassle of planning multiple excursions, this full island tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of the island’s most striking sights. Priced at around $62.70 per person, it promises a comprehensive day packed with natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and scenic drives—all with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. The tour averages about eight hours, making it perfect for travelers who want an in-depth overview without feeling rushed.

One standout aspect of this experience is the expert guidance—a knowledgeable guide accompanying you through diverse landscapes and historical sites. Plus, the comfort of air-conditioned transportation and the opportunity to see iconic Tenerife landmarks like the Los Gigantes cliffs, La Orotava Valley, and Candelaria in a single day makes it a great option for first-time visitors. That said, some reviews note that the large group sizes and long hours on the bus might not suit everyone, especially those who prefer a more intimate or leisurely pace. This tour is best suited for curious travelers eager to get a taste of Tenerife’s highlights in one go.

Key Points

• Comprehensive coverage: Sees Los Gigantes, La Orotava Valley, and Candelaria’s Basilica in just one day.
• Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and a professional guide enhance the experience.
• Value for money: The price includes many major sights and free time to explore, making it a solid budget-friendly option.
• Mixed pace: Long travel hours mean a full day, which may be tiring for some but perfect for those wanting a complete overview.
• Authentic insights: Guides like Christophe and Ivan are praised for their knowledge, adding richness to the tour.
• Some logistical frustrations: Large group sizes and extended pickup times could affect your comfort.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tenerife Full Island Tour

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins early at 8:30 am from Los Cristianos, a popular southern hub. You’ll be greeted by a small group—though some reviews suggest that the actual group size can sometimes swell beyond the maximum 15-20 people, with reports citing up to 50 on larger buses. Despite this, the first impression is the promise of seamless transportation—an air-conditioned vehicle that quickly transports you along Tenerife’s scenic west coast.

Los Gigantes Cliffs: Majestic Natural Wonder

Your first stop is at the Los Gigantes viewpoint, where you’ll get stunning views of the cliffs that soar 960 feet (600 meters) into the sky. It’s a classic Tenerife photo op, and you’ll have about 15 minutes to snap shots and breathe in the dramatic scenery. Reviews highlight the breathtaking views—some travelers even mention that this was their favorite part of the day. Expect to stand at a safe distance but feel just how impressive these natural giants are, especially with the ocean crashing below.

Parque del Drago and Icod de los Vinos: Ancient Nature and Culture

Next, the tour moves to Parque del Drago in Icod de los Vinos to see the legendary Dragon Tree. It’s reputed to be the oldest of its kind in the world, and some reviews note that the 30-minute stop is enough to appreciate its grandeur. We loved the way the guide explained the tree’s significance—adding a touch of history and mysticism to the visit. Admission is free, and the surroundings are lush and tranquil.

Following this, the group has some free time in Puerto de la Cruz for an hour, a picturesque fishing village with a charming harbor. Many travelers take the opportunity to grab a quick snack or explore local shops. One reviewer mentioned enjoying the free time to wander and shop, which adds a relaxed element to an otherwise busy day.

La Orotava Valley: Lush Landscapes and Agricultural Views

The journey then takes you inland to La Orotava Valley, renowned for its banana plantations, vineyards, and pine-covered mountains. Here, the scenery becomes more lush and vibrant, illustrating the diversity of Tenerife’s landscape. Travelers often appreciate the photography opportunities—the sweeping views and verdant fields make for memorable images. The guide provides context about the agricultural richness of the area, helping you understand how the locals cultivate their land amidst stunning natural scenery.

Candelaria and Basilica: Cultural and Religious Significance

The final major stop is at the Plaza de Patrona de Canarias in Candelaria, home to the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Candelaria. This impressive church, with its massive dome and oceanfront location, is a focal point of religious life on the island. You’ll also see the statues of the Guanche Kings, the island’s original inhabitants, which many find fascinating. The 30-minute stop here is often a highlight, especially for those interested in local culture and spiritual traditions. Note that admission to the basilica is not included, but the surrounding square and statues offer plenty to see and photograph.

Final Drop-off and Reflection

The tour wraps up with a return to the starting point, typically arriving back by late afternoon, depending on traffic and group size. Reviewers agree that the drop-off process is smooth, though some mention that the pickup and return times can be lengthy—up to three hours of travelling between hotels. Travelers who value time on the road or who stay in the northern parts of Tenerife might find this a bit cumbersome.

Practical Aspects: Transportation, Guides, and Value

The transportation is an important part of this experience. The air-conditioned minivan ensures you stay comfortable during the long drives, which are inevitable given the size of Tenerife and the number of sites to cover. Guides like Christophe and Ivan receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness, often sprinkling in historical anecdotes and cultural insights that elevate the experience well beyond just sightseeing.

The price point of about $62.70 per person offers good value, considering the number of sights visited and the included transportation. Multiple reviews echo that this is a cost-effective way to see Tenerife’s highlights in a single day, especially when compared to booking individual excursions or self-driving.

However, some travelers note the larger group sizes can be a downside, making it harder to hear guides or enjoy a more intimate experience. Also, the long hours on the bus—sometimes up to three hours just for pickup and drop-off—could be tiring, particularly for those with limited patience or mobility issues. Still, many consider the overall value worth the trade-off, especially if you’re eager for a broad overview rather than a leisurely pace.

Authentic Experiences and Tips from Reviews

Several travelers pointed out the quality of the guide, with praise for Christophe, who was described as fun, informative, and articulate. One reviewer appreciated the “fantastic host” and “great driver”, noting that their professionalism made the day smooth despite the size of the group.

Food and free time are also valued components. One reviewer enjoyed the free time in Puerto de la Cruz for exploring and shopping, while others appreciated the stops for photos and brief sightseeing. Keep in mind, the tour does not include lunch, so packing snacks or planning for a quick meal during the free time is recommended.

Some reviewers mentioned issues with pickup times—be sure to confirm your pickup schedule in advance, especially if you’re staying outside of the central meeting points. Despite some logistical frustrations, many guests found the balance of sightseeing and cultural insights to be well worth the price.

The Sum Up

This Tenerife Full Island Tour is a robust option for travelers wanting to capture the essence of the island in a single day. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors, those on a tight schedule, or travelers who prefer the convenience of guided transport. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, cultural landmarks, and historical insights makes it a well-rounded experience, especially considering the cost.

While the large groups and long driving hours may not be perfect for every traveler, the knowledgeable guides and beautiful sights compensate for some of the logistical drawbacks. It’s a good choice if you’re after a broad overview and don’t mind a packed schedule. For those seeking a more relaxed or personalized experience, smaller or private tours might be worth exploring.

In essence, this tour offers value, variety, and expert insights—a solid way to see Tenerife’s highlights efficiently.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, but only at selected hotels. Confirm your pickup point before booking.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel time and sightseeing stops.

What is the group size? The tour is designed for up to 55 travelers, though some reviews mention larger groups than expected.

Are meals included? No, meals are not included. You should plan to bring snacks or enjoy free time for lunch in Puerto de la Cruz.

What sights will I see? Expect to visit Los Gigantes cliffs, Icod de los Vinos Dragon Tree, La Orotava Valley, and Candelaria Basilica.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility? Travelers should have moderate physical fitness, as the day involves walking and long bus rides.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Is there any flexibility in the itinerary? The schedule is fixed, but guides often adapt slightly based on weather or group interests.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, the tour is usually booked around 26 days in advance, so early planning is recommended to secure your spot.

This full island tour is a practical, value-packed way to get a comprehensive glimpse of Tenerife’s diverse landscapes and cultural highlights. It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free experience that hits all the main attractions in one memorable day.