From South Tenerife: La Gomera Island Day Trip with Lunch

Exploring La Gomera from Tenerife: An In-Depth Look at the Popular Day Trip

Anyone planning a visit to Tenerife often considers the nearby island of La Gomera — a place that promises lush forests, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and a glimpse into authentic local culture. The “From South Tenerife: La Gomera Island Day Trip with Lunch,” offered by Viajes Teide Tenerife Excursions, is one of the most popular ways to experience this charming island in just one day. With a typical rating of 4.1 out of 5 from over 1,600 reviews, it’s clear this tour strikes a chord with many travelers.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? For us, it’s the chance to relax and take in scenic views without the hassle of driving, thanks to comfortable transport and a well-organized itinerary. Plus, the inclusion of a traditional lunch and a fascinating demonstration of the Silbo Gomero whistling language—something truly unique to La Gomera—adds genuine cultural value. On the flip side, some may find the multi-language commentary a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re hoping for a more tailored experience.

This trip suits travelers who love nature, history, and authentic local traditions, and who are okay with a full day of sightseeing packed into around nine hours. If you prefer a slow pace or more personalized attention, this may not be the best fit. But for those eager to see multiple highlights and learn about La Gomera’s rich heritage, it offers a lot of bang for your buck.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation and a smooth ferry ride make for a stress-free experience
• The scenic drive through Garajonay National Park boasts some of the most breathtaking views in the Canary Islands
• Visitors enjoy the chance to witness the Silbo Gomero, a whistling language still used by locals
• The tour combines natural beauty, cultural insights, and historical sites, making it well-rounded
• The included lunch is a major perk, with a three-course meal and local drinks served in a picturesque setting
• Expect a multi-lingual guide, which can be both informative and a little challenging to follow for some

How the Tour Is Structured

The experience begins with a pickup from the south of Tenerife, which ensures convenience for most travelers. Once you’re on the bus, the journey to La Gomera feels quick thanks to the comfort and efficiency of the transport. You’ll then hop on a fast ferry that whisks you across the channel to San Sebastián de La Gomera, the island’s small but historically significant capital.

From there, the real adventure begins. Your guide will take you on a scenic drive through the island’s lush valleys and volcanic formations, with your first stop at Roque de Agando. This iconic rock formation, formed from an ancient volcano, offers some of the most striking views you’ll see during the day. It’s a perfect photo spot and a reminder of La Gomera’s volcanic origins.

Next, you’ll wind your way through the El Cedro forest, a verdant area teeming with endemic vegetation. According to reviews, this part of the tour is especially loved for its peaceful vibe and the chance to see the island’s natural diversity. As you travel, your guide will share stories and insights, often in multiple languages, which some reviewers found a bit much but others appreciated for the variety.

Exploring Garajonay National Park

One of the highlights of the trip is the visit to Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This lush, moss-covered forest is often described as breathtaking. Reviewers mention that the views here are spectacular and that it’s worth a second visit just to explore more deeply. The park’s cool climate and mystical atmosphere make it a perfect escape from Tenerife’s warmer weather, though a few travelers have noted that some stops, including the park, can be a bit chilly—so packing warm layers is advisable.

Lunch and the Whistling Demonstration

After exploring the natural scenery, you’ll enjoy a lunch at a scenic spot at the top of the island, where you can relax and soak in panoramic views. The included meal typically features a three-course menu with soft drinks or wine, and reviewers consistently praise the quality and generosity of the meal. Some mention that the lunch was more substantial than expected, with many saying it was a highlight of the day.

A unique part of this experience is the Silbo Gomero demonstration, performed by local guides who show how the traditional whistling language is used to communicate across the mountains. Reviewers like Viktoriia and Donna found this to be an “exceptional” and “authentic” experience, describing the whistling as both fascinating and fun. It’s rare to see a culture still thriving in such a distinctive way, making this part of the trip memorable.

Passing Through Charming Villages

On your way back, the route takes you through Chipude and El Cercado, where you can admire traditional Canarian villages and rocky landscapes. One reviewer appreciated the chance to walk around Puerto de La Cruz during a free stop, enjoying local cafes and watching surfers. These moments offer a taste of local life and a little breathing space during the busy day.

Impressions of the Main Sights

The Roque de Agando is often highlighted as a must-see, with many reviews praising its dramatic appearance and the way it visually anchors the landscape. Others rave about the views from various miradors, suggesting that more stops here would be welcome, especially for photography enthusiasts.

The visit to San Sebastián, the historic port where Columbus allegedly prayed, provides a bit of historical context. Though brief, many say it adds depth to the trip, especially for those interested in Caribbean and American exploration history.

Transportation, Timing, and Overall Value

The transportation is generally comfortable, with a coach that provides ample space for the long drive and scenic stops. The ferry ride is a crucial part of the experience, adding a bit of adventure and anticipation. The 9-hour duration makes it a full but manageable day, perfect for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing without overdoing it.

Cost-wise, at $119 per person, this trip offers good value considering the included ferry, transport, guided commentary in multiple languages, and a substantial lunch. Some reviewers commented on the quality of the food and the knowledgeable guides, emphasizing how these small details elevate the experience beyond just a sightseeing tour.

Insights from Guests

Many travelers have shared that the guides make all the difference — knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share insights about La Gomera’s landscapes and culture. Donna notes that the waiter serving lunch was also a Silbo whistling performer, adding a charming local touch.

A common theme is the stunning scenery—from volcanic rocks to lush forests—and how these visuals are complemented by the stories and explanations delivered by guides like Tonio and others. Although some found the multilingual commentary a bit overwhelming, most appreciated the effort to include everyone.

Reviewers also mention that packing warm clothing is wise, as some stops are cooler than Tenerife’s typical heat. A few noted the importance of being aware of the timing around ferry departures and pickups, so reviewing the itinerary beforehand helps avoid unnecessary stress.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This La Gomera day trip really does balance scenery, culture, and history in a way that appeals to a broad range of travelers. If you’re looking for a well-organized, value-packed tour that provides stunning views, a taste of local traditions, and a good meal, this one ticks all those boxes. It’s especially suited for those who want to explore beyond the beaches and enjoy the natural and cultural richness of the Canary Islands.

For nature lovers and history buffs alike, the stops at Garajonay National Park and San Sebastián offer memorable moments. The included lunch and the whistling demonstration add a layer of authenticity that many visitors find worthwhile.

However, if you prefer a more personalized or leisurely experience, or dislike long bus rides with multilingual commentary, you might want to consider alternative options. Still, for most travelers, this tour offers a solid glimpse of La Gomera’s magic without the hassle of planning every detail.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off in the south of Tenerife, with details provided after booking. The exact pickup point may be close to your hotel but not necessarily at your door.

How long does the entire tour last?
The day lasts around 9 hours, including transport, ferry ride, sightseeing, and free time at certain stops.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card for the ferry, and pack warm clothing as some stops, like Garajonay National Park, can be quite chilly.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most likely, yes. It’s a full day of sightseeing with manageable walking and plenty of scenic stops, but very young children or those with mobility issues should consider how they feel about long bus rides.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, the guides deliver commentary in Spanish, English, French, and German, depending on the group. Some reviews mention the commentary can be in multiple languages simultaneously.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, ferry tickets, a three-course lunch, and a guide. Drinks during lunch are also included.

Can I cancel the trip?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is the lunch vegetarian-friendly?
Most reviews highlight the meal being generous and delicious, with options to cater for specific dietary needs—though it’s best to confirm dietary restrictions when booking.

This trip to La Gomera offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural learning, and historical insight, all wrapped into a well-organized full-day adventure. It’s perfect for curious travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of one of the Canary Islands’ most captivating spots.