Tenerife: SUNSET – 3H Buggy tour of Teide

Taking a buggy ride up Tenerife’s iconic volcano is undoubtedly one of the most exhilarating ways to see the island’s dramatic scenery. This 3-hour sunset adventure with BuggyCanarias offers a thrilling yet comfortable way to explore, with the added bonus of stunning vistas above the clouds. While the tour is primarily on-road and doesn’t include off-road driving, it compensates with spectacular scenery, engaging stories from expert guides, and plenty of photo ops.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is the combination of scenic landscapes and guided storytelling—plus, the professional photos that let you relive the memories. The only consideration might be the weather; it can get windy and dusty at altitude, so packing warm and windproof clothing is a smart move.

This tour suits those who want a fun, guided exploration of Tenerife’s volcanic terrain without the rough-and-tumble off-road rides. It’s perfect for travelers who love nature, photography, and a dash of adventure with the comfort of small group intimacy.

Key Points

• Stunning Views Above the Clouds: Ascend to 2100 meters and enjoy sweeping vistas of Tenerife’s volcanic landscape and the island’s unique flora.
• Expert Guides with Fascinating Stories: Guides share engaging insights into Teide’s geology and local history, enhancing the experience.
• Comfortable and Well-Equipped Buggies: Modern CF Moto and Can-Am buggies come with jackets, gloves, and goggles for a safe, cozy ride.
• Photographic Memories: Professional photos are included for purchase, capturing your best moments against dramatic backdrops.
• On-Road Scenic Drive: No off-road driving—ideal for those seeking a scenic but smooth tour experience.
• Flexible Pickup and Small Group: Pickup from southern Tenerife (Golf del Sur to Callao Salvaje) and limited to just 3 participants for a personalized feel.

The Experience in Detail

The tour begins with a convenient hotel pickup from several locations along Tenerife’s southern coast—including Golf del Sur and Callao Salvaje. We loved the smooth transfer, which set a relaxed tone for the adventure ahead. Once at the starting point, you’re greeted by friendly staff and fitted with your gear—jacket, gloves, goggles—all provided to ensure comfort during the ride. The guides speak multiple languages (English, Spanish, Italian), making the experience accessible for a diverse group of travelers.

As you gear up, the anticipation builds. The buggies are modern, two- or four-seaters, comfortable, and easy to handle, even for those new to driving. The guides give a brief but thorough explanation of how to operate the vehicles, emphasizing safety and the scenic nature of the journey.

The Scenic Drive through Tenerife’s Volcanic Landscape

The first part of the ride takes you through the rugged terrain of southern Tenerife. Expect to see endemic plants like the Tajinaste, known for its towering height of up to 3 meters, and the Canarian pine, one of the most fire-resistant trees on Earth. We appreciated how the guides pointed out these plants, sharing quick facts that added context to the landscape.

Keep your camera ready as wildlife sightings like canaries, rabbits, geckos, and lizards pop up along the way. The journey then leads toward the Teide National Park, where the terrain becomes even more surreal, with volcanic formations and dramatic vistas. From the lookouts and stop points, you can capture Instagram-worthy photos of the rugged terrain, especially as you approach Teide’s impressive summit.

The Storytelling and Stops

One of the tour’s highlights is the storytelling aspect. Our guide, Matteo, was especially good at weaving history and geology into the ride, making the landscape come alive with tales of eruptions, volcanic activity, and the island’s formation. He shared fascinating details about the volcano’s past, making the experience educational as well as scenic.

Stops at Vilaflor, the highest village in Tenerife, offer a chance to stretch and absorb the views. The next key stop is within the Teide National Park, where you can take in sweeping landscapes and snap photos of lava formations. The final stop is at a viewpoint to watch the sunset, a truly magical moment as the sky shifts colors and the clouds seem to float just below you. As one reviewer put it, “Beautiful sunset with the volcano in the background—it’s a moment you won’t forget.”

The Return and Photo Opportunities

After sunset, the ride back involves winding scenic roads through the mountain’s curves, with the darkening sky adding a sense of adventure. Upon returning to the starting point, you have the option to view and purchase professional photos taken during the tour—an excellent way to remember the trip. We loved how well these photos captured the essence of the landscape, making it easy to share the experience with friends and family.

The guided tour concludes with a comfortable transfer back to your hotel. The small group size (limited to three participants) meant personalized attention and plenty of space for questions, which our guide Matteo was happy to answer with enthusiasm and local knowledge.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $352 per group (up to four people), this tour offers good value for a guided, scenic experience with included gear, professional photos, and a knowledgeable guide. Compared to other activities that might just focus on off-road thrills, this tour provides a balance of comfort, education, and stunning visuals.

The fact that the tour is on-road means it’s accessible for most travelers, including those who prefer a smoother ride or are less keen on off-road driving. The guided storytelling also adds depth, making the experience more engaging than a simple scenic drive. Plus, the small group size ensures a more intimate experience, which many travelers appreciate when exploring such a unique landscape.

Practical Tips

• Clothing: Expect wind and dust; a warm jacket and closed-toe shoes are essential.
• Timing: Sunset tours follow the sunset schedule, so departure times vary. Arrive prepared for the changing light and temperature.
• Driving: You need a full, valid driver’s license. Drivers must be over 21.
• Health & Safety: No smoking, pets, or alcohol allowed. The route is on paved roads, so no off-road driving—making it suitable for most.
• Photos: Professional photos cost €25 and are worth it for the quality and memories they capture.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers looking for a combination of scenic beauty, education, and light adventure. It appeals to those who enjoy guided storytelling and want to learn about Tenerife’s volcanic origins while enjoying a comfortable ride. If you’re traveling with family or friends, the small group format enhances the experience without feeling crowded.

It’s also ideal for photography buffs, as the stops provide fantastic opportunities to capture the rugged landscape and sunset. Those who prefer a more relaxed, on-road experience rather than rugged off-road adventures will particularly enjoy this tour’s smooth ride and scenic focus.

The Sum Up

The Tenerife Sunset Buggy Tour with BuggyCanarias offers a well-rounded adventure that balances stunning scenery, expert guidance, and comfort. With the chance to ascend to 2100 meters, enjoy panoramic views, and learn about the volcano’s geology and history, it’s a fantastic way to see some of Tenerife’s most iconic landscapes without the rough off-road driving.

The inclusion of professional photos ensures you’ll have lasting memories of this special experience. While the tour is priced on the higher side, the value lies in the personalized guidance, scenic stops, and the memorable sunset moment. It’s especially suited for those who want an engaging, scenic exploration rather than a high-octane off-road thrill.

If you’re seeking a laid-back yet visually stunning adventure with a local touch, this buggy tour hits all the right notes. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your driver’s license, and prepare for an unforgettable ride through Tenerife’s volcanic wonderland.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from locations along the southern coast of Tenerife are included.

What do I need to bring? You should bring a valid driver’s license, comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and weather-appropriate gear.

Are there age restrictions for drivers? Yes, drivers must be over 21 years old and possess a full, valid driver’s license.

Is this tour suitable for non-drivers? While driving is part of the experience, non-drivers can join as passengers if they meet the age requirement.

Can I do this tour if I don’t have off-road driving experience? Absolutely—this tour is on paved, scenic roads, making it accessible for most travelers.

What’s included in the price? Jackets, gloves, goggles, fuel, insurance, and professional guide service. Photos are available for purchase afterward.

How long does the tour last? The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, with the timing adjusted for sunset schedules.

Will I get good photos? Yes, professional photos are taken during the tour and available for €25, capturing the best moments against Tenerife’s dramatic scenery.

Is the tour suitable for families? Yes, especially given the small group size and scenic nature, it’s a good activity for families with older children or teens.