Ascend to Teide National Park on a quad bike from Puerto de la Cruz.

Ascend to Teide National Park on a quad bike from Puerto de la Cruz

Exploring Tenerife’s volcanic scenery by quad bike offers a unique perspective on the island’s rugged beauty. This 3-hour tour takes you through La Orotava and up to the heights of Teide National Park, all while giving you the freedom to enjoy the landscape at your own pace. It’s a hands-on adventure that balances excitement with the chance to see some of the most stunning views Tenerife has to offer.

What really sets this experience apart is the chance to drive your own quad bike from sea level to over 2,280 meters in altitude, crossing volcanic terrains, pine forests, and cloud layers. We love how accessible this activity is, even for those without prior riding experience—thanks to the comprehensive safety briefing and short training session. That said, the tour is best suited for those who are comfortable with basic driving and eager to get off the beaten path.

One thing worth considering is the weather—since the experience involves outdoor riding in mountain conditions, rain or wind may lead to rescheduling. But if you’re prepared, the views of the sea of clouds and volcanic landscapes are well worth it. This tour appeals most to travelers craving authentic adventure, scenic photography, and a fun way to explore Tenerife’s natural highlights.

Key Points

• Self-Driven Quad Experience: You get to drive your own quad bike, making the journey both personal and exhilarating.
• Stunning Views: Expect to see volcanic landscapes, pine forests, and the famous Sea of Clouds, especially at higher altitudes.
• Expert Guidance: The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who provide safety instructions and insights about the terrain.
• Balanced Itinerary: It includes stops in La Orotava and scenic viewpoints over Mount Teide, with enough time to photograph and take in the scenery.
• Suitable for Beginners: No previous quad riding experience is necessary, just a valid driver’s license and a sense of adventure.
• Limited Group Size: The tour is small, capped at 8 participants, which ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Safety Briefing

The adventure kicks off at C. Aceviño, 2 in Puerto de la Cruz. Here, the guides from Click and Quads conduct a brief safety talk lasting about 10 minutes. They’ll go over how to handle the quad bikes, what to expect during the ride, and safety precautions—crucial for those new to this kind of activity. We appreciated that the guides took time to make sure everyone felt confident before hitting the roads, which are traffic-free for the most part.

Crossing La Orotava

Next, you’ll hop onto the quad bike for a 15-minute drive through La Orotava, a town known for its colonial architecture and vibrant history. Driving through this charming area on a quad is a different experience from a typical bus or walking tour. You can take in the streets, local houses, and the lively atmosphere from a unique vantage point. The guides often share interesting facts about the town’s history, adding a layer of cultural insight to the journey.

The Ascent to Teide National Park

The main event is a 40 km climb up to Teide National Park, reaching altitudes of up to 2,400 meters. The terrain varies from smooth mountain roads to rugged volcanic paths, giving a real sense of the island’s volcanic origins. Expect to see endless valleys, pine forests, and lava flows—some of which look like they belong on another planet.

Traveling along this route, we loved the way the landscape constantly changed. From lush greenery at lower elevations to stark, rugged volcanic rock, the scenery keeps your eyes busy. Riders often comment on how surreal it feels to be so close to the volcano, yet in control of their vehicle.

The Sea of Clouds and Scenic Viewpoints

A highlight for many is reaching around 1,600 meters, where clear days reveal the Sea of Clouds, a natural phenomenon where cloud layers roll over the landscape, creating a captivating view. It’s a photo-worthy moment you won’t forget. If the weather cooperates, you’ll be able to gaze out over Tenerife’s lush north and the towering volcano itself from a scenic viewpoint—an ideal spot for photos and a breather.

Time at Teide National Park

Once inside the park, a photo stop offers a chance to capture the grandeur of Mount Teide and surrounding volcanic terrain. Our guides confirmed that the viewpoint overlooks the volcanic crater and the north of the island, giving a sense of the island’s geological history. This is also where some travelers may choose to take a quick walk, depending on the group’s pace and weather conditions.

The Descent & Return

After around 40 minutes riding within the park, the tour begins its descent back toward Puerto de la Cruz. The ride down is just as scenic, with the landscapes still unfolding around you. The total ride covers about 80 km, with the entire experience lasting approximately 3 hours—a manageable length that leaves you energized but not exhausted.

The End of the Tour

Back at the starting point, you’ll receive photos and videos of the ride at no extra cost—a great souvenir from your adventure. The tour concludes with a final briefing, and you’re free to explore the town or head back to your accommodation.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

This tour offers a well-rounded package: a quad bike, safety gear (helmet, gloves, raincoat if needed), and the option to ride individually or shared. The included snack and refreshments at a panoramic viewpoint provide a lovely break, giving you a taste of Canarian hospitality amidst spectacular scenery.

It’s important to note that transportation to the meeting point isn’t included, so if you’re staying outside Puerto de la Cruz, plan for a transfer or an early arrival. The tour is limited to small groups of 8, which means you get more personalized guidance and fewer crowds.

Requirements & Restrictions

You must carry a valid driver’s license and be at least 7 years old to participate. The activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, children under 7, or individuals with mobility issues. Also, no alcohol or drugs are permitted, and proper footwear (closed shoes) is strongly recommended.

Weather & Rescheduling

If the weather turns bad—winds, rain, or clouds obscuring views—the tour may be postponed or exchanged for an alternative, like the Off-Road Tour of Northern Tenerife. This shows the provider’s commitment to safety and quality, ensuring you enjoy the experience when conditions are optimal.

Final Thoughts

This quad bike tour from Puerto de la Cruz offers a fantastic blend of adventure, scenery, and cultural insight. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a hands-on, memorable way to explore Tenerife beyond typical sightseeing. The guides’ knowledge and the small group size enhance the experience, making it more personal and engaging.

While it’s not suited for those with mobility challenges or very young children, anyone with a driver’s license and a dash of curiosity will find this tour rewarding. The cost provides good value—covering vehicle rental, expert guidance, scenic stops, and photos—making it a worthwhile investment for adventure lovers.

If you’re after an active, scenic, and authentic Tenerife experience, this quad bike ride to Mount Teide is a solid choice. You’ll leave with stories of volcanic landscapes, clouds rolling over mountains, and the thrill of controlling your own vehicle amidst one of the world’s most striking natural settings.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, no previous quad riding experience is needed. The guides conduct a quick safety briefing and training session to ensure everyone feels confident before starting.

Do I need a special license?
Yes, a standard driver’s license (B) is required to participate in this activity.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts about 3 hours, including stops, riding, and photo sessions.

Can I choose between morning or evening rides?
Yes, you can opt for an ascending tour in the morning or at sunset—both offer unique views, especially of the sea of clouds and volcanic landscapes.

Are the vehicles shared or individual?
You can choose to ride a shared quad bike or an individual one, depending on your preference.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and your driver’s license are essential. Closed shoes are recommended, and a raincoat is provided if needed.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the quad bike, safety gear, a snack and refreshments at a viewpoint, and photos/videos of your ride.

Is transportation to the meeting point provided?
No, you need to arrange your own transfer to C. Aceviño, 2 in Puerto de la Cruz.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What happens in case of bad weather?
Tours may be rescheduled or swapped for alternative activities like the Off-Road Tour of Northern Tenerife if weather conditions are unsafe.

In summary, this quad bike trip to Teide National Park offers a lively, scenic, and engaging way to see Tenerife’s volcanic heart. Perfect for those seeking adventure and panoramic views, it combines the thrill of riding with the beauty of one of Spain’s most iconic landscapes.