Balades Découverte Anaga & La Laguna

Discover Tenerife’s Hidden Gems with the Balades Découverte Anaga & La Laguna Tour

Taking a day to explore Tenerife beyond its famous beaches can reveal some truly captivating sights. This eight-hour guided tour offers a balanced mix of nature, history, and local flavors, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a deeper connection to the island. With comfortable transportation, a knowledgeable French-speaking guide, and well-chosen stops, it promises an engaging experience without feeling rushed.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its focus on both the natural beauty and cultural richness of Tenerife—covering everything from the lush Anaga forests to the colonial charm of La Laguna. However, the schedule’s full-day format means some may find it long, especially if you prefer more leisure time at each stop. Still, if you’re eager to see diverse facets of the island in one day, this tour hits the mark.

This trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor exploration, history, and local cuisine. It’s a great option for those who appreciate guided insights but don’t want to spend their entire trip just wandering around. Keep in mind that it’s not ideal for children under 8 or travelers with mobility issues, given the walking involved and the terrain.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary covers beaches, forests, historic towns, and mountain viewpoints.
• Authentic local experience with Canarian cuisine and visits to traditional villages.
• Comfortable transportation ensures smooth transitions between stops.
• Expert guide (French-speaking) provides insightful commentary on each location.
• Perfect for full-day explorers who want a balanced mix of nature and culture.
• Limited accessibility for those with mobility challenges or young children.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

This tour starts bright and early in Playa de las Américas, with most providers including hotel pickup—so you’ll be comfortably transported without the hassle of figuring out public transport. The 50-minute bus ride sets the tone for a day of discovery, allowing you to relax and get into the local mindset before arriving at the first stop.

Las Teresitas Beach and San Andres

The journey begins at Las Teresitas Beach, a stunning stretch of golden sand imported from the Sahara, set against calm waters that are especially inviting for a quick photo or a brief stroll. While not a swimming destination for everyone, its scenic beauty makes it a popular photo stop. The village of San Andres nearby offers a glimpse of Canarian coastal life, with small cafes and local shops.

Anaga Rural Park and the Cruz del Carmen Lookout

Next, the tour ventures into the Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that’s a highlight of any Tenerife visit. We loved the way the guide explained the park’s significance—its dense, humid laurel forests are home to endemic plant species, and the landscape feels almost prehistoric. crossing the Anaga massif, you’ll get sweeping views that are picture-perfect.

The Cruz del Carmen Lookout at 920 meters offers a panoramic vista of the mountains and forests. Historically, this crossroads connected mountain villages with La Laguna, and walking here gives a sense of stepping back in time. The guide’s storytelling about its role as a resource hub adds depth to this scenic spot, making it more than just a photo opportunity.

Traditional Taganana Village and Local Cuisine

Traveling down to Taganana, you’ll find terraced fields and a strong sense of local life. The village’s small, rustic charm is complemented by the opportunity to taste authentic Canarian dishes at a local restaurant. Expect to enjoy regional specialties paired with local wine—an experience that’s both flavorful and culturally enriching. Several reviews mention that the meal feels genuinely home-cooked, and the setting is simple but heartfelt.

La Laguna’s UNESCO Heritage Center

In the afternoon, the tour heads to San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved colonial architecture. Walking through its narrow cobblestone streets, you’ll see colonial mansions, historic churches, and charming patios with teak-wood balconies. The guide offers insights into the city’s history, noting that its layout inspired many Latin American cities like Havana and Cartagena.

We loved the way the guided tour brought these streets alive, pointing out little details that might be missed on a solo visit. The atmosphere here differs from the busy tourist resorts—this is a place where history feels tangible, and wandering its streets can be a highlight of your Tenerife trip.

Final Stops and Return

After a brief visit to Candelaria, known for its religious significance and basilica, the tour winds down with a 50-minute return ride back to Playa de las Américas. You’ll arrive with plenty of memories and photos, and perhaps a new appreciation for Tenerife’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.

Is the Tour Worth It?

At $88 per person, this tour provides good value for a full day of exploration. It bundles transportation, guided commentary in French, a delicious local lunch, and visits to key sites—saving you the hassle of planning individual visits and transport. The inclusion of a local restaurant meal, wine, and water enhances the experience, making it more than just sightseeing.

Some reviewers mention that the guide, whose name isn’t specified but who is praised for their knowledge, makes the experience memorable. One comment highlights “the way the guide explained the history of Cruz del Carmen with a lot of passion,” adding to the authenticity.

Of course, the tour’s structure means long periods on the bus, which could be tiring for some. Also, the walking involved in La Laguna’s historic center is moderate, so travelers with mobility concerns might want to consider this.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

If you’re keen to combine outdoor adventures with culture without the stress of organizing everything yourself, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s particularly ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who appreciate guided insights and local food.

However, if you’re traveling with young children, or have mobility issues, the walking and terrain might pose challenges. Also, those on a very tight schedule might find the full-day commitment a bit long.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from designated areas in Playa de las Américas. You’ll need to provide your hotel’s name upon booking, and the guide will reconfirm the exact pickup time and location.

How long is the bus ride? The total bus travel time adds up to roughly 2 hours and 50 minutes, spread throughout the day as you move between sites.

What language is the guide in? The tour is guided in French, which is ideal if you’re French-speaking or comfortable with the language.

What’s the typical duration of each stop? Stops vary from about 45 minutes at Cruz del Carmen to 2 hours in La Laguna, with meal and travel times included, making for a well-paced day.

Is it suitable for children? The tour is not recommended for children under 8 years old due to walking and terrain considerations.

Does the tour include meals? Yes, a Canarian lunch, water, and local wine are included in a traditional restaurant setting.

Can I cancel? Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring? Pack comfortable shoes, a jacket, your ID or passport, and some cash or card for personal expenses. Don’t forget your camera!

Are there any accessibility issues? The tour may not be suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the walking involved in La Laguna and uneven terrain in the parks.

To sum it up, the Balades Découverte Anaga & La Laguna tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Tenerife’s natural beauty, history, and cuisine. It’s best suited for travelers who want a full day of authentic experiences without the hassle of planning individual excursions. With its knowledgeable guide, scenic stops, and delicious local meal, it provides good value and a memorable taste of Tenerife beyond the beaches. If you’re after a balance of adventure and cultural insight, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.