Balades Découverte Teide – La Orotava – Icod de los Vinos

Planning a day on Tenerife that combines stunning landscapes, cultural sights, and authentic Canarian cuisine? This Balades Découverte Teide – La Orotava – Icod de los Vinos tour offers a comprehensive look at some of the island’s most iconic spots, all with the comfort of a French-speaking guide. For those who want to see Tenerife’s volcanic grandeur, lush greenery, and charming towns in one day — without the hassle of planning — this might be just what you need.

One of the standout features of this tour is the organized itinerary, which packs in visits to Teide National Park, La Orotava, Garachico, and Icod de los Vinos. We love that the group is entirely in French, making it accessible for Francophone travelers who prefer explanations and historical insights in their native language. A possible consideration is the long day length (8 hours), which requires comfortable shoes and a good dose of patience for a full schedule. This tour is perfect for those seeking an immersive cultural and scenic experience on Tenerife, especially if you’re eager to learn about the island’s geology, agriculture, and traditions.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Tour: Explores Tenerife’s volcanic landscapes, historic towns, and lush agriculture in one day.
• Guided in French: Perfect for French-speaking travelers seeking detailed insights and explanations.
• Rich Scenery and Culture: From Teide’s volcanic formations to the colorful streets of La Orotava and Icod de los Vinos.
• Authentic Local Cuisine: Includes a traditional Canarian lunch in a charming setting.
• Valuable for Diverse Interests: Suitable for nature lovers, history buffs, and those curious about local gastronomy.
• Moderate Price for a Full Day: At $85, the tour offers a strong value considering the transportation, guide, and lunch included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Tenerife with a Guided Full-Day Tour

This tour provides a carefully curated experience that balances natural wonders with cultural discovery. You’ll spend about two hours exploring the Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As you traverse the volcanic landscape, your guide will point out the unique geology, including volcanic formations that tell stories of Tenerife’s fiery past. Several stops along the way allow for photos and brief walks, helping you truly appreciate the scale and diversity of the volcanic scenery.

We loved the way the tour crosses the entire park, giving you varied perspectives — from the towering Teide volcano itself to the extraordinary landscapes that surround it. One reviewer mentioned that their guide explained the flora and fauna in an engaging way, highlighting the importance of the volcanic soil for the island’s agriculture.

From Teide, the coach descends into the large valley of La Orotava, renowned for its lush vegetation and terraced fields. Here, you’ll see a mix of vegetables, vineyards, and avocado groves, which showcase the island’s thriving agricultural sector. The highlight for many is the lunch in a local Canarian restaurant, where you can indulge in traditional dishes and local wines. Dining here isn’t just about the food; it’s about experiencing the authentic ambiance that reflects Tenerife’s rural charm.

Discovering La Orotava and Its Treasures

Post-lunch, you’ll explore the historic center of La Orotava, a town designated as a national historical-artistic monument. The old town’s architecture is beautifully preserved, with standout sites such as the Parish of Nuestra Señora de la Concepción and the Casas de los Balcones. These buildings showcase traditional Canarian architecture with intricate woodwork and vibrant colors.

A walk through La Orotava reveals a town proud of its history, with cobbled streets and bustling squares. An additional highlight is the Victoria Garden, a tropical oasis filled with plants from South America, Central Africa, and Australia. As one reviewer noted, “The garden is a peaceful spot to relax and admire the diverse plant species,” giving visitors a taste of Tenerife’s botanical diversity.

Enchanting Garachico and Its Charm

After La Orotava, the journey continues to Garachico, a charming coastal village. The guided tour here lasts about 45 minutes, giving time to stroll through its narrow streets and admire the historic buildings. Garachico is well known for its natural volcanic pools and historic port, which played a vital role in Tenerife’s trade history.

While the focus here is sightseeing, visitors should note the quaintness of the town, making it an excellent spot for photos or a quick coffee break. Some reviews mentioned that the guided commentary helped bring the town’s history to life, especially the story of its important sugar mills and the 1798 fire that led to its reconstruction.

Icod de los Vinos and Its Famous Dragon Tree

The final major stop is Icod de los Vinos, renowned for its ancient dragon tree, estimated to be around eight centuries old. This iconic plant is a must-see and provides excellent photo opportunities. The guided visit lasts about an hour, during which you can walk around the tree and learn about its significance.

Along With the dragon tree, Icod de los Vinos offers a look into traditional Canarian life, with squares, historic churches, and old convents. One reviewer appreciated the informative guide’s stories about the town’s past as a center for wine production in the 16th century, adding depth to the visit.

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Practical Details and Overall Value

Transportation is by coach, with pick-up and drop-off included, making logistics simple and stress-free. The tour is designed to maximize sightseeing while maintaining comfort, with the total duration around 8 hours. Starting from Playa de las Américas, it offers a full day of exploration without feeling rushed.

At $85 per person, the tour includes transportation, a French-speaking guide, a traditional lunch, and visits to multiple highlights. Given the inclusions, it offers good value for a full-day, guided experience that covers diverse aspects of Tenerife — from geology and botany to history and gastronomy.

Notable considerations include the long day, which demands comfortable shoes and a readiness for a lot of walking and standing. It’s also important to note that children under 10 and travelers with mobility issues are not suitable for this tour.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see the best of Tenerife in one day, especially those interested in geological marvels and local culture. The guided approach makes it accessible for those who prefer explanations in French, and the diverse stops mean there’s something for all — whether you’re into nature, history, or food.

If you’re after a well-organized, educational, and scenic day trip that balances sightseeing with authentic dining, this tour is hard to beat at its price point. It’s particularly suited for adults and older teens who can keep up with the itinerary’s pace.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, slow-paced visit or want to explore places at your own leisure, you might find this full-day experience somewhat packed. But for those eager to maximize a single day and enjoy a wide-ranging introduction to Tenerife, this tour offers a compelling, value-packed option.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers transportation by bus or coach, a French-speaking guide, a traditional Canarian lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, starting in Playa de las Américas and ending back at the same point.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 10 years old, likely due to the long day and walking involved.

Are there any physical requirements?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves walking and standing, so comfortable shoes and good mobility are advised.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language is the guide in?
All explanations and commentary are provided in French.

This guided tour is a well-rounded choice for those wanting to experience Tenerife’s diverse landscapes, historic towns, and local flavors in a single, organized day. It’s a practical option for travelers seeking value, ease, and an insightful look into the island’s highlights, all delivered in their preferred language.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby