FAMILY FUN MONSTER BUGGY TOUR

Family Fun Monster Buggy Tour: A Thrilling Ride Through Gran Canaria’s South

If you’re looking to explore Gran Canaria beyond the usual tourist spots, the Family Fun Monster Buggy Tour offers an exhilarating way to see the island’s natural beauty from a different angle. This 2.15-hour guided excursion takes you on a lively ride through the southern regions of the island, revealing hidden villages, impressive canyons, and panoramic vistas. Whether you’re traveling with kids, friends, or as a couple, this adventure promises both fun and authentic insights into the island’s rugged landscape.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is how well-organized and accessible it is. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who not only ensure safety but also enrich your journey with interesting commentary. The views, especially from key viewpoints like Pedro Gonzales, are breathtaking and make the slightly bumpy ride worthwhile. That said, a potential consideration is that the activity requires some physical participation—so comfortable, closed-toe shoes and a spirit of adventure are essential. This trip suits energetic travelers eager to combine sightseeing with a high-energy activity, making it ideal for families with children over 1.20 meters, and anyone craving a more off-road experience.

Key Points

• Authentic landscapes: See villages, reservoirs, mountains, and canyons up close.
• Guided experience: Led by expert guides who share insights about Gran Canaria’s natural beauty.
• Panoramic views: Visit viewpoints like Pedro Gonzales for stunning vistas.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for children over 1.20 meters tall, with safety measures in place.
• Limited group size: Small groups enhance the personal feel and safety.
• Inclusive: Insurance included, with easy pickup options within specific areas.

Exploring Gran Canaria from a Different Perspective

The Family Fun Monster Buggy Tour offers an exciting alternative to traditional sightseeing. Instead of sitting passively, you’ll be behind the wheel of a four-seater buggy, navigating unpaved roads and rougher terrain. This adds a sense of adventure that appeals to those wanting more than just a bus or car tour.

The adventure begins in the southern part of Gran Canaria, specifically around the lush Ayagaures Valley. From here, the journey takes you through some of the island’s most scenic areas, including villages with charming, traditional architecture. The guides—who speak multiple languages including English, German, French, and Spanish—are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, often providing additional tidbits about local life and natural features. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide, Miguel, was fantastic—funny, informative, and very safety-conscious.”

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Ayagaures Valley

The tour kicks off in the verdant Ayagaures Valley, an area known for its lush greenery and reservoirs. This setting provides a serene backdrop for your adventure, and it’s where the group gets familiarized with the buggy controls. The guides ensure everyone is comfortable before hitting the unpaved roads, which quickly turn into thrilling off-road tracks.

Pedro Gonzales Viewpoint

A key highlight is the stop at the Pedro Gonzales viewpoint. Here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the reservoir, the valley, and surrounding mountains. Many reviews mention how breathtaking the vistas are. One reviewer noted, “The view from Pedro Gonzales was so stunning, I couldn’t believe I was seeing such an untouched part of the island.” This spot is an ideal photo stop, so don’t forget your camera.

Off-Road Canyons and Villages

After the viewpoint, the route continues along unpaved roads that wind through canyons and less-traveled paths. This section is about the thrill of driving through varied terrain—sometimes rocky, sometimes dusty—and discovering small, traditional villages. The guides often share stories about the history and way of life in these areas, adding depth to the experience.

Reservoirs and Fataga Valley

Further along, you’ll pass by reservoirs and the striking Valley of Fataga, often called the “Mini Grand Canyon” of Gran Canaria. The rugged landscape here is what many travelers find most memorable, especially when framed against the blue sky. One review pointed out that “the views of Fataga were simply incredible and made the whole ride worth it.”

End of the Tour

The ride concludes back at the starting point, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s adventures. The entire experience, including transportation to and from your hotel (in designated areas), lasts around 2.5 to 3 hours when counting the briefing and stops.

The Practicalities

The tour runs for approximately 2.15 hours, but including pickup, briefing, and stops, it typically lasts around 2.5 to 3 hours. Start times vary, so checking availability is recommended. The activity is specifically tailored for small groups, which enhances safety and allows guides to provide more personalized insights.

Pricing is value-oriented considering the inclusions: insurance, a guided off-road adventure, and pickup service in designated areas. While extras like face protection bandanas or photos are optional purchases, they aren’t included in the base price. The experience is suitable for those with valid driving licenses, and children over 1.20 meters tall can join, making it family-friendly.

Safety is taken seriously, with all drivers required to hold a valid car driving license. The guides emphasize safety, and the terrain is challenging enough to be exciting but manageable with proper instructions.

What to bring: Closed-toe shoes are a must, and comfortable trainers or sports shoes are ideal. Since the terrain can be dusty or muddy, avoid high heels or sandals.

Restrictions: Pregnant women, children under 3 years, and drivers under 18 are not permitted. Also, alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited during the activity.

Insights from Guest Reviews

Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism of guides like Miguel, who “went above and beyond to make sure everyone was safe and having fun.” The enthusiasm and knowledge of guides significantly enhance the overall experience, transforming a simple buggy ride into an educational adventure.

Travelers also appreciate the stunning scenery, with some describing the views as “breathtaking,” especially from the Pedro Gonzales viewpoint and during the drive through Fataga. The off-road sections are highly rated for their fun factor and scenic beauty, providing a real sense of adventure that you can’t get from a typical bus tour.

A common comment is that the tour is well-paced, not rushed, offering ample time to enjoy each stop and take photos. Many also mention the convenience of hotel pickup, which makes the logistics hassle-free.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This buggy tour is perfect for families with older children, groups of friends, or couples who crave an action-packed way to see the island’s rugged south. It’s an excellent choice for those not afraid of a bit of dirt and who want to turn sightseeing into an active experience. The combination of scenic viewpoints, off-road fun, and expert guides provides a balanced mix of adventure and education.

It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic, less commercialized views of Gran Canaria’s natural landscape. The small group format ensures a more personalized and engaging experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more intimate adventure.

While it might not be suitable for very young children or pregnant women, the activity is accessible for most physically capable travelers with a driving license. If you love outdoor activities, stunning vistas, and a touch of adrenaline, this buggy tour offers genuine value and fun.

FAQs

Do I need a driving license to participate?
Yes, a valid car driving license is mandatory. If your co-driver also has a license, you can alternate driving the four-seater buggies.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children over 1.20 meters tall can join. The tour is not suitable for children under 3 years old.

What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes, like trainers or sports shoes, are required. Comfortable, durable shoes will help you navigate the uneven terrain.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women due to the off-road driving and bumpy terrain.

How long does the tour last?
The buggy ride itself lasts approximately 2.15 hours, but including pickup and stops, plan for about 2.5 to 3 hours.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, German, and Spanish.

Can I buy pictures or face protection on-site?
Yes, face protection bandanas and photos can be purchased at the shop, but they are not included in the tour price.

Is the tour eco-friendly?
The tour involves off-road driving, so it’s always wise to be mindful of the environment and follow guide instructions to minimize impact.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, the Family Fun Monster Buggy Tour offers a memorable blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and local insight. It’s an excellent choice for travelers eager to combine sightseeing with a splash of adrenaline, all while enjoying the stunning landscapes that make Gran Canaria such a special island. Perfect for those who love a hands-on experience, this tour delivers a fun, authentic perspective on the southern parts of the island.