Tenerife: Coastal Sights to Woodland Heights Quad Tour

Have you ever wanted to see Tenerife from a completely different perspective? This guided quad tour offers an exhilarating way to explore the island’s varied scenery—from sun-drenched coasts to lush mountain forests—all in just three hours. It’s a fantastic adventure for those craving an active day with plenty of scenic photo ops and a taste of authentic Canarian villages.

One of the standout features we’re drawn to is how this tour balances the thrill of off-road driving with opportunities to soak in some truly spectacular views. However, it’s worth considering that the tour involves some mountain roads and potentially cold weather in winter, so dressing appropriately is a must. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, this experience appeals most to those eager to discover Tenerife beyond its popular resorts.

Key Points

Stunning Scenery: Expect panoramic views of mountains, the ocean, and green forests that will leave your camera full.
Cultural Touchpoints: The tour passes through traditional villages, offering glimpses of local life and rustic charm.
Balanced Experience: A mix of coastal vistas, mountain terrain, and forested routes keeps the journey dynamic.
Practical Comforts: Included bottled water, snacks, and helmets add value and convenience.
Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with the ability to reserve now and pay later.
Experienced Guides: Tours are led by bilingual guides who provide insight and safety throughout the trip.

Introduction: An Adventure from Coast to Forest

This Tenerife quad tour promises a scenic voyage through some of the island’s most eye-catching landscapes. Starting from Santiago del Teide, you’ll zip along scenic roads, explore charming villages, and enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains. The experience is guided, ensuring you get the most out of each stop and stay safe on the more challenging mountain roads.

What instantly attracts us is the diverse landscape—from the rugged coastlines dominated by cliffs and banana plantations to tranquil pine forests. It’s a chance to see Tenerife’s natural beauty in a way that feels both adventurous and authentic.

A small caution: weather can be cool and breezy on the mountain heights, especially in winter, so packing warm clothing is advised. The tour’s duration is just enough to satisfy your craving for adventure without feeling rushed, making it perfect for a half-day escape from the busy coastal resorts. It’s especially suitable for outdoor lovers and those wanting a mix of scenic beauty and cultural exposure.

What to Expect During the Tour

Starting Point: Santiago del Teide

The tour kicks off at the Quad Centre in Santiago del Teide, a small town known for its scenic beauty and relaxed pace. From here, your guide will give a brief safety rundown and provide the necessary helmets and optional warm clothing. The group is generally small, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

Exploring Traditional Villages

Your first stops are the peaceful villages of Chinyero, Ruigómez, San Pedro de Daute, and Las Cruces. These are quintessential Canarian towns—less touristy, with cobbled streets, rustic houses, and friendly locals. Visitors mention that these parts feel like stepping back in time, away from the crowded coastal zones.

Mountain and Coastal Views

As you head towards San José de Los Llanos, the landscape becomes increasingly lush and mountainous. Here, the terrain offers a change of pace, with winding mountain roads that challenge your driving skills and reward you with incredible views of Tenerife’s north coast. Expect to see dramatic cliffs, banana plantations, and perhaps even spot local wildlife.

Scenic Stop in El Tanque

One of the tour’s highlights is a scenic stop in El Tanque, a small town famous for its stunning coastline views. According to reviews, this is a perfect moment for photos—whether of the cliffs, the ocean, or the vibrant countryside. This break also gives you a chance to enjoy a snack and chat with your guide about the island’s geography and culture.

Coastal Passages and Garachico

The journey takes you past Garachico, an historic town with natural lava pools and rugged coastline. While the tour doesn’t include a detailed tour of Garachico, passing through this area adds to the sense of discovering Tenerife’s less-explored corners. Viewpoints along the way provide excellent photo opportunities of the Atlantic and cliffs.

Return Through Pine Forests

The last leg of the trip winds back into the Corona Forestal, a large pine forest that blankets the mountain slopes. The cool, shaded routes here are a stark contrast to the coastal heat, offering a peaceful, breezy finish to your day.

End of Tour

The tour concludes back at the starting point in Santiago del Teide, with plenty of photos taken, memories made, and perhaps a newfound appreciation for Tenerife’s incredible landscape.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Panoramic Views: The tour is packed with stunning vistas of mountains, ocean, and lush forests. Reviewers consistently mention the “breathtaking” scenery, especially the views from El Tanque and the mountain roads. These highlights make the experience feel more like a scenic road trip combined with a bit of adrenaline.

Cultural Exposure: Passing through traditional villages gives you a taste of authentic Canarian life. These quiet towns are far from tourist hotspots, adding value for travelers seeking local flavor.

Balancing Adventure and Comfort: The guided nature ensures safety, and the inclusion of bottled water, snacks, and helmets mean you’re well-equipped. The tour’s 3-hour length strikes a good balance—long enough to cover diverse terrain but short enough to be accessible for most.

Guidance and Flexibility: With bilingual guides (English and Spanish) and options to cancel or defer bookings, the tour is designed to accommodate different travelers’ needs.

Authentic Off-Road Experience: Unlike some quad tours that focus solely on off-road riding, this one offers a tasteful blend of dirt tracks, paved scenic roads, and cultural stops, making it rewarding for both thrill-seekers and sightseers.

The Ride: Details and Practical Tips

Starting from Santiago del Teide, the tour is ideally suited for those comfortable with driving a quad—full driver’s licenses are required if you want to take the wheel. Not everyone is a seasoned off-road driver, but guides are experienced and attentive, making it suitable even for beginners with some confidence.

The terrain varies, with some sections being smooth and paved, while others involve mountain dirt roads. The latter can be bumpy, so expect some jolts—wearing comfortable, closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing helps.

Weather considerations are important. In winter months, the mountain heights can get pretty cold, so bringing layers is a smart move. The included warm clothing option helps, but bringing your own extra layers might be even better.

Group sizes tend to be small, fostering a more relaxed and personalized experience. The guides are attentive and personable, often sharing insights and local stories that enhance the ride.

Photography is encouraged, but if you want to use your GoPro, make sure to bring the correct attachments—reviewers note that holding cameras in hand isn’t permitted, which is a sensible safety measure.

Time management is generally well-handled, with pickups starting about an hour before the tour begins. This allows you to settle in and get ready without feeling rushed. Since the tour lasts around three hours, it’s easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.

Pricing and Value

The tour’s cost reflects the value of a guided, small-group experience with included essentials like helmets, water, and snacks. Considering the access to scenic viewpoints and the chance to see Tenerife’s diverse landscapes in a short period, it offers excellent value. It’s a good option for travelers who want a memorable, active outing without a full-day commitment or high expense.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits adventure-loving travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and physical activity. It’s perfect for those who want to explore Tenerife beyond its beaches, capturing the island’s natural beauty from multiple angles. The tour is also ideal for small groups or families, given its intimate setting and guided nature.

While suitable for beginners, some comfort with driving and a readiness for mountain terrain will make the experience even more enjoyable. Nature enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and those who love panoramic views will find this trip particularly rewarding.

The Sum Up

The Tenerife: Coastal Sights to Woodland Heights Quad Tour offers a well-rounded balance of adventure, scenery, and cultural insight. The combination of mountain roads, lush forests, and coastal vistas makes it an exceptional way to see the island from a different perspective. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making safety and enjoyment their priorities.

At just three hours, it’s a compact but impactful experience—ideal for travelers looking to add a dash of adrenaline and authentic local flavor to their Tenerife itinerary. The views alone are worth the ride, making this a standout choice for those seeking memorable landscapes and a fun, active day out.

If you’re after a scenic adventure with a touch of off-road excitement, this tour ticks all the boxes. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, curious explorers, and anyone wanting a taste of Tenerife’s diverse terrain, it’s a ride you’re unlikely to forget.

FAQ

Do I need a special license to drive the quad?
Yes, you must have a full car driver’s license to drive, and drivers must be at least 18 years old.

What should I wear during the tour?
Comfortable clothes suitable for riding and weather conditions are recommended, especially warm clothing in winter since it can get cold on the mountain heights.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides are experienced, and small group sizes help ensure safety. However, some confidence in driving a quad is advised.

How long is the tour?
The adventure lasts approximately 3 hours, including transportation pickup.

Are snacks and water included?
Yes, bottled water and snacks are provided as part of the experience.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, but be sure to bring the correct attachments for your camera or GoPro, as holding cameras in hand isn’t permitted during riding.

What type of landscapes will I see?
Expect a mix of mountainous terrains, lush forests, traditional villages, and stunning coastal viewpoints with cliffs and banana plantations.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickups from selected areas start about an hour before the tour begins, making logistics straightforward.

What is the maximum group size?
While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest small groups to allow for personalized guidance and safety.

Is cancellation easy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

This quad tour is a fantastic way to balance thrill with scenery, giving you a authentic taste of Tenerife’s natural diversity. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a landscape lover, it promises a memorable and engaging experience.