Tenerife: Discovery of the Island on Caterham Lotus 7

If you’re craving a unique way to explore Tenerife, this tour promises a blend of exhilarating driving and breathtaking scenery. Shopping around for something memorable, you’ll find this experience stands out thanks to its focus on a legendary sports car—the Caterham 7—paired with some of the island’s most iconic sights. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply want an adrenaline rush in a stunning setting, this tour offers a chance to live a dream at surprisingly accessible prices.

What makes this experience especially appealing is the chance to drive a legendary vehicle—the lightweight, sporty Caterham 340 SV—either yourself or with a professional driver. The tours are flexible, ranging from just an hour to an entire day, making it suitable whether you’re after a quick thrill or a full-blown adventure. One potential consideration is that driving yourself requires some experience with manual transmission and being over 25 years old, which could limit some travelers. This is perfect for those seeking a high-adrenaline, scenic drive with a touch of exclusivity and comfort.

Key Points

• Unique vehicle experience: Drive or ride in a legendary Caterham 7 with a powerful 340 horsepower engine.
• Flexible options: Choose from 1, 4, or 8-hour drives, with mileage packages tailored to your schedule.
• Spectacular routes: Visit sights like Mount Teide, Las Cañadas del Teide, and Anaga Rural Park.
• Safety and comfort: Includes a safety briefing, vehicle familiarization, and optional professional driver.
• Authentic adventure: Combines scenic views with the thrill of driving a sports car in a stunning setting.
• Value for money: For around $117 per group, you get a personalized, adrenaline-fueled experience with dedicated guides.

This tour offers an unusual way to see Tenerife’s diverse landscapes—from volcanic peaks to lush parks—at the wheel of a car that’s as iconic as the island itself. We loved the way the experience combines motor racing heritage with the natural beauty of the Canary Islands. And with the option to drive yourself or be chauffeured by an instructor, it caters to different comfort levels and driving skills.

One of the biggest draws is the Caterham 340 SV itself. This car boasts an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 340 horsepower per ton, making it a real beast on the road. It’s not just a mode of transportation; it’s a racing machine that gives you the sensation of karting or quad biking but amplified tenfold. The lightweight design and raw power make every twist and turn a thrill. Many reviewers mention that the cars are brand new and well-maintained, adding a layer of confidence to the experience.

However, it’s worth noting that driving yourself requires at least five years of manual transmission experience and being over 25. Plus, a €3000 security deposit is required if you opt to be the driver. For those who aren’t comfortable with manual cars or don’t meet the age requirement, the option to have a professional driver is a perfect alternative, ensuring safety and enjoyment without worry.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: C. Bencomo, 54

Your adventure begins here in Puerto de la Cruz, where you’ll meet your guide and receive a safety briefing. This initial step is crucial; the guide will go over the basics of the car, the route, and safety considerations. Expect about 15 minutes of this, which is a good way to get comfortable with the vehicle before heading out.

Mount Teide and Las Cañadas del Teide (2-hour scenic drive + 30-minute break)

The highlight of the day is undoubtedly the drive around Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The roads here twist along volcanic terrain and offer spectacular views of the crater and surrounding landscapes. Many reviewers comment on how the combination of a powerful sports car and dramatic scenery makes for a truly memorable experience.

The 30-minute stop at Las Cañadas allows you to take in the panoramic vistas—perfect for photos or just soaking in the otherworldly landscape. The driver or guide can point out interesting geological features, adding an educational touch to the trip.

Scenic Views of the Canary Islands (around 1 hour and 15 minutes)

On the way to and from Teide, you’ll pass through scenic routes offering views of the lush island flora and volcanic terrain. Many find these drives relaxing and visually stunning, with some describing the scenery as “breathtaking and surreal.” The guide will often share insights about Tenerife’s volcanic history, which adds depth to your sightseeing.

Anaga Rural Park (2-hour scenic drive)

This area is a favorite for its lush green forests and dramatic mountain vistas. The winding roads here are perfect for the sporty Caterham, providing plenty of opportunities to feel the car’s agility while enjoying the fresh mountain air. Reviewers say that the drive through Anaga is “like being on a rollercoaster,” emphasizing the thrill of handling the curvy roads in such a capable vehicle.

Return Route and Final Views

After exploring Anaga, you’ll head back with additional scenic views lasting around 35-40 minutes. Some reviewers note that the return journey offers a chance to reflect on the experience and admire Tenerife’s diverse landscapes one last time.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers a lot of essentials—safety briefing, vehicle familiarization, and a test drive on a professional simulator—which help ensure you’re comfortable and confident before hitting the roads. The route briefing and guided drives mean you’ll have professional guidance along with the flexibility to follow predefined road books or a customized route if you prefer.

Mileage varies by package: 50 km for 1 hour, 140 km for 4 hours, or 280 km for 8 hours. This allows you to tailor the experience to your interest level. Keep in mind that refueling after the test drive is not included, so plan accordingly if you’re driving yourself.

On the downsides:

• The cost of refueling isn’t covered, which could add to the expense if you plan a long drive.
• For drivers, the security deposit can be a deterrent, especially if you don’t want to tie up a credit card hold of €3,000.
• The minimum age and experience requirements mean some younger or less experienced drivers might have to opt for the passenger experience.

The Experience Provider and Logistics

Organized by 7Drive Tenerife, the experience is available in French, English, and Spanish, making it accessible to many travelers. The meeting point is conveniently located in front of Loro Parque, a well-known Tenerife attraction, simplifying logistics.

Cancellation is straightforward—up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—adding a layer of flexibility if plans change. Tours are private, allowing for a personalized experience, whether you’re with friends, family, or solo.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for car lovers, adrenaline junkies, or anyone looking to do something extraordinary in Tenerife. It’s especially well-suited for those who want the thrill of driving a supercar but also enjoy sightseeing in a stunning natural setting. If you’re comfortable with manual cars and over 25, you’ll probably find the self-driving option more rewarding, but the guided experience offers peace of mind.

Travelers seeking a memorable, scenic, and high-energy adventure will appreciate the combination of scenic drives and the raw power of the Caterham. It’s also a good fit for groups or couples wanting an exclusive, private experience that stands apart from typical sightseeing tours.

The Sum Up

Driving a iconic sports car through Tenerife’s diverse landscapes offers a blend of adrenaline and scenic beauty. Whether you choose to drive or ride in this lightweight, high-powered vehicle, you’re guaranteed an experience filled with thrilling turns, stunning views, and a sense of connection with the island’s volcanic character. It’s a fantastic option for those who crave excitement but also want to enjoy Tenerife’s natural wonders.

In terms of value, the price point—around $117 per group—gives access to a high-performance vehicle and scenic routes that would be hard to replicate with other tours. The flexibility in durations and routes means you can tailor it to fit your schedule and interests. While the requirements for drivers might limit some, the option to be a passenger with a professional driver keeps it accessible for most.

This tour offers a rare chance to combine a love of driving with the gorgeous scenery of Tenerife, making it a truly memorable highlight of any trip to the Canary Islands.

FAQs

Can I drive the Caterham myself?
Yes, if you are at least 25 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and at least 5 years of manual transmission experience. You’ll also need to pay a €3000 security deposit.

What is included in the tour?
The package includes a safety briefing, a brief history of the Caterham brand, vehicle familiarization with a driving instructor, route briefing, and the selected length of test drive (1, 4, or 8 hours). Mileage is also included within the package.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is located in front of Loro Parque, in Puerto de la Cruz.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
No, drivers must be over 25 and experienced with manual transmission. The experience is private, and the maximum height restriction is 6 ft 6 in (200 cm).

What if I want a full-day adventure?
You can opt for the 8-hour package, which offers up to 280 km of driving, perfect if you want to explore more of Tenerife or include multiple scenic stops.

Are meals or refueling included?
No, refueling after the test drive isn’t included, so plan for that if you’re driving extensively. Meals are not part of the package but can be arranged separately.

Is it accessible for non-drivers?
Absolutely. You can choose to be a passenger with a professional instructor, ensuring you still enjoy the thrill without the driving responsibilities.