Tenerife: El Medano Self-Drive Slingshot Tour

If you’re craving an adventure that combines adrenaline, scenic beauty, and a touch of fun, the El Medano Self-Drive Slingshot Tour in Tenerife could be just what you’re looking for. This two-hour guided experience puts you behind the wheel of a powerful Polaris Slingshot, taking you along some of the most eye-catching routes in South Tenerife. From coastal roads to mountain vistas, this tour offers a unique way to explore the island in style and comfort.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of driving freedom and expert guidance. You get to steer your own Slingshot—a three-wheeled open-air vehicle—with safety instructions, while following a knowledgeable guide in a convoy. The highlight is the chance to take in stunning ocean views, visit charming villages, and snap memorable photos at scenic viewpoints. That said, one thing to consider is that this experience is best suited to those with a valid driver’s license and a love for adventure, as no prior experience is needed but a minimum of two years of driving is required.

This tour is ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want to enjoy a dynamic day out with a good dose of sightseeing and thrill. It’s especially appealing if you’re after a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path activity rather than a typical sightseeing bus tour. Plus, with the added bonus of hotel pickup and drop-off available in South Tenerife, it’s a flexible choice that fits into various travel plans comfortably.

Key Points

• Self-Drive Experience: Drive your own Polaris Slingshot with safety guidance and follow an expert leader.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy scenic stops – especially at Montaña Roja – perfect for photos and relaxing breaks.
• Charming Villages: Pass through Tenerife’s oldest fishing village, adding cultural flavor.
• Flexible and Convenient: Optional hotel pickup/drop-off makes planning easier.
• No Experience Required: Just need a valid driver’s license of at least 2 years.
• Small Group: Limited to 3 participants, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Overall Flow

The adventure kicks off in Arona, a strategic location with easy access for most travelers staying in South Tenerife. From there, you’ll be picked up or meet your guide and start your scenic drive to El Medano, a lively beach town popular among surfers and kiteboarders. Your journey begins with a 40-minute drive through the island, giving you a chance to settle into the experience and get a feel for the vehicle.

The Drive to El Medano

The initial drive is a mix of highway and coastal roads, offering glimpses of local harbors and the colorful townscape. The Polaris Slingshot is surprisingly smooth and responsive, making the drive not only thrilling but comfortable enough for a casual sightseeing pace. The guide will give safety instructions, ensuring everyone feels confident before hitting the winding mountain roads later.

Stop at Montaña Roja Viewpoint

One of the tour’s key highlights is the photo stop at Montaña Roja, a striking volcanic cone with sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean. This is the perfect spot to stretch your legs, snap some photos, and enjoy a coffee or snack break—some reviewers have called it a “memorable photo opportunity.” The area’s natural beauty, combined with the expansive ocean backdrop, makes for a moment of calm amid the drive.

Exploring the Oldest Fishing Village

Next, you’ll pass through Tenerife’s oldest fishing village, a charming spot with traditional architecture and a hint of local history. This part of the tour offers a taste of authentic island life, and the guide may share interesting stories about the area’s heritage. Given the limited time, you’ll get a quick glimpse rather than an in-depth tour, but it still adds cultural depth to your experience.

Mountain Roads and Ocean Vistas

As you head back, the tour takes you along winding mountain roads, where you’ll enjoy some of the most stunning views over the coastline. You’ll have the chance to drive the Slingshot yourself, following your guide in a convoy, creating a sense of adventure and camaraderie. The combination of curves, elevation changes, and ocean views makes for a memorable drive—perfect for those who love a bit of driving excitement.

Final Stretch and Return

The return journey is designed to be relaxed, with a scenic 40-minute drive back to Arona. The flexible timing ensures you’re not rushed, and you can savor the last moments of your adventure. The optional hotel drop-off service adds a layer of convenience, especially after a day of fun in the sun.

What We Loved About the Tour

The guides truly make a difference here. The person leading the convoy was praised for being knowledgeable and attentive, helping everyone feel comfortable and secure throughout. Their expertise turned what could be a simple drive into a smoothly coordinated adventure.

The stunning views at Montaña Roja and along the mountain roads were highlighted as genuinely breathtaking. The chance to drive something as fun as a Polaris Slingshot was a big hit—many reviewers mentioned how “thrilling” and “exhilarating” it was to take control of the vehicle.

The value for money is also notable. For $176 per group (up to 2 people), you get a personalized experience with a professional guide, scenic stops, insurance, roadside assistance, and the freedom of self-driving. That’s quite a package considering the cost of many other guided excursions.

Considerations and Who Should Think Twice

The main thing to keep in mind is driver eligibility—a valid license held for at least 2 years is necessary, and alcohol or drugs are not permitted. This makes the tour unsuitable for anyone without a driver’s license or those seeking a purely passive sightseeing experience.

Also, since the tour is limited to just 3 participants, it’s a small-group experience, which is great for personalized attention but might feel a little less lively for those who prefer larger groups or more social settings.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This self-drive Polaris Slingshot tour offers a fantastic mix of thrill, scenic beauty, and cultural glimpses of Tenerife. It’s especially suited for adventurous couples, friends, or solo travelers who enjoy driving and want to explore off-the-beaten-path spots with a trusted guide. The tour’s design ensures travelers experience the island’s best views without feeling overwhelmed or rushed.

If you’re after a unique photo opportunity, a sense of freedom, and a fun way to see Tenerife’s diverse landscapes, this experience delivers. The small group size and professional guidance mean you’re in safe hands, while the scenic stops and coastal drives make every moment memorable.

For those looking to combine adventure and sightseeing with a touch of local flavor, the El Medano Slingshot Tour is a cost-effective, exhilarating choice. Just remember to bring your driver’s license, your love for fun, and an appetite for stunning views.

FAQ

Do I need previous experience to drive the Slingshot? No, experience isn’t required. You just need a valid driver’s license held for at least 2 years, and the guide will give a safety briefing and instructions.

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in South Tenerife are available as an optional extra, making the experience more convenient if you’re staying nearby.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts for about 2 hours, including driving, stops, and photo breaks.

What should I bring? Bring your driver’s license, sunglasses, comfortable clothing, and closed-toe shoes for safety and comfort during the drive.

Can I go alone? The experience is designed for up to 2 people per booking, so it’s perfect for couples or friends. Solo travelers can book and join, but the group is limited to 3 participants.

Is it suitable for children? This tour is for adults with a valid driver’s license; children cannot drive and are not included in the activity.

What is the age limit? While not explicitly stated, the requirement of a driver’s license suggests adult participants only.

In summary, the Tenerife El Medano Self-Drive Slingshot Tour offers a distinctive way to enjoy the island’s scenic highlights, combining adventure, comfort, and authentic exploration. Whether you’re craving an adrenaline rush or simply want to see Tenerife from a different perspective, this experience is well worth considering.