VIP Tour Around Anaga and La Laguna

Traveling to Tenerife and looking for a way to see some of the island’s most stunning spots without the hassle of planning each detail? This VIP tour around Anaga and La Laguna offers a well-organized day to explore diverse landscapes, UNESCO-listed towns, and scenic coastlines in comfort. Priced at around $95 per person, it’s designed for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing with minimal effort, thanks to air-conditioned transportation and an expert guide leading the way.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the seamless transportation that allows you to cover multiple highlights without worrying about navigating or parking. Plus, the inclusion of a sit-down lunch gives you a true taste of local Canary Islands cuisine—something you won’t want to miss. That said, some reviews suggest the pace can sometimes feel rushed, and not all stops include detailed explanations, so it may suit those who enjoy a flexible schedule and guided insights.

This tour is ideal for travelers who prefer a guided experience that hits the main sights efficiently. If you’re interested in landscapes, history, local food, and striking coastal views, this could be a perfect fit. However, if you prefer exploring at your own pace or want to linger longer than the schedule allows, you might find it a bit fast-paced.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation: Skip the hassle of car hire with air-conditioned transfers between dispersed sites.
• Diverse highlights: From a UNESCO World Heritage Site to volcanic parks and scenic beaches, there’s plenty to see.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides, like Frankie and Urbano, enhance the experience with details and stories.
• Included lunch: Authentic Canary Islands dishes are part of the package, saving time and adding local flavor.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before makes this a low-risk option.
• Group size: Up to 100 travelers, which might feel less intimate at times but allows for a lively atmosphere.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: San Cristóbal de La Laguna

Our first stop is La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched just a short drive from the coast. Here, the cobbled streets, colorful colonial buildings, and historic churches tell stories of the island’s past. We loved the way guides talk about La Laguna’s legends and history, making each corner feel alive. Reviewers mention that their guides, like Frankie, are energetic and fun, sharing stories that make the architecture and layout more meaningful.

This part of the tour offers about an hour to wander independently, which is enough to soak in the atmosphere but not quite enough for a deep dive into every alley. Some visitors noted that the free time can feel brief, especially if you want to explore more, but overall, it’s a chance to see a vibrant, authentically Canary Islands town.

Stop 2: Parque Rural de Anaga

Next, the journey takes us into Anaga Rural Park, a volcanic landscape formed 7 to 9 million years ago. The standout here is the laurel forest, a lush, green canopy covering the mountains. We enjoyed breathing in the crisp, mountain air, far removed from the busy coast, with stunning views across the ravines.

Traveling through this ancient volcanic terrain is genuinely impressive, and the guide usually shares insights into the geological formation and flora. Reviewers often highlight guides like Urbano for their storytelling skills, providing facts that bring the landscape to life.

This stop lasts about an hour, giving enough time for some photos and a short walk, though some travelers wished for a bit more time to fully explore the trails. The scenery is captivating, with some reviewers describing it as unlike anything else on the island.

The Beach and Coastal Views

The tour then includes a visit to one of Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s most famous beaches, lined with palm trees and golden sands. It’s the perfect spot for a quick stroll or to snap photos of the coast’s natural beauty. The beach’s idyllic setting is often praised, making it clear why it’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Stop 3: Taganana

Our final major stop is the charming village of Taganana, a place that exudes tranquility and welcoming energy. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and traditional Canary Island architecture, it’s no wonder visitors find this hamlet so appealing. Here, the tour includes a lunch featuring local dishes, giving you a taste of authentic Canary cuisine in a cozy setting.

Reviewers rave about the guide’s storytelling during this stop, with many mentioning Urbano’s ability to share detailed insights about the history and culture of the area. The town is perfect for those wanting to slow down and appreciate local life.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, ideal for the approximately 7 to 8-hour itinerary. The group size can be as large as 100, which means you might not get the intimate experience some travelers seek, but it also allows for a lively, social atmosphere. Some reviews mention that in larger groups, stops can feel rushed or less personalized, so keep that in mind if you prefer quiet, small-group adventures.

Timing and Pacing

Starting at 8 am, the tour ends back at the original meeting point, around 4 pm. The schedule is fairly full, with each stop lasting about an hour, including travel time. One review pointed out that some free time in La Laguna was lost because guides didn’t always provide explanations during that period. This suggests the tour is more about seeing the sights rather than deep exploration.

Cost and Value

At $94.66 per person, the price includes all transportation, lunch, a driver/guide, and civil liability insurance. Considering the cost of hiring a car and planning your own itinerary, this package provides good value for those wanting a guided experience with minimal hassle. The included lunch adds convenience and an authentic taste of local cuisine.

Recommendations

Travelers should bring a coat, comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen, especially for the outdoor stops. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues or a dislike of bus rides may find it less ideal.

What’s Missing?

Some reviews note that detailed explanations aren’t always provided during free time, and the schedule can feel tight. It’s worth considering whether you prefer a more relaxed pace or are happy with a “see and go” style tour.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

One of the tour’s strengths is the focus on less touristy areas, especially in the northeast of Tenerife. A reviewer highlighted that this tour showcases parts of the island that don’t often make it into guidebooks, which is perfect for travelers craving local flavor and scenic authenticity.

Guides and Customer Service

The guides, especially Frankie and Urbano, are frequently praised for their energy, knowledge, and ability to engage the group. Conversely, some reviews mention moments where explanations were lacking, or the experience felt more rushed, highlighting that the quality may depend on the guide’s attentiveness on any given day.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you want a comprehensive, guided day that takes the stress out of planning, this tour offers a solid value with diverse highlights. It’s well-suited for travelers who:

• Prefer guided tours with transportation included
• Want to see a mix of cultural, natural, and coastal sights
• Appreciate local food and traditional dishes
• Don’t mind a full day with some scheduled stops and brief free time

However, if you’re looking for a more personalized, slow-paced experience, or wish to explore at your own pace, this might feel a bit rushed. The large group size could also detract from a more intimate feeling, but it’s a trade-off for convenience and efficiency.

The Sum Up

This VIP tour around Anaga and La Laguna delivers a well-rounded glimpse into Tenerife’s scenic and cultural riches. The combination of stunning landscapes, UNESCO-listed town, and authentic local cuisine makes it a compelling option for travelers eager to see the highlights without the hassle of independent planning. The knowledgeable guides can turn what might seem like a quick visit into a meaningful experience, especially if you’re lucky enough to get a guide like Frankie or Urbano.

While the schedule is tight and some reviews point out inconsistencies in explanations or free time, the overall value remains high, especially considering the convenience of transportation and included lunch. If your goal is to tick off some of Tenerife’s most scenic and culturally interesting sites in one day, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable solution.

Perfect for those who love a guided adventure, relish scenic vistas, and want a taste of authentic Canary Island life—all wrapped into a comfortable day trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle to transport you between all stops, eliminating the need to rent a car.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 8 am and returning around 4 pm.

How many stops are there, and what do they include?
There are three main stops: La Laguna (UNESCO site), Anaga Rural Park, and Taganana village, plus a beach visit. Each offers about an hour for exploration and photos.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a sit-down lunch featuring local Canary Islands dishes is included in the tour price.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering full refunds if canceled within that window.

What should I bring?
Travelers are advised to bring a coat, comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during outdoor stops.

How large are the groups?
Groups can be up to 100 travelers, which means it’s more of a lively group setting rather than an intimate experience.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues or who prefer a more relaxed pace might find the schedule a bit too packed.

What’s the main value of this tour?
It offers a convenient, guided way to see Tenerife’s diverse highlights in a single day, with the benefit of local insights, hassle-free transport, and included meals.