Vw Beetle Convertible Island tour Discover the island on a different way

If you’re looking to see Gran Canaria from a fresh perspective, this VW Beetle Convertible Island Tour might just be what you need. Rated a perfect 5.0 based on 265 reviews, it offers a relaxed, scenic drive through some of the island’s lesser-visited spots, all in a fun and stylish open-top car. It’s designed for those who want more than the typical bus tour—think personalized routes, authentic sights, and the thrill of driving your own convertible in the island breeze.

What we love most about this experience is the combination of personalized driving, the informative guides, and the stunning vantage points that are carefully selected along the route. The small group size (no more than 10 cars) ensures a more intimate, flexible experience, perfect for snapping photos or chatting with the guide. One potential consideration is that you need to be comfortable driving a standard manual car—it’s not a guided minivan tour with set stops, but an active, participatory journey.

This tour suits adventurous couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who want to explore at their own pace and avoid crowded, generic tours. If you love scenic drives, authentic local sights, and a bit of driving adventure, this could be a perfect match.

Key Points

• Authentic Exploration: Venture into Gran Canaria’s interior, away from the tourist crowds, with stops at stunning viewpoints and local spots.
• Personalized Experience: Drive your own VW Beetle Convertible in a small convoy, guided by knowledgeable locals like Placido, who impresses with his storytelling.
• Stunning Vantage Points: From Mirador El Guriete to Pico de las Nieves, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views that are often missed on typical bus tours.
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: Explore a traditional Canarian village, an aloe vera farm, and the island’s highest point—Pico de las Nieves—for a well-rounded experience.
• Value for Money: For just under $93, you get a full 6-hour tour with included stops, a picnic, and the chance to drive a classic car—great value for a personalized island adventure.
• Flexible & Comfortable: The route is tailored for a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities to take photos or stretch your legs, making it suitable for most travelers.

An In-Depth Look at the VW Beetle Island Tour

Starting Point & Overall Logistics

The adventure kicks off at the Buggy Pirates Outdoor Center in El Tablero early in the morning at 8:00 am. You can opt for pick-up from your hotel, although many travelers prefer to meet at the base to avoid long waits or multiple hotel pickups. With a maximum of 18 participants, the tour maintains an intimate vibe, allowing for better interaction with the guide and fellow explorers. The tour lasts roughly six hours, which includes several well-chosen stops, a picnic, and plenty of driving through the island’s scenic interior.

The cars are in excellent condition, and driving a VW Beetle Convertible on winding mountain roads adds a nostalgic, fun element to the experience. Keep in mind, a valid driving license is essential, as you will be behind the wheel most of the time. The cars are automatic, making the ride smoother, but note that this is a standard (manual) transmission in some cases, so a bit of driving confidence helps.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Most tours in Gran Canaria tend to focus on the coast or popular resorts. This one, however, takes you into the heart of the island, revealing landscapes that many visitors overlook. The small convoy of VW Beetles makes the journey feel exclusive and relaxed, with plenty of stops to take in the views or learn about local history.

Guide Placido stands out as a highlight—reviewers frequently mention his wealth of knowledge and friendly demeanor. He shares stories about the island’s volcanic origins, its history of wildfires, and local culture, making the drive both entertaining and educational.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: San Bartolome de Tirajana
The tour begins with a visit to this charming village, famed for its traditional architecture. The highlight here is La Fortaleza de Ancite, a historical site with panoramic views. Guests often comment on the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to snap some authentic photos. The 20-minute stop is enough to soak in the rural vibe, with free admission.

Stop 2: Mirador El Guriete
This scenic viewpoint offers stunning vistas over the mountain ranges and the “fortless” (a nickname for a local historical site). Reviewers describe it as “amazing” and “a must-see,” appreciating how it allows for sweeping views of the natural landscape. The visit lasts about 10 minutes, with entry included.

Stop 3: Santa Lucia de Tirajana
Another highlight is this picturesque Canarian village, where you can stroll through cobblestone streets, admire a historic church, and capture beautiful photos. Many mention this as a highlight, appreciating the “typical Canarian charm” and peaceful setting.

Stop 4: Pico de las Nieves
As the highest point on the island, this stop offers a frontal view of Roque Nublo, one of Gran Canaria’s iconic symbols. The 15-minute stop allows for taking in the dramatic scenery and understanding the island’s volcanic past.

Stop 5: Finca Canarias Aloe Vera
Learn about this versatile plant at a local farm, where guides explain its medicinal and cosmetic uses. Reviewers describe the visit as “very interesting,” adding depth to your understanding of local agriculture.

The Picnic & Cultural Touches

Halfway through, after exploring the mountain areas, the tour includes a traditional Canarian picnic. Many reviews praise the picnic for its warm, local feel—refreshing and authentic, offering a break from sightseeing to relax and enjoy typical island flavors.

The Drive & Road Experience

One reviewer mentioned that “the roads were a hair-raising experience,” emphasizing the fun and sometimes challenging mountain routes. The experience is best suited for confident drivers comfortable with standard transmission, as some roads are narrow with sharp turns. Still, many appreciated the thrill, describing it as a “brilliant driving experience” that added adventure to the day.

The Guide & Group Dynamics

Placido, the guide, consistently receives high praise for his storytelling and friendliness. His insights into the island’s history, especially about recent wildfires, add an extra layer of interest. With most reviews highlighting the guide’s professionalism and warmth, it’s clear that a knowledgeable host can make all the difference in making the day memorable.

Value & Practicalities

At just under $100, the tour offers a full day of exploration, with included stops, a picnic, and the chance to drive a classic car. Many reviewers mention the excellent value, emphasizing how this trip feels personalized compared to larger, more hurried tours.

The tour is designed for most travelers, but those with children from 4 years old are welcome, with discounts for kids from 7-12. The maximum group size of 18 ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and the small cars mean a more immersive experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking an active, scenic, and authentic way to explore Gran Canaria. If you love driving, want to see the island’s interior landscapes, and appreciate local culture, you’ll find this tour both fun and enriching. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it suitable for those who enjoy personal attention and storytelling.

It’s also perfect for those who want to avoid the typical bus or minivan tours, seeking instead a more interactive and memorable way to see the island’s highlights. If you’re traveling with children from 4 years and up, and they’re comfortable with driving a manual car, it can be a fantastic family adventure.

The Sum Up

This VW Beetle Convertible Island Tour offers a truly unique way to experience Gran Canaria. The combination of scenic drives, authentic stops, and engaging guides like Placido makes the day special. Not only do you get to explore areas most travelers miss, but you also enjoy the thrill of driving a classic convertible, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

The value for money is evident, considering the full day’s itinerary, the included picnic, and the personalized nature of the tour. It’s an experience that appeals most to travelers who love active sightseeing, scenic drives, and a dash of local culture in a relaxed setting.

If you want to see Gran Canaria’s mountain villages, viewpoints, and natural beauty in a fun, memorable way—this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a fantastic choice for adventure lovers, car enthusiasts, or anyone craving an offbeat, authentic island experience.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from your hotel, but many travelers prefer to meet at the Buggy Pirates Outdoor Center to avoid long waits.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 18 travelers, ensuring an intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

Do I need a special driver’s license?
Yes, at least one original car driving license is required per car, as you will be driving a manual transmission vehicle.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children from 4 years old are welcome, with free participation for ages 4-6 and discounted rates for ages 7-12.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 6 hours, including all stops, the picnic, and driving time.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the guided route, stops at key viewpoints and sites, the Canarian picnic, and the use of the vehicles.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, camera, and a sense of adventure. It’s also wise to bring a hat and water for the day.

This detailed review highlights the thoughtful design, authentic sights, and engaging guides that make this VW Beetle Island Tour a standout choice. Whether you’re a driving enthusiast or simply want to explore Gran Canaria’s interior in style, this experience promises a memorable day filled with beauty, culture, and fun.