Icod de los Vinos: Dragon Tree & Botanical Garden Ticket

If you’re planning a trip to Tenerife or the wider Canary Islands, chances are you’ve heard about the legendary Millennial Dragon Tree in Icod de los Vinos. This tour offers the chance to get up close with what’s believed to be the oldest of its kind, set in a beautifully maintained botanical garden. It’s a straightforward experience, but one packed with natural beauty and a dash of local history.

What really draws many visitors is the chance to see the famous Dragon Tree—a stunning, almost surreal sight. Pairing that with a walk through the lush gardens filled with endemic plants makes this a well-rounded, relaxing outing. It’s a surprisingly affordable trip at just $6 per person, making it accessible even for those on a tighter budget.

However, it’s worth noting that some parts of the experience—like the nearby café—might not be as charming as the main attractions. Also, if you’re after a deep dive into botanical or historical details, you’ll find this tour offers more of a visual and sensory experience than an in-depth guide. This experience suits nature lovers, photo enthusiasts, and those curious about local legends who want a casual, scenic outing.

Key Points

• Affordable Entry: Just $6 per person provides access to one of the island’s most famous natural landmarks.
• Iconic Sight: The Millennial Dragon Tree is a must-see, especially for its size and unique appearance.
• Beautiful Gardens: The 3-hectare botanical space offers a variety of endemic plants and different zones like laurel forests and orchards.
• Flexible Visit: You can explore at your own pace, enjoying the shade, bird sounds, and various plant collections.
• Good for a Short Trip: It’s a quick, straightforward stop that fits easily into a day of sightseeing.
• Some Caveats: The experience isn’t overly guided, and some reviews mention the nearby café’s “false free” invitation, so keep your expectations in check.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from This Tour

This ticket grants you access to two main highlights: the famous Millennial Dragon Tree and the expansive botanical garden that surrounds it. The tree itself is a sight to behold—its thick, sword-like leaves and dense, blood-colored resin make it a living piece of history. It’s been revered since Roman times, and standing in front of it, you’d understand why.

The Dragon Tree (Drago Milenario) is set in a parkland that beautifully emphasizes its grandeur. The tree’s branches stretch out impressively, and there’s plenty of space around for fantastic photos. Many visitors comment on how much bigger it is than they expected—something you might find yourself sharing. As one reviewer put it, “the Dragon Tree is astonishing, much bigger than expected.”

After marveling at this natural wonder, you have the freedom to wander through the gardens. The 3-hectare area is full of endemic plants, with different zones that include lush laurel forests, an orchard, and even volcanic tunnels. These diverse environments give visitors a chance to see how plants thrive in various microclimates.

The botanical garden isn’t just about plants; it also offers insights into local customs and history, making it a well-rounded cultural experience. Expect well-maintained paths that wind through different levels, with benches and shaded spots to relax and soak in the scenery. According to reviews, the garden is a bird-filled sanctuary, adding to the peaceful atmosphere.

The Experience in Detail

Starting at the main entrance, you’ll show your voucher and gain immediate entry via a skip-the-line option, saving you some time during busy periods. The ticket includes full access to all zones—so whether you want to explore the laurel forests, stroll through the orchard, or peek into volcanic tunnels, everything is open to you.

One traveler shared that the park is well worth the money, noting that the Dragon Tree alone is worth the visit. Others have described the gardens as being full of singing birds and shaded plants, perfect for a leisurely walk. The lush environment is a stark contrast to the often arid landscape of the island, making it a refreshing change.

You may also find added value in the nearby café, although some reviews warn that it’s not as free as it might appear. The café offers a nice spot to relax with local snacks or drinks, but be prepared for a sales pitch if they invite you to their secret garden—some visitors felt it was a bit of a con to buy food and drinks.

The volcanic tunnels within the park were described as “a bit grim,” with poor lighting and a cold, spooky atmosphere. If you enjoy exploring underground spaces, this might be a fun addition, but don’t expect a polished tourist attraction—more of an atmospheric curiosity.

Practical Considerations

• Cost-Effectiveness: At only $6, this is a very budget-friendly experience. For such a low price, you get a chance to see a piece of natural and historical significance.
• Timing & Duration: The activity is valid for one day, with starting times available upon checking availability. Plan for about 1-2 hours, depending on how leisurely you want to explore.
• Comfort & Prep: Wear comfortable shoes as the paths can be uneven, and bring sunscreen to enjoy the outdoor areas without concern.
• Accessibility: The main attractions are outdoors and on level or gently sloped paths, but check if you need specific accommodations.
• Group Size: This is a self-guided experience, so you can go at your own pace without feeling rushed.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

Given its straightforward nature, this experience works best for nature lovers who appreciate seeing iconic trees and exploring botanical environments. It’s a good choice for travelers on a budget who want to make the most of their day without overextending. If you’re interested in local legends, the story of the Dragon Tree adds a layer of cultural intrigue.

If you’re traveling with children, they’ll likely enjoy the open space and the fantasy-like appearance of the Dragon Tree, but keep in mind that parts of the garden and tunnels might appeal more to older kids or adults.

For seasoned botanists or those craving detailed guides, this tour might feel a bit surface-level, but for casual visitors, it offers a pleasant, scenic break from more intense sightseeing.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Sum Up

This tour of the Millennial Dragon Tree and surrounding botanical gardens is a simple, affordable way to see one of Icod de los Vinos’ most famous landmarks. The experience scores highly for its iconic tree, peaceful garden environment, and good value for money.

It’s ideal for travelers seeking a relaxing outdoor activity that combines natural beauty with a touch of local history. Although not a deep dive into botanical or cultural details, it offers plenty of photo opportunities and a serene setting for a couple of hours of exploration.

If you’re after a budget-friendly, scenic outing on Tenerife that’s suitable for all ages, this could be just what you need. Just be prepared for some slight marketing tricks at the café and manage expectations around the level of guidance and depth of information.

FAQ

Is the ticket valid for multiple visits?
No, the ticket is valid for one day only, but you can choose the starting time that works best for you on that day.

How much does the experience cost?
It costs just $6 per person, making it very accessible for most travelers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and sunscreen are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking outdoors in a garden setting.

Does the ticket include everything?
Yes, it grants full access to the Dragon Tree, all park zones including laurel forests and the orchard, and the botanical garden.

Can I skip the line?
Yes, the ticket provides access through a separate entrance, helping you avoid long waits.

Is there any guided commentary?
No, this is a self-guided experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

Is it suitable for families?
While the experience is largely outdoor and safe, some areas like tunnels are more atmospheric. Kids who enjoy nature and outdoor exploration will likely find it enjoyable.

Is there parking nearby?
The information doesn’t specify, but typically popular parks have nearby parking options, so it’s best to check locally.

How long does the visit typically take?
Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours exploring depending on their pace.

Are there food options on-site?
There’s a nearby café, but reviews suggest it’s more of a commercial spot with a sales pitch rather than a free attraction. Bring your own snacks if needed.

Whether you’re into botany, legends, or just want a peaceful walk surrounded by beautiful scenery, this ticket offers a straightforward way to enjoy Icod de los Vinos’ crown jewel—the Dragon Tree—and its lush gardens.

You can check availability for your dates here: