Northwest Tenerife: Villages visit, Lunch, and Tasting Tour

Exploring northwest Tenerife: A guide to the villages, views, and local flavors

If you’re considering a day trip to northwest Tenerife, you’ve probably heard about its rugged charm, dramatic scenery, and quaint villages. This 8-hour guided tour promises an authentic look at some of the island’s most picturesque spots, combined with tasting local products and a hearty traditional lunch. While it doesn’t promise luxury, it gives a good taste of Tenerife’s rustic side — perfect for travelers eager to see beyond the main tourist spots.

We love that this tour focuses on stunning villages like Santiago del Teide, Garachico, and Masca, as well as offering insights from an expert local guide. It’s also great to see that they include a family-run finca lunch, giving participants a chance to enjoy genuine Canarian cuisine. On the flip side, the driver’s pace and group size might be a consideration for some, especially if you’re hoping for a more flexible or personalized experience. Still, it’s generally suited for those who appreciate a structured, full-day sightseeing with a focus on scenic beauty and local culture.

This tour is a solid pick for travelers who want an organized, informative day exploring Tenerife’s less-visited corners. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic experience that combines cultural stops, nature, and food, this might be just right. However, if you’re looking for a very intimate or customizable trip, you might want to explore other options or private tours.

Key Points

• Discover authentic villages with rich history and stunning scenery
• Enjoy expert commentary from knowledgeable guides who share local insights
• Taste traditional Canarian dishes in a family-run finca
• Experience panoramic views from Masca and Teno Rural Park
• Visit Icod de los Vinos and see the famous dragon tree
• Ideal for travelers who want a structured, full-day tour of northwest Tenerife

You can check availability for your dates here:

An in-depth look at what this tour offers

This guided day trip offers a solid overview of some of Tenerife’s hidden gems in the northwest region. For anyone wanting to step off the typical tourist trail, it’s a chance to see a more genuine side of the island. The fact that transport is included means you won’t need to worry about navigating or parking — instead, you can focus on soaking in the views and exploring.

What makes this tour special?

One of the biggest draws is the chance to visit multiple charming villages. Santiago del Teide, perched high on the hillside, impresses with its whitewashed houses and panoramic views. Garachico, often called the “most beautiful and unhappiest” village, has a fascinating history — notably, its destruction by a volcanic eruption in 1706, and its subsequent rebirth upon lava flows. The natural lava pools there are a highlight, giving you a chance to see nature’s power at close range.

Another notable stop is Icod de los Vinos, home to the iconic dragon tree that towers 20 meters high. The guide’s commentary about this ancient botanical marvel adds depth to the experience, and you’ll likely appreciate the time to wander and take photos. The Teno Rural Park showcases Tenerife’s biodiversity and offers scenic views over volcanic landscapes. Here, you might also sample local marmalades and jams, made with minimal environmental impact—an added bonus for eco-conscious travelers.

The highlight: Masca

The “lost hamlet” of Masca is undoubtedly one of Tenerife’s most photogenic places. Perched on a ridge overlooking a lush valley, it offers dramatic cliffside views and a sense of stepping back in time. The actual visit might be brief but leaves a lasting impression. The views of the volcanic valley from Masca are what many consider the real highlight of this tour, especially for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

The local lunch experience

A trip like this wouldn’t be complete without a good meal, and the lunch in a family-run finca adds a warm, authentic touch. The menu features traditional Canarian dishes, giving you the chance to savor local flavors in a relaxed setting. The quality and authenticity are generally praised, and it’s a good way to support small, family-run businesses.

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What about the guide?

The local expert guide is a key part of the experience. They bring a wealth of knowledge about Tenerife’s villages, natural parks, and local customs. Several reviews highlight how much they enhance the trip with their insights. Christian, a guide mentioned in reviews, says “A guide will show you around the park of Icod de los Vinos and tell you all about the fascinating dragon tree.” Having someone who can explain the stories behind the sights can transform a sightseeing day into a more meaningful experience.

Practical details

The tour lasts about 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day. You’ll be traveling in a comfortable vehicle, with transportation included, and the group size tends to be enough to balance friendliness with room for quiet moments. The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for most visitors.

The provider has a rating of 3.7, which suggests mixed reviews. Some travelers found it well-organized and enjoyable, while others thought it could be more flexible or personalized. Pricing is generally reasonable considering the inclusions — transport, guide, lunch, and tastings — but as always, the value depends on how much you love exploring villages and scenic viewpoints.

What to keep in mind

While many travelers rave about the stunning views and the authentic villages, the pace can be somewhat structured, with limited time at each stop. If you’re someone who prefers a leisurely stroll or more time at specific sites, you might find it a bit rushed. Also, keep in mind that this is a full-day tour, so be prepared for a fair amount of sitting and traveling.

If you’re traveling with children or aren’t particularly keen on long bus rides or walking tours, this might not be the ideal choice. The tour is best suited for those who appreciate scenic drives, historical little villages, and local food experiences.

Final thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of northwest Tenerife — from historic villages and wild volcanic landscapes to local culinary delights. It’s especially good for travelers who enjoy learning from guides, appreciate stunning viewpoints, and want an organized day of sightseeing that covers a lot of ground.

While it won’t be the most personalized experience, it strikes a balance between comfort, education, and scenic beauty. If you’re looking to see Tenerife’s rustic side and enjoy some authentic flavors along the way, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Who is this best for?

If you love discovering small villages, taking in spectacular views, sampling local foods, and hearing stories from a knowledgeable guide, this is a solid choice. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a full, engaging day without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a mix of culture, nature, and food, they’ll likely find plenty to enjoy here.

Conversely, if your preference is for a more flexible, private, or leisurely experience, you might want to explore other options or consider a private tour. Still, for most visitors wanting a taste of Tenerife’s scenic northwest, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transport is provided, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 8 hours, giving you ample time to explore the villages, enjoy the views, and have lunch.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English, suitable for most visitors.

Are the stops at each village long enough to explore?
Stops are designed to give you a good overview, but the pace is somewhat structured, so don’t expect in-depth sightseeing at each location.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically aimed at children, it can be enjoyed by families with older kids who are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking.

What kind of food is served at lunch?
The lunch features traditional Canarian dishes in a family-run finca, giving an authentic taste of local cuisine.

Is this tour worth the price?
Considering the transportation, guide service, tastings, and included lunch, many find it provides good value — especially for those interested in scenic and cultural sights.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your plans shift.

All in all, this northwest Tenerife tour offers a genuine glimpse into the island’s rural charm, scenic beauty, and local flavors. It’s a dependable choice for those wanting an organized day packed with memorable sights and tastes — perfect if you’re ready for a full day of exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here: