Tenerife: El Medano Self-Drive Slingshot Tour

If you’re looking to add a dash of excitement and a unique perspective to your Tenerife trip, the El Medano Self-Drive Slingshot Tour might just be the perfect fit. Though I haven’t personally taken this adventure, the reviews and details suggest it’s a fantastic way to explore South Tenerife with a mix of adrenaline, scenic beauty, and expert guidance. It’s especially appealing if you’re eager to drive something a little different, like a Polaris Slingshot, and want a safe, well-organized experience.

What really catches my eye is how travelers note the stunning views and the knowledgeable guides who make the trip both fun and informative. Plus, the way the tour combines driving along coastal roads, mountain paths, and visiting charming spots sounds like a real treat. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this experience is best suited for those with a valid driver’s license and a love for adventure — no experience needed, but a license for at least two years is required.

This tour seems ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want to see a different side of Tenerife while enjoying a bit of thrill. If you’re comfortable sharing a small group (or going solo), and you’re after a memorable, photo-worthy journey, this might be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Exciting Drive: Feel the power of a 220-horsepower Polaris Slingshot on a guided tour.
• Scenic Variety: Enjoy drives along highways, coastal roads, and mountain paths with ocean views.
• Beautiful Stops: Pause at viewpoints overlooking Montaña Roja and explore the island’s oldest fishing village.
• Expert Guides: Follow a knowledgeable guide in a convoy, ensuring safety and local insights.
• Flexible Planning: Hotel pickup and drop-off available, making the experience more convenient.
• No Experience Needed: Just bring a valid driver’s license and a sense of adventure—perfect for beginners or seasoned drivers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

The El Medano Self-Drive Slingshot Tour offers a lively, visually appealing way to see parts of South Tenerife. Starting from the Gara Suites Golf & Spa, you’ll first head to El Medano, a spot known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful beaches. The drive itself takes around 40 minutes, giving you plenty of time to soak in the scenery and get comfortable with your Slingshot.

Once in El Medano, you’ll get a chance to take a break, snap some photos, and explore for about 10 minutes. This is a good moment to relax, breathe in the ocean air, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this charming town. There’s no pressure — you can also just walk around or have a quick coffee before heading back on the road.

From there, the tour continues to Playa de las Américas, another scenic drive of roughly 40 minutes. Known for its lively streets and beaches, this area offers a different flavor of Tenerife’s coast. The real highlight, however, is the drive through winding mountain roads, where stunning ocean vistas unfold at every turn. It’s these mountain routes that give the trip a real sense of variety — blending coastal charm with rugged mountain beauty.

Stops and Highlights

The stops are well chosen for their scenic value and relaxing vibe. The viewpoint overlooking Montaña Roja is a favorite for many, offering a panoramic shot of the Atlantic Ocean and the red volcanic mountain. This spot is perfect for photos, and many reviewers mention how the guides help you capture the best shots.

Driving through the oldest fishing village adds a touch of authenticity to the trip. You’ll get to see where local life persists amid tourist spots, and if you enjoy history or culture, it’s a small but meaningful detail.

Driving Experience

The Polaris Slingshot is a head-turner — a sporty, open-air vehicle that’s more fun than your average rental. The 220-horsepower engine makes it a thrill to drive, especially along those winding mountain roads. Many travelers comment that no experience is necessary, which is true if you’ve held a driver’s license for at least two years; the guides are helpful and ensure everyone feels confident before hitting the road.

One review from Richard in the UK praised the guides for their explanations and friendliness, calling it a “5-star trip.” Caitlin, also from the UK, highlighted how the tour leader was “excellent” and helped throughout, making the experience not only exciting but also smooth and safe.

Tour Logistics and Practical Details

The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day — enough to experience different terrains but not so long that it becomes tiring. Pickup and drop-off are available from South Tenerife, which adds a layer of convenience, especially if you’re staying in or near the tourist hubs.

The group size is small, limited to just one participant per booking, which means a more personalized experience, or if you prefer, you can join as a solo driver. The tour is conducted in multiple languages including English, Spanish, and Hungarian, so language barriers are unlikely.

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Price and Value

While the actual cost isn’t explicitly mentioned here, the reviews suggest that many feel it offers good value. Think of it as an experience that combines scenic sightseeing with an exhilarating drive — not just a tour but a memorable adventure. For the price, you’ll get a chance to see parts of Tenerife you might not otherwise access, all while feeling the thrill of driving a unique vehicle.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect if you’re after something different from the usual sightseeing tours. It suits those who enjoy a bit of adventure, don’t mind a faster-paced drive, and want to see Tenerife from a unique perspective. It’s particularly great for couples or friends traveling together, and solo travelers who like a bit of an adrenaline buzz will find this appealing too.

Keep in mind, if you’re not comfortable driving or don’t have a valid license for at least two years, this tour isn’t suitable. Also, if you’re someone who prefers more relaxed, static sightseeing, this might not be your ideal choice.

The Sum Up

The El Medano Self-Drive Slingshot Tour offers an energetic, scenic way to explore Tenerife’s southern coast. With its combination of guided driving, beautiful viewpoints, and the thrill of piloting a sporty Polaris Slingshot, it promises a memorable experience for adventurous travelers. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge add value, making the drive both fun and educational.

This tour is especially appealing for those who want to see Tenerife from a different angle — blending scenic coastal drives with mountain vistas, all in a small, intimate group. It’s a good pick if you’re craving a lively adventure that leaves you with plenty of great photos and stories to tell.

However, it’s not suited for those who dislike driving or prefer a more laid-back sightseeing style. The experience is straightforward, safe, and well-organized, but it’s definitely geared toward those with a bit of an adventurous spirit.

If you’re in South Tenerife and looking for a fun, memorable way to see the island, this tour could be just the ticket. It offers a healthy dose of adrenaline, fantastic views, and the chance to claim a truly unique experience in Tenerife.

FAQ

Do I need experience to drive the Slingshot?
No experience is needed. As long as you hold a valid driver’s license for at least two years, you’re good to go. The guides will help you feel confident before hitting the road.

Is pickup available from my hotel?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available from South Tenerife, which makes the experience more convenient if you’re staying nearby.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including driving, stops, and sightseeing.

Can I join alone?
Yes, bookings are limited to one participant per group, so solo drivers are very welcome. It’s a great way to enjoy a personalized adventure.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, sunglasses, and closed-toe shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be driving and exposed to the sun.

Is there an age restriction?
The main requirement is holding a valid driver’s license. No specific age restrictions are mentioned, but you should be comfortable driving the Slingshot.

Are there any restrictions on alcohol or drugs?
Yes, alcohol and drugs are not allowed during the tour for safety reasons.

What’s the best time of day to do the tour?
Availability varies, but many opt for morning or early afternoon slots to enjoy the best weather and lighting for photos.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot with flexible options — including free cancellation up to 24 hours before — making it easy to plan your trip with confidence.

If you’re after an exhilarating way to see Tenerife and don’t mind a little drive, this tour hits the sweet spot. It combines scenic beauty, expert guidance, and a fun vehicle that makes the island’s landscape come alive. Perfect for those who want to add a little adventure to their holiday, it’s a solid choice that many reviewers clearly enjoy.

You can check availability for your dates here: