Tenerife: Tenerife Highlights beyond the Teide

If you’re thinking about spending a day exploring Tenerife beyond its famous volcano, this tour might be just what you’re after. It promises a comprehensive look at some of the island’s most charming towns, notable landmarks, and natural wonders—all in a relaxed, small-group setting. From UNESCO-listed cities to breathtaking cliffs, it’s a chance to see the island’s diverse scenery with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances culture with stunning vistas. The stops at historic towns like La Laguna and La Orotava ensure you get a taste of the local architecture, while sights like the Cliffs of Los Gigantes serve up unforgettable scenery. Plus, the tour offers enough flexibility to explore at your own pace, which makes it adaptable whether you’re a casual visitor or someone eager to dig into every corner.

That said, a potential consideration is the tour’s duration—about 8 hours. It’s a full day, so if you prefer more relaxed mornings or want to do additional activities, this might feel a bit packed. Also, keep in mind that pickup in the southern part of the island involves an extra fee, so check those details beforehand.

In general, this tour suits travelers who want an immersive, value-packed day out that covers a variety of spots without the hassle of driving or planning each stop. It’s especially well-suited for first-timers or those who want a guided experience to fill in the details of Tenerife’s rich landscape and culture.

Key Points

• Cultural richness: Visits to La Laguna, Candelaria, and La Orotava showcase Tenerife’s architectural and spiritual heritage.
• Stunning natural sights: The Cliffs of Los Gigantes and Garachico’s sea pools provide breathtaking scenery.
• Local flavor: The stop at Icod de los Vinos highlights the iconic Dragon Tree and local flora.
• Flexible pacing: Free time at each stop allows you to explore or relax as you wish.
• Value for money: At $79, this full-day tour offers a lot for the price—especially with a small group and guided insights.
• Highly rated guides: Consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and safety.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting in La Laguna

The day kicks off in La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We loved the way the guide emphasized its well-preserved streets, colorful buildings, and historical charm. Travelers are given some time to wander, soak in the atmosphere, and appreciate the city’s vibrant history. It’s a great way to get a sense of Tenerife’s cultural roots early in the day.

Visiting Candelaria

Next, the tour heads to Candelaria, which is more than just a stop; it’s the main pilgrimage site of the Canary Islands. Here, you’ll find the basilica housing the Virgin of Candelaria—an important figure for locals and visitors alike. From the reviews, it’s clear that this stop resonates deeply with those interested in spiritual traditions and local customs. The basilica’s impressive presence makes it a meaningful part of the tour.

The Cliffs of Los Gigantes

Then comes one of the natural highlights: the Cliffs of Los Gigantes. These towering volcanic walls rising sharply from the sea are a sight that sticks with you. The guide takes you to a viewpoint—perfect for photos and simply taking in the scale of these cliffs. Many reviews mention the breathtaking views here, making it a must-see for nature lovers.

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Garachico: Charm and History

The route continues to Garachico, a town that has rebounded from volcanic destruction in 1706. Its historic center is picturesque, with cobblestone streets, old church facades, and natural sea pools. Travelers have plenty of time for lunch, ice cream, or just wandering the quaint streets. One reviewer highlighted how Garachico’s resurgence after volcanic activity adds an interesting layer to its charm, and the town’s status as a UNESCO Site underscores its cultural significance.

Icod de los Vinos and the Dragon Tree

The next stop is Icod de los Vinos, home to the famous Millennium Dragon Tree. The tree is about 800 years old and has become a symbol of the Canary Islands. The park surrounding it is a lush oasis, and visitors often find themselves captivated by this living fossil. The reviews highlight how much people enjoyed seeing the Dragon Tree and the endemic species in the park—an experience that truly connects you with the island’s flora.

La Orotava: End on a High Note

Finally, the tour concludes in La Orotava, a town with beautifully preserved streets and traditional architecture. Declared an Artistic Historical Site, it offers a last taste of Tenerife’s cultural richness. Visitors tend to love strolling through its historic streets, admiring churches, gardens, and local restaurants. It’s a fitting end to a day filled with sights and stories.

Transportation & Group Size

Traveling in a small group—capped at 8 participants—makes this tour feel personalized. The vehicle is described as comfortable, and the guide is attentive, which really enhances the experience. Pickup is included, but for those in the south of Tenerife, there’s an extra fee to be aware of. The guide’s punctuality and safety record receive positive mentions, which is always reassuring on a full-day trip.

Price & Value

At $79, this tour offers good value considering the number of stops, the guide’s insights, and the overall experience. With free time at each stop, you’re not just on a bus but actively exploring, which gives you more control over your day. While meals and museum fees are extra, the visit to iconic sites like the Dragon Tree and the UNESCO towns make the price worthwhile for many travelers.

What Travelers Say

The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, especially Angel, who many describe as friendly, funny, and very informative. Several mention how he answered questions, shared local facts, and made the day feel personal and safe. People also appreciate the balance of sightseeing and free time, along with the opportunity to see multiple highlights without worrying about transport or planning logistics.

One reviewer mentioned, “Angel was very informative and answered all questions. We really enjoyed the day and recommend this tour if you want to explore the island.” Others appreciated the scenic views of Los Gigantes and the experience of walking through historic towns, noting it’s an excellent way to get a well-rounded feel of Tenerife.

Possible Drawbacks

Given the full 8-hour schedule, the trip can be quite packed, which might not suit travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace. Also, if you’re staying in the south, the extra fee for pickup could be a small consideration. Weather can affect the route, as the provider reserves the right to make adjustments for safety—so some flexibility may be needed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you want a comprehensive snapshot of Tenerife’s most culturally and scenically significant spots. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, those who prefer guided tours, or travelers who don’t want the hassle of renting a car. It’s also suitable for anyone interested in history, natural beauty, and local culture—all in a single day.

If you’re okay with a busy schedule and want to maximize your island experience without missing key highlights, this tour will serve you well. Just be prepared for a full day, and bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a sense of curiosity.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable if I don’t want to walk much?
You’ll have some free time at each stop to explore or rest, but overall, the tour involves walking around towns and scenic viewpoints. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, meals are not included, but there’s time during the day to have lunch at your own expense. Many stops, like Garachico, are ideal for grabbing a bite or some local tapas.

Is pickup included in the price?
Pickup is included unless you’re in the south of Tenerife, where an additional fee applies. Check the details for your location.

How long is the tour?
It runs about 8 hours, with starting times varying based on availability. It’s a full-day experience, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes booking with some flexibility easier.

Is it family-friendly?
While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-specific, the stops and pacing suit most travelers. Children comfortable with a full day of sightseeing should be fine.

This tour strikes a nice balance between cultural exploration and natural beauty, all wrapped up in a small-group setting. Whether you want to learn about Tenerife’s history, enjoy spectacular views, or just soak up the local atmosphere, it offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s diverse charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: