Costa Calma: Buggy Safari

A Complete Look at the Costa Calma Buggy Safari: What You Need to Know

If you’re dreaming of adding a sense of adventure to your trip to the Canary Islands, the Costa Calma Buggy Safari might just be worth considering. While I haven’t personally hopped into one of these buggies myself, I’ve been digging into the details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect. Whether you’re craving a high-energy off-road experience or just want a different way to see the island’s hidden spots, this tour offers a lot.

What really caught my attention are two things: first, how much people seem to enjoy the stunning views and off-road thrills; second, the way the guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. But, like with any adventure, there’s a small caveat – dust and dirt flying around can be a bit much, especially if you’re sensitive or don’t come prepared. This experience is best suited for those who love a mix of adventure and scenic photography, and it’s particularly popular among travelers wanting a memorable, active day out.

Overall, if you’re comfortable with a bit of dirt, enjoy scenic stops, and are looking for a reasonably priced tour that delivers both fun and beautiful views, this could be a good pick. Just keep in mind that it’s not ideal if dust bothers you or if you prefer a slower, more relaxed sightseeing experience. It’s lively, a little rugged, and genuinely exciting – great for adventure lovers or those wanting that extra thrill on their vacation.

Key Points

• Off-road adventure through desert hills and rugged tracks offers a unique perspective of Costa Calma.
• Beautiful scenic stops, including Playa de Ugan, La Pared, and Playa Sotavento, give plenty of photo opportunities.
• Small group size (limited to 7 participants) makes for a more personalized experience.
• Guides are highly praised for their friendliness, humor, and knowledge.
• Price point of $112 per group offers good value considering the duration and included services.
• Dust and dirt are part of the fun but can be a bit much for sensitive travelers.
• Includes pickup and drop-off in Costa Calma, making logistics easier.
• Weather-dependent operation, with options for rescheduling or full refunds if conditions aren’t ideal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Buggy Safari Looks Like in Practice

This three-hour buggy adventure takes you across some of the most scenic and lesser-known terrains around Costa Calma. You’ll drive a buggy on off-road tracks, winding between desert hills, dry riverbeds, and dirt paths. The route offers a good mix of rugged driving and short stops, giving you a chance to soak in the views.

The itinerary is quite straightforward but thoughtfully designed. The first highlight is a visit to Playa de Ugan, famed for its black sand and huge waves. It’s a unique spot, perfect for snapping photos or just marveling at the wild surf. Then, the tour steers towards a cozy local bar where you can grab a refreshing drink or a coffee, which adds a nice touch of local flavor.

Next, you’ll head up to La Pared, renowned as the surfing paradise on the west coast. From here, you’ll get a breathtaking view of the Natural Park of Jandia. The scenery is definitely one of the main draws of this experience. The tour wraps up at Playa Sotavento, another iconic spot for photos and relaxing after the bumpy ride.

What to Expect During the Tour

The actual driving experience is designed to be thrilling but manageable. Many reviews mention how fast and fun the buggies are, with some even describing it as “bone rattling,” which hints at how lively the ride can be. Since the buggies are low to the ground, you’ll feel a real sense of speed and freedom, especially on the dirt tracks.

Guides are a significant part of the experience. They’re praised for their friendliness and knowledge, often pointing out interesting sights and making the ride enjoyable. You’ll be provided with helmets and insurance, and the tour is limited to small groups, which means you won’t be lost in a crowd.

The Practical Side

Cost-wise, $112 per group (up to 1 person) is quite reasonable considering the duration, transportation, and variety of stops. The price includes pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, helmets, insurance, and taxes, so there are no hidden fees. However, food and drinks are not included, so bringing a water bottle or some snacks is a good idea.

It’s important to note that to drive, you need a valid driver’s license, and unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed. If you’re pregnant or have mobility concerns, this activity might not be suitable. The tour is accessible for wheelchairs, but be prepared for some walking and bumpy terrain.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

The reviews paint a very positive picture: many mention how fun and well-organized the whole experience is. One reviewer said, “Great 3 hours out in a loud bone rattling buggy… so much fun and see some amazing sights.” The guides are often described as “great and funny,” adding a lively atmosphere.

However, some travelers note that dust can be quite heavy, especially if you’re in the last buggy or don’t bring suitable gear. A tip from reviewers is to wear sunglasses, bring a scarf or face covering, and possibly goggles if you’re sensitive to dust. A few mentioned that the ride involves “a lot of riding on tarmac,” so if you’re hoping solely for off-road adventure, that might be a slight downside.

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What the Reviews Say

• “Brilliant staff and service,” says Jason, highlighting the professionalism and helpfulness of the team.
• Lee calls it “fantastic” and “highly recommend,” emphasizing the overall enjoyment.
• Colin describes the ride as “loud and bone rattling,” but also “so much fun” with “amazing sights.”
• Gemma suggests that it’s “an amazing day” with gorgeous views and a good mix of driving and relaxing stops.
• Some reviewers mention minor issues like buggy breakdowns, but guides seem to handle these situations smoothly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This buggy safari is ideal for adventure seekers who love off-road driving and scenic exploration. It’s best suited for those who don’t mind getting a bit dusty and are excited about a lively, fast-paced experience. The small group size offers a more personal touch, perfect for travelers who want to chat with guides and enjoy a more intimate adventure.

If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who enjoys speed and exploration, this tour offers a fantastic way to see Costa Calma’s wild landscape. It’s also suitable for those who want a flexible experience, as you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance, or reserve now and pay later.

Not recommended if you’re pregnant, have mobility restrictions, or are looking for a very relaxed, slow-paced tour. Also, keep in mind that food isn’t included, so plan to bring a snack or drink.

FAQs

Do I need a driver’s license to participate?
Yes, you must have a valid driver’s license—original, no photo copies—to drive the buggy. You need to be at least 18 years old.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed to drive. It’s not explicitly designed as a family activity, but older kids or teenagers who are comfortable with driving and adventure might enjoy it.

What should I bring with me?
A driver’s license is required. It’s also wise to wear sunglasses, bring a scarf or face covering due to dust, and have comfortable clothing. An extra layer or light jacket is recommended if you’re sensitive to breezes.

How long does the tour last?
The adventure lasts approximately three hours, with starting times depending on availability. Check with the provider for exact schedules.

Are the buggies automatic or manual?
This detail isn’t specified, but given the nature of such tours, they are usually automatic for ease of driving, especially for beginners.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour depends on favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to bad weather, you can choose an alternative date or get a full refund.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. There is a stop at a local bar where you can purchase drinks or coffee.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, but some walking is involved, so consider your mobility needs.

Final Thoughts

The Costa Calma Buggy Safari offers a lively, scenic, and adrenaline-fueled way to experience the landscape of the Canary Islands. With small group sizes, friendly guides, and a route that combines off-road thrills with stunning vistas, it’s a solid choice for anyone craving a bit of adventure. While dust and dirt are inevitable parts of the fun, most reviewers agree that the experience is totally worth it, especially for the chance to explore hard-to-reach spots and capture fantastic photos.

This tour isn’t for those seeking a slow, relaxed sightseeing day—it’s about feeling the rush, enjoying the scenery, and creating memorable moments. If that sounds appealing, and you’re prepared for a bit of dust, this might just be the highlight of your trip.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just someone wanting a different perspective on Costa Calma, this buggy safari can add a fun, memorable chapter to your island adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here: