Day trip to the island of Tenerife

If you’re planning a quick trip to Tenerife and want to see a good chunk of what the island has to offer without dedicating days, a day trip like this can be pretty appealing. This particular tour promises to take you around some of the most iconic spots—from the sacred basilica in Candelaria to the charming village of Masca—within about 8 to 9 hours.

What we appreciate about this tour is its focus on the highlights, allowing you to get a taste of Tenerife’s diverse landscapes and local culture in one go. Plus, with a price tag just over $56, it’s generally seen as good value for money, especially since transportation and a guide are included. That said, it’s not perfect, and some travelers have mentioned aspects that could be improved, especially if you’re used to highly detailed or leisurely-paced excursions.

This tour is best suited for those who want an efficient overview of northern Tenerife without spending too much time planning or navigating on their own. If you’re okay with busy days, some walking, and potentially quick visits, this could be a great way to tick several boxes in a single day. But if you’re after a deeply immersive experience or a slow pace, you might want to consider a different option.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering cultural, historic, and scenic highlights of Tenerife.
• Affordable price point with transportation and guide included, making it good value.
• Variety of stops, from religious sites to picturesque villages and natural parks.
• Flexible options with pickup service and mobile tickets.
• Some reviews mention that the guide’s pace can be quick and the focus may lean heavily on certain topics like bananas.
• Suitable for travelers who enjoy organized tours with limited time at each location.

A Closer Look at the Tenerife Day Trip

The Tour Overview

This tour offers a balanced mix of cultural sights, historic towns, and scenic landscapes. For around $57, you get a full-day experience that visits Candelaria, La Orotava, Garachico, and Masca Valley. The journey is designed to give you a broad impression of Tenerife’s northern regions, with the added convenience of pick-up from your hotel.

The trip is approximately 8 to 9 hours long, so it’s definitely a full day. Transport is in an air-conditioned vehicle, accommodating up to 35 guests, making for a relatively intimate group experience. The guide, accredited by the local government, is there to help you understand what you’re seeing, although some reviews suggest that the guide’s style might be a bit rushed or overly focused on certain topics.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price covers transportation, a professional guide, and entry to the Masca Valley, which is part of the scenic Teno Rural Park. Things like lunch, however, are not included, leaving you some flexibility to choose where and what to eat—though a few restaurant suggestions are provided.

How It Works: The Day’s Stops

The tour kicks off at 8:00 am, with pickup arranged from your hotel or meeting point. Once underway, you’ll first visit Candelaria, home to the Basilica and bronze statues honoring the Guanche kings. Here, the focus is on the spiritual and historical significance of the site, and you’re given about 45 minutes to absorb the atmosphere.

Next, the journey takes you to La Orotava, where you’ll walk through streets packed with Canarian charm. Highlights include La Casa de Los Balcones—a classic example of local architecture—and the Plaza del Ayuntamiento. This part lasts about an hour and gives you a glimpse into Tenerife’s cultural fabric.

The third stop is Garachico, a beautifully preserved town rebuilt after a volcanic eruption in 1706. You’ll have roughly 2.5 hours here, allowing time for a leisurely walk through its historic streets, visiting the natural pools of El Caletón and Castillo de San Miguel. This stop is often praised for its charm, and many appreciate the freedom to explore or enjoy a meal in one of the local restaurants.

Finally, on the way back south, you’ll venture into Teno Rural Park to reach Masca, a tiny village perched dramatically among cliffs. This is considered one of the most picturesque parts of Tenerife, showcasing traditional Canarian architecture. The visit here is brief—about 45 minutes—but the scenery makes a lasting impression.

What Travelers Love

Reviewers frequently mention the stunning views, especially in Garachico and Masca, where the natural beauty is hard to match. Many feel the trip offers excellent value, considering the variety of locations visited and the included transportation. Cherron_I called it “worth every penny,” highlighting the opportunity to explore different parts of the island and the guide’s humor and knowledge.

Food is another highlight for some—local cuisine and tapas in Garachico are often praised, making lunch breaks a tasty part of the experience. The flexibility to explore on your own during free time is also appreciated, allowing some to relax or get a quick bite.

The Downsides

Some reviews point out that the guide’s commentary can be rapid and somewhat limited in depth, with a focus on bananas and agriculture rather than broader cultural or historical stories. Patricia_W mentioned feeling that the tour was misrepresented and that there was little time to see local residences or crafts like embroidery.

Others found the pace a bit brisk, especially if you prefer to take things slowly or want to delve deeper into each stop. The short time allocated at each site means you won’t get a comprehensive view but rather a snapshot.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Since lunch isn’t included, plan ahead. There are recommended restaurants in Garachico, and many travelers enjoy sampling local Canarian dishes there. Also, bring comfortable shoes for walking, especially at Garachico and Masca, where cobbled streets and uneven terrain are common.

Weather can vary, so dress in layers, especially if you’re visiting higher elevations like Masca or exploring rural parks. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but be prepared for some walking and a busy schedule.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a quick, affordable overview of northern Tenerife with the chance to see several notable places, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially fitting if you enjoy organized excursions that handle all logistics, so you can focus on enjoying the sights.

However, if you prefer a slower pace, more in-depth visits, or want to explore local crafts and residents’ homes, you might find this tour a bit rushed. The focus on certain themes, like bananas, may also feel limiting if you’re interested in a broader cultural experience.

This trip is well-suited for curious travelers who want a taste of Tenerife’s diversity in one day, without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Yes, generally most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the full-day schedule and some walking involved. It’s best suited for families with older children comfortable with a busy day.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, but there are recommendations for restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine during your free time in Garachico.

How long is the total trip?
Approximately 8 to 9 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and stops.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 35 travelers, making it a semi-intimate group experience.

Are tickets or transportation included?
Yes, transportation is included in the price, and you’ll have a mobile ticket for convenience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This day trip around Tenerife offers a practical way to see some of the island’s most famous sights in one go. It’s a good pick for those eager to cover a lot of ground without planning every detail themselves. The stops in Candelaria, La Orotava, Garachico, and Masca provide a well-rounded picture of the island’s cultural and natural beauty, and the price makes it accessible for most budgets.

While it’s not the most in-depth or leisurely experience, it balances value, variety, and convenience. If you’re okay with a packed schedule and quick visits, you’ll likely find this tour a satisfying way to get acquainted with Tenerife’s highlights.

For travelers seeking a straightforward, organized day of sightseeing with breathtaking views and the chance to taste local cuisine, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just go in with realistic expectations about the pace and depth of each stop, and you’ll come away with plenty of memorable moments.

Enjoy your trip and happy exploring!