Private Excursions For Cruise Ship Passengers

If you’re visiting Tenerife on a cruise, you know how precious your time on shore is. This private tour promises to take you around the island’s most iconic spots without the hassle of overcrowded group tours or unreliable public transport. Instead, you get a personalized experience that’s flexible, comfortable, and tailored to your interests.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines convenience with a wide range of sights — from volcanic landscapes to charming towns. Plus, the private nature means you can avoid the crowds and take your time at each stop. On the flip side, potential travelers should keep in mind that the tour covers quite a bit of ground in about six hours, so if you’re looking for a laid-back, slow-paced day, it might feel a little busy.

This tour is a fantastic choice for cruise passengers who want a curated taste of Tenerife’s best — especially if you’re eager to get stunning photos and learn a bit about the island’s natural beauty and history. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a flexible schedule and private transportation, and who want to maximize their limited time ashore.

Key Points

• Private and customizable route ensures a personalized experience.
• Seamless port pickup saves time and hassle upon arrival.
• Breathtaking viewpoints like Mirador de Ortuño and Los Roques de Garcia offer stunning photo opportunities.
• Natural wonders and cultural sites are included, like Teide National Park and Casa de Los Balcones.
• Free admission for most stops enhances value for money.
• Duration of around 6 hours is suitable for a full but manageable day ashore.

Exploring Tenerife with a Private Touch

When it comes to exploring Tenerife, especially if you’re on a tight schedule like most cruise passengers, a private tour offers a real advantage. You avoid the unpredictability of group tours, and your driver can adapt the route based on what interests you most. With this particular experience, you can expect to visit some of the most visually striking and culturally significant sites on the island.

The tour begins with a pickup directly from the cruise port, which is a huge plus—it means you don’t have to worry about finding your way or navigating unfamiliar streets. Once on the road, you’ll have a chance to admire Tenerife’s dramatic landscapes, from the lush Orotava Valley to the towering Mount Teide.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Mirador de Chipeque
Our journey starts at this viewpoint, where the valley below resembles a lush, green blanket. Travelers have raved about the views here, with one reviewer noting, “The Orotava Valley unfolds at your feet like a green carpet,” and the sight of Teide looming in the distance adds a sense of grandeur. The viewpoint is only about 15 minutes but offers a perfect photo op to capture Tenerife’s natural beauty. It’s also free, so it’s a great way to start the day on a high note without extra costs.

Stop 2: Centro de Visitantes El Portillo
Next, you’ll visit this visitor center nestled in the landscape, which is packed with fascinating information about Mount Teide’s geological and biological history. The small museum here includes panels and even a peek inside a volcanic tube—ideal for natural science buffs or anyone curious about the island’s volcanic origins. The review mentions being “captivated by the information panels,” and that this stop really sparks curiosity for many visitors.

Stop 3: Teide National Park
This is the crown jewel of the tour, and rightly so. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Spain’s twelve treasures, the park is home to the highest peak in Spain, Mount Teide at 3,718 meters. The landscape here is almost otherworldly, with volcanic craters, unusual rock formations, and expansive vistas. One review called it “a great day,” highlighting the local knowledge of the guide and how well the park is explained. Expect about an hour here—enough time for some memorable photos and a good walk.

Stop 4: Los Roques de Garcia
Prepare to be awestruck by these striking rock formations, shaped by eons of wind and weather. They’re often described as “sculpted by nature’s hand,” and their surreal shapes make for incredible photos. A visitor noted that it feels like “a landscape that seems both ancient and alien,” which is a fitting description. This stop is roughly 30 minutes, giving plenty of time for photos and soaking in the dramatic scenery.

Stop 5: Mirador Minas de San Jose
This somewhat unexpected stop offers a view of a vast stretch of white, powdery sand—almost like a desert mirage. It’s a stark contrast to the lush greenery and volcanic terrain earlier in the tour. Some reviews mention the surreal quality of this landscape, which makes it a unique photo opportunity. About 20 minutes here, it’s a quick but memorable stop.

Stop 6: Casa de Los Balcones
This 17th-century mansion offers a glimpse into the island’s architectural past. Its large wooden balconies and lush courtyard create a peaceful setting that’s perfect for a bit of local culture. The house is well-preserved, and the review highlights it as a “vibrant centre of traditional crafts,” adding a cultural layer to your day.

Stop 7: Hijuela del Botanico
A botanical highlight, this garden dates back to 1788 and boasts over 100 plant species, including the famous dragon tree. It’s a serene place to wander and enjoy some tranquility amidst nature. The garden is free to enter, making it a lovely low-cost addition to your itinerary.

Stop 8: Jardines Victoria
The final stop is a romantic and historic garden, designed in the 19th century. With fountains, terraces, and views over La Orotava, it’s a fitting end to the day. Visitors mention the gardens’ beauty and how they add a peaceful, scenic conclusion to the tour.

Transport, Timing, and Flexibility

The private transportation makes a noticeable difference. The comfort and convenience of having a dedicated driver mean you can relax and focus on the views rather than navigating or worrying about traffic. The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 9:00 am, which gives enough time to cover all these sights without feeling rushed.

While the itinerary is quite packed, the flexibility of the guide is a significant benefit. If you have particular interests—say, volcanic geology or local architecture—the driver can adjust the route accordingly. This makes the experience highly personalized, a real perk over standard group excursions.

Cost and Value

At around $113.79 per person, the price seems reasonable considering the private nature, the range of sights, and the inclusion of all stops—most of which are free entry. You’re paying for the comfort of private transport and the flexibility to customize your day. Reviewers frequently mention that guides are knowledgeable and attentive, which adds to the overall value.

What Past Travelers Say

Authentic reviews paint a clear picture. Many travelers praise the professionalism and knowledge of the guides, with comments like “Diego is very professional,” and “Joel was an excellent guide who shared great historical events.” Their passion for the island shines through, making the experience more engaging and educational.

On the flip side, some reviews mention minor hiccups, such as confusion over the meeting point or language barriers. For example, “The directions to meet the driver was very unclear,” and “Her English was par none,” highlight that communication can occasionally be an issue. However, these seem to be isolated incidents and don’t detract from the overall positive experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This is well-suited for cruise travelers who want to see Tenerife’s highlights without the hassle of booking separate transport or joining large groups. It’s perfect if you value a personalized, flexible itinerary and want to avoid crowds. Nature lovers, history buffs, and good photographers will especially enjoy the viewpoints and scenic stops. Keep in mind that the schedule is full, so if you prefer a leisurely, unhurried day, you might want to clarify your pace beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 6 hours, starting at 9:00 am, including all stops and transportation.

Is the tour private?
Yes, only your group will participate, and the vehicle is dedicated to your party.

What sights are included?
Stops include Mirador de Chipeque, El Portillo Visitor Center, Teide National Park, Los Roques de Garcia, Minas de San Jose, Casa de Los Balcones, Hijuela del Botanico, and Jardines Victoria.

Are the stops free to enter?
Most stops are free, such as the viewpoints and gardens. Casa de Los Balcones’ entry is included in the tour.

Can the route be customized?
Absolutely. The driver can adapt the itinerary based on your interests.

What should I bring?
While not explicitly mentioned, considering the high-altitude and mountain stops, bringing layers or warm clothes might be wise, especially in cooler months.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly specified, the stops are mostly scenic and cultural, which are generally suitable for families with older children. You might want to check for specific age restrictions or comfort considerations.

Final Thoughts

This private Tenerife tour offers a well-rounded experience of the island’s most iconic sights, combining natural beauty with cultural charm. The flexibility and personalized service mean you can tailor your day and avoid the common pitfalls of larger, less adaptable excursions. It’s a smart choice for cruise passengers eager to make the most of their limited time ashore, especially if you value comfort, expert guides, and stunning views.

Though it’s not a leisurely, slow-paced day, the tour’s length and structure make it manageable and rewarding. If you’re looking for a private, engaging way to explore Tenerife and capture unforgettable memories, this experience deserves serious consideration.

Note: Always confirm current details and availability before booking, as schedules and offerings can change.