Quad bike excursion to the EL TEIDE volcano

If you’re considering a way to see Tenerife’s spectacular landscape beyond typical sightseeing, a quad bike excursion to El Teide might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t tried this tour myself, I’ve gathered some solid insights from travelers who’ve been on it, and I think it offers a pretty unique way to experience one of Spain’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.

What immediately stands out about this experience are the new quad bikes—they promise reliability and power—and the small group setting, which tends to create a more relaxed, personalized atmosphere. An added bonus is the expert guidance that makes even beginners feel comfortable behind the wheel. However, it’s worth noting that the tour requires a physical driver’s license and has some restrictions, so it’s not suitable for everyone.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure and are eager to see Tenerife from a different perspective. If you’re comfortable on a bike or want to learn, it could be a memorable highlight of your trip. That said, it’s not for those with mobility issues or very young children. Now, let’s get into the nuts and bolts of what makes this excursion worth considering—or not.

Key Points

• New, well-maintained quad bikes ensure a safe and powerful ride.
• Professional guides make the experience accessible, even for beginners.
• Stunning panoramic views of Tenerife and El Teide make the trip visually impressive.
• Small group size adds a personal touch, making it easier to enjoy and ask questions.
• It’s approximately 3 hours long, including stops, making it a manageable day activity.
• Strict punctuality is essential; late arrivals aren’t refunded or rescheduled.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Quad Bike Tour

This guided tour starts from Valle San Lorenzo, a strategic choice as it’s just about a 15-minute drive from the more tourist-heavy areas like Los Cristianos and Las Americas. From there, the adventure kicks off with a quick briefing on safety and quad operation, tailored to whether you’re a total newbie or have some riding experience. No worries—your guide’s advice will help you feel confident on the bikes.

The tour’s structure splits into two main rides within the Teide National Park, with a scenic stop at Pino Gordo in Vilaflor for about ten minutes. This is a perfect spot for photos and a chance to stretch your legs before heading back into the rugged, beautiful terrain.

The Quad Ride through Teide National Park

The first hour of riding takes you into the national park, winding through volcanic landscapes, old lava flows, and scenic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. The terrain varies from dirt paths to rocky trails, and your guide will keep an eye on safety while helping you enjoy the ride.

The second and more extended part of the ride lasts about 1.5 hours, covering more of the park’s dramatic scenery. This part is often considered the most exciting, with a mix of off-road adventure and spectacular vistas—think sweeping views of Tenerife’s rugged terrain and the distant Atlantic Ocean. Reviewers mention the powerful yet easy-to-handle quads and how the guides make it straightforward for everyone, even beginners, to enjoy the ride.

The Pino Gordo Stop

Midway, the tour pauses at Pino Gordo in Vilaflor, a lovely spot to snap photos of the lush pine forest and volcanic landscape. Travelers consistently say this is a highlight for its beautiful scenery and photo opportunities. It’s also a good chance to regroup and chat with fellow adventurers about what you’ve seen so far.

The Experience of the Guides

One aspect that travelers rave about is the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Multiple reviews point out how professional, patient, and enthusiastic the guides are. They’re not just there to supervise but to enrich your experience, offering tips on driving, explaining the landscape, and making sure everyone feels safe and comfortable.

For instance, one reviewer from France said, “L’équipe a été chaleureuse, professionnelle et passionnée. Tout est parfaitement encadré : sécurité, explications, etc. On se sent tout de suite entre de bonnes mains.” This kind of personalized attention makes a difference, especially if you’re new to quad biking or outdoor adventures.

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Practical Details: Timing, Pricing, and Restrictions

The tour lasts around three hours, which strikes a nice balance between giving you enough time to enjoy the ride and not feeling overwhelmed. The set departure points are easy to find, with a Google Maps link provided, and you’re advised to arrive 30 minutes early, so you’re ready to go.

Pricing is generally reasonable considering it includes new equipment, guides, and the experience of seeing Teide from a different angle. You’ll need to reserve in advance with the option to pay later, offering some flexibility if your plans shift.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures.
• Those looking for a unique perspective on Tenerife’s landscape.
• Visitors comfortable with driving or learning to drive a quad.
• People who value small-group, personalized experiences.
• Travelers with a physical license (no photo license needed).

Important Restrictions

• Not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or those under 3’6” (110 cm).
• Max weight per quad is 150 kg.
• Drivers must be 18+.
• You’ll need to bring your driver’s license and wear closed-toe shoes.
• Arriving late means no refund—timeliness is key.

What We Like and What to Watch Out For

The stunning views and professional guides are repeatedly highlighted as the biggest positives. Travelers love the combination of adventure and scenery, often mentioning how safe and well-organized everything is, even for beginners. The new quad bikes add to the comfort and reliability, making the whole ride enjoyable.

On the flip side, some folks mention that the weather can be quite chilly at the top, especially in November, so bringing warm clothing is advised. Also, since the tour is quite punctual, being late can ruin your experience and result in no refund.

While the activity is physically demanding to some degree—riders should be in good health and comfortable on a bike—there’s no mention of it being overly strenuous. Still, it’s best suited to those who are prepared for a bit of rugged terrain and outdoor activity.

Final Thoughts

This quad bike tour to El Teide combines the thrill of off-road riding with the privilege of witnessing Tenerife’s most iconic volcanic landscape. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides make it a comfortable experience, especially for those new to quad biking or outdoor adventures. The panoramic views are a highlight that many reviewers say are worth every penny, and the scenic stops at Pino Gordo add that perfect photo opportunity.

If you’re after a fun, active way to see Tenerife’s natural beauty, and you’re comfortable with the basic requirements, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially appealing if you want a personalized experience with a safety-first approach, plus the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path scenery that most travelers miss.

That said, just be prepared for the weather, arrive on time, and follow all safety instructions. For adventure seekers who like variety and a bit of adrenaline, this trip could very well be a highlight of your trip to Tenerife.

FAQ

Is a driver’s license required?
Yes, a physical driver’s license is needed to participate. No photo licenses are accepted, and you’ll need to bring it on the day.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately three hours, including briefing, riding, and stops.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Not for children under 6 years old or those shorter than 3’6”. It’s mainly designed for adults or older teens.

What should I wear?
Wear closed-toe shoes and dress appropriately for potentially chilly weather at higher altitudes. Avoid sandals, flip-flops, or bare feet.

Can I join if I’m a beginner?
Absolutely. The guides are experienced in instructing beginners and will give you advice on how to drive the quad safely.

What if I arrive late?
Late arrivals will not be refunded or rescheduled, so punctuality is essential.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate due to the physical nature of riding quad bikes.

If you’re craving an active, scenic adventure that mixes fun with impressive views, this quad bike tour to El Teide might just be the trip your Tenerife itinerary needs. Just remember to arrive on time, dress warmly, and enjoy the ride!

You can check availability for your dates here: