Tenerife: Full-Day Guided Island Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Tenerife and want a solid overview of the island’s highlights, this Full-Day Guided Island Tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s offered by Viajes Teide Tenerife Excursions and gets pretty good reviews — an average of 4.3 out of 5 from over 240 travelers. For around $61 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring some of the most iconic sights, with the comfort of a guided tour that takes the hassle out of planning.

What really caught our eye is how many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views throughout the day. You’ll get a taste of Tenerife’s natural beauty, history, and local culture, all wrapped into one well-organized trip. That said, keep in mind that the tour doesn’t include lunch, so you’ll want to plan for that, and the pickup is only available in the south of the island. If you’re staying in the south and want a comprehensive look at Tenerife, this tour could be a good fit.

One thing to consider is the pace — with so many stops packed into one day, it might feel a bit rushed if you prefer a more relaxed, slow-paced experience. But if you’re eager to see a lot in a short time and enjoy guided commentary, it’s a solid option. It’s especially suited for travelers who want an overview of Tenerife’s most famous sights without the need to rent a car or navigate independently.

Key Points

• Convenient for first-timers wanting a structured introduction to Tenerife’s highlights
• Knowledgeable guides make the experience more engaging and informative
• Stunning scenic views, especially from Los Gigantes and Icod de Los Vinos
• Good value for money at around $61, considering transportation, guide, and multiple stops
• Limited free time at some stops, so plan accordingly if you want to explore in depth
• Pickup only in the south, so it’s best suited for travelers based in that area

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour offers a full-day journey around Tenerife’s perimeter, giving you a taste of the island’s contrasting landscapes, from rugged cliffs to lush green valleys. It’s perfect if you want a rundown without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. The tour includes pickup in the south of Tenerife, transfers, and a live guide speaking multiple languages—Spanish, English, French, and German.

The day kicks off with a drive along the west coast to Los Gigantes, famous for their enormous cliffs that plunge dramatically into the Atlantic. Here, you’ll enjoy some of the best vantage points to appreciate Tenerife’s rugged coast. Many reviews highlight the breathtaking views as a highlight, with one traveler noting they loved the stops and having some time to relax and take in the scenery.

Next, the group heads to Icod de Los Vinos to see the legendary Dragon Tree, which is Tenerife’s most famous attraction. The tree’s striking appearance makes it a favorite photo spot, and the guide will share stories about its significance. One reviewer mentions, “the number of stops included was great and having some time to spare at the stops,” emphasizing that the itinerary felt well-paced.

Following this, the tour stops in Puerto de la Cruz, a charming seaside town. You’ll have free time for lunch (not included in the tour), so it’s worth considering bringing snacks or planning ahead. Travelers especially enjoy wandering this town, with its vibrant streets, ocean views, and banana plantations. One review says “Puerto de la Cruz was by far my favorite stop,” noting that it offers a lovely mix of natural beauty and local charm. The guide often recommends local restaurants, making it easier to find a good meal without the guesswork.

Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to Candelaria, home to the revered Black Madonna and statues of the Guanche Menceyes, the island’s original inhabitants. The Basílica in Candelaria is a peaceful spot, and many travelers appreciate ending their day here with a sense of history and culture. It’s also a great photo opportunity, especially with the statues overlooking the ocean.

Throughout the day, there are multiple photo stops, giving you chances to capture Tenerife’s diverse scenery, from cliffs to lush fields. Many reviews praise the excellent commentary from guides, noting their local knowledge and humor made the experience more enjoyable. One reviewer states, “The guide’s local knowledge was good and his ability to communicate was excellent.”

The Practical Side: Transportation, Timing, and Cost

Transportation is in a comfortable bus, and the journey is designed to maximize sightseeing with minimal downtime. The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting early (exact times vary and should be checked when booking). It’s ideal for those who want to “see a lot without the hassle,” according to reviews. The price of $61 per person is quite reasonable considering it covers multiple stops with a guided experience, especially since the tour includes transfers and a live guide. Keep in mind, lunch isn’t included, so budget for that separately.

Pickup is only available in the south of Tenerife, so if you’re staying elsewhere, you might need to arrange your own transportation to the pickup point. The tour is suitable for travelers comfortable with a busy schedule and some walking, as you’ll explore towns and scenic viewpoints, but it’s not overly strenuous. Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and layers—Tenerife’s microclimates can mean warm mornings and cooler afternoons.

Experience Reviews: What Others Say

The overall reviews are quite positive. Many travelers highlight their guides’ knowledgeability and friendliness. One reviewer raved, “The guide’s local knowledge was good and his ability to communicate was excellent. A good sense of humor and very helpful.” Others appreciated the stunning sights, with comments like, “The views are beautiful and the guide was very warm and friendly.”

There’s also praise for the value for money, with one traveler mentioning the wine and liqueur tasting at Icod, which added a special touch to the experience. The stops are well-chosen, and many say you get a good overview of the island’s diversity in just one day.

A few reviews note the limited free time at some locations, especially in Puerto de la Cruz, so if you’re someone who likes to linger and explore in detail, be prepared for a more structured visit. Still, most find the itinerary well-paced and worth the price.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is particularly well-suited for first-time visitors who want to maximize their sightseeing without the stress of planning each stop. It’s also a good choice for travelers who prefer guided commentary to learn about Tenerife’s history, culture, and natural wonders. If you’re staying in the south and want a rundown of the island’s most iconic sights, this could be a great pick.

However, if you’re looking for a relaxed, in-depth exploration of specific areas, or you’re traveling with very young children who might find long bus rides tiring, you might want to consider other options or customize your own day. The tour’s pace is active, and lunch isn’t included, so come prepared.

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FAQ

Is pickup available outside the south of Tenerife?
No, pickup is only offered in the south of the island. If you’re staying elsewhere, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the designated pickup point.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, with a flexible starting time depending on availability. The exact pickup time is reconfirmed by email after booking.

What does the tour include?
The package includes pickup, transfers, and a live guide in several languages. Lunch and personal expenses are not included.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently mention the guides’ local knowledge and communication skills. Many say they made the day more engaging with stories and humor.

Is it suitable for families or children?
The tour is generally suitable for travelers comfortable with a busy schedule and some walking, but no specific mention of children or family-friendly amenities is made. Use discretion based on your family’s needs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with layers to handle Tenerife’s microclimates. Sun protection and water are also advised.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans shift.

Final Thoughts

This Full-Day Guided Island Tour of Tenerife offers a practical, well-rounded way to see the island’s highlights with expert guides, stunning views, and a manageable pace. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a guided experience that covers the essentials without worrying about logistics.

While it won’t suit travelers looking for a slow, in-depth exploration or those staying outside the south, it’s a solid option for most visitors eager to get a taste of Tenerife’s diverse landscapes, historic sites, and local charm. The combination of breathtaking scenery, friendly guides, and good value makes it a worthwhile addition to your Tenerife itinerary—even if only for a day.

Remember: If you’re considering this tour, check the availability, and plan your lunch spot in Puerto de la Cruz ahead of time. It’s an efficient way to get a memorable snapshot of Tenerife’s natural beauty and vibrant culture all in one day.

You can check availability for your dates here: