Tenerife: Masca, Los Gigantes & Natural Pools + Picnic

If you’re planning a trip to Tenerife and looking to step beyond the typical tourist spots, this small-group tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the island’s most captivating natural and cultural highlights. We haven’t personally joined this trip, but based on detailed descriptions and real traveler reviews, it seems to strike a good balance between adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery.

What really draws us in is the focus on authentic locations like the charming village of Masca and the stunning cliffs of Los Gigantes — spots that often get overshadowed by the more popular Teide or beach resorts. Plus, the chance to swim in volcanic pools sounds like a refreshing and memorable experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves some narrow, winding roads — so if you’re uneasy with heights or movement, that’s worth considering. But if you’re comfortable with a bit of adventure and want a personalized, intimate group experience, this tour could be right up your alley.

This tour suits adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone craving a taste of Tenerife’s lesser-known corners. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate small groups for a more personal touch and want to enjoy scenic views without the crowds.

Key Points

Small group size ensures an intimate experience and more personalized attention.
Diverse highlights include cultural villages, dramatic cliffs, and volcanic pools—perfect for varied interests.
Flexible itinerary allows for adjustments based on weather and group preferences.
Convenient hotel pick-up makes the day stress-free and smooth from the start.
Includes local treats like seasonal fruits and bottled water—no need to worry about basic refreshments.
Ideal for those comfortable with heights, as some stops involve steep views and narrow roads.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tenerife Tour

This tour is designed to give you a taste of Tenerife’s varied landscape and cultural richness, all within a manageable five-hour window. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel in South Tenerife, you’re in good hands with an experienced guide who knows the island well. The small group setting, limited to just 8-12 people, means you’re not lost in a crowd — instead, you get personalized insights and plenty of opportunities for photos.

The Journey Begins: Hassle-Free Pickup and Scenic Drive

The tour kicks off with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Los Cristianos or Las Americas. The ride itself lasts about an hour, giving you your first glimpse of Tenerife’s diverse scenery. During this time, your guide might share some local stories or tips, making the journey feel relaxed and engaging.

Masca Village: A Step Back in Time

Your first stop is the renowned village of Masca, perched high in the mountains and surrounded by dramatic ravines. This spot is often highlighted as a highlight by travelers, and for good reason. The village’s cobbled streets and rustic charm evoke a sense of stepping into another era. Historically a pirate hideout, Masca offers sweeping views that are perfect for photography and soaking in the wild beauty of the island.

The visit lasts about 80 minutes, which is enough to wander through the tiny streets, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. As one reviewer noted, “The misty air, rainbows, the village were all magical,” capturing how special this place can feel on a clear or even misty day.

Los Gigantes Cliffs: Nature’s Giants

Next, the tour heads to the Los Gigantes cliffs, towering over 600 meters above the Atlantic. This is one of Tenerife’s most iconic sights, offering jaw-dropping views that leave many visitors in awe. Your guide will point out the scale of these natural giants, and you’ll have time to take photos or just stand in silence, admiring their grandeur.

Travelers frequently comment on how stunning these cliffs are. Jörg from the Netherlands called the experience “a beautiful environment” and recommended the trip wholeheartedly.

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Natural Pools: Volcanic Swim

After taking in the cliffs, it’s time for some relaxation in natural volcanic pools. Surrounded by rugged lava rocks, these pools are crystal clear and perfect for a refreshing swim. The visit is carefully timed to coincide with favorable tides, so you can enjoy the water without worry. Remember to bring your swimsuit and towel!

Many travelers say the pools are a highlight — a peaceful spot to unwind and reconnect with nature. Some reviews mention towels and swim equipment are available, but it’s always good to bring your own just in case.

Local Flavors and Optional Food Stop

To keep everyone energized, the tour includes seasonal local fruits and bottled water. It’s a simple but thoughtful touch that enhances the experience. If you want to explore more of Tenerife’s cuisine, you can opt for an additional stop at a traditional “guachinche” — a local eatery offering homemade food and island wines. This isn’t included in the tour price but can be a delightful way to taste authentic Canarian flavors.

Scenic Return and Drop-offs

The trip wraps up with a scenic drive back to your starting point, with a few stops along the way if weather or conditions permit. The drop-offs are conveniently located at Playa de las Américas or in your hotel vicinity, making the end of your day straightforward.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Several aspects of this experience are particularly appealing. First, the small group size ensures you won’t be part of a large, impersonal tour. Instead, you get a more relaxed, engaging day with a knowledgeable guide. This also means that the itinerary can adapt to weather and group preferences, maximizing your enjoyment.

Second, the combination of cultural and natural sights provides a well-rounded glimpse of Tenerife. Visiting a traditional village, standing before towering cliffs, and swimming in volcanic pools creates a varied and memorable experience. Travelers seem to appreciate that this isn’t a generic sightseeing bus tour but one that explores places off the beaten path.

Third, the scenic routes and photo opportunities are abundant. From the winding mountain roads to panoramic viewpoints, you’ll come away with plenty of stunning images and stories to tell.

Finally, the value for money appears good, especially considering the inclusion of transport, guide, local treats, and some equipment. Travelers mention being pleased with the overall experience and recommend it as a highlight of their trip.

Considerations and Drawbacks

While the tour offers many positives, there are a couple of points to consider. The main one is height and road safety — since some stops involve steep cliffs and narrow, winding roads, it may not be suitable for those with acrophobia or sensitive stomachs. Several reviews note the skill of the guides in navigating these roads, but it’s still important to be aware.

Another consideration is weather variability. A reviewer from December mentioned bad weather and park closures, which impacted their experience. Tenerife’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter, so it’s wise to check the forecast and be flexible with expectations.

Lastly, the tour is relatively short (5 hours), so while it covers key highlights, you won’t have hours at each stop. If you prefer more in-depth exploration, this might feel a bit rushed.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Duration: 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day trip.
• Transport: A comfortable 9-seater van, with pickup from your hotel in South Tenerife.
• Group Size: Limited to 8-12 people for a more personal experience.
• Price & Inclusions: Price includes pickup, transport, guide, bottled water, and seasonal fruits. Optional lunch stop at a local “guachinche” is available but not included.
• What to Bring: Comfortable clothes and shoes, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, and a change of clothes.
• Suitability: Best for travelers comfortable with heights and narrow roads; not suitable for those with altitude sensitivity or serious fear of heights.

The Verdict

If you’re after an authentic taste of Tenerife away from crowded resorts, this tour offers a solid mix of natural beauty and local culture. The chance to explore a traditional mountain village, gaze upon the towering cliffs, and relax in volcanic pools makes for a memorable day out. The small group size and knowledgeable guide add a personal touch that many travelers value.

While it’s not a full-day adventure and involves some winding roads, the overall experience seems well worth it, especially if you love scenic landscapes and discovering hidden corners of the island. The positive reviews about the scenery, guide expertise, and the relaxed pace suggest this is a trip many would find worthwhile.

This tour is best suited for those looking for a flexible, intimate, and scenic half-day experience that balances nature, culture, and relaxation. If you’re comfortable with heights and want to avoid large tour buses, it could be just what you need to make your Tenerife visit special.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves some steep roads and high viewpoints, so it might not be ideal for very young children or those sensitive to heights. It’s better suited for older kids or teenagers comfortable with those conditions.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off in South Tenerife, transport in a comfortable van, a knowledgeable guide, bottled water, and seasonal fruits. Optional lunch at a local “guachinche” can be added but is not included.

How long is the drive?
The drive from your hotel to Masca and back takes about an hour each way, allowing time for scenic views and travel comfort.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, swimwear and a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, a camera, and an extra set of clothes just in case you get wet or want to change after swimming.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, weather conditions can affect certain stops, especially the natural pools and views from cliffs. It’s wise to check the forecast beforehand and stay flexible.

Are there options to extend the trip or customize?
The itinerary is flexible based on weather and group needs, but additional modifications or full-day extensions would need to be arranged separately.

In all, this Tenerife tour offers a well-rounded, intimate experience of some of the island’s most captivating sights. It’s great for travelers craving scenic views, cultural insights, and a relaxed pace, all within a friendly small group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: