Tenerife: Masca Valley and Pirate Village Guided Buggy Tour

If you’re looking for a way to see some of Tenerife’s most iconic sights with a bit of adventure woven in, this guided buggy tour through Masca Valley and the Pirate Village might just be what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-organized, fun, and visually stunning experience.

What immediately stands out is how much travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking scenery. The tour offers a unique perspective of the island’s rugged landscape, all while cruising comfortably in easy-to-handle buggies. However, keep in mind that this experience is best suited for those comfortable with driving or being a passenger in a buggy — safety and driver’s license requirements are part of the package.

The one consideration worth mentioning is the group size, which is limited to just four participants. For some, that’s perfect — more personalized attention and fewer crowds. But if you prefer a larger, more social atmosphere, that might be something to consider. This tour feels like an excellent fit for adventure lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone eager to explore Tenerife beyond the usual tourist spots.

Key Points

• Well-organized and guided experience with a focus on safety and fun
• Stunning panoramic views and photo opportunities in Masca Valley
• Stops at iconic spots like the Pirate Village with time for walks and photos
• Small-group setting for personalized attention and a more intimate adventure
• Affordable price point considering it includes hotel pickup, insurance, and expert guides
• Accessible for newcomers with easy-to-handle buggies and clear instructions

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Masca Valley and Pirate Village Buggy Tour

This is a three-hour adventure designed to maximize your time in Tenerife while giving you a taste of the island’s dramatic terrain. From the moment you’re picked up from your hotel, the experience starts smoothly, with convenient hotel pickup in Los Cristianos or Costa Adeje. If you’re staying elsewhere, particularly in the north, you might need to coordinate a meeting point, usually in Guia de Isora.

Once at the second office, located in a small shopping center called Plaza Salytien, you’ll meet your guides who will give you a safety briefing. This part is important — even if you’re not used to driving a buggy, the guides ensure you’re comfortable and confident before setting off. Their experience and relaxed manner help reduce any initial nerves.

The Route and Scenic Stops

The journey begins with a drive through Santiago del Teide, leading toward Masca. This part of the island is where the landscape truly shifts — mountains, ridges, and lush valleys surround you as you ascend. The highlight here is passing through the highest point of Masca, offering sweeping views that make for fantastic photos and memories.

Throughout the route, the guides will make multiple stops at viewpoints, each offering a new perspective of the dramatic landscape. These breaks aren’t just for catching your breath — they’re perfect moments to snap those unforgettable photos and take in the tranquility of the area. As several reviews mention, the scenery in Masca is priceless and makes even the most camera-shy want to keep their devices ready.

The Pirate Village

A key highlight of this tour is the visit to the Pirate Village, a place that exudes charm and mystery. Here, you’ll have time to walk around, soak in the local atmosphere, and take photos of the colorful streets and rustic buildings. Some reviews describe the village as “famous” and “interesting,” with Eugene (the tour guide) providing historical insights about the area.

The stop at the Pirate Village is more than just a photo opportunity — it’s a chance to breathe in the fresh mountain air and appreciate the local culture. While the walk is not extensive, it’s enough to give you a real feel for this part of Tenerife.

The Drive and the Experience

The buggy ride itself is often described as thrilling but manageable. If you’re new to driving or being a passenger, don’t worry — the buggies are designed to be easy to handle, and guides are always on hand to assist. Several reviews emphasize how much fun and smiles driving these vehicles bring, with many noting how the experience leaves them with a lasting grin.

The tour is limited to a small group, usually up to four participants, which means guides can focus on your safety and enjoyment. One review specifically mentions that being the only buggy on the tour meant the guide had full attention, making the experience even more personalized.

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Photos and Memories

One of the aspects travelers seem to love most is the opportunity for stunning photos. Many guides, like Eugene, take advantage of the route to snap pictures of the group and the scenery. Some reviews mention that the guide even offers to share photos taken during the drive, which adds value for those wanting professional-quality shots but don’t want to pay extra.

The photo stops at viewpoints and the walk in the Pirate Village provide plenty of chances to capture the stunning vistas, making this a perfect tour for photography fans.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of $198 per group (up to two people) seems reasonable given the inclusive nature of the experience — hotel pickup and drop-off, an experienced guide, insurance, and the buggy rental are all part of the package. The pickup is included in Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje, with options for those in the north to meet at the second office.

You’ll want to bring closed-toe shoes for safety and comfort. Sandals or flip-flops aren’t allowed, mainly because of the driving and walking involved. The main driver must be over 21 and hold a valid driver’s license, so this isn’t suitable for teens under that age.

It’s worth noting that professional photos can be purchased after the tour if you want high-quality memories, but they’re not included in the price. The tour duration is about three hours — enough time to enjoy the scenery, stops, and the drive without feeling rushed.

The Experience Guides and Reviews

What really makes this experience shine are the reviews praising Eugene, the guide. Several reviewers describe him as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, making the trip memorable beyond just the scenery. One reviewer even said, “Without Eugene, our experience would have been good, but with him, it was unforgettable.”

Many reviews highlight how the guide makes an effort to ensure everyone is comfortable and well-informed, often sharing insights about the local history and culture. The small group size, combined with the guide’s attention, makes it feel more like sharing a fun day with a friend than a typical tourist excursion.

Practicalities and Tips

• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially if you want to do it during peak times.
• Arrive early or coordinate pickup if your hotel is near the office in Plaza Salytien.
• Bring a camera or smartphone for photos. The views are spectacular and worth capturing.
• Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes — the terrain can be uneven.
• Prepare for varying weather — bring a light jacket if the mountain air is cool or windy.
• If you’re a nervous driver, let the guides know — they’re experienced and will help you feel at ease.

This buggy tour is ideal for adventure seekers who want more than just a scenic drive. If you enjoy driving or riding in fun vehicles, this will appeal to you. It’s also perfect for photography lovers, thanks to the breathtaking viewpoints and the charming Pirate Village. The small-group setup makes it suitable for those who prefer a more intimate experience rather than large group tours.

While the experience isn’t specifically geared toward families, older teens and adults who enjoy active sightseeing and scenic drives will find this a memorable outing. It’s less suited for anyone uncomfortable with driving or being a passenger in a buggy, given the safety requirements and the nature of the ride.

All in all, this Masca Valley and Pirate Village guided buggy tour offers a combination of adventure, stunning scenery, and cultural stops that make it a worthwhile addition to your Tenerife itinerary. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides like Eugene help create a personal, memorable experience that many travelers rave about. It’s an excellent way to see the rugged beauty of Tenerife while having fun behind the wheel.

If you’re after a relaxed yet exciting way to explore, appreciate incredible views, and learn a bit about the local area, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially great if you’re comfortable with driving or being a passenger in a buggy and want a hands-on adventure that’s a little different from the usual sightseeing bus.

For anyone craving a lively, scenic, and personable experience filled with photo-worthy moments, this tour deserves a spot on your Tenerife list. Just plan ahead, wear the right shoes, and get ready for a day of smiles and spectacular sights.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is included in Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje. If you’re in that area, just be sure to give your hotel details. For those in the north, you can meet at the second office in Guia de Isora.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Absolutely. The main driver must be over 21 and have a valid driver’s license. This is mandatory for safety and legal reasons.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, the buggies are designed to be easy to handle, and guides will give a safety briefing and assistance. Even if it’s your first time driving a buggy, you should feel comfortable with the guidance.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about three hours, including pickup, safety briefing, driving, stops, and return.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must. Avoid sandals or flip-flops for safety reasons. Layering is wise if the weather is changeable.

Can I buy photos after the tour?
Yes, professional photos can be purchased after the experience, offering a great way to remember the trip.

This small but memorable adventure is perfect for those wanting a taste of Tenerife’s wild beauty paired with the thrill of driving a buggy. It’s well reviewed for a reason — stunning views, friendly guides, and a dash of fun. Just plan ahead, and you’re in for a day to remember.

You can check availability for your dates here: