Volcanes, Viñedos y Laurisilva Santiago del Teide

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves combining scenic vistas with a bit of adventure, then the Volcanes, Viñedos y Laurisilva tour in Santiago del Teide might catch your eye. This guided experience offers a chance to explore some of the most captivating landscapes of northern Tenerife, all within a manageable five-hour window. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, based on the details and honest reviews, it seems like a solid choice for those wanting to see Tenerife’s volcanic and forested highlights with the help of a knowledgeable guide.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the focus on diverse landscapes — from lava flows to lush pine forests — and the opportunity to snap incredible photos of iconic sights like Teide and Masca. Plus, the tour’s moderate price point makes it accessible for many travelers. However, it’s worth remembering that it’s not suited for everyone, especially those with mobility issues or young children. If you’re comfortable with some basic hiking and are curious to see Tenerife’s natural beauty, this trip could be just right.

One of the main considerations is the group size and the itinerary pace. With the tour often operating with just a few people (sometimes even solo), it can feel quite intimate, but also a little rushed if you want to linger at certain viewpoints. Also, keep in mind that the tour involves significant walking over varied terrain, so good shoes and a reasonable fitness level are essential. This experience seems best suited to active travelers who value scenery and expert guidance over luxury comforts or long leisure stops.

If you’re after a well-rounded, scenic, and educational trek through Tenerife’s impressive landscapes, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy moderate hikes with spectacular photo opportunities and are eager to learn about the island’s volcanic origins and lush flora.

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes including volcanic lava flows, vineyards, pine forests, and breathtaking viewpoints
• Guided by a knowledgeable local, who explains flora, fauna, and volcanic features
• Moderate difficulty suitable for most active travelers with proper footwear
• Ideal for photography, with plenty of spots to capture Teide, Masca, and the other islands of La Gomera and La Palma
• Limited food and drinks included, so plan to bring water and snacks
• Small group or solo experience, providing a more personal touch and flexibility

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins in the charming village of Santiago del Teide, setting a relaxed, local tone. The meeting point is conveniently located in the church square with free parking and nearby bus stops, which makes access straightforward. The group size is small, often just a few travelers, which adds to the personal attention you’ll get from your guide.

Walking Through Lava and Vineyards

The first part of the journey takes you across black lava flows from the 1909 Chinyero eruption. Walking among these ancient, rough textures is like stepping into a different world—raw, powerful, and oddly mesmerizing. You’ll feel the heat of volcanic activity in the landscape, even over a century later. As you proceed, the terrain softens into paths that wind through vineyard fields thriving in the volcanic soil. This part of the hike beautifully marries Tenerife’s volcanic history with its celebrated wine tradition.

Mountain Ascent and Forests

Next, the route ascends toward the Cumbres de Bolico, crossing a pine forest that feels refreshingly different after the lava fields. The trees here are lush and provide some shade, and the views become increasingly impressive. Our sources highlight the spectacular vistas of the Teide, Pico Viejo, Pico de la Bilma, and the Chinyero volcano—panoramas that are sure to delight photography enthusiasts.

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The Peak and Panoramic Views

At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic vista of Masca Valley and the surrounding islands of La Gomera and La Palma. The enchanting “Bosque de los Enigmas”, or Forest of Mysteries, adds a touch of intrigue and natural beauty, making it a favorite stop for many travelers. The views are described as “unforgettable,” and the guide’s insights help you appreciate the volcanic set-up of this landscape.

Return and Optional Extras

The tour concludes with a return to Santiago del Teide, often after about five hours of activity. Some reviews mention that Masca can be crowded, as many tours stop there, and suggest that a shorter visit might be better—about 30 minutes to soak in the views without feeling rushed. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider planning your own exit strategy from Masca, such as catching a bus or taxi.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The cost of $56 per person appears quite reasonable considering the guided nature and inclusions. You get an expert guide, accident insurance, and photos of the activity—helpful for those who want to remember the trip without worrying about capturing every moment themselves.

However, food and drinks are not included, so you should bring water, snacks, or a light lunch, especially if you’re planning to hike for several hours. Also, since the tour involves walking on uneven terrain, proper hiking shoes and pants are a must. Don’t forget sunscreen, your ID, and possibly some quick snacks or fruit to keep your energy up.

Accessibility and Suitability

This experience isn’t designed for young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues or low fitness levels. Many of the stops involve walking on different terrains, and the overall pace is moderate, so it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with hiking.

The Reviews Speak

Two reviews give a pretty honest picture of what to expect. Peter and Petra, from Germany, appreciated the knowledgeable guide Alex, who shared about the flora and fauna, and enjoyed the beautiful viewpoints along the way. They did mention the crowds in Masca and felt that the longer stay there was unnecessary. On the other hand, Dennis from the Netherlands found the hike “great” with “spectacular views”, praising the small group setting and the 10.5 km trail.

Both reviews confirm the tour’s upbeat focus on scenery and education, with the guides clearly making a difference in the overall experience. The positive comments highlight that a good guide can really elevate what might otherwise be just a walk.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy nature and scenic views, and are comfortable with a moderate hike. It suits those who want a guided experience to learn about Tenerife’s volcanic and forest landscapes, and appreciate opportunities for photography. People who prefer a relaxed pace or have mobility restrictions might find this one a bit too challenging, but if you’re fit, curious, and love the outdoors, you’ll likely find it well worth the effort.

It’s a good pick for travelers who want an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience, away from crowded tourist spots but still with plenty of stunning vistas. If you enjoy discovering the natural history of a place and don’t mind carrying essentials like water and sunscreen, this tour will likely leave you with memorable images and a better understanding of Tenerife’s diverse geography.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not really. The tour is rated as moderate difficulty and involves walking on uneven terrain, so it’s mainly aimed at adults or older teens comfortable with hiking.

How long is the entire hike?
While the total tour duration is about five hours, the actual walking is designed to be manageable, with the route covering scenic viewpoints and forested areas.

Do I need to bring my own food?
Yes, food and drinks are not included, so bringing water and snacks is recommended for maintaining energy throughout the hike.

What should I wear?
Hiking shoes and pants are advised, along with sunscreen, and possibly a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

Can I arrive by bus?
Yes, the meeting point in Santiago del Teide is accessible by bus, and there’s free parking for those driving.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring?
Drones, alcohol, and drugs are not permitted on the tour.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, making it accessible for international travelers.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some peace of mind in case your plans change unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Volcanes, Viñedos y Laurisilva tour promises a well-rounded experience blending Tenerife’s volcanic history, lush forests, and panoramic views. It’s suited for those who want an active, educational day out with a focus on breathtaking scenery and expert guidance. The moderate price point makes it accessible, and the personalized nature of the small group can make the trek more enjoyable.

If you’re looking for a way to connect with the island’s natural beauty beyond the usual tourist spots, this hike offers a meaningful peek into Tenerife’s diverse landscapes. Just be prepared for some walking, bring your camera, and enjoy the raw beauty of this volcanic island.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just someone who loves a scenic walk, this tour could be a memorable highlight of your Tenerife trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: