Gran Canaria: Buggy Tour Morning OR Midday- LONG TOUR 2.5 HR

If you’re contemplating adding an adventurous twist to your Gran Canaria holiday, a buggy tour might just be your perfect match. This 2.5-hour excursion takes you through the rugged south of the island, offering a chance to drive or ride through dust-raising off-road terrain, scenic valleys, and mountain passes. Our review distills the experience from plenty of traveler feedback, highlighting what makes it exciting, what to watch out for, and whether it’s worth your time and money.

Two things we genuinely love about this buggy tour are its spectacular mountain scenery and the flexibility of switching drivers during the trip. That means both adults and kids can take turns behind the wheel, adding an interactive element that keeps everyone engaged. Plus, the professional guides seem well-versed in making the journey both safe and fun, with a good sense of humor and plenty of local knowledge.

One potential consideration is the requirement for a valid driver’s license and at least one year of driving experience. This naturally limits participation to those who are legally able to drive, but it also ensures a safer and more confident experience on challenging off-road tracks. If you’re looking for a high-energy family adventure or a way to explore the island’s rugged terrain rather than just its beaches, this tour fits beautifully.

This tour suits travelers who love adventure, enjoy scenic landscapes, and want a hands-on experience that’s more than just sightseeing. It’s an excellent pick for those comfortable with driving, seeking a dose of adrenaline, and eager to see parts of Gran Canaria that are less accessible via traditional tours.

Key Points

• Authentic off-road adventure: Experience mountain valleys, canyons, and rugged terrain.
• Driver flexibility: Switch drivers at no extra cost, making it fun for multiple participants.
• Scenic stops: Enjoy photo opportunities in Fataga and sightseeing in Maspalomas.
• Includes necessary equipment: Off-road goggles are provided, but dust masks are not included.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off: Free transport from many popular areas simplifies logistics.
• Duration and availability: The tour lasts around 2.5 hours with multiple start times, perfect for fitting into your day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect: An Authentic Off-Road Adventure

This buggy tour is designed to be both thrilling and scenic, taking you through the southern mountains of Gran Canaria. Starting from a pick-up point (with nine options including Maspalomas, Arguineguín, and Puerto Rico), you’ll hop into your own buggy—a two-seater vehicle that’s surprisingly agile and easy to handle, even for first-timers. You’ll spend roughly 2.5 hours on the road, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the views, take photos, and get a bit of dust on your clothes.

The itinerary features several key stops. First, after a quick 15-minute van transfer, you’ll arrive in Maspalomas, where you may catch a glimpse of the famous dunes or the coastline. Then, you’ll head off-road toward Fataga, a picturesque valley often called the “Valley of a Thousand Palms.” Here, there’s a dedicated photo stop of about an hour, giving you a chance to snap pictures of breathtaking canyon views, lush vegetation, and traditional Canary Island architecture.

Next, the tour moves to Ayagaures, a peaceful village and reservoir area, ideal for a break and sightseeing. You might pass by local sights, with some time allocated for a quick stop or just a relaxed pause. The return leg includes more scenic sightseeing in Maspalomas before finishing back at your hotel.

On the technical side, you’ll be provided with off-road goggles to protect your eyes from dust and debris—crucial given the dusty terrain. You’ll need to bring your driver’s license and have at least a year of driving experience, as the activity involves some on-road driving, including sections on main roads and mountain tracks.

The Driving and Off-Road Experience

The core of this adventure is driving your own buggy through challenging terrain, including dirt paths, rocky tracks, and mountain trails. The off-road driving isn’t just a thrill—it’s a chance to truly experience Gran Canaria’s rugged beauty. Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the buggies, noting they are in good condition despite being used daily in tough conditions.

The guides seem to strike a good balance—providing instruction when needed but giving enough freedom to enjoy the ride. Several reviews mention how guides like Turivio and Antonio made the trip engaging with their friendly, interactive style. They also handle safety well, making sure everyone is comfortable, especially during the more challenging sections.

You can switch drivers free of charge, which is a big plus for groups. Kids over a meter tall (around 5 years old) can be copilots, making this a family-friendly activity if your children are tall enough and you’re confident in their ability to sit safely in the passenger seat.

The Stops: Highlights and Considerations

Fataga is often highlighted as the tour’s star stop—a photo opportunity of stunning canyon views and traditional villages. As one reviewer notes, “We stopped on one location to have cactus fruit! I believe they’re called a Prickly Pear. It was an amazing experience to have one.” These stops give you a break from the driving, allowing you to soak in the landscape and snap memorable photos.

Maspalomas, the starting and ending point, offers familiar scenery for many travelers. Here, you’ll get a brief sightseeing window, perhaps catching a glimpse of the dunes or beach, which adds a bit of variety to the mountain adventure.

Ayagaures provides a relaxed setting for a pass-by or break, often with the chance to enjoy local views. It’s a quieter stop that emphasizes the rural charm of the island.

The return to your hotel is straightforward, with free transportation included from areas like Bahia Feliz, San Agustin, Playa del Inglés, and others. This convenience reduces the hassle of arranging your own transport after an energetic morning or midday adventure.

Practical Details and What to Bring

To make the most of this tour, you’ll want to come prepared. Comfortable shoes and clothes are essential, as you’ll be getting dust on your clothes and possibly dirt on your shoes. Sandals or flip-flops aren’t allowed, so plan for sturdy footwear.

You must bring a valid driver’s license with at least one year of driving experience. This is not just a formality—it’s a safety requirement. Also, pack water (which is provided), and consider bringing a dust mask if you’re sensitive to dust (not supplied).

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours with a few stops, and it’s available at different times depending on your preference. While cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance, last-minute bookings might not include hotel pickup—so plan accordingly.

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The Experience: Who Will Love It?

Based on reviews and the tour structure, this activity is ideal for those who enjoy adventure and outdoor exploration. If you’re comfortable driving, especially on mountain or dirt tracks, you’ll find this a highlight of your trip. Families with children over 5 will appreciate the family-friendly approach, especially since you can switch drivers and copilots.

It’s also well-suited for travelers who want to access less-visited parts of Gran Canaria—the canyons and valleys away from the beaches. The scenic stops offer ample photo opportunities, making it a rewarding experience for photography enthusiasts.

However, if you’re someone who prefers more relaxed sightseeing or has mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. The activity involves driving in dusty, sometimes bumpy terrain, and requires a certain level of physical comfort.

The Value and Overall Impression

Considering the price includes hotel pickup, drop-off, goggles, and the driving experience, many travelers find it offers good value. The chance to drive your own buggy and switch drivers adds to the sense of adventure, making it feel like a personalized exploration rather than a generic tour.

Plus, the consistently positive reviews about friendly, knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery suggest you’re paying for more than just the ride—you’re paying for an engaging, memorable experience that’s both fun and scenic.

The Sum Up

This buggy tour in Gran Canaria caters to those seeking a high-energy, scenic adventure. The opportunity to drive through mountains, valleys, and canyons with knowledgeable guides and stunning views makes it a memorable addition to any travel itinerary. It’s particularly appealing for families or groups who want a shared, active experience with the flexibility to switch drivers during the journey.

While it’s essential to meet the driver’s license requirements and be prepared for dusty, bumpy terrain, the overall experience offers excellent value for money—especially considering the hotel transfers and included gear. The stops at Fataga and other scenic points provide a nice balance of adventure and sightseeing, giving you a taste of Gran Canaria’s rugged charm.

If you love off-road adventures and want to see parts of the island that few other tours reach, this buggy experience is an authentic, fun, and scenic choice. Just be ready for a bit of dust and a lot of fun.

FAQ

• Do I need a driver’s license to participate? Yes, you must bring a valid driver’s license and have at least one year of driving experience.
• Can children ride along? Yes, copilots can be children approximately 1 meter high (around 5 years old), and you can switch drivers at no extra cost.
• Is hotel pickup included? Yes, they offer free pickup and drop-off from many popular areas, including Maspalomas, Arguineguín, and Puerto Rico.
• What should I wear? Comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for dusty, outdoor conditions—avoid sandals or flip-flops.
• What is the duration of the tour? Around 2.5 hours, including stops.
• Is the activity suitable for beginners? Yes, guides are attentive, and the buggies are easy to handle for most with some driving experience.
• What equipment is provided? Off-road goggles are included; dust masks are not.
• Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Is it wheelchair accessible? The activity is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check with the supplier for specific needs.
• What if I book last-minute? Last-minute bookings might not include hotel pickup, and you’ll be assigned a nearby meeting point instead.

This activity offers a solid mix of adventure, scenery, and local flavor—perfect for travelers who want to see Gran Canaria from a different perspective while getting their adrenaline fix.

You can check availability for your dates here: