If you’re looking to add a splash of adrenaline to your Tenerife holiday, the South Coast Buggy Tour offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty and off-road excitement. This guided adventure takes you from the charming mountain village of Chío down to the sun-soaked beaches of Tenerife’s southern coast. It’s a chance to see the island from a fresh perspective—on four wheels, tearing through dusty trails, and stopping at some iconic viewpoints and beaches along the way.
What we particularly like about this tour is its ability to combine thrilling off-road driving with breathtaking scenery—something that appeals to both adventure junkies and those who just want a fun, memorable day. Plus, the small group size keeps the experience intimate and personal. However, it’s worth noting that the main driver must be 21+ with a valid license, which could be a barrier for younger travelers or those traveling with teens.
This tour is best suited to active travelers who want more than just sightseeing. If you enjoy a bit of dust, some shortcuts through nature, or simply want a different way to explore Tenerife’s landscapes, you’ll find plenty to love here.
Key Points
- Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
- Scenic & Off-Road: Combines beautiful views with exciting trails and dust.
- Flexible Booking: Reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- All-Inclusive: Includes guided tour, safety briefing, insurance, and free pickup from key resorts.
- Age & License Requirement: Drivers must be 21+ with a valid license; not suitable for children under 7.
- Photo Options: Photos are available for purchase after the tour.
An Introduction to the Experience
Imagine zipping through Tenerife’s rugged side, starting from a quaint mountain village and heading down to the lively south coast. That’s exactly what the South Coast Buggy Tour promises. We love that it offers a genuine adventure with a view—a chance to get off the beaten path while soaking in some of the island’s most striking landscapes. The combination of scenic stops and high-energy off-road driving makes this a well-rounded activity.
One of the major draws is the variety the tour offers. You’ll pass by beautiful landmarks and scenic beaches like El Benito and El Puertito, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos and enjoy the fresh air. We also appreciate that the tour includes expert guidance and safety instructions, which makes it accessible even for first-timers. The only consideration? It’s a dusty, bumpy ride, so expect to get a little messy and wear appropriate clothing (no flip-flops, please).
This tour is ideal for adventure-seeking families with children over 7 (who can handle the dust and excitement) or groups of friends looking for an active day out. If you’re after a more relaxed experience, this might not be the best fit. But for those craving a bit of adrenaline coupled with authentic scenery, it’s a real winner.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Santiago Del Teide.
What You Can Expect: A Detailed Breakdown
Starting Point and Pickup Service
The tour begins with a free pickup service from popular resort areas like Los Cristianos, Playa de Las Américas, and Costa Adeje. If you’re staying in those zones, you won’t need to worry about transportation—just be ready to meet your guide at the designated pickup times. For visitors arriving by car or coming from the north, the official starting point is El Guachinyero Restaurante in Chío, a small mountain village that offers a peaceful, rural setting away from tourist hustle.
The Drive from Chío to the Coast
The journey kicks off in the scenic mountain village of Chío, which provides a picturesque backdrop and a cool elevation before heading down into the warmth of the southern coast. We loved the way this initial part of the drive sets a tranquil tone, gradually building anticipation for the off-road portion. The group then makes its way down winding roads that offer a glimpse of Tenerife’s diverse landscape—from lush greenery to volcanic terrain.
More Great Tours NearbyOff-Road Trails and Beaches
Once past the more accessible roads, the real fun begins. The group hits exciting trails and tracks where dust and adrenaline mix. You’ll have opportunities to test your driving skills as you navigate through bumpy, dusty paths—careful steering and a sense of adventure are key here. The guide’s instructions are clear, and safety is prioritized, giving even novice drivers confidence to enjoy the ride.
Stops along the way include beautiful beaches like El Benito and El Puertito. These spots are perfect for a quick photo, a breath of sea air, or just to soak in the spectacular views. Reviewers often comment on how these beaches feel “hidden gems,” offering a peaceful contrast to the dusty trails. The scenery is what makes this tour stand out—craggy coastlines, volcanic rock formations, and expansive ocean views.
Breaks and Photo Opportunities
Throughout the 3-hour tour, there are designated breaks for photos and sightseeing. We found these moments crucial—they allow you to catch your breath and appreciate the landscape without the roar of the buggy. The opportunity to capture iconic Tenerife vistas makes this a trip you’ll want to remember, and the guide is usually happy to help with photo tips.
End of the Tour and Drop-off
The tour concludes back at the starting point or designated pickup locations, usually in about three hours. Because of the small group size, the experience feels intimate and well-paced. Many reviewers mention how the tour exceeded expectations in terms of value and fun, especially considering the included hotel pickup, guide, and safety gear.
The Experience Provider: Quality and Reliability
BUGGY & QUAD EXCURSIONES TENERIFE has a solid reputation for delivering authentic, well-organized tours. Their small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures everyone gets attention and a more personalized experience. The guide’s fluency in both English and Spanish helps clarify instructions and answer questions, adding a friendly, approachable vibe.
The tour includes a comprehensive safety briefing and civil responsibility insurance, emphasizing the importance of responsible driving. This is not just a reckless romp but a carefully managed adventure suitable for most thrill-seekers with a valid driver’s license.
Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth It?
Considering the tour’s duration, inclusions, and small group size, the price offers good value. You’re not just paying for a buggy ride but for a guided experience that covers scenic highlights, safety, and convenience. The free pickup service from popular resorts cuts down on logistical worries, and the chance to explore Tenerife’s rugged side is a unique experience many travelers seek.
Additional costs such as photos are optional, so if you want visual souvenirs, budget for that afterward. The flexibility of booking with a “reserve now, pay later” option and full refund up to 24 hours before the activity makes this a low-risk choice for spontaneous plans or uncertain schedules.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This is best suited for active travelers who aren’t afraid of a little dust and are eager to experience Tenerife in a different way. It’s a fantastic option for families with children over 7, groups of friends, or couples looking for a memorable adventure. Since drivers must be 21+ with a valid license, it’s not suitable for younger teens or those without the necessary paperwork.
If you prefer a relaxed, scenic boat tour or a cultural walk, this might not be your best fit. But if you enjoy adventure activities with the bonus of spectacular views, this buggy tour could become a highlight of your Tenerife trip.
The Sum Up
The Tenerife South Coast Buggy Tour with Off-Roading offers a lively, scenic, and exhilarating way to explore the island’s southern landscapes. It’s perfect for those who want to combine adrenaline with natural beauty, all within a small-group setting that feels intimate and safe. The tour’s stops at beaches and viewpoints add to its appeal, making it more than just a ride—it’s a memorable journey into Tenerife’s less-traveled side.
While the dusty trails and off-road skills required might not suit everyone, for the active and curious traveler, this experience delivers genuine fun and spectacular scenery in spades. It’s an authentic way to see parts of Tenerife that few get to explore on their own, making it a worthwhile addition to your holiday.
Highly recommended for adventure lovers, families with older children, and anyone craving a day of pure, unfiltered fun in the sun. Just remember to wear appropriate clothing, bring your driver’s license, and get ready for some dusty, breathtaking fun.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The experience covers a guided buggy ride, safety briefing, civil responsibility insurance, and free pickup from Los Cristianos, Playa de Las Américas, and Costa Adeje.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, including breaks for sightseeing and photos.
Are there any age restrictions?
Drivers must be at least 21 years old with a valid driver’s license. The tour is not suitable for children under 7.
Is the tour suitable for non-drivers?
Yes, but only if they are passengers in a vehicle driven by someone with a valid license. The main driver needs to meet age and license requirements.
Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Do I need to bring anything?
Just your driver’s license and appropriate clothing—avoid sandals or flip-flops for safety and comfort.
This detailed review aims to help you decide if this lively combination of scenery and off-road fun fits your Tenerife adventure. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply want a different perspective on the island’s landscapes, this buggy tour has plenty to offer.
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