VIP Tour Around Anaga and La Laguna

Exploring the VIP Tour Around Anaga and La Laguna

Traveling to Tenerife offers a tempting mix of volcanic landscapes, charming towns, and gorgeous beaches. One popular way to take in this diverse scenery without the stress of self-driving is the VIP Tour Around Anaga and La Laguna, offered by Yedra Excursiones en Todoterreno. While the name suggests luxury, it’s more about comfort and convenience, with an itinerary designed to showcase some of the island’s most captivating outdoor sights.

What we like about this tour is its ability to cover a wide range of Tenerife’s highlights in just one day—from UNESCO-listed La Laguna to the lush, ancient forests of Anaga. Plus, lunch is included, which takes the hassle out of finding a decent meal during a busy day of sightseeing. On the flip side, the price is fairly typical for a guided experience, but some reviews suggest that the duration might feel rushed or that free time is sometimes limited—something to consider if you want a more leisurely pace.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a well-organized day out with a knowledgeable guide, especially if you prefer not to navigate public transport or rent a car. It’s best suited for those who want a taste of Tenerife’s outdoors and heritage without spending too much time figuring out logistics.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioned vehicles simplifies travel across dispersed sites.
• In-depth exploration of Anaga’s laurel forests and volcanic formations offers authentic natural beauty.
• Historic La Laguna provides a UNESCO World Heritage experience with charming streets and architecture.
• All-included lunch saves time and ensures you taste local flavors without extra planning.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary, though some reviews mention inconsistent explanations during free time.
• Limited free time at some stops might mean missing out on extra exploration or shopping.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour starts early at 8:00 am, meeting at the Tamaran/Volcanic office in Puerto de la Cruz, with pickups available if you arrange in advance. From there, the day unfolds with a series of carefully chosen stops, each offering its own unique appeal.

First Stop: San Cristobal de La Laguna

La Laguna is the tour’s cultural highlight, and rightfully so. Recognized by UNESCO, this historic city is a maze of cobbled streets, colonial buildings, and lively plazas. We loved the way the guide highlighted key sites and stories, bringing the town’s history to life. One reviewer praised Urbano, our guide, for his energy and storytelling, emphasizing how his explanations made the sights more meaningful.

You’ll spend about an hour wandering here, soaking in the architecture, and perhaps grabbing a quick coffee. Keep in mind that some travelers felt that the free time could be better managed — one review noted, “Free time in the city was lost because the guide did not come to give explanations,” which might affect those wanting a deeper exploration.

Second Stop: Parque Rural de Anaga

Next up is the ancient volcanic landscape of Anaga, a true highlight of this tour. The park’s volcanic formations are between 7 and 9 million years old, offering a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. The lush laurel forest is a must-see, with towering trees and cool, fresh air. We found the scenery breathtaking, and the guide’s commentary added context about the formation and flora.

The tour spends around an hour here, traveling through scenic roads and stopping for photos and short walks. Many reviewers echo the delight at seeing this unique ecosystem, though some mention that more time could allow a better appreciation of the natural beauty.

Coastal Charm at Santa Cruz Beach

This stop is a quick dash to Santa Cruz’s famous palm-lined beach, boasting golden sand and coastal views. It’s an ideal spot for a short break, a swim, or simply to enjoy the idyllic setting. The beach is often crowded, but the scenery and atmosphere make it worthwhile. Here, some travelers appreciate the opportunity to relax briefly while taking in the ocean breeze.

The Village of Taganana

The last main stop is the quaint village of Taganana, a place exuding authentic Canarian charm. Its old buildings and relaxed atmosphere offer a glimpse into traditional island life. The tour includes a lunch in this scenic setting, featuring local Canary Islands dishes. Multiple reviews agree that this is a highlight, with one praising the delicious food and the authentic atmosphere.

Overall Value and Travel Experience

The 7 to 8 hours of this tour are packed with sightseeing, and the air-conditioned vehicle makes long drives comfortable. The inclusion of lunch adds value, especially for those who prefer to avoid the hassle of searching for a good place to eat. The driver/guide makes a big difference; reviews highlight guides like Urbano for their enthusiasm and informative commentary.

However, some travelers felt the timing was tight, with not enough free time at certain stops. One reviewer suggested that a lower price might be more appropriate if the pace doesn’t allow for in-depth exploration. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the stunning vistas, which made the experience memorable despite the minor inconveniences.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses air-conditioned minivans, which comfortably fit up to 100 travelers, though smaller groups are likely. The large group size can sometimes reduce the feeling of intimacy, but the guide’s efforts to keep everyone engaged tend to mitigate this. The pickup options and meeting point in Puerto de la Cruz make it accessible, and advance booking (17 days ahead on average) suggests a popular choice.

Price and Overall Value

At $94.66 per person, this tour offers a reasonable value considering the full day of sightseeing, included lunch, and the comfort of guided transport. It’s not the cheapest option, but it provides a well-rounded experience for those who prefer a organized, hassle-free day. Keep in mind that some reviews point out that if you’re the type who wants more free time or personalized attention, this might feel a bit rushed.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a rundown of Tenerife’s highlights without the stress of planning each stop. It suits those who appreciate guided commentary, beautiful scenery, and the convenience of transport. It’s also a good choice for visitors who prefer not to rent a car or navigate public transport themselves.

If your priority is to see both cultural and natural sights in one day, and you’re comfortable with some time constraints, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for those who value expert guides and appreciate a structured day with included meals.

Conclusions

This VIP tour around Anaga and La Laguna offers a well-organized, scenic, and culturally rich day on Tenerife. You’ll love the stunning views, the insightful guides, and the chance to visit UNESCO sites and lush forests without the hassle of driving. The inclusion of lunch and comfortable transportation makes it a practical choice, especially for visitors short on time or unfamiliar with the island.

That said, it might not be ideal if you’re seeking lots of free time or a very personalized experience, as some reviews suggest the pace can be a bit quick. Still, for anyone wanting a balanced, engaging, and beautiful day out on Tenerife, this tour offers solid value and memorable sights.

FAQ

What is the start time for the tour?
The tour begins at 8:00 am, with meeting at the Tamaran/Volcanic office in Puerto de la Cruz. Pickup options are available if you inform the company.

How long does the tour last?
Expect approximately 7 to 8 hours, covering multiple stops, sightseeing, and travel time.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a meal is part of the package, served in Taganana, featuring authentic Canary Islands dishes.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing full refunds if needed.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues or very young children should check with the provider beforehand due to the walking involved.

Are there any additional costs?
All main attractions are free to visit; the tour fee covers transportation, guide, and lunch. You might want extra for souvenirs or personal snacks.

In essence, this tour provides a comfortable, guided way to experience some of Tenerife’s most beautiful and culturally significant sites. It balances natural wonder with heritage, all wrapped in a well-organized, friendly package that’s ideal for travelers wanting a hassle-free day of adventure.