Volcano Teide – Masca ravine. Guided Tour from Puerto de la Cruz – Tenerife

Explore Tenerife’s Natural Wonders and Historic Villages with the Volcano Teide – Masca Ravine Guided Tour

This full-day guided tour from Puerto de la Cruz offers an excellent way to see some of the most iconic sights of Tenerife for $74.31 per person. Spanning approximately 9 hours, the tour includes visits to Teide National Park, the striking Los Roques de Garcia, the traditional Masca Valley, Garachico, and Icod de los Vinos. Pickup from your hotel is offered, making the experience convenient and stress-free.

A highlight of this tour is the chance to relax in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle while gaining insights from a knowledgeable local guide. With ampl e time at each stop, visitors can explore and take photos at their own pace. The tour is especially suitable for those eager to see Tenerife’s diverse landscapes, volcanic formations, and charming villages, though it involves winding mountain roads that may not suit those sensitive to heights.

While the day offers stunning scenery and educational commentary, it’s important to note that lunch is not included, so planning ahead is advised. This tour combines natural beauty with cultural highlights, making it a strong choice for travelers wanting a rundown of Tenerife’s highlights.

Key Points

• Price: $74.31 per person for a full-day experience
• Duration: Approximately 9 hours with multiple stops
• Departure Time: Starts at 8:00 am from Puerto de la Cruz
• Includes: Pickup, air-conditioned transport, expert guide
• Highlights: Teide National Park, Los Roques de Garcia, Masca village, Garachico, Icod de los Vinos
• Special Note: Not suitable for those sensitive to heights or mountain curves

Visiting Teide National Park at 2,350 Meters Altitude

The tour begins with a visit to Teide National Park, the crown jewel of the island. Spending around 30 minutes at this emblematic site, travelers walk amid the park’s unique volcanic rock formations and admire the landscape from 2,350 meters above sea level. The park’s scenery is impressive, featuring rock structures shaped by volcanic activity.

This stop is entirely free of charge, and it’s the perfect introduction to Tenerife’s volcanic origins. The park is renowned for its stark beauty and is a must-see for those interested in geology or simply wanting to enjoy breathtaking views. The guide shares insights about the mountain’s formation and the volcanic activity that shaped the island.

Photo Opportunity at Los Roques de Garcia

Next, the group pauses at Los Roques de Garcia, a famous rock formation often featured in images and postcards. This 30-minute stop offers photo opportunities of the distinctive rock stacks with Mount Teide as a backdrop.

Known for appearing on the 1000 peseta note, these rocks are an iconic symbol of Tenerife. Visitors can take in the surrounding vistas and learn about the geological processes that created these spectacular formations. The stop provides a great chance to snap memorable photos.

Exploring the Remote Charm of Masca Village

The tour then ventures into the Masca Valley, home to Tenerife’s most isolated village. With about an hour allocated, this stop highlights the village’s pirate history and picturesque landscape. Masca is known for its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and stunning mountain views.

Travelers get time to explore the village on foot, appreciating its remote charm and scenic surroundings. The journey to Masca involves zig-zag mountain roads, which are treacherous but skillfully navigated by the driver. This stop is ideal for those interested in local history or scenic strolls.

Discovering the Volcanic History of Garachico

Next, the tour visits Garachico, a town famously destroyed by volcanic lava in the 18th century. The 1-hour visit allows for a walk through the historic streets, where the volcanic eruption left a lasting mark on the town’s architecture and layout.

Garachico’s volcanic past makes it a fascinating stop, demonstrating how nature and history intertwine. Visitors can view lava formations and old buildings that survived the eruption, offering insight into Tenerife’s volcanic resilience.

Icod de los Vinos and the Ancient Dragon Tree

The final stop is at Icod de los Vinos, home to El Drago Milenario, the famous ancient dragon tree. Spending about 1 hour here, visitors can admire this spectacular tree, which is one of the most renowned natural monuments in the Canary Islands.

Beyond the tree, Icod de los Vinos is celebrated for its wines, with local vineyards producing notable varieties. The town provides an authentic taste of Tenerife’s wine-making tradition and offers additional opportunities for local shopping and cultural exploration.

Practical Details: Transport, Guides, and Group Size

The tour operates with a professional guide who provides insights throughout the day, and air-conditioned transportation ensures comfort on Tenerife’s mountain roads. The group size is limited to a maximum of 30 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Pickup is available from Puerto de la Cruz hotels, adding convenience to the day. However, travelers should be aware that roads are zig-zag mountain paths, making this tour not suitable for those sensitive to heights or curves.

Flexibility and Booking Policies

Booking typically occurs 22 days in advance, and confirmation is received at the time of booking, unless booked within two days of the tour date, in which case confirmation arrives within 48 hours. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time, allowing flexibility in case of weather issues or change of plans.

Weather conditions are a factor; if the tour is canceled due to poor weather, travelers are offered a full refund or the option to reschedule. Keep in mind that lunch is not included, and visitors should plan to eat at local restaurants during the day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This tour shines in its comprehensive coverage of Tenerife’s highlights, from volcanic landscapes to charming villages. The knowledgeable guides and skilled driver earn praise in reviews, especially for their ability to navigate the winding roads safely.

Travelers appreciate the ample time at each stop for exploration and photography, making it ideal for those who enjoy scenic walks and learning about local history. The inclusion of key sites such as Teide National Park’s rock formations and the ancient dragon tree ensures a well-rounded experience.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour offers great value and a rich itinerary, the mountain roads can be challenging, especially for those with height sensitivities or motion sickness. The lack of included lunch means travelers should budget extra time and money for dining. Plus, some stops are brief, so those wanting a more relaxed pace might find the schedule a bit tight.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Day of Tenerife Sights

The Volcano Teide – Masca Ravine Guided Tour from Puerto de la Cruz provides a balanced exploration of Tenerife’s volcanic, historic, and scenic highlights for $74.31. With expert guides, comfortable transportation, and stops that include Teide National Park, Masca Village, and the Dragon Tree in Icod, it appeals to visitors eager to see the most iconic spots.

While the winding mountain roads might pose a challenge for some, the stunning views and insightful commentary create a memorable experience. This tour is particularly suited for those interested in natural landscapes and local history who want a safe and organized way to see Tenerife’s most notable sights in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. Visitors have time to visit local restaurants during the day.

What is the pickup location?
Pickup is offered from hotels in Puerto de la Cruz.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, starting at 8:00 am.

Is this tour suitable for children or those sensitive to heights?
The tour involves mountain roads with zig-zag curves, and it’s not suitable for those sensitive to heights or curves.

Are tickets (admission fees) included?
All the stops listed are free of charge, including Teide National Park, Los Roques de Garcia, Masca, Garachico, and Icod de los Vinos.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its comprehensive itinerary, professional guides, and the chance to visit multiple iconic sites in a single day make it a popular choice.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 30 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Are there any special tips for this tour?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, and extra cash for lunch or souvenirs.