Full Day Small Group Tour to Masca and Teide From North Tenerife

Explore Tenerife’s Inland Wonders on a Small Group Tour

This full-day small group tour offers an engaging way to see some of Tenerife’s most breathtaking inland sights for just $93.85 per person. With a duration of approximately 8 hours, the tour includes pickup, guided commentary, and a traditional Canarian lunch, making it a well-rounded experience. This tour is perfect for those who want a curated, intimate exploration of Tenerife’s volcanic landscapes, scenic viewpoints, and the charming hamlet of Masca.

The group size is limited to 24 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personal atmosphere. Although the tour runs most days, it is recommended to book about 37 days in advance for better availability. The price includes all transport, guide, and lunch, while extras like drinks or souvenirs are not included.

Key Points

• Discover Tenerife’s volcanic and lush landscapes in a small group setting.
• Visit Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with free access to stunning viewpoints.
• See iconic rock formations at Los Roques de Garcia with views of the volcano cone.
• Enjoy a Canarian lunch at a family-run restaurant in Masca village.
• Explore Masca, a ridge-top hamlet in a volcanic gorge, with ample free time.
• Comfortable 8-hour guided tour with transportation, panoramic viewpoints, and a mix of nature and culture.

Starting Point and Transport in an Intimate Minivan

The tour departs at 8:00 am from a designated meeting point, with pickup service included. Traveling in an eight-seater minivan enables the tour to navigate Tenerife’s inland roads comfortably while maintaining an intimate, small-group atmosphere. This setup ensures personalized attention from the guide and easier access to scenic viewpoints that larger tours might miss.

Transport is provided throughout the day, taking you from the lush pine forests of Teide National Park to the volcanic badlands and the picturesque Masca village. The small group size makes for a relaxed and flexible experience, with opportunities to ask questions and take plenty of photos at each stop.

First Stop: Teide National Park’s Pine Forest and Volcanic Landscapes

The journey begins early in the morning as the minivan heads south into Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The dense pine forest surrounding the park’s lower reaches provides lush scenery, leading up to the more dramatic volcanic terrain above. Visitors are given about 2 hours to explore this area, with free admission to the park.

This stop showcases Tenerife’s volcanic origins, with landscapes that seem almost alien—rock-strewn badlands, lava flows, and towering volcanic formations. The guide offers insights into the park’s geology and history, enhancing the visual experience. The route into the park offers opportunities for stunning photos, especially from viewpoints looking toward the volcano and the clouds rolling beneath.

Mirador de Chipeque: Overlooking the Cloud-Blanketed Landscape

The next stop is at the Mirador de Chipeque, a popular viewpoint famed for its panoramic vistas. Here, visitors often see the landscape cloaked in clouds, creating an atmosphere of mystery and majesty. The scenery around this viewpoint is notably green, with lush vegetation contrasting the volcanic terrain encountered later.

The 1-hour stop includes a chance to take in the expansive views and snap photos of the clouds below. This viewpoint also provides a glimpse into the changing weather conditions of the park, as clouds drift through the highlands, adding to the dramatic scenery.

Los Roques de Garcia: Iconic Rock Formations and Volcano Views

A highlight of the tour is the visit to Los Roques de Garcia, a collection of striking rock formations set against the backdrop of Mount Teide’s cone. Over 1 hour, visitors can walk around these iconic rocks, take photographs, and learn about their geological formation.

The proximity of these formations to the volcanic cone makes this a perfect spot for memorable images. The guide explains the significance of the rocks and the earth’s volcanic activity that shaped them, making this stop both scenic and educational.

Masca Valley and the Ridge-Top Village

The journey then continues into Masca Valley, a deep volcanic gorge known for its rugged beauty. Before descending into the village, a brief visit to Poleos viewpoint offers a last look at the lava-scarred terrain. The tour allocates 3 hours for exploring Masca, including a traditional lunch at a family-run restaurant.

Masca is famed for its perched location on a ridge, with narrow streets and panoramic vistas of the surrounding gorge. The village’s charm lies in its authenticity and scenic setting, with cobbled streets and local architecture. Visitors have free time to wander, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere, making this a memorable part of the day.

Authentic Canarian Lunch at a Local Family Restaurant

Lunch is served at a family-run restaurant in Masca, featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The meal offers a taste of traditional Canarian cuisine, providing a satisfying break after the morning’s sightseeing. The inclusion of lunch adds value to the tour, giving travelers a chance to enjoy authentic flavors in a cozy setting.

The restaurant’s setting complements the scenic surroundings, making the meal more than just sustenance—it’s part of the experience, connecting visitors with local culture and hospitality.

The Volcanic Gorges of Masca

After lunch, the tour explores the Masca gorge itself, a dramatic landscape carved by volcanic activity. The village’s perch on a ridge offers breathtaking views of the deep gorge below, with steep cliffs and lush vegetation lining the valley. The free time allows visitors to walk around, admire the scenery, and take photographs of the rugged terrain.

This area’s natural beauty and geological significance make it a favorite stop. The guide highlights the formation of the gorge and its importance as one of Tenerife’s most photogenic sights.

Practical Details: Group Size, Booking, and Flexibility

The maximum group size of 24 travelers ensures a relaxed atmosphere, personal interaction with the guide, and ease of access to viewpoints. The tour includes pickup and transport, making logistics straightforward. Reservations are recommended 37 days in advance, given the popularity of the tour.

The route may be amended at short notice due to factors beyond control, such as weather conditions, but the overall experience remains consistent. The full-day itinerary balances sightseeing, local culture, and scenic views, making it suitable for most travelers.

Tour Pricing and Value for Money

Priced at $93.85 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive experience for a reasonable cost. The fee covers transport, guide, and lunch, while admission to the stops like Teide National Park and Los Roques de Garcia is included or free. The small group size and guided approach enhance the value, offering personalized insights and comfortable travel.

Additional expenses, like drinks or souvenirs, are not included, but the overall package offers good value for travelers wanting a full day of exploration.

Weather Considerations and Cancellation Policy

This tour requires good weather—poor conditions may result in cancellation or route changes. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds available if canceled due to weather or other factors. The flexibility allows travelers to plan with confidence, knowing they can reschedule or receive a refund if necessary.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour appeals most to those interested in nature, geology, and scenic landscapes. The combination of volcanic scenery, lush viewpoints, and the charming village of Masca offers a well-rounded day. It’s suitable for most fitness levels, as the stops involve walking but not strenuous hikes. Travelers seeking a relaxed, guided experience of Tenerife’s inland treasures will find this tour both enjoyable and informative.

Final Thoughts on the Masca and Teide Small Group Tour

This 8-hour guided journey delivers a balanced view of Tenerife’s volcanic beauty, scenic vistas, and local culture. The inclusion of Teide National Park, Los Roques de Garcia, and Masca makes it a compelling choice for those eager to see Tenerife’s natural highlights in a day. The small-group setting and local lunch add a warm, personal touch to the adventure.

While weather can influence the experience, this tour offers flexibility and excellent value, making it a reliable option for exploring inland Tenerife. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic views, authentic food, and insightful guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transport in a small minivan, guide services, and a traditional Canarian lunch.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending in the late afternoon.

Are there any physical requirements?
The stops involve walking around scenic areas like Masca and viewpoints, but no strenuous hikes are specified.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking.

What should I bring?
Bring layers for variable weather, a camera, and any personal snacks or drinks you wish to purchase.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time, with full refunds if canceled due to weather or other issues.

Will the route change due to weather?
Yes, the route can be amended at short notice if weather conditions are poor, but the core highlights remain.

Is there an age limit for participants?
Most travelers can join, but the tour is best suited for those able to handle a full day of outdoor sightseeing.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 37 days in advance is recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
Its small group size, scenic stops, authentic lunch, and focus on inland Tenerife landscapes make it a memorable and personal experience.