Tenerife: Icod de los Vino, Garachico & Guachinche Tour

Explore Tenerife’s North with a Rich Blend of Nature, Culture, and Cuisine

This 6-hour guided tour from Tenerife Premium Tours offers a well-rounded look at some of the island’s most memorable spots in the north. Starting at Magma Arte & Congresos, the tour takes you through Icod de los Vinos, home to the Millennial Dragon Tree, then to Garachico to enjoy its natural lava pools, and finally to a local Guachinche for a traditional Canarian lunch. With a small group size limited to 8 participants, this experience emphasizes personal attention and a relaxed pace.

Rated 5 stars by the provider, this tour is especially suitable for visitors interested in combining scenic landscapes with cultural insights and authentic local food. The inclusion of a lunch with regional wine and visits to historic sites makes it a well-balanced choice for those wanting to explore Tenerife’s northern charm.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Duration: 6 hours, with multiple stops and sightseeing opportunities
• Highlights: Millennial Dragon Tree, Garachico lava pools, traditional Guachinche lunch
• Starting point: Magma Arte & Congresos in Tenerife sur
• Transport: Convenient van transfers between locations
• Group size: Small group experience with a maximum of 8 people
• Cost: Tour includes lunch and regional wine

Visiting the Iconic Millennial Dragon Tree in Icod de los Vinos

The tour begins at Icod de los Vinos, where the Millennial Dragon Tree (Drago Milenario) takes center stage. This legendary tree is noted for being the largest and longest-living of its kind, with a history that stretches back centuries. Visitors learn about the “Dragon’s Blood” sap, which was highly valued by the Guanches—the original inhabitants of the Canary Islands.

Next, the guide leads you through the butterfly garden El Drago, where over 800 exotic butterflies from around the world flutter among lush plants. Here, you can observe their life cycle, from birth to reproduction, and enjoy a close-up look at these delicate insects.

The town itself offers a glimpse into colonial architecture, with streets and houses that evoke the historic atmosphere. The San Marcos church and La Pila square stand out as highlights, showcasing the town’s cultural and historical richness.

Discovering Garachico’s Lava Pools and Resilience

After exploring Icod de los Vinos, a short 15-minute van ride takes you to Garachico, a village that faced a dramatic event in 1706 when a volcanic eruption buried much of the town in lava. Despite this, Garachico was reborn from its ashes and now stands as a symbol of resilience.

The main attraction here is the natural lava pools, formed by solidified volcanic lava and constantly refreshed by the sea. Visitors are encouraged to take a swim in these black rock pools, which provide a unique opportunity to experience the natural landscape firsthand. The Puerta de Tierra, the only remaining part of Garachico’s historic port, serves as a reminder of the town’s significance before the eruption.

The village’s awarded architecture and historical sites make Garachico a captivating stop, blending natural beauty with stories of recovery and strength.

Tasting Authentic Canarian Cuisine at a Guachinche

The tour’s culinary highlight is a traditional Guachinche, a type of local tavern unique to the northern part of Tenerife. These small, family-run establishments serve Canarian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

A lunch at the Guachinche includes wrinkled potatoes (papas arrugadas) with mojo sauce, gofio escaldón, and the special of the day—all accompanied by local harvest wine (vino del país). The curious origin story behind the name “Guachinche” adds cultural depth to the dining experience.

The lunch lasts about 1.5 hours, providing ample time to relax and enjoy the regional flavors in a cozy, authentic setting. The inclusion of regional wine makes it a genuine taste of Tenerife’s local gastronomy.

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Scenic Van Rides and Convenient Logistics

The tour includes several short van rides—65 minutes from the starting point to Icod de los Vinos, 15 minutes to Garachico, and 10 minutes back to Icod before returning to the meeting point. These transfers are smooth and allow for comfortable travel between sites, ensuring the pacing remains relaxed.

Starting at Magma Arte & Congresos, the departure coordinates are 28.069759368896484, -16.726831436157227, located in Las Americas, Tenerife sur. The guided tours are conducted in English and Spanish, with the small group setting promising a more personalized experience.

Practical Tips and Important Details

Travelers should wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking around historic streets and natural pools. Bringing swimwear and biodegradable sunscreen is recommended for enjoying the lava pools. The tour provides lunch, so no additional meal expenses are necessary.

Participants should not bring weapons, sharp objects, or alcohol into the vehicle, and smoking or drinking in the vehicle is prohibited. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, people over 275 lbs (125 kg), or babies under 1 year.

The reservation can be canceled up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund, offering flexibility for planning.

Why Choose This Tour?

The combination of stunning natural scenery, captivating history, and authentic cuisine makes this tour a standout option for those wanting a comprehensive look at Tenerife’s north. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, and the perfect 5-star rating reflects consistent quality.

Given its focus on cultural sites, natural beauty, and local food, this tour suits travelers eager to explore Tenerife beyond the typical beach vacation, especially those interested in history, nature, and regional gastronomy.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Day in Tenerife’s North

This 6-hour tour from Tenerife Premium Tours offers a thoughtfully curated experience, combining nature, culture, and cuisine. The visit to the Millennial Dragon Tree and Garachico’s lava pools deliver memorable scenic moments, while the lunch at a Guachinche provides an authentic taste of the island’s culinary traditions.

The small group setting and professional guides enhance the experience, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a more personal touch. While the pacing is relaxed, be prepared for some walking and outdoor activities, especially at the pools and historic streets.

This tour is ideal for those who want an immersive, varied look at Tenerife’s northern highlights, especially if they value authentic local food and stories of resilience. With excellent ratings and a well-structured itinerary, it offers good value for visitors seeking a balanced day of sightseeing, tasting, and cultural discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers guided sightseeing, van transportation, and a traditional lunch with regional wine.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is 6 hours, including all stops and transfers.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Magma Arte & Congresos in Las Americas, Tenerife sur.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a local, traditional lunch at a Guachinche is part of the tour.

Can I swim in the lava pools?
Yes, the natural pools in Garachico are open for swimming and are a highlight of the trip.

What should I bring?
Travelers should bring swimwear, biodegradable sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.

Is the tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired travelers?
The experience is not suitable for wheelchair users or babies under 1 year. It may be challenging for some with mobility issues due to walking.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides deliver commentary in English and Spanish.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes this tour different from others in Tenerife?
The combination of natural lava pools, historic sites, and a local Guachinche lunch sets it apart, offering a genuine taste of Tenerife’s north in a small, personalized group.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby