Balades Découverte Anaga & La Laguna

Discover Tenerife’s Hidden Gems with Balades Découverte Anaga & La Laguna

If you’re seeking a taste of Tenerife that combines natural beauty with cultural richness, the Balades Découverte Anaga & La Laguna tour might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally tagged along, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-rounded 8-hour adventure that offers a genuine look at the island’s diverse charms.

What we love about this experience is how it seamlessly mixes scenic landscapes with historical exploration. You get to walk through lush, endemic forests, wander charming colonial streets, and taste authentic Canarian cuisine—all in one day. Plus, the tour’s moderate price point ($88) makes it accessible for many travelers wanting a comprehensive day without breaking the bank.

However, a potential consideration is the duration—an 8-hour trip means a lot of moving parts, and some might find the pace a bit brisk. Still, if you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and want to maximize your Tenerife experience, this tour offers solid value. It’s ideal for curious travelers eager to understand the island beyond the beaches, especially those interested in nature, history, and local flavors.

Good To Know

• Diverse Itinerary: Combines beaches, forests, mountain viewpoints, and historic towns into one day.
• Authentic Experiences: Tastes of Canarian cuisine and visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• Comfortable Transportation: Includes coach travel with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Guided in French: The tour is led by a knowledgeable French-speaking guide, enhancing understanding.
• Value for Money: At $88, it provides a thorough, full-day experience with meals included.
• Moderate Pace: It’s packed with activities, making it suitable for those who enjoy busy days of sightseeing.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The tour starts early from Playa de las Américas, with a roughly 50-minute coach ride to get you into the heart of Tenerife’s northeastern landscape. The first stop is Las Teresitas Beach in San Andres. Known for its golden sands and calm waters, this beach is a perfect spot to stretch your legs and soak in the island’s coastal beauty. Some reviews note it as a “beautiful, peaceful spot,” ideal for a quick photo or a relaxing pause before heading inland.

Next, you’ll venture into the Anaga Rural Park, a designated Biosphere Reserve. This is the highlight for nature lovers—expect to cross the Anaga massif, a rugged mountain range covered in dense, humid forests. The park’s endemic laurel forests are unique to the Canary Islands and give the landscape a prehistoric, almost mystical feeling. Reviewers frequently mention the spectacular scenery and the chance to see flora you won’t find anywhere else.

Your journey continues to the charming village of Taganana, where terraced fields grow tropical fruits and vegetables. This part of the tour offers a glimpse into traditional agriculture, with some travelers noting the authentic rural vibe and the opportunity to see how locals cultivate their land in a landscape that feels suspended in time.

Lunchtime is at a local Canarian restaurant, where you’ll get to savor dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Many reviews emphasize the quality of the food—think hearty stews, fresh fish, and local wines served in an atmosphere that feels genuine and welcoming. It’s a chance to experience the island’s culinary traditions firsthand.

From there, the tour proceeds to the Cruz del Carmen Lookout, perched at 920 meters above sea level. This vantage point offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and forests and once served as a crucial crossroads linking the highlands with La Laguna. The guide will likely share stories about its historical importance, adding depth to the scenery.

The final stop is San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its perpendicular cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and historical buildings make it a photographer’s dream. You’ll explore mansions, churches, and patios that showcase Canary Island elegance. Reviewers frequently mention the charm of walking through historic streets that resemble Caribbean colonial cities.

The day wraps up with a leisurely return to Playa de las Américas, giving you time to reflect on a day filled with natural beauty and cultural discovery.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

The inclusion of both natural and cultural highlights provides a well-rounded snapshot of Tenerife. The visit to the endemic laurel forests is special—these lush, humid woodlands evoke a sense of stepping back in time, and few tours include such a detailed immersion. The visit to La Laguna’s historic center offers a different kind of scenery—one of preserved colonial architecture and quiet streets—perfect for history buffs or architecture enthusiasts.

The local cuisine component is especially valued. Many travelers appreciate that the lunch isn’t just a quick meal but a savory experience—enjoying traditional Canarian dishes paired with regional wine. This elevates the tour from simple sightseeing to a taste of island life.

Transportation is streamlined, with hotel pickup and drop-off simplifying logistics. The coach journey means you won’t have to worry about navigating or parking; instead, you can relax and enjoy the scenery from comfortable seats.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. It appeals to those interested in nature, history, and local culture, making it ideal for first-timers or anyone eager to maximize a single day’s itinerary.

Since the tour is guided in French, it’s particularly perfect for French-speaking visitors or those comfortable with the language. The moderate price provides good value considering the variety of sites visited, meals included, and transportation.

However, it may not be suitable for young children under 8 or travelers with mobility challenges, as the day involves walking and some uneven terrain, especially in the forested and historic areas.

Final Thoughts

The Balades Découverte Anaga & La Laguna offers an engaging look at Tenerife’s diverse landscape and cultural heritage. It balances scenic natural parks with the charm of a UNESCO World Heritage town, all while offering authentic local cuisine. The guided approach ensures you gain insights into each site, making it especially valuable for those interested in a meaningful, well-structured day.

If you’re after an immersive experience that combines outdoor adventure with cultural exploration—without the stress of navigating on your own—this tour provides an excellent way to spend a day on the island. It’s a good pick for curious travelers who want honest value, meaningful sights, and a taste of true Tenerife life.

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FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from the selected area in Playa de las Américas, making it convenient to start and end the day.

How long is the guided tour in La Laguna?
You will enjoy a guided tour of La Laguna’s historic center that lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore its streets, churches, and mansions.

What should I bring for the tour?
It’s recommended to bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes for walking, a jacket for mountain areas, and some cash or card for additional personal expenses.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 8 years old, and it may be challenging for travelers with mobility impairments due to walking and uneven terrain.

What kind of food is served during lunch?
The lunch is at a traditional Canarian restaurant, where you’ll enjoy local specialties and regional wine, providing a genuine taste of island cuisine.

How long is the overall tour?
The full experience lasts around 8 hours, with transportation, guided activities, and meals included, making it a full but rewarding day.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if plans change.

In summary, the Balades Découverte Anaga & La Laguna tour provides a richly layered snapshot of Tenerife’s natural beauty and cultural treasures. With a well-paced itinerary, authentic experiences, and supportive logistics, it’s a great choice for travelers wanting to see the island’s highlights comfortably and enjoyably.

You can check if your dates are available here: