North West Tenerife Secrets

If you’re planning a trip to Tenerife and want a hassle-free way to see its most captivating sights, the North West Tenerife Secrets tour might be on your radar. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the package promises a full day of exploration, stunning landscapes, and local flavors—all wrapped into an 8-hour adventure that aims to keep things relaxed and engaging.

What draws us to this tour? First, the inclusion of transportation and guided commentary makes it a practical choice for those who prefer not to drive or navigate on their own. Second, the culinary and wine tastings add a delightful touch for food and drink enthusiasts. Lastly, the variety of stops—from mountain villages to volcanic beaches—offers a well-rounded snapshot of Tenerife’s diverse northwest.

A key consideration is the length of the driving segments—reviewers note that there’s quite a bit of time spent in transit, sometimes on winding roads up and down Tenerife’s rugged terrain. This might be tiring for travelers prone to motion sickness or with limited walking capacity. This tour is best suited for those eager to see multiple highlights without the hassle of planning, especially if you appreciate local food and scenic drives.

This experience will suit travelers who love guided tours, are interested in local cuisine and wine, and want to maximize their sightseeing in a compact timeframe. If you’re after a relaxed day, with plenty of picture-perfect stops, this is a solid option.

Good To Know

• Convenience: Includes transfers, guiding, and some meals, saving you planning time.
• Diverse Stops: From mountain villages to volcanic landscapes and charming hamlets.
• Food & Drink: Tasting sessions and lunch included, great for culinary enthusiasts.
• Scenic Views: Expect plenty of photos and panoramic vistas.
• Group Size: Limited to 30 travelers, promoting a more personalized experience.
• Potential Drawbacks: Long hours in the van and short stops may impact some.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Santiago del Teide: Mountain Majesty

The day kicks off with a visit to Santiago del Teide, perched high in the mountains. With whitewashed houses and sweeping views, this spot offers a perfect start for photography and soaking in the tranquility of a remote village. Reviewers mention the “amazing views from the high mountains” and describe it as a quiet, scenic introduction. Expect about an hour here, ideal for a quick browse and photo session.

Icod de los Vinos: The Ancient Dragon Tree

Next, the tour moves to Icod de los Vinos, famed for its centuries-old dragon tree. A guide will take you through the town, sharing insights about its history and local charm. The highlight, of course, is the impressive tree—some reviewers say it’s worth the visit just for that. You’ll spend around an hour here, with enough time to appreciate the tree and the town’s quaint atmosphere.

Garachico: Lava and Natural Pools

One of the more visually striking stops is Garachico. This town was devastated by a volcanic eruption in 1706, and its streets and buildings were rebuilt on lava flows. Today, its natural lava pools, guarded by volcanic rock castles, are popular for a quick dip or photo ops. Spending about two hours here, you’ll walk through cobbled streets, admire the lava formations, and perhaps dip into the pools if you choose (though this isn’t included). Reviewers note that Garachico is “the prettiest and unluckiest” place, owing to its fiery history but resilient beauty.

Natural Park of Teno: Biodiversity and Bounty

In the afternoon, the tour ventures into the Natural Park of Teno, a rugged area celebrated for biodiversity and agricultural produce. The guide will share insights into the park’s flora and fauna, and you’ll have the chance to sample local products like cheeses, honey, and perhaps some wine. Expect about an hour, giving you a taste of Tenerife’s natural richness and the chance to appreciate its flavors.

Masca Valley: The Enchanting Hamlet

The day concludes in the picturesque hamlet of Masca, perched atop a ridge overlooking a deep valley. Described as a “lost village,” Masca is often regarded as one of Tenerife’s most enchanting spots. Reviewers mention its “precarious position” and its charm, making it a fitting finale. You’ll spend around an hour wandering the narrow streets and taking photos of the dramatic scenery.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price ($102.97):

• Round-trip transfer from designated meeting points
• Guided commentary throughout the day
• Lunch and drinks, allowing you to relax and enjoy local cuisine
• Wine and local product tastings, perfect for foodies

Not included:

• Additional drinks outside of the organized tasting
• Souvenirs or personal expenses

The price reflects good value considering the transportation, guided service, and multiple tastings. For travelers who prefer a stress-free experience that covers diverse highlights without extra planning, this is a practical choice.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

The tour uses a small, clean van, accommodating up to 30 travelers, but reviews indicate that most trips involve small groups, often around six people. The vehicle’s comfort and the friendly guides stand out as positives. One reviewer mentions the “friendly drivers/tour guides” and appreciates the views from the high mountains, reinforcing that the journey itself is part of the charm.

However, the route involves a good deal of winding roads, which some found tiring. As one reviewer pointed out, “there’s so much driving (up and down, round & round) for such a small distance,” which could be a downside for sensitive travelers.

Guides and Insights

Guides are generally praised for their friendliness and knowledge, with some reviewers noting they were very informative and helpful. This adds value, especially for travelers interested in learning about local history, flora, and culinary traditions.

Tips for Making the Most of This Tour

• Wear comfortable shoes for the stops, especially in Masca and Garachico.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat; many stops are outdoors and sunny.
• If you have food allergies, notify the tour providers in advance.
• Consider bringing a light jacket if you’re sensitive to altitude or cooler mountain air.
• Prepare for some hours on the coach—if you dislike long drives, this might test your patience.
• Bring your camera or smartphone fully charged; the scenery offers plenty of photo opportunities.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those craving a comprehensive, guided exploration of northwest Tenerife, this tour offers a solid package. It’s particularly appealing to food and wine lovers thanks to included tastings and lunch, and its diverse stops are perfect for those who want a snapshot of the region’s natural beauty and history.

The value is notable, considering the included transfers, meals, and guide. That said, the long transit times and short stops might not suit travelers who prefer a more leisurely, unhurried pace or detailed exploration of each site.

This tour strikes a balance between sightseeing, comfort, and culinary experiences—ideal for travelers who want to cover a lot in one day without the stress of self-driving.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for foodies, wine enthusiasts, and those who enjoy scenic drives with guided commentary. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to maximize their time in Tenerife without the hassle of planning individual excursions. If you’re comfortable with some hours in a van and short stops, this tour provides a well-rounded dose of northwest Tenerife’s highlights.

If you’re looking for an immersive, slow-paced exploration or have mobility issues, you might want to consider other options. But for a practical, engaging day with stunning views and local flavors, this tour hits many right notes.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transfer from designated meeting points in Tenerife.

How long is the total driving time?
While specific driving durations aren’t listed, reviewers mention that the route involves quite a bit of winding roads, with some describing it as “up and down, round & round.”

What does the lunch include?
Lunch and drinks are included, offering a chance to relax and enjoy regional cuisine. However, extra drinks or souvenirs are not included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour isn’t recommended for those with walking difficulties or who suffer from travel sickness due to the lengthy drives.

How much free time is there at each stop?
Stops range from about one to two hours, with some reviewers suggesting planning ahead if you want to explore villages more thoroughly.

Are there any optional activities during the tour?
The main activities involve sightseeing, tastings, and walking around the villages. Swimming or extensive hikes are not part of the itinerary.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera are recommended. Notify the guide of any food allergies beforehand.

To sum it up, North West Tenerife Secrets offers a practical and picturesque way to see some of the island’s most beloved sites, all wrapped into one day. With friendly guides, local tastings, and stunning scenery, it’s a good option for travelers wanting a guided, food-focused adventure—just be prepared for a fair amount of time on the road.