VIP Teide and Masca Tour from Puerto de la Cruz

Taking a full-day trip around Tenerife’s most iconic sights is a fantastic way to see the island’s diverse landscapes and charming villages. This VIP Teide and Masca Tour from Puerto de la Cruz promises an adventure packed with stunning views, cultural stops, and easy access to hard-to-reach spots—especially with a 4WD vehicle that handles volcanic tracks with ease.

What we particularly like about this experience is the chance to explore Teide National Park’s otherworldly scenery, visit the picturesque village of Masca, and enjoy a delicious included lunch. The tour feels well-paced, with enough breaks to soak in the views without feeling rushed. Plus, the knowledge of the guides helps bring the landscape to life, making the day informative and engaging.

One thing to keep in mind is the group size—while advertised as a VIP experience, reviews mention that it can feel more like a standard group tour, especially for those expecting a more intimate setting. Still, the value for money, especially considering the included meals and entry to key sights, makes this a worthwhile option for many travelers.

This tour suits those who love a mix of nature, culture, and scenic drives without the hassle of planning, and it’s perfect if you want to see Tenerife’s highlights in one day with expert guidance.

Good To Know

• Versatile itinerary covering Teide National Park, Masca Village, Garachico, La Orotava, and scenic lookouts
• Comfortable 4WD vehicle facilitates access to volcanic tracks and off-the-beaten-path spots
• All-inclusive experience with a tasty lunch and expert guide
• Flexible pickup options in Puerto de la Cruz and nearby hotels
• Family-friendly and suitable for most travelers, with recommendations to bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes
• Good value for a full-day tour that combines nature, culture, and stunning scenery

Exploring Tenerife’s Highlights

This tour offers a well-rounded experience, blending nature, history, and local culture in one day. We’ll walk through each stop to give you a real picture of what’s on offer and how it all fits together.

Teide National Park: A Volcanic Wonder

Your day begins at Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s home to Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide. The park’s surreal volcanic landscape is full of jagged rocks, lava formations, and otherworldly vistas. Expect about an hour here to take in the views, snap photos, and appreciate the natural grandeur.

A highlight within the park is Los Roques de Garcia, towering rock formations that seem to reach for the sky. As one reviewer noted, “The scenery of the forest, Teide and trip down to Masca was amazing,” and Los Roques definitely lives up to that description. The rocks make for fantastic photo opportunities and give a sense of the island’s volcanic origins.

Garachico: A Village of Resilience

Next, your journey takes you to Garachico, a small village that’s been rebuilt after a volcanic eruption in the 18th century. Its cobbled streets and historic buildings create a charming atmosphere. One reviewer described it as “the living image of resurrection,” emphasizing the resilience of this lovely place. You’ll spend around an hour here, wandering through the streets, enjoying the local vibe, and possibly trying some local treats.

Masca Valley: The Hidden Gem

Masca is often described as one of Tenerife’s most picturesque villages. Its narrow streets, traditional Canary Islands architecture, and stunning mountain backdrop make it a favorite for visitors. Although the access can be challenging by car, the tour’s 4WD vehicle makes the trip smooth and comfortable. Expect about an hour here to explore, take photos, and soak in the mountain serenity.

One reviewer called Masca a “very difficult to access” spot but loved visiting it on this trip, thanks to the guide’s expertise. It’s a chance to step back in time and experience a place that feels untouched by modern tourism.

La Orotava: Historic Charm and Local Flavors

The tour wraps up with a visit to La Orotava, a town filled with stately homes and lush gardens. One highlight is La Casa de Los Balcones, a beautifully preserved example of local architecture. Travelers often mention the opportunity to taste genuine Canary Island cuisine at a local mansion here, adding a delicious cultural layer to the day.

Scenic Lookouts and Photo Stops

Throughout the trip, you’ll enjoy several scenic lookout points, including the San Pedro viewpoint, where panoramic vistas stretch across Tenerife’s varied landscapes. These spots are perfect for a quick break and photo opportunities to remember the trip.

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

The tour package includes a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, which is essential for the long day and uneven terrain. The lunch, a thoughtful inclusion, allows you to refuel without worrying about finding a place to eat—reviewers praised the meal as tasty and well-suited to the trip.

The driver/guide is a crucial part of the experience, with one reviewer mentioning guide Manuel’s engaging commentary and interesting explanations. It’s clear that the guides bring a lot of local knowledge and enthusiasm, making the stops more meaningful.

Insurance is also covered, offering peace of mind during the adventure.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

While most reviews are positive, some mention the group size and logistics. For instance, one reviewer noted that “packed with 8 people in a minibus is not exactly a VIP tour,” which indicates that although the experience is described as VIP, it might feel more like a standard group trip.

Another reviewer highlighted the importance of bringing a small speaker system, as some guests had difficulty understanding the guide from the back of the van.

Nevertheless, the guides’ knowledge and the stunning scenery seem to shine through. Guests appreciated the delicious lunch and the chance to visit places that are difficult to reach on your own, like Masca and the volcanic tracks.

Practical Details

Starting at 8:30 am from Puerto de la Cruz, the tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, making it a full-day commitment but packed with sights. The meeting point is conveniently located at Calle Aceviño, with options for hotel pickup—just be sure to confirm your hotel when booking.

The tour accommodates up to 100 travelers, which means it can feel busy, but the large group allows for more social interactions or a lively atmosphere, depending on your preference.

What to Bring

Reviewers recommend bringing water, comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen—the weather can vary, and some stops involve walking or outdoor exposure. A coat might be useful if you’re sensitive to temperature changes, particularly at higher elevations.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility if your plans change.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re after a comprehensive tour that mixes natural beauty with cultural charm, this trip is a strong choice. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see Tenerife’s highlights without the hassle of planning each stop. Families, couples, or friends who enjoy scenic drives, photo opportunities, and insightful guides will find plenty to love here.

However, if you prefer a very intimate experience or are sensitive to group sizes, you might find this more suited to those comfortable with larger tours. The inclusion of a well-rounded itinerary, tasty lunch, and knowledgeable guides makes it a good value for a full-day exploration.

The Sum Up

This VIP Teide and Masca Tour from Puerto de la Cruz offers a well-balanced mix of scenic landscapes, cultural gems, and convenience. The 4WD vehicle makes tackling volcanic terrain easy, and the stops at Garachico, Masca, La Orotava, and scenic lookouts ensure a varied experience. The included lunch and engaging guide enhance the value, making this a practical choice for travelers eager to maximize their Tenerife visit.

While it may not feel entirely “VIP” due to the larger group size, the overall experience delivers stunning views, authentic villages, and interesting stories. It’s a versatile tour suited for anyone wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free day of exploring the island’s highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, generally most travelers can participate, but comfortable footwear and some walking are recommended.

What is the meeting point and can I get a hotel pickup?
The meeting point is Calle Aceviño, 12 in Puerto de la Cruz. Hotel pickup is available if you inform the tour provider when booking.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning at the meeting point.

Does the tour include meals?
Yes, a lunch is included, with reviews confirming it was tasty and well-presented.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and a coat if needed. A small speaker might help if you want everyone to hear the guide better.

Is the vehicle comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned vehicles designed for a full day of sightseeing and access to volcanic tracks.

Are the stops worth the time?
Absolutely, each stop offers unique scenery and cultural insights, with most reviews praising the variety and quality of the experience.

What’s the capacity of the tour?
Up to 100 travelers, so expect a lively group but plenty of opportunities for photos and socializing.

What makes this tour a good value?
The combination of scenic drives, cultural stops, expert guidance, and included lunch makes it a comprehensive package worth its cost, especially considering the convenience.

This detailed review should help you decide if this tour fits your Tenerife adventure plans. With the right expectations, it promises a memorable day exploring the volcanic heart and charming corners of this beautiful island.