Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
A quad safari in Tenerife is a guided route on which you drive a quad yourself, in single file behind an instructor, along mountain roads up to Teide National Park (Parque Nacional del Teide) or, in some offers, along authorised dirt tracks. They usualland thest 3 to 4 hours, and there are quads for one or two people.
To drive you need a valid car driving licence (category B), in physical format. This page explains which routes exist, how much of the ride is really on tarmac and what requirements companies set.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Guided route driving a quad |
| Usual routes | Road up to Teide (about 75–90 km, up to about 2,400 m); tracks on estates in the north |
| Duration | About 3–4 hours in the offers reviewed |
| Licence | Valid category B (car) licence, original and physical |
| Driver age | Usually 18; some companies require an older age or a longer-held licence |
| Passenger | Usually from age 7 |
| Deposit | Some companies ask for a deposit before setting off |
| Price | Per quad; depends on the route, the duration and whether there are one or two of you per quad |
Usual routes
| Route | Terrain | Suits you if… |
|---|---|---|
| South – Vilaflor – Teide | Paved mountain roads, with stops at viewpoints such as Boca Tauce | You want volcanic scenery and altitude |
| Teide at sunset | The same, in the late afternoon | You want the sunset; bring plenty of warm clothing |
| Off-road in the north | Dirt tracks on estates and in authorised areas | You want some driving off the tarmac |
Important: the routes to Teide run mostly, or entirely, on paved roads. In the National Park you may not drive off authorised roads. If you want dirt, ask how many minutes of track the route includes.
Usual requirements
- Valid category B licence, original and physical. Many companies do not accept photocopies or photos on your phone.
- Driver age: usually 18; one offer requires age 25 and a licence held for two years.
- Passenger: usually from age 7 and tall enough to reach the footrests.
- Maximum weight per quad: around 160–170 kg in the offers reviewed.
- Identity document.
- Closed shoes and suitable clothing.
What happens
- Pick-up or meeting at the base.
- Helmet handover and explanation of how to handle the quad.
- Test lap in a safe area.
- Route in single file behind the instructor, with stops at viewpoints.
- Return to the base.
Who it suits
- Licensed drivers looking for a different way to go up Teide.
- Couples or friends sharing a quad.
- Families with children from the minimum passenger age.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- No category B licence: you cannot drive; you can only ride as a passenger.
- Pregnant women and people with back problems: not recommended.
- Anyone looking for real off-road driving on Teide: the routes are on roads.
- Cold: above 2,000 m, and especially at sunset, the temperature drops sharply.
How to choose well
- Which route, and how many kilometres of tarmac and of dirt?
- What licence, age and licence history are required?
- Single-seat or two-seat quad?
- Deposit? In cash or by card?
- What is included? Helmet, gloves, jacket, insurance.
- How many quads per instructor?
- What happens in extreme wind or ice?
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Quad and fuel | Included | Engine size and type |
| A helmet | Included | Children’s sizes |
| Jacket or gloves | In some offers | If you go up Teide |
| Insurance | Compulsory | Excess |
| Pick-up | Common in the south | Area |
| Photos | In some offers | Price |
Safety
- No alcohol before or during the activity.
- Keep your distance from the quad in front and follow traffic rules.
- Do not overtake the instructor or skid: this is a route on public roads.
Weather
- On Teide it can be cold or windy, or icy in winter. In dangerous conditions the route is rescheduled or cancelled.
- In summer, strong sun at the stops.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure: offers combine duration, pick-up and occupancy in different ways.
- Route and duration.
- One or two people per quad.
- Pick-up and extras.
What to bring
- Original category B driving licence and identity document.
- Long trousers, closed shoes and warm clothing.
- Sunglasses and sun protection.
- Cash or card for the deposit, if one is required.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| Sitting side by side with a seatbelt | Buggy tour in Tenerife |
| Teide by 4×4 without driving | Teide and Masca jeep safari |
| Motorised fun on the water | Jet ski in Tenerife |
| Teide with a guide and without driving | Group Teide excursion |
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a licence to drive a quad?
Yes, a valid category B car licence. Many companies require the physical original.
Can children come?
As passengers, usually from age 7.
Is the Teide route on dirt?
Mainly on paved roads. Routes with tracks take place in authorised areas outside the National Park.
Do I have to leave a deposit?
Some companies ask for one before setting off. Ask about it.
How long does it last?
About 3–4 hours.
Is it cold?
On Teide, yes, especially at sunset. Bring warm clothing.