Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
A buggy tour in Tenerife is a guided route on which you drive a buggy (a small two-seater with side-by-side seats, a steering wheel, seatbelts and a protective frame) behind an instructor. The routes climb towards Teide on mountain roads or follow authorised tracks.
It is similar to a quad safari, but the way you drive and sit is different. This page helps you choose between the two and know what requirements apply.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Guided route driving a two-seater buggy |
| Usual routes | Road towards Teide; authorised dirt tracks outside the National Park |
| Duration | About 3–4 hours. Depends on the company |
| Licence | Valid category B (car) licence; many companies ask for the original |
| Passenger | Allowed; minimum age depends on the company |
| Safety | Seatbelt and protective frame; helmet in many offers |
| Deposit | Some companies ask for one |
| Price | Per buggy; depends on the route and the duration |
Buggy vs quad
| Aspect | Buggy | Quad |
|---|---|---|
| Driving | Steering wheel and pedals, like a car | Handlebars, like a motorbike |
| Seats | Two, side by side | One or two, one behind the other |
| Protection | Seatbelt and roll cage | Helmet, no seatbelt |
| Feel | More stable and comfortable | More exposed and nimble |
| Conversation | Easy between driver and passenger | Difficult |
| Who it suits | Couples, anyone who prefers to feel safer | Anyone looking for a motorbike feel |
What happens
- Meeting at the base, or pick-up.
- Explanation on handling and safety.
- Test drive in a safe area.
- Route in single file behind the instructor, with stops at viewpoints.
- Return.
As with quads, the routes to Teide run on paved roads: in the National Park you may not drive off authorised roads.
Usual requirements
- Valid category B licence, usually the physical original.
- Minimum driver age, usually 18; some companies ask for more or for a minimum period holding a licence.
- Minimum passenger age or height, depending on the company.
- Identity document and closed shoes.
Who it suits
- Couples who want to ride together and talk during the route.
- Drivers who prefer the feel of a car to that of a motorbike.
- Anyone who wants more protection than on a quad.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- No category B licence: passenger only.
- Back problems or pregnancy.
- Anyone looking for off-road on Teide: the routes are on roads.
How to choose well
- Which route, how much tarmac and how much track?
- What licence, age and licence history are required?
- Minimum passenger age?
- Deposit?
- Are a helmet, goggles or a dust scarf included?
- How many buggies per instructor?
- What happens in bad weather?
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Buggy and fuel | Included | Model |
| A helmet | In many offers | Sizes |
| Insurance | Compulsory | Excess |
| Pick-up | Common | Area |
| Photos | In some | Price |
Safety
- Seatbelt fastened at all times.
- No alcohol.
- Keep your distance and follow traffic rules on public roads.
Weather
- On Teide, cold and wind; on tracks, dust on dry days.
- In dangerous conditions the route is rescheduled.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure.
- Route and duration.
- Pick-up.
- Extras.
What to bring
- Original category B driving licence and identity document.
- Long trousers, closed shoes and a jacket.
- Sunglasses, and a scarf for the dust if the route includes tracks.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| A motorbike feel | Quad safari in Tenerife |
| Teide by 4×4 without driving | Teide and Masca jeep safari |
| A quiet route without an engine | Horse riding in Tenerife |
| Motorised fun at sea | Jet ski in Tenerife |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a buggy and a quad?
A buggy is driven with a steering wheel and has two side-by-side seats, a seatbelt and a roll cage. A quad is ridden with handlebars, like a motorbike.
Do you need a licence?
Yes, a valid category B car licence to drive.
Can a child ride as a passenger?
It depends on the company’s minimum age and height.
Is any of it on dirt?
On Teide, it is on roads. Some routes outside the National Park include authorised tracks.
How long does it last?
About 3–4 hours.