Buggy tracks in Lanzarote beat the bus ride. I love how the route pushes past the resort strip into Guatiza quarries and toward Mala Dam, and I love topping out at Peñas del Chache for real, island-wide views with wind in your face. Guides like Diego and Jeshua keep it fun and controlled. One heads-up: it gets dusty and can feel chilly higher up, so plan your clothes accordingly.

You’ll start from Costa Teguise (pickup is optional) or meet at the buggy-jet ski shop, then get kitted with a windbreaker and dust-protection goggles. The day runs with a small group (10 people max), which means you spend more time actually riding and less time waiting around.

This is not a gentle promenade. Expect bouncing terrain and some intense moments on the descent through Teseguite, but the buggies handle rough ground well and the guide keeps speeds sensible. Downhill is where you’ll really feel the adrenaline.

Key things you’ll remember

• Peñas del Chache viewpoint: the highest point payoff with big views over the island
• Guatiza quarries + Mala Dam: volcanic terrain you actually drive through, not just look at
• Proper off-road time: narrow tracks, dirt sections, and plenty of suspension-friendly bumps
• Small-group pace: limited to 10 participants, so the route feels coordinated
• Dust + wind reality: you’ll be glad you brought face/neck coverage

Northern Lanzarote off-road: what makes this buggy tour worth it

If you’ve come to Lanzarote for beaches and day trips, this tour flips the script. You start near Costa Teguise, then you work your way into the more rugged north where the island looks raw and empty in the best way. You’ll ride through volcanic scenery dotted with cacti, cross old quarry areas, and get far enough away from the typical resort loop that the trip feels like you earned your views.

What I like most is the mix: you’re not stuck on a smooth track the whole time. There’s on-road driving that gets you positioned, then the off-road sections kick in and the buggies start doing what they’re built for. And at the top, you’re not just looking out from a viewpoint with a fence and a souvenir stand. You get a genuine break at the highest point, Peñas del Chache, with time to take photos and just watch the island’s texture change in every direction.

The other big plus is how the guide experience shapes the day. From what you’ll see on the ground, the guides run the group tight. People don’t feel lost, and you get clear instructions on how the buggy works before you head into the rough terrain. Names you may hear include Diego, Kevin, Jeshua, Rahul, David, and Steven, and the overall vibe is professional with a sense of humor, not just a checklist.

From Costa Teguise to the buggy: how the setup works

The meeting point is at the buggy-jet ski shop next to the laundry. If you book the pickup option, you’ll be collected from selected addresses in the Costa Teguise area. Plan to be ready outside reception about 5 minutes before the pickup window starts, and know the drivers won’t wait more than 10 minutes after the scheduled time.

Once you’re there, the gear setup is straightforward. You get a windbreaker and dust-protection goggles. That matters more than it sounds. Northern Lanzarote can whip up wind, and off-road tracks kick up fine dust fast. The provided goggles help with that eye-stinging grit, and the windbreaker takes the edge off when you climb.

Then comes the driving basics. You’ll need your original driver’s license if you want to drive. Drivers must be at least 20 years old and have held a license for at least 2 years. Passengers must be at least 1.35 meters tall (about 4 feet 4 inches). Comfort-wise, you’ll want sturdy shoes. You’ll also want warm clothing even if it’s sunny when you start, because temperatures can drop as you go higher.

One practical thought: bring something for your face/neck. Even with goggles and a windbreaker, you’ll feel the dust in your mouth and on your skin if you’re not covered. People often bring bandanas or neck gators for exactly this reason.

Guatiza quarries and Mala Dam: the volcanic warm-up that sets the tone

After setup, the tour route starts with a scenic track that passes the old quarries of Guatiza. This is a great “getting into it” segment because the terrain shifts from normal roads into rougher ground gradually. You can feel how the buggy handles gravel, dips, and uneven patches without the whole group suddenly being thrown into the hardest parts.

As you keep moving toward Mala Dam, the scenery becomes more barren and open. You’ll see cacti standing out against rock and dust, and the volcanic character of Lanzarote becomes obvious fast. This part of the ride also gives you time to settle into the pace. You’ll learn where it’s smooth enough to relax your grip and where you need to hold on a bit more because the ground gets uneven.

Why this section is valuable: it’s not just scenery for looking. You’re riding through the same kinds of industrial and volcanic sites that shaped parts of the island. The “old quarries” detail matters because you get a sense of how Lanzarote worked long before mass tourism. Even if you’re not into geology, you’ll feel the scale of the terrain when you’re moving across it in a buggy, not parked at the edge.

A realistic consideration: don’t dress like you’re going to a nice dinner. The experience can get dusty, and the rough sections can kick up grit even with goggles. You’ll probably come home needing a quick wash and a change of clothes.

Peñas del Chache viewpoint: the highest point payoff

The main moment comes when you reach Peñas del Chache, the tallest peak on Lanzarote. This is where the tour earns the effort. The climb is where you feel the altitude and the wind, and the buggy ride gets more intense as you approach the top.

You’ll take a break at the viewpoint. This isn’t a rushed stop. You get time to enjoy the views of the volcanic terrain below and around you. When the weather cooperates, you can see how the island is built: stark rock, dust tones, and lots of cacti where you’d never expect them on a “desert” island that is also very Mediterranean.

If you hate crowds, this is another reason to like the tour. You’re not just standing among a bus group. The viewpoint stop is part of your ride experience, and the guide keeps the group together while you take photos and reset.

Temperature note: even in pleasant weather at sea level, it can feel colder as you go higher. Bring warm layers you can actually wear while riding. The windbreaker helps, but it’s not the same as a thick jacket.

Teseguite descent back to Costa Teguise: where adrenaline spikes

Getting down is where the day can feel most intense. After your break at Peñas del Chache, the route descends through Teseguite before heading to El Mojón quarry, then back toward Costa Teguise.

In plain terms: hold on. The downhill sections can be bumpy, and the tracks can feel narrow in places. Some people find going down more scary than going up, and that makes sense. Gravity does what it does, and you feel every dip and switchback more than you do on the climb.

The good news is that it’s not chaos. A solid guide approach keeps the group coordinated, and you ride at speeds that the leader judges safe. Guides like Diego and David (and others) are often described as patient and attentive, which matters on rough terrain when different comfort levels are in the same group.

What you should take away: if you’re expecting a smooth drive, you’ll be disappointed. If you want a real off-road experience where the buggy actually earns its name, this descent is a big part of the fun.

Guides, buggies, and the photo moments that might tempt you

This tour runs with a live guide and is offered in multiple languages, including Catalan, English, French, and Spanish. With small groups capped at 10 participants, you’ll typically get enough attention at the start and enough checking in during the rough segments.

One of the most practical “value” features is that the guide takes photos and videos during the ride. They’ll capture the group in action while you’re concentrating on driving or staying balanced over the bumps. Many people end up buying the photos afterward because it saves time. It’s also usually easier than trying to shoot your own footage while steering through dusty terrain.

You might see an option around €15 for a set/link of photos, and people describe the quality as solid. If you like keeping memories without spending half the ride fumbling with your phone, this is a real perk.

As for the buggy itself, the recurring theme is that these machines handle rough ground well. The suspension helps, the seats are comfortable enough for the bumps, and the vehicles can take a beating without turning the day into a maintenance problem. You’re still dealing with rough tracks, though, so treat this as an adventure ride, not a spa day.

Price and value: how to think about the $153 cost

The price is listed as $153 per group up to 2, with a 2 to 3 hour duration. Since it’s a group price (not per person in a fixed way you can’t control), the value is strongest when you go as a couple or as two people sharing the same buggy situation.

Here’s how I’d judge whether it’s a good use of your money:

• You’re paying for guided off-road driving to specific high-value spots, including Peñas del Chache (top of the island) and the quarry/volcanic route segments. That’s more than a quick photo stop.
• The tour includes equipment that improves comfort: windbreaker and dust-protection goggles.
• You’re in a small group, which usually means less waiting and more time on the dirt.
• You may have the chance to purchase photos captured during the ride, which can add to the overall experience if you care about memories.

Your costs that you should plan for: food and drinks are not included, and you’ll likely want to buy water or a snack before or after. Bandana is also not included, so if you don’t already have one, plan to bring it.

What to bring, how to dress, and who it’s not for

This is where your preparation pays off quickly. The tour provides goggles and a windbreaker, but you still need to dress for dust, wind, and cool air at elevation.

Bring:

• Passport or ID card
• Driver’s license if you plan to drive
• Comfortable shoes (you’ll want grip)
• Warm clothing (it can get colder higher up)
• Windbreaker (even though you’ll be given one, having your own layer helps)

Consider bringing:

• A bandana or face cover for dust
• Neck protection if you’re sensitive to wind-blown grit

Not allowed:

• Alcohol and drugs

Not suitable for:

• Pregnant women
• People with back problems
• People under 135 cm tall (4 feet 4 inches)

Also, one subtle but important rule: you’ll need your original driver’s license. Copies aren’t accepted, so don’t assume a photo on your phone will work.

Should you book this buggy tour?

Book it if you want a real off-road Lanzarote experience with guided driving through volcanic terrain, old quarry areas, and a real payoff at Peñas del Chache. It’s also a strong pick if you like the idea of a small-group adventure that feels coordinated, not like a long line of people waiting their turn.

Skip it if you need a smooth, low-intensity activity, if dust and wind make you miserable, or if you have back issues or are pregnant. If you’re comfortable with bumpy terrain and you bring the right face and warm layers, this is one of the better ways to see northern Lanzarote without sticking to the resort postcard route.

FAQ

How long is the Lanzarote guided off-road volcano buggy tour?

The duration is listed as 2 to 3 hours, depending on starting times and the day’s schedule.

Where is the meeting point?

Meet your guide at the buggy-jet ski shop next to the laundry.

Is pickup included from Costa Teguise?

Pickup is optional. If you choose it, pickup and drop-off from selected addresses is included, and you should wait outside reception about 5 minutes before your pickup time.

What gear is provided for the tour?

You’ll get a windbreaker and dust-protection goggles.

Do I need a driver’s license to ride the buggy?

If you want to drive, you’ll need your original driver’s license. Drivers must be at least 20 years old and have held a license for at least 2 years.

What languages are the guides?

Guides speak Catalan, English, French, and Spanish.

Is food or drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included.

Is alcohol allowed during the tour?

No. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed.

What’s the minimum height and who is the tour not suitable for?

Passengers must be at least 1.35 meters tall. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, and anyone under the height requirement.