If you want Tenerife action, this quad tour delivers fast. I like the safety-first start and the small-group vibe, and the guides (people mention Manuel, Antonello, Carlos, and others) keep first-timers calm while you learn to handle the quad. The second big win: you pick your adventure, either the mostly on-road Teide route or a North Route that adds real dirt-trail thrills.

Here’s the trade-off to think about: the more intense off-road time is only on the North Route. If you’re expecting Teide driving on dirt, you won’t get it—Teide is scenic on paved roads.

Quick take before you pick Route 1 or Route 2

• Two routes, one meeting point area: Teide on-road viewpoints or a North Route with a dirt circuit
• First-timer friendly: you get a full safety briefing and practice so you’re not guessing
• Top photo factor: guides shoot lots of video and photos, then share them after the tour
• Cold-and-cozy gear included: helmets, gloves, and raincoats in cooler or wet weather
• Canarian snack at altitude: a traditional bite plus a drink during the best viewpoint stops
• Small group size: limited to 8 participants, so the pace stays controllable

Two quad routes from Puerto de la Cruz: Teide on-road or the North Route dirt

This is one of those Tenerife activities where the product is the same, but your day can swing wildly depending on the route you choose. From Puerto de la Cruz, you’ll ride with a professional guide on quad bikes (single or double, depending on what you book). You’ll spend about 150 minutes to 3 hours on the experience overall, and the schedule is built around getting you to viewpoint stops without getting stuck in traffic jams all day.

Route 1 is the Teide plan. It leans scenic and steady: old-town La Orotava, then winding uphill roads through pine forest and lava country, ending at high-altitude viewpoints. This one is 100% on-road driving, and it’s aimed at people who want big views more than big shocks.

Route 2 is the North Route. It’s shorter and faster-feeling, with a key difference: you get about 30 minutes of off-road on rocky, dirt-tracked trails with three difficulty levels. You’ll still get viewpoint time at the end, plus stops in and around Puerto de la Cruz and Los Realejos. If you’re chasing that I’m-having-fun-here feeling, this is usually the pick.

For value, I like the way both routes include the same core goodies: a guide, protective gear, a traditional Canarian snack with a drink, and photo/video delivery after. That matters, because the photos alone are often the thing you still care about when your legs forget the details.

Safety briefing and first-time quad confidence (no racing, no guesswork)

I’ll be honest: riding a quad for the first time can feel like you’re joining a new sport. The good news here is that the tour is built around getting you up to speed before you hit the more exciting parts.

You start with a full safety briefing and you’re given the basics of controlling the quad. The best part is that guides don’t treat you like a passenger who should figure it out on your own. People mention that guides are patient and thorough, and that there’s even a short run to make sure you can drive safely before moving on.

What’s included makes it easier too. You get a helmet, gloves, and raincoat when conditions call for it (winter or rainy weather). You still need closed-toe shoes, though. If you only have sandals, don’t plan on winging it.

One practical driving note from real experience: turning can feel more intense at first, especially left turns. That’s not a reason to skip the tour, but it is a reminder to take the practice part seriously and relax your grip once you’re rolling.

Also, small group size helps. Limited to 8 participants means the guide can keep an eye on spacing and adjust the pace so nobody gets left behind. If you’re riding with a friend or someone more nervous, this kind of control matters.

Route 1: Teide National Park viewpoints via La Orotava and La Bermeja

Route 1 runs in a morning schedule (and you’ll also see a later departure option), and it’s designed for people who want Teide views with less technical riding. The day begins with time in La Orotava, including a look at its classic Canarian architecture and cobblestone streets. Even if you’ve only got a small window, this stop gives you context for the island—Tenerife isn’t just volcanic scenery, it’s also towns with character.

Then the ride climbs. You’ll head into higher elevations on scenic winding roads, passing through pine forests and areas marked by lava fields. The vibe here is calmer than the North Route. You still get the thrill of being up close on a quad, but you’re not spending your time bouncing over rocks.

The first major viewpoint stop is La Bermeja. This is where the famous sea-of-clouds effect often shows up, depending on conditions. Even when the sky isn’t perfectly dramatic, you’ll still get that layered feeling across the coast and valleys below.

After La Bermeja, you continue to Corral del Niño, at around 2,300 meters above sea level. This is the money stop for Route 1: wide panoramic views of Teide and the surrounding volcanic terrain. The tour includes a break with a typical local snack and a refreshing drink. That snack part isn’t just a nice extra. At altitude, you can feel the air turn colder and your energy can dip, so having something in your hands and time to breathe makes the viewpoint stop more enjoyable.

Two things to consider:

1) It’s medium difficulty, mostly because you’re riding uphill at elevation, not because it’s technical off-road.

2) It can get cold as you gain altitude, but raincoats are provided, which helps you stay comfortable.

Route 2: Puerto de la Cruz, Los Realejos, and a 30-minute off-road circuit

If Route 1 is about clean views, Route 2 is about feeling the island through your tires. This route works well for people who want more action while still getting great sightseeing.

You start by riding through the wider area around Puerto de la Cruz, with a stop connected to the island’s last unspoiled beach. After that, the tour heads into Los Realejos, including time in its historic center. This is the more lively, lived-in side of north Tenerife, and it adds a different rhythm from the mountain riding.

Then comes the highlight: the 30-minute off-road circuit. This is where your quad skills actually get tested—dirt tracks and rocky trails, with three difficulty levels. Some riders prefer the lower level until they feel confident, and others push the harder options. Either way, the point is that it’s not just a token dirt patch. You get a real chunk of time where you’re focused on traction, balance, and staying smooth.

Because this part is off-road, you’ll come out feeling like you did something. You’ll also likely come back with dirt on clothes and gear. Several people mention wearing darker clothes if you don’t want stains showing. The guide may even help you out with an air spray after (some accounts mention this), but it doesn’t always remove everything.

The finish is another viewpoint stop at El Lance, about 800 meters above sea level. You’ll pause around 10 minutes, then fuel up with the traditional Canarian snack and cold drink. That stop matters: it brings you down from the intensity of off-road riding and lets you enjoy the Orotava Valley view without the mental workload of driving.

Route 2 is listed as intermediate to high difficulty, mainly because of the mixed terrain and the off-road section. If you’re new to quads, don’t assume you can automatically handle the hardest level. The smart move is to focus on control first.

Why the La Orotava and Orotava Valley stops feel worth it

You could do a quad tour that only chases mountaintops. This one doesn’t. It uses a good mix of built-up areas and volcanic height so your day feels like a story, not just a line on a map.

On the Teide route, La Orotava gives you a human-scale start: old-town architecture and cobblestone streets. That contrast makes the later mountain views hit harder. When you’re climbing from town streets into pine and lava zones, you’re watching Tenerife change in real time.

On the North Route, Los Realejos gives you the other kind of contrast: a more authentic, more active village feel. It’s a good reminder that this is an island people live on, not a theme park.

The viewpoint stops are the payoff in both routes. La Bermeja, Corral del Niño, and El Lance are positioned so you get multiple ways to see Tenerife’s north—sea of clouds potential, high-altitude scale near Teide, and valley perspectives back toward the coast. Plus, the snack breaks are scheduled right when you need them. You’re not just eating because snacks are cute; it’s timed to keep you steady during altitude or after off-road effort.

Gear, weather, and clothing tips that actually save your day

Here’s where you can make the tour smoother with a couple of small choices.

Closed-toe shoes are mandatory. The tour provides helmet and protective items, but not shoes. Plan for grip and comfort, because you’re moving around and riding. Sandals or flip-flops are not allowed, and bare feet aren’t either.

Raincoats and weather gear matter. Even in a warm vacation, altitude can bring cooler temps. People mention raincoats being helpful as you climb higher, and that’s consistent with the gear being included for winter or rainy weather.

Clothing choice is about avoiding regrets. Several riders say to avoid white or anything you love because the dust and dirt can be stubborn, especially if you do the North Route off-road. Darker colors are the easy fix.

One more practical point: bring your ID or passport and a driver’s license. You need a driver’s license to drive the quad. Drivers under 18 are not allowed, and the tour also has a weight limit of 350 lbs (159 kg).

Group size, timing, and meeting point reality checks

This is a small-group experience, limited to 8 participants. I like this because it supports a smoother flow: more time riding together, fewer safety issues, and stops that don’t feel chaotic.

Durations are about 150 minutes to 3 hours depending on the route. Route 1 is approximate 3 hours with medium difficulty. Route 2 is approximate 2.5 hours and includes the off-road circuit, which is why it runs with a mixed-terrain schedule.

Times to note:

• Route 1 has departures listed at 9:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
• Route 2 has departures listed at 1:30 p.m. (and it also says morning or afternoon depending on option booked)

Meeting point can vary depending on what you book. That’s not the kind of detail you want to guess on. Expect to check your confirmation or details for the exact location so you’re not wandering Puerto de la Cruz half-panicked.

If bad weather or safety conditions affect mountain roads, the operator can change plans. One account talks about a forest-fire-related safety cancellation and getting help with new options. That’s rare, but it’s good to know the tour isn’t totally rigid if conditions turn unsafe.

Price and value: is $94 per person actually fair?

At about $94 per person, you’re paying for more than just quad time. You’re paying for a guide who manages a small group, a safety setup that’s explicit enough for first-timers, and protective gear like helmets and gloves. You also get raincoats when needed, plus a traditional Canarian snack and drink on-route.

Then there’s the part many people care about after the dust settles: photo and video delivery. Multiple accounts mention the guide taking lots of shots and sharing photos and videos afterward, with at least one person noting a downloadable link via QR code. When you’re riding in dramatic places like Corral del Niño and La Bermeja, you want evidence.

Is it cheaper than renting a quad and driving yourself? Usually not. But it is more controlled and less stressful, especially if you don’t know north Tenerife roads or you’re new to quad driving.

The best value tip is matching the route to your goal:

• If you want Teide views with less technical riding, Route 1 is the straightforward value play.
• If you want adrenaline plus a big driving payoff, Route 2 adds the off-road time that makes the experience feel like more than sightseeing.

Who should book this quad tour (and who should skip it)

This works well for:

• People who want a guided way to see north Tenerife without planning every turn
• First-time quad riders who want training and a patient guide
• Anyone who likes the combo of town stops plus viewpoints
• Travelers who care about photos and want them handled for you

It may not be your best fit if:

• You were hoping for off-road driving on the Teide route (it’s on-road only there)
• You don’t have a driver’s license
• You can’t meet the limits: no children under 7, no pregnant travelers, and a 350 lbs (159 kg) weight limit
• You can’t follow basic safety rules like closed-toe shoes and no alcohol/drugs

If you’re choosing between routes, think about how you want your effort to feel. Route 1 is scenic climbing. Route 2 is action-first with dirt trails, then viewpoints.

Should you book? My take

If your Tenerife wish list includes Teide views plus a fun, guided way to ride, I’d book Route 1. It’s the calmer choice, and it gets you to the high-altitude viewpoints with snack breaks that make the day feel complete.

If you want the quad to feel like an event, pick Route 2. The 30-minute off-road circuit is the difference-maker, and the finish at El Lance gives you a great payoff after the action.

Either way, go in ready to follow safety instructions, wear the right shoes, and don’t pack your best white outfit for the off-road option. You’ll spend your time driving, not worrying.

FAQ

How long is the Puerto de la Cruz quad tour?

It runs about 150 minutes to 3 hours, depending on which route you choose.

What are the two route options?

Route 1 is the Teide National Park route, and it’s 100% on-road driving. Route 2 is the North Route, which includes about 30 minutes of off-road driving.

Do I need prior quad experience?

No prior experience is required. You start with a safety briefing, and the guide provides instruction so you can ride safely.

Are helmets and safety gear included?

Yes. You receive a protective helmet, and gloves. A raincoat is also provided in winter or rainy weather.

Is hotel pickup included?

No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. The meeting point can vary depending on the option you book.

What time do tours depart?

Route 1 lists departures at 9:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Route 2 lists a 1:30 p.m. departure, and it may be offered morning or afternoon depending on the option booked.

What should I bring?

Bring your passport or ID card and your driver’s license, plus closed-toe shoes (not provided).

Is a driver’s license required to drive the quad?

Yes. Drivers under 18 are not allowed, and people without a driver’s license are not suitable for driving the quad.