Private Tenerife Shore Excursion: Teide, Masca & Los Roques

Summary

Explore Tenerife’s Highlights on a Private Guided Day Tour

If you want to see Tenerife beyond the usual tourist spots—with someone who actually knows the island—this private shore excursion is for you. You’ll visit volcanic landscapes in Teide National Park, snap photos at Los Roques de García, wander through Masca’s dramatic valley, and soak up history in La Laguna—all without feeling rushed or herded along.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed stepping off the ship was the salty breeze—Santa Cruz wakes up slow, but you can feel the island buzzing by mid-morning. Our guide met us right at the port, holding a little sign with our names. No confusion, no waiting around. We piled into an air-conditioned van (thank goodness—it gets warm quick) and set off toward the heart of Tenerife.

Driving up to Teide National Park felt like moving through different worlds. One minute you’re passing banana plantations, next it’s all pine forests and jagged black rocks. Our guide—born and raised here—knew every twist in the road and pointed out tiny villages most folks would miss. At Los Roques de García, we hopped out for photos; the wind whipped up dust and you could smell wild thyme in the air. The rock formations look almost unreal, like something from another planet.

We stopped near the Teide Observatory—didn’t go inside, but just standing there you get why astronomers love this place. The sky feels bigger somehow. Later, we wound down into Masca Valley. The village is tiny—just a handful of houses clinging to steep cliffs—and there was a guy selling cactus fruit by the roadside (tastes sweet but watch those little spines). Our last stop was La Laguna, Tenerife’s first capital. Cobbled streets, old churches, locals chatting outside cafés… it’s got a slower pace that makes you want to linger.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tenerife Island Highlights

• Explore Teide National Park
• Visit Los Roques de García
• Explore Teide Observatory surroundings
• Visit Masca village
• Explore Tenerife's 1st capital
• See one of the oldest trees

Top questions

How long does the tour last?

The tour usually takes about 7-8 hours depending on traffic and how much time we spend at each stop.

Can we be picked up directly from our cruise ship?

Yes! We meet you right at the harbor exit in Santa Cruz de Tenerife with a sign so it’s easy to find us.

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Absolutely—families are welcome and we have infant seats available if needed. The pace is relaxed and there are plenty of breaks.

Are meals included?

No meals are included, but we’ll stop where you can grab snacks or lunch (the guide has good local tips).

What’s included

Your own private guide for the day; comfortable air-conditioned vehicle; bottled water; all fuel costs covered; pick-up and drop-off right at your ship or hotel; infant seats available if needed.