Teide National Park is a vast, strange landscape, and a quad is one of the most exciting ways to travel through it. This guided ride takes a small group off the main road and onto tracks through volcanic terrain, past black lava flows, pale pumice slopes and the pine forest that grows on the flanks of the caldera, with the cone of Teide in view for much of the way. A guide leads the group, explains the controls and the safety rules at the start and stops at viewpoints for photographs. The ride lasts around three hours in total and is designed for beginners as well as experienced riders, with the speed kept steady. It is a good choice for travellers who want a day of action rather than a sightseeing coach, and for groups of friends, couples and families with teenagers. Because it takes place inside a protected national park, the routes are set by the operator, and the group follows the guide at all times.
How it works
The tour starts at a base near the national park with a briefing and a short practice, then sets out in a convoy on the quad bikes, led by a guide. The ride lasts about three hours in total, and the price is usually per vehicle, with an option to share a quad with a passenger, which is why the cost per person falls for pairs. Helmets and basic equipment are provided, and the operator tells you about the licence and age requirements when you book.
What to expect
The ground is dusty and uneven, with a lot of gravel and fine volcanic ash, so you will get dirty. Wear closed shoes, long trousers and glasses or sunglasses, and take a scarf or a buff to cover your face. The altitude makes the mornings cool and the afternoons warm, and the weather can change in the mountains, with wind, cloud or cold.
Riders must follow the guide and keep to the route, and the operators can refuse people who do not wear proper clothing or who ignore the rules. Quad rides are not suitable for people with back problems, pregnant women or very young children.
Making the most of it
Book the morning departure for cooler air and clearer views, and keep time free afterwards for the cable car, the Roques de García viewpoint or the Parador. If you prefer a gentler, more scenic outing, a day tour by coach or the cable car is better, and for stargazing the evening tours are a better fit. The quad is for those who want to feel the landscape under their wheels, and it rates highly with travellers for the guides and the scenery.
What to expect
The experience
A guided quad bike ride in a small convoy on tracks through the volcanic terrain of Teide National Park.
Best time
Morning, when the air is cooler and the views of Teide are usually clearer.
How long
About three hours including the briefing and practice.
Tips
Wear closed shoes, long trousers and glasses, cover your face against dust and check the licence and age rules when booking.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want an active, off-road way to experience the volcanic landscape.
- Families
- Possible with teenagers who meet the age rules; young children and anyone with back problems should skip it.
- Couples
- Share a quad or ride two bikes; the dust and the scenery make for a memorable afternoon.
- Pair with
- The Teide cable car or a sunset and stargazing evening in the park.
- Time needed
- A morning or afternoon.
Good questions
Do I need a driving licence for the quad tour?+
Operators usually ask the rider to hold a valid licence and to meet a minimum age. Check the requirements in the booking details before you go.
Is the quad ride suitable for beginners?+
Yes, there is a briefing and a short practice, and the guide leads at a steady speed. No previous experience is needed.
What should I wear?+
Closed shoes, long trousers, sunglasses or glasses and a scarf or buff for dust, plus a layer for cooler mountain air.
How long is the tour?+
About three hours in total, including the briefing, the practice and stops for photographs.
Is it expensive?+
The price is usually per quad, with the option to share a vehicle with a passenger, so it is better value for two people. Check the current rate when you book.
