4 Private Tours in Tenerife You NEED TO DO This Summer!
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Carol on the top of Mount Teide with views of Tenerife over the clouds
After spending years exploring the island, one thing we've realised is that some of our favourite experiences have been the ones where we weren't rushing to keep up with a group or sticking to a rigid schedule.
Tenerife has plenty of great tours, but private tours give you the freedom to enjoy the island at your own pace. Whether that's spending longer watching dolphins offshore, stopping at an unexpected viewpoint, or simply having a more relaxed day, the experience often feels much more personal.
In this guide, we've rounded up 4 private tours in Tenerife that we think are genuinely worth considering this summer, from unforgettable boat trips to unique ways of exploring some of the island's most spectacular scenery.
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1. Adventure in the Masca Gorge with a boat ride
2. Twizy electric car with food tasting
3. Private luxury yacht in Tenerife
4. Private island tour with hotel pickup
5. Is Tenerife worth visiting all year round?
6. Is it worth renting a car in Tenerife?
7. What is the best tour to see dolphins and whales in Tenerife?
In a hurry? Plan your trip to Tenerife now!
We’ve gathered top-rated recommendations for transport, accommodation, services, and tours below:
- Southern luxury: Bahia del Duque (9.0/10)
- Northern charm: Hotel Botanico y Oriental Spa Garden (9.3/10)
- In the capital: Hotel Emblemático Hi Suites (9.4/10)
1. Adventure in the Masca Gorge with a boat ride
Besides its rugged beauty, Masca has a legendary past; it was once a hideout for pirates thanks to its remote coastal access.
Today, hiking the Masca Gorge is one of the most scenic adventures in Tenerife. With this guided tour, you’ll trek down (around 5 km) dramatic cliffs and winding paths in a small group, skipping the ticket office queues and avoiding the crowds.
The best part is that instead of walking up (which would be very tough), once you reach the coast, you’ll have a boat ride waiting for you, where you’ll sail beneath Los Gigantes. It’s the kind of experience you’ll be talking about long after your trip.
The starting point is in Santiago del Teide, which may be a bit far from where you are staying, and although there is public transport, it will take triple the time.
2. Twizy electric car with food tasting
“The guide, who’s passionate about Tenerife, answered our son’s many questions, and all in perfect French. Great idea to take this ride in an electric vehicle. We highly recommend it!”
This is one of the latest reviews on this activity, and reading all of them felt really exciting!
On this tour, you’ll jump into a funky little Renault Twizy, an electric two-seater that makes the drive just as fun as the destination. You will drive past lava fields, banana plantations, try local coffee… Sorry, but can it get any better?
If you are booking the Masca Gorge trek, bear in mind that part of this activity is to explore Santiago del Teide, which is where the previous tour starts.
3. Private luxury yacht in Tenerife
Of course, you cannot visit Tenerife and not enjoy the ocean’s beauty and tranquillity. We had to include this luxurious yacht because it’s the ultimate water experience.
If you’re staying in the south, you’re in luck because this tour includes hotel pick-up and covers up to 10 people, making it perfect for families or groups of friends.
But here’s what sets it apart: this isn’t just a yacht ride. You’ll have paddleboards, snorkelling gear, sea scooters, and even a floating beach club on board, plus fresh fruit plates, food, and drinks. Picture yourself sipping a cold drink, drifting on the Atlantic, and forgetting what day it is… that’s the kind of memory you’ll want on repeat.
While this is a great experience, if you’d like to spot whales and dolphins with a small group, we’d recommend booking Tenerife: Marine-Life Tour with Transfer, Buffet and Drinks.
4. Private island tour with hotel pickup
If you are visiting Tenerife but don’t have much time, or you’d rather explore more in one day, this private tour is the one for culture seekers!
You’ll be picked up right from your hotel and taken to some of the island’s most emblematic spots, like Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Icod, Garachico, and more. It’s a full day of culture, history, and stunning scenery without the stress of planning or driving.
The best part? The tour adapts to you. Want to linger longer in a colourful old town or cut a stop short? No problem. It’s your day, your way, making it one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to explore Tenerife in just a day.
Tenerife FAQs
Is Tenerife worth visiting all year round?
Yes! Tenerife is a tropical island with mild, sunny weather almost all year round. Whether you’re escaping winter or planning a summer getaway, it’s a great destination any season.
Is it worth renting a car in Tenerife?
Absolutely. Public transport is not efficient for tourists who want to enjoy their holidays, and taxis can add up. The island’s roads are easy to navigate, and parking is usually straightforward. We’d personally recommend booking with QEEQ, as it’s one of the most reliable platforms for comparing prices and securing the best deals on rentals.
What is the best tour to see dolphins and whales in Tenerife?
Tenerife is one of Europe’s best locations for spotting marine life, with clear waters and abundant species. Private boat tours give you the best chance to see dolphins and whales up close, often in their natural habitat. This is the tour we personally recommend, so you can have an amazing time spotting marine life.
