The Canary Islands are a playground for those craving authentic experiences—whether it’s riding a motorbike through volcanic landscapes, exploring towering volcanoes, or uncovering local culture. The islands’ diverse terrain and year-round sunshine make it an ideal destination for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts alike. We particularly love a scenic motorbike tour in Fuerteventura for its off-road dunes and mountain views, and a sunset quad ride in Tenerife that captures the island’s fiery volcanic spirit. With so many options, you’re sure to find something that sparks your interest, whether that’s hiking, off-roading, or exploring local villages. For a taste of what’s possible, check out some of our favorites below.
Quick Overview
This guide covers a wide array of tours and experiences in the Canary Islands, from motorbike adventures in Fuerteventura (125cc Motorbike Tour Cruise The Mountains) to mountain hikes in Tenerife (Guided tour of Roques de Garcia – Teide National Park). You’ll find volcano trips, cultural walks, off-road adventures, and even nighttime excursions to Timanfaya’s volcanic skies. Each tour offers something different, catering to various interests and activity levels, with a mix of small-group tours, private experiences, and full-day outings.
1. Fuerteventura: 125cc Motorbike Tour Cruise The Mountains
At number 1, this scenic motorbike tour is a top pick for those who want to explore Fuerteventura’s volcanic dunes and mountain scenery on a classic-style bike. You don’t need a motorcycle license, just a regular car license, making it accessible for most. Led by a local guide with 20+ years of experience, you’ll ride off-road tires through dunes, volcano views, and open landscapes. The tour lasts 5 hours, with pickup options across popular spots like Corralejo and Castillo Caleta de Fuste. The small group setting ensures a relaxed pace and personal attention, perfect for thrill-seekers who want to feel the wind in their face and see the island’s raw beauty up close.
Bottom line: An exhilarating way to see the island’s wild side, suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and open-road riding.
2. Teide & Secret Volcanoes – Tour Tenerife with a German Guide (8h)
Number 2 on our list is a comprehensive day trip connecting you with Tenerife’s hidden volcanic treasures. Small groups travel comfortably in a 9-seater van with a German-speaking, Canarian-accredited guide. The tour includes breathtaking volcanic vistas, secret volcanic sites, and a visit to the iconic Mount Teide. You’ll also enjoy scenic stops, a delicious lunch, and plenty of time to absorb the island’s fiery soul. The reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and the tour’s emotional depth, emphasizing how the secret spots reveal the island’s passionate volcanic history.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers looking for an immersive, well-rounded volcanic adventure that combines nature, culture, and expert guidance.
3. Tenerife: Quad Adventure to Mount Teide with Off-Road
Number 3 offers a thrilling off-road quad adventure through Tenerife’s rugged volcanic terrain. This 3-hour tour takes you to Mount Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with the added excitement of riding dirt tracks and forest trails. The tour includes a complimentary drink after the ride, which makes it a perfect way to unwind. The experience of riding a quad through lava fields, valleys, and lush forests is unmatched, especially when you get close to Spain’s highest peak. Reviews highlight the breathtaking scenery and the professional guidance, making it suitable for those comfortable with a bit of adventure.
Bottom line: An adrenaline-fueled option for off-road lovers wanting to explore Teide’s dramatic landscapes.
4. Tenerife: Full-day excursion to Masca and Teno
Number 4 is an intimate tour of Tenerife’s most picturesque villages and hidden landscapes. The small group visits Masca, famous for its dramatic gorge and traditional houses, and Teno, with its mountain trails and panoramic views. The itinerary includes secret routes, historic streets, and local food and coffee tastings. Starting from Casa de la Aduana, the journey covers scenic drives and stops at viewpoints and local markets. The personalized touch and in-depth cultural insights make this a favorite for travelers who want both nature and authenticity.
Bottom line: An excellent option for those seeking a deep dive into Tenerife’s hidden corners with local guides.
5. Gran Canaria: excursion to the Barranco de los Cernícalos
Number 5 takes you to Gran Canaria’s lush Barranco de los Cernícalos, a must-visit nature reserve. The 7.5-hour tour includes a 4-hour hike through waterfalls, secret trails, and volcanic flora. You’ll see native wildlife, including the native giant lizard, and explore waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints. The trip starts with a bus ride from popular locations like Maspalomas and Mogán and offers a chance to experience Gran Canaria’s arid beauty and wildlife firsthand. The reviews note the impressive wildlife sightings and the well-organized nature walk that’s suitable for most fitness levels.
Bottom line: Ideal for outdoor lovers eager to explore Gran Canaria’s wilder side without sacrificing comfort.
6. Explore Anaga’s Hidden Gems
Number 6 offers a flexible full-day tour of Anaga, Tenerife’s microclimate-rich mountain range. Choose between a private scenic tour or a group hike through laurel forests, caves, and stunning viewpoints. The itinerary features stops at Mirador De Jardina, Pico del Inglés, and Tunel de las hadas, each offering panoramic landscapes. The area is perfect for those who want to walk through verdant forests and see local villages with cave dwellings. Reviewers appreciate the personalized experience, whether walking, sightseeing, or relaxing at viewpoints.
Bottom line: A versatile choice for nature lovers seeking quiet mountain scenery and microclimate diversity.
7. Timanfaya National Park: Evening Tour with Volcano Dinner
Number 7 is an evening experience at Timanfaya, famed for its dramatic volcanic landscape. This tour combines a scenic route through the park with a volcano-cooked 3-course dinner, accompanied by live music. Watching the sunset over the lunar-like terrain is unforgettable, and the dinner offers a rare chance to dine within the volcano’s heat. The tour’s reviews emphasize the magical atmosphere and the hidden surprises along the route. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of nature, spectacle, and local cuisine.
Bottom line: A unique way to experience Timanfaya after hours, especially suitable for foodies and sunset lovers.
8. La Palma: Let’s go to Roque Observatory & Visitor Centre
Number 8 is a scientific adventure in La Palma, home to the world’s largest telescope. The tour includes visiting the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory, where you’ll learn about astronomical research under pristine skies. The tour lasts around 6 hours, with stops at scenic viewpoints and the Visitor Centre. Reviews highlight the fascination of seeing telescopes up close and understanding the best conditions for astronomy on the island. Ideal for those interested in science, stars, and natural beauty.
Bottom line: A rare chance to explore the cosmos on a practical, informative tour.
9. Tenerife: Teide National Park Sunset Quad Tour
Number 9 combines adventure with spectacular views. This 3-hour quad tour takes you through Teide’s volcanic landscapes with a focus on sunset. You’ll ride from Vilaflor to Mount Teide, enjoying panoramic vistas and the changing colors of the sky. The tour includes a safety briefing and the option for single or double quads, making it suitable for different experience levels. Guest reviews mention the thrill of riding at sunset and the beautiful scenery. It’s ideal for adventure lovers who want to see Teide from a different perspective.
Bottom line: An exciting way to experience the park’s magnetic sunset on a quad.
10. Corralejo: Power Jetski Experience
Number 10 offers a fun-filled 40-minute to 1.5-hour jetski ride in Corralejo’s crystal waters. With over 15 years of experience, the staff ensures safety and fun. This is perfect for water sports enthusiasts wanting a quick, high-energy activity with the best route along the coast. The reviews commend the friendly staff and the thrilling ride.
Bottom line: Great for adrenaline junkies who want a quick splash of excitement on their trip.
11. Teide Quad Tour – Tenerife
Number 11 is a full-day quad adventure exploring Teide’s volcanic scenery. The tour includes off-road driving through lava fields and pine forests, with stops at scenic viewpoints. The ride culminates with a sunset over the park, making it perfect for those who want both action and a memorable view. The tour is suitable for those comfortable on a quad bike, and reviews note the breathtaking scenery and small group experience.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for quad lovers who want to combine exploration with stunning sunset vistas.
12. Guided tour of Roques de Garcia – Teide National Park
Number 12 is a 2-hour guided hike into Teide’s famous Roques de Garcia. Covering 6 km, the tour explores geological formations, endemic flora, and volcanic features. Led by an expert, you’ll learn about the geology and ecology of this iconic landscape. Reviewers appreciate the insightful commentary and the impressive scenery. This tour is perfect for those who prefer a shorter, informative walk rather than a longer trek.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want a guided exploration of Teide’s geological marvels.
13. Discover Lanzarote in a different way with electric all-terrain scooters
Number 13 offers a fun and eco-friendly way to see Lanzarote. Using electric all-terrain scooters, you’ll explore varied terrains, from beaches to volcanic landscapes. Suitable for 1-3 hours, this tour is perfect for those who want an active, environmentally conscious adventure. Guides are passionate about the island’s geology and history, and reviews praise the unique perspective and ease of riding.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers looking for a modern, light-footed way to uncover Lanzarote’s diverse scenery.
14. Excursion to Las Palmas: History and Culture
Rounding out the list, this 6-hour cultural tour explores Las Palmas de Gran Canaria’s Vegueta old town and Triana neighborhood. Walk through historic streets, admire modernist architecture, and enjoy free time in Santa Catalina harbor. The tour provides a deep dive into the island’s conquest, pirate history, and cultural sights. The high rating underscores its popularity among history and culture buffs.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a cultural fix and a taste of local life in the capital city.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When picking your ideal Canary Islands experience, consider your budget, activity level, and interests. For thrill-seekers, the motorbiking or quad adventures (125cc Motorbike Tour Cruise The Mountains, Tenerife: Quad Adventure) offer adrenaline with stunning scenery. If you’re more into nature and wildlife, the Barranco de los Cernícalos (Gran Canaria excursion) or Anaga’s hidden gems (Explore Anaga) are excellent choices. For cultural explorers, the Las Palmas tour (History and Culture) offers a deep dive into local heritage.
Timing and weather are also key — outdoor and scenic tours are best in good weather, and booking early guarantees availability, especially for popular experiences like the Timanfaya evening tour or Teide sunset quad.
Final Thoughts
The Canary Islands offer a wonderfully diverse array of experiences—from motorbiking across volcanic dunes to exploring ancient villages and stargazing at La Palma’s observatories. For pure adrenaline, the quad tours and jetski rides deliver excitement, while the cultural and scenic walks satisfy curiosity. We recommend balancing your must-see sights with activities matching your fitness level and interest.
If you’re eager to make the most of your trip, consider booking your preferred tours early — especially the highly rated ones like the Timanfaya sunset dinner or the full-day Masca and Teno. Whatever your style, there’s an unforgettable experience waiting for you in this volcanic paradise.