Ultimate Guam Self-Guided Driving Tour Review
Planning to explore Guam but want to steer your own adventure? This self-guided audio driving tour promises flexibility, a deep dive into local sights, and a chance to learn about the island’s history and natural beauty — all for under $30.
What we love about this experience? First, it offers complete control over your schedule, letting you pause and explore each stop at your leisure. Second, the audio narration by knowledgeable guides makes the journey educational as well as entertaining. Third, the cost-effectiveness — just one purchase covers up to four people and can be used for an entire year — makes it a smart choice for families or groups planning multiple visits.
On the flip side, some travelers have found the historical detail a bit overwhelming or lengthy, and the navigation can be tricky without a physical car or clear signage at the start point. That said, it’s best suited for those comfortable with self-driving and eager to explore at their own pace, especially if you’re interested in cultural insights and scenic stops.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply want a flexible way to see Guam without the hassle of guided tours, this experience could be a good fit — just be prepared for some detailed storytelling and a bit of navigation.
Key Points
- Flexible exploration allows you to set your own pace and choose what interests you most.
- Educational content offers in-depth insights into Guam’s history, culture, and landmarks.
- Affordable price point covers up to 4 people and is valid for a year, making it great value.
- Offline maps and audio ensure seamless touring without relying on Wi-Fi or cellular signals.
- A wide variety of stops encompass beaches, monuments, natural pools, and historical sites.
- Potential challenge: Some reviews mention lengthy historical descriptions that may require patience.
Looking for more options in Guam? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour
This self-guided driving tour navigates roughly 93 miles around Guam, designed to give you a rundown of the island’s highlights in about 2 to 3 hours. It’s a flexible, on-demand experience that covers many key sights, with the ability to stop, explore, and learn at your own speed.
How It Works
Once you book, you’ll receive an email and text with instructions, including a password to unlock the Actions Tour Guide App. After downloading the app (preferably while connected to Wi-Fi), you’ll just need to enter the password to access the tour. The app is designed for offline use, meaning you won’t need a cellular signal once the tour starts, which is crucial in remote spots like Ritidian Point or Mount Lamlam.
Open the app at your starting point, follow the map, and the narration will automatically play as you reach each stop. This “hands-free” method allows you to focus on driving and sightseeing without constantly fiddling with your phone.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Stop 1: Chamorro Village
A fantastic starting point to understand Guam’s roots. The Chamorros created a 13-month lunar calendar to keep track of planting and harvesting times, a testament to their agricultural ingenuity. While the tour notes that admission is not included, the village itself is a lively spot filled with local crafts and food stalls, setting a cultural tone for your journey.
Stop 2: Two Lovers Point
Known for its dramatic cliffs and sweeping ocean views, this site is one of Guam’s most iconic attractions. The legend behind the name adds a romantic touch, and the balcony overhang offers perfect photo ops. Expect roughly 10 minutes here, but plan to linger for the views.
Stop 3: WWII Memorial “The Last Mission”
This understated monument marks a pivotal moment — the final mission of WWII from Guam, where American bombers learned Japan had surrendered. Reviewers mention that the memorial is unassuming but meaningful, making it a quiet spot for reflection.
Stop 4: Ritidian Point
Guam’s northernmost point, Ritidian boasts spectacular vistas and wildlife. The tour highlights the area’s natural beauty, so bring your camera. It’s a 10-minute stop but a highlight for those wanting picture-perfect scenery.
Stop 5 & 6: Local Golf Courses
For golf lovers, the Onward Mangilao Golf Club and the Country Club of the Pacific are notable for their ocean views and lush greens. Designed by renowned architects, these courses are top-rated and feel like private retreats. They’re quick stops (~10 minutes), but if you love golf, they could inspire a future visit.
Stop 7: Malojloj Falls
A fun, slightly adventurous stop, these waterfalls reach about 25 feet at their peak. Reviewers enjoyed doing cannonballs here and appreciated the natural setting. It’s a great photo spot and perfect for a quick splash if you’re feeling brave.
Stop 8: Inarajan Natural Pool
A true hidden gem, this saltwater pool is sheltered, full of colorful fish, and ideal for swimming or snorkeling. The rocky surroundings add to its charm, and it’s a must-see for anyone wanting a relaxing break.
Stop 9: Merizo Bell Tower
Dating back to the early 1900s, this bell tower exemplifies Guam’s community spirit. It’s a small but significant historic site that has been restored after erosion threatened its stability.
Stop 10: Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad
Spanish-built and full of stories about buried treasure, this fortress offers a glimpse into Guam’s colonial past. It’s a rustic ruin with lots of character and a great spot for history buffs.
Stop 11: Mount Lamlam Summit
Here’s a fun fact: Mount Lamlam is technically the world’s tallest mountain, as it stretches from the ocean floor all the way to 38,000 feet — taller than Everest! The tour notes that you might find the ascent a bit of a cheat since much of it is underwater, but it’s a unique geological marvel.
Stops 12-17: Scenic Overlooks, Historic Sites, and Cultural Landmarks
From Stella Bay’s overlook and walking trail to the WWII guns and the Latte of Freedom, this section provides a mix of nature, history, and local culture. The Guam Pacific War Museum and Plaza de España are especially enriching for history enthusiasts, while the Our Lady of Purification cathedral offers a glimpse into Guam’s religious heritage.
What You Can Expect
The tour’s main draw is its flexibility. You can start whenever you want, pause or skip stops, and spend more time at sites you find particularly interesting. The narration, crafted with local guides, enhances the experience by sharing engaging stories, legends, and historical context. Reviewers mention the “great voice” and “entertaining storytelling” as standout features.
However, some reviews note that the historical details can be lengthy and detailed, which might not appeal to everyone, especially if you prefer quick sightseeing. Also, since it’s a self-driving tour, you’ll need to be comfortable navigating and driving around the island, particularly at the start point where signage might be sparse.
The Value and What It Means for Travelers
At $29.99 for up to four people, this tour offers excellent value for money, particularly considering it’s valid for a full year. It’s a cost-effective alternative to guided tours or multiple entry tickets, especially if you plan to explore Guam over several days. Plus, the app can be used multiple times for different trips or shared among friends and family.
The offline maps and audio make it reliable even in areas with limited cell coverage, which is common in remote spots like Ritidian or Mount Lamlam. This means you won’t have to worry about losing direction or missing narration during your drive.
For travelers keen on understanding Guam’s history, culture, and natural beauty at a relaxed pace, this experience delivers a lot. It’s perfect for those who prefer self-guided exploration, appreciate audio storytelling, and want to see a wide variety of sights without the constraints of group tours.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This self-guided driving tour is ideal for independent travelers who enjoy flexibility and audio-guided education. Families or small groups wanting to explore at their own pace will find it a cost-effective solution. It’s especially appealing to history buffs, nature lovers, and those with a curiosity about Guam’s indigenous culture and colonial past.
However, it’s perhaps less suitable if you’re uncomfortable driving in unfamiliar territory, or if you prefer a shorter, less detailed overview. Also, if you’re expecting a guided experience with a physical guide or transportation included, this tour won’t meet those expectations.
FAQs
Is a car included in this tour?
No, this is a self-driving tour, so you need your own vehicle to explore Guam at your own pace.
Do I need to pay for attraction tickets separately?
Yes, admission tickets or entry fees are not included. You’ll visit public sites or open areas without specific ticket costs, but some attractions like Two Lovers Point or the museums may have their own entrance fees.
Can I start the tour anytime?
Absolutely. You can begin whenever you like within the tour’s operating hours, which are from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.
Will I need Wi-Fi or cellular service during the tour?
No, once you download the app and the tour content, it works offline, perfect for remote spots.
How long does the tour take?
It covers the essentials in about 2 to 3 hours, but you can take longer if you wish to linger at certain stops or explore side paths.
Is this tour suitable for all age groups?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind that some stops involve walking or minor hikes, like at Stella Bay or Malojloj Falls.
What if I face issues with the audio or navigation?
Support is available, and the app is designed to play automatically based on your location. If problems occur, contact the support team for assistance.
Final Thoughts
The _Ultimate Guam Self-Guided Driving Tour_ offers a budget-friendly, flexible way to see the island’s highlights, especially if you’re eager to craft your own experience without rigid schedules. It combines engaging storytelling with scenic stops, making it suitable for curious travelers who want to learn as they go.
While the detailed historical narration might be a tad lengthy for some, the overall value and variety of sights make it worth considering. The ability to pause, explore, and revisit sites at your leisure is a big plus, and the price point makes it an accessible option for many.
If you’re a traveler who loves self-led adventures, appreciates cultural insights, and prefers exploring at your own pace, this tour can add an enriching layer to your Guam trip. Just remember to set out with a reliable vehicle and an open mind to enjoy all that this beautiful island has to offer.