What to take on a quad bike trip to Mount Teide

Quick answer: for a quad bike trip to Mount Teide, wear long trousers, closed-toe shoes, sunglasses, sun cream and a warm layer, as it gets quite chilly in the higher parts of the National Park even when it’s hot on the coast. We’ll provide the helmet and thermal jacket. With those, plus your physical driving licence, you’re all set for the trip.

Are you about to book your quad bike tour of Mount Teide and not quite sure what to pack in your rucksack? It’s the most common question, and there’s a catch: it can be 25 °C on the beach in Tenerife but considerably cooler up in the Mount Teide area. You’ll be heading from the coast up to volcanic mountain landscapes in the course of the same morning, so the key is to be prepared for that change. Here we’ll tell you exactly what to take, what we’ll provide for you, and what’s best left at the hotel.

Essential items to bring with you

This is the shortlist. If you’re only going to read one section, make it this one:

• Long trousers. No shorts: they protect you from the sun, dust and chafing. A pair of jeans or comfortable sports trousers are ideal.
• Closed-toe footwear. Trainers or boots. Flip-flops and sandals are not suitable for riding a quad bike safely.
• Sunglasses. The sun is intense at high altitudes, and they also help protect against the wind and dust.
• Sun protection. Apply high-factor sun cream to your face, neck and hands. In the mountains, the sun is more intense than it seems.
• A warm coat. A jumper or a light top. Even if it’s warm when you go out, you’ll be glad you’ve got it with you.
• Your physical driving licence. It must be valid and in its original form (a photo on your mobile phone is not acceptable) for the person who will be driving.

What we already provide for you

To help you travel light, some of the equipment is included in the tour:

• An approved helmet is compulsory and must be properly fitted before setting off.
• A thermal jacket, which makes all the difference when the route climbs into the cooler areas of Mount Teide.
• A safety briefing and instructions before you set off, even if you have no previous experience.
• A snack and a drink during one of the stops, to recharge your batteries.

So you don’t need to buy or bring any special kit: all you need is the right clothing and a spirit of adventure.

How to dress according to the time of day on your route

It’s not the same going out at midday as it is doing the route at sunset. Choose your coat to suit your schedule:

• Day trip: the weather is warmer, but a warm layer is still recommended for higher altitudes. Make sure you have sun cream and sunglasses.
• Sunset hike: as the sun goes down, the temperature drops sharply in the mountains. A coat is essential here: add a second, thin layer and, if you feel the cold, a buff or a light hat.

If you’re still trying to decide between the two options, we’ve compared them in detail in our guide on choosing between the daytime and sunset routes.

What you DON’T need to bring

So you don’t carry too much:

• Bulky spare clothes: one extra layer is enough.
• Yourown motorbike kit: we’ll provide the helmet and jacket.
• Loose valuables: only take what you need; on a quad bike, everything must be securely fastened.
• A large rucksack: a small one or a bum bag is more comfortable for driving.

A couple of extra tips

• Hold on to your mobile or camera. You’ll want to take photos at the viewpoints, but make sure you carry a strap or keep it safe between stops.
• Come with your hands free. Thin gloves are a bonus if you’re sensitive to the cold, although they’re not essential.
• Make sureyou arrive in good time. Remember to be at the meeting point 30 minutes early for check-in and a briefing.
• Please bear in mind the deposit. A deposit of €100 in cash is required before you set off, which will be refunded at the end of the hire if the quad bike is returned in the same condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have you got everything sorted? All that’s left is the most important bit: book your quad bike tour to Mount Teide and get ready to discover Tenerife’s wildest side.