How Long Does It Take to Drive Around Tenerife in a Campervan?

Tenerife might look small on a map — just a dot in the Atlantic.
But once you’re here, you quickly realise it’s packed with mountains, coastlines, volcanoes and charming villages. So, the big question is:

How long does it actually take to drive around the island in a campervan?

Whether you’re staying for three days or ten, planning your route around the island is key to enjoying the experience without rushing.

In this guide, we’ll break it all down:

• Realistic driving times around Tenerife.
• Why “non-stop” isn’t the same as “worth it.”
• What kind of route suits your travel style.
• And how campervan travel lets you go slow and see more. 

Hint: You can drive around Tenerife in a few hours…
But you’ll miss the magic if you don’t stop.

Can You Drive Around the Whole Island in One Day?

Technically, yes.
If you take the coastal roads (TF-1 and TF-5), you could loop the island in 3 to 4 hours — without traffic or stops.

But here’s the reality:

In a campervan, you’re not just getting from A to B — you’re carrying your home with you. That means more freedom, but also a different rhythm.

So, is it worth doing the full loop in one day?

Not really.

• You’ll spend most of the day driving and not experiencing.
• You’ll miss hidden beaches, local guachinches (small restaurants), and scenic hikes.
• You’ll likely feel tired, not relaxed. 

When is a one-day loop OK?

• If you’re here for 1–2 days only and want a quick overview.
• If you’re travelling with someone and can swap driving.
• If you start early, plan minimal stops, and enjoy the road itself. 

How Long Should You Really Take to Explore Tenerife by Campervan?

Let’s be honest: the best part of travelling Tenerife in a campervan isn’t the driving — it’s the freedom to stop whenever you like.

So how many days do you really need?

Recommended: 3 to 7 days

That gives you time to:

• Enjoy the beach without rushing.
• Drive to the Teide summit at your pace.
• Explore forest routes and local villages.
• Sleep in different corners of the island. 

Travelling by camper isn’t about ticking off places — it’s about living the journey.

Route Options: Full Loop vs North/South Focus

There are three main ways to structure your trip, depending on your time and energy:

Option 1: Full Coastal Loop

• Covers all coasts: south, west, north and east.
• Ideal for trips of 5+ days.
• Best if you want variety: surf, volcano, cliffs, forest, beaches. 

Option 2: South-Centred Route

• Focus on sun, beaches and easy roads.
• Visit: El Médano, Los Cristianos, Teide, Costa Adeje.
• Fewer curves, warmer weather year-round. 

Option 3: North-Centred Route

• Focus on forests, culture and dramatic landscapes.
• Visit: Anaga, La Laguna, Icod de los Vinos, Masca.
• Cooler, greener, and more off-the-beaten-path. 

How Road Type and Conditions Affect Your Journey

Driving times in Tenerife depend more on road type than distance.

Main Motorways

• TF-1: South motorway – fast, wide and easy.
• TF-5: North motorway – busier, especially near La Laguna and Santa Cruz. 

Mountain Roads

• Masca, Anaga, and parts of Teide have narrow, winding roads.
• Driving a camper here takes more time and concentration.
• But the views are 100% worth it.

Parking and Access

• Beach and viewpoint parking fills up quickly in high season.
• Use apps like Park4Night to find camper-friendly areas. 

Driving Times Between Popular Campervan Destinations

These are non-stop estimates — but you’ll want to stop often for views, photos, or a coffee by the ocean.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Drive… Explore

Tenerife isn’t made for speed — it’s made for wonder.

With a campervan, you control your rhythm.
Sleep by the sea. Wake up in the forest. Take the long road on purpose.

Want to explore Tenerife at your own pace?
Hire your campervan with AJJ Vans and turn every curve into a story worth telling.