Published on
August 4, 2025
Nestled along the Costa Tropical of Granada, the charming coastal town of Almuñécar has recently welcomed an enterprising and ecologically attuned initiative designed to enhance the visitor experience while safeguarding the region’s unique environment. Spearheaded by entrepreneurs Francisco and Bernardo, the initiative provides guided tours aboard electric tuk tuk, enabling residents and tourists alike to discover the area’s rich historical, cultural, agricultural, and gastronomic heritage with minimal carbon footprint. What commenced nearly three years ago as a modest pilot has blossomed into a widely cherished attraction, drawing both Spanish travellers and an ever-expanding international clientele.
Electric Tuk Tuk Tours: A Sustainable Approach to Sightseeing
Francisco and Bernardo have created more than just a simple tour; they provide authentic experiences that combine the rich history, stunning landscapes, and cultural heritage of Almuñécar. The electric tuk tuks, each with a four-seat capacity, offer small group tours throughout the year, catering to both local and international visitors. The tours are designed to be engaging, educational, and environmentally friendly, emphasising sustainability in tourism. Visitors can enjoy the unique experience of being driven through Almuñécar’s scenic routes while learning about the town’s historical landmarks, local agriculture, and traditional Mediterranean lifestyle.
The tuk tuks are operated in a sustainable manner, with electric vehicles minimising the environmental impact and providing a quiet and clean mode of transport for tourists to explore the area. This eco-conscious approach aligns with the increasing demand for sustainable tourism and responsible travel experiences, which have been gaining momentum in recent years.
Cultural and Scenic Routes: A Dive into Almuñécar’s History and Agriculture
The guided tours are conducted live, without scripts, allowing for a more organic and personalised experience. Available in three languages—Spanish, English, and French—the tours are tailored to meet the needs of a diverse range of visitors. Francisco takes charge of the English- and Spanish-speaking groups, while Bernardo caters to the French-speaking tourists.
Among the six different routes available, one of the most popular is Route Number Three. This tour begins in the heart of Almuñécar and ascends to the old town, where tourists can learn about significant historical landmarks such as the San Miguel castle, narrow traditional streets, and the Roman aqueduct. The tour also includes a visit to other Roman-period aqueducts and a journey through the lower part of the town. From there, the tuk tuk takes visitors to local agricultural fields where tropical fruits such as custard apples, avocados, and mangoes are grown. The guides explain the cultivation processes, pollination techniques, and the region’s significant role as a European pioneer in growing these fruits.
Visitors also get the chance to sample the locally grown fruits, depending on what is available at the time of the tour. The highlight of the route is a stop at the Cuesta de Godoy, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valley, town, and the Mediterranean Sea.
Apart from the popular Route Number Three, the tuk tuk tour company also offers coastal routes such as those in La Herradura and Marina del Este. These routes focus on coastal beauty, stopping at landmarks like the marina, Punta de la Mona, the chapel, the lighthouse, La Herradura castle, and the historic Calle Real. Another special route is available in the winter months, offering visitors a chance to explore a winery in Jete. The winter route starts with a tropical fruit tasting and is followed by a visit to a local winery where visitors can learn about the winemaking process and sample a selection of five different wines, paired with tapas.
The All-Year-Round Appeal of Tuk Tuk Tours
One of the most surprising aspects of the business is that it operates year-round, with bookings often increasing during the winter months. While many hotels reduce their services during the off-season, Francisco and Bernardo have seen a surge in interest from Scandinavian, English, Dutch, and French tourists who visit Almuñécar for its mild winter weather. According to the entrepreneurs, these winter tourists are eager to engage in outdoor activities that allow them to connect with the local culture and experience the town’s landscapes away from the busy summer crowds.
For many of these tourists, the mild winter temperatures of around 15 to 18°C and occasional rain provide the perfect conditions for a tuk tuk tour. Tourists visiting in the winter are often described as being more interested in cultural learning and interaction, as opposed to traditional beachgoers. Francisco explained that these visitors appreciate the opportunity to converse and ask questions during the tour, enhancing their overall experience.
A Personal Touch to the Experience
What sets this ecotourism venture apart from others is the personal approach taken by Francisco and Bernardo. Each tour is designed to be more than just a sightseeing trip—it is a conversation between friends, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of Almuñécar’s history, culture, and agricultural practices. One of the guiding principles of the business is that if visitors are not satisfied with the experience, they are not required to pay. To date, no one has left without paying, highlighting the success of their commitment to providing exceptional experiences.
Educational and Environmental Initiatives
The business is not only focused on providing tourists with memorable experiences but is also committed to environmental sustainability and education. The company is currently developing a new educational programme focused on subtropical fruits, which aims to take visitors directly to farms where they can interact with the trees, smell the fruit, and even pick it themselves. In addition, the company is working on environmental awareness campaigns to promote sustainable agricultural practices and reduce the use of plastics and waste in local farms.
The town hall of Almuñécar has shown strong support for the project, recognising its positive impact on local tourism and sustainability efforts. Francisco and Bernardo’s commitment to both environmental and educational initiatives has further strengthened their relationship with the local community and government.
Conclusion
The growing emphasis on sustainable tourism now finds a compelling embodiment in Almuñécar’s fleet of electric tuk tuk excursions, which allow visitors to navigate the town’s narrow streets while leaving only the faintest of footprints. Guided by Francisco and Bernardo, the tours seamlessly interweave cultural discovery, balmy coastal vistas, and stops at family-run orchards, presenting a layered narrative of both heritage and landscape. Their dual emphasis on eco-responsibility and visitor education has forged a partnership with the community that is both practical and passionate. Whether resident or passing traveller, anyone on four discreetly quiet wheels finds a genuine and memorable portal to Almuñécar’s layered past and radiant countryside.
Image Credit: Visit Costa del Sol Official Website
