Karting Club Tenerife in Arona is Tenerife’s premier outdoor kart racing venue, offering high-speed thrills for families, groups and racing enthusiasts alike. Located just off the TF-1 highway (Exit 66, Las Chafiras) in the Arona municipality, KCT features two modern circuits and a fleet of karts from adult Super Karts to child-friendly kiddie karts. Over 25 years of history have made KCT a Canary Islands karting landmark. As the official site and travel guides note, the Senior track is a whopping 1,200 metres long (8 m wide) and a 250-metre Junior track allows children to race safely.
Many travelers cite KCT as one of their favorite Tenerife activities. A travel blog notes that KCT’s two circuits “offer thrilling rides” on a 1.2km racecourse. Guests praise the high-adrenaline experience – for example, one British visitor raved “fast go karts… overall great fun” and another said the race felt “amazing fun… [I] would absolutely do again”. While tourist forums mention a few minor hiccups (e.g. some confusion about session logistics), most guests emphasize the excitement of the track. Read on for everything you need to know – from KCT’s history and facilities to visitor tips, FAQ and how it compares with other karting venues.
History of Karting in Tenerife and the Origins of KCT
Karting as a hobby grew globally in the late 20th century, and Tenerife joined the trend in the 1990s. In southern Tenerife, the Canary Islands Karting Club, S.L. company opened Karting Club Tenerife (in Parque de la Reina, Arona) around the mid-1990s. With “more than a quarter of a century” (25+ years) of history, KCT became “a point of reference in the motor world of the Canary Islands”. Over time it expanded its tracks and fleet: today KCT is the island’s largest karting complex, boasting two fully equipped circuits (Senior and Junior) and a range of high-performance karts. Its longevity and continuous upgrades have made it very popular with both locals and tourists.
Early on, Tenerife had few competitors – KCT for years was practically the only major kart track on the island. The venue has hosted regional kart racing events and provided karting schools (a “pilot school”) to cultivate racing skills. Modern KCT still honors this heritage: official info mentions CRG Centurion timing equipment and adherence to international karting standards. Visitors today enjoy the legacy of decades of motor-sport passion – a heritage noted by local news and tourist guides alike.
The Karting Club Tenerife Experience
The Circuits
Senior (Pro) Track: The main circuit is 1,200 m long, 8 metres wide, with sweeping bends and straights that let you reach near-competition speeds. As the official KCT site boasts, it has “1.200 m of pure adrenaline”. This outdoor track is homologated for high performance (it meets Spanish karting and FIA standards) and provides an authentic race feel. For perspective, TravelTenerife describes it as a “1.2 km circuit” where you can select among 6 different karts, including powerful 350–400cc machines.
Junior (Kids) Track: Parallel to the senior track is a separate, 250 m long junior circuit. It is specifically designed for young drivers, with ample width (8 m) and safety barriers. This shorter track ensures novices and children have a safe but fun ride. Again quoting the venue: the Junior track is a “paradise packed with fun for the kids”. It has a modern timing system, so young racers can see their lap times and compete among themselves. All told, KCT’s dual-track setup lets families race “together” in the sense that kids and adults can be on the premises at the same time, even if they drive on separate circuits.
Karts and Driving Options
KCT’s fleet of karts spans a range of engine sizes to match different ages and skill levels. Official details list the following options:
- Super Kart Especial (Adults 18+) – 350 cc, 14 HP, 4-stroke: top speed around 60–90 km/h. For beginners and fun racers.
- CRG Centurion (Adults 18+) – 400 cc, 14 HP, 4-stroke: this brand-new model reaches speeds up to ~90 km/h, with advanced handling and safety features. (Note: TravelTenerife mentions “fastest karts with a horsepower of 400cc”, which refers to this Centurion.)
- Cadete Senior (Juniors 15–17) – 200 cc, 6.5 HP: the only “adult-style” kart allowed for youth ages 15–17, limited in speed.
- Cadete Junior (Children 10–14) – 180 cc, 6 HP: designed for ages 10–14, the Junior kart is essentially a detuned version of the adult kart, capping speeds near 40–50 km/h.
- Pony Kart (Children 6–9) – 120 cc, 4 HP: small 4-stroke karts for ages 6–9. These run at lower speeds (around 30 km/h) so kids can have fun safely.
- Biplaza Kart (Toddlers 3–5 + Adult) – 160 cc, 5.5 HP: a two-seater kart for one adult driver plus one child (3–5 years old) as passenger. This lets parents take very young kids onto the Junior track together.
In short, KCT accommodates almost every age: even toddlers (3+) can enjoy the ride in the two-seater biplaza kart, while older teens and adults burn rubber on the senior circuit. (Height restrictions apply: typically children must be around 1.2 m tall to drive solo.) The TripTenerife booking site emphasizes this variety, listing all these kart classes and their engine specs.
All karts undergo regular maintenance, and safety is emphasized. Visitors are provided with helmets and safety suits as needed, and beginners receive an orientation before racing. Travel blogs note that it’s recommended to wear closed-toe shoes, tie back long hair and avoid loose clothing. The staff (speaking Spanish and English) ensures that “homologated” safety measures are in place – in fact, the facility is certified by Spanish karting and FIA standards. Young drivers on the junior track are always monitored by staff, and strict speed limits keep the experience safe and family-friendly. As one guide puts it, “maximum safety is guaranteed” on the children’s track.
Facilities and Extras
Karting Club Tenerife is more than just asphalt and engines; it offers amenities to make a day out convenient and fun. On-site amenities include a snack bar/café (bar-cafetería) where you can buy drinks and light refreshments. There is an expansive terrace and grandstand that overlooks the circuits, giving spectators panoramic views of the racing action. Other entertainment options on-site include a small billiards table, slot-car racing tracks and arcade video games for families to enjoy between sessions. A souvenir motorsports boutique sells racing-themed gifts and KCT apparel. Free parking is available adjacent to the track.
A big bonus is KCT’s free shuttle bus service. Visitors from resorts in southern Tenerife (Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas, etc.) can book the complimentary hotel pick-up/drop-off by phone. The Spanish booking site confirms: “Recogida GRATUITA disponible (zona Sur… hasta las 15:00 h)”. This makes it easy to get to KCT without renting a car – the driver will take you from your hotel and return you afterward, at no extra cost. (Tip: tours recommend scheduling the pickup by early afternoon for a morning karting session.)
After your race, KCT even provides printed lap timing sheets so each driver can compare their best laps. Photographs and videos can be purchased on-site if you want a memento of the action. Overall, the complex is designed to keep families comfortable: parents can relax on the viewing terrace with a cold drink while their kids race or play in the game area. Many review sources highlight that KCT feels like a well-rounded leisure outing – as one French guest noted, “Les membres du personnel sont très sympathiques… On a passé un moment inoubliable” (“staff very friendly… we had an unforgettable time”).
What Visitors Say (Reviews and Feedback)
Tourists’ reviews of KCT are generally enthusiastic about the fun factor. For example, a verified review on GetYourGuide praised the karts and track: “It was great, fast go karts and 12 minutes (11 laps)… Overall great fun.” Another commented that on the track “time almost slows down… it was amazing fun” and vowed to go again. These sentiments are common – guests often mention the karts feel quick and powerful, and that even a short session feels exciting.
One American reviewer on a forum remarked that even the children’s track was entertaining for family fun. Spanish blogs similarly note the thrill: Karting Club Tenerife is lauded as having curves and straights that deliver “pura adrenalina”. The triptenerife.com site (which sells karting tours) echoes the sentiment, describing KCT as “el mayor kartódromo de la isla” with “diversión y entretenimiento para todos – especialmente si estás con amigos y/o familia.” (It even asks jokingly “¿Quién es el más rápido de todos vosotros?” after a race.)
Not all feedback is uncritical, however. A few visitors have complained about aspects like the condition of older karts or price of refreshments. For example, one guest suggested bringing your own water since drinks were expensive on-site. Another noted a bit of confusion finding where to get helmets or session assignments when they arrived. These seem to be minor issues (often remedied by a quick chat with staff), but it’s fair to be aware. On balance, the reviews lean positive: the consensus is that KCT delivers a memorable racing experience. As one French guest put it after her visit, “Quelle journée incroyable… Les karts et la piste sont très fun!”.
In short, most visitors leave Karting Club Tenerife thrilled. The combination of a long, well-designed track, powerful karts, scenic southern Tenerife weather, and family-oriented facilities makes it a highly-recommended attraction. Travelers planning a Tenerife trip frequently list KCT at the top of their “things to do” list because of the excitement and accessibility – especially for groups of friends or families looking for an adrenaline activity near Adeje/Los Cristianos.
Comparing Karting Club Tenerife to Other Tracks
Tourists often wonder how KCT stacks up against other karting venues. Below we compare KCT to several alternatives in Tenerife, the Canary Islands, and mainland Spain, focusing on track length, kart options, prices, and family-friendliness.
- Karting Club Tenerife vs. Karting Las Américas (Costa Adeje): Karting Las Américas (near Playa de las Américas) is a popular nearby track, but it is quite different. Las Américas has a single 857 m circuit (compared to KCT’s 1,200 m circuit) and is operated by the Events Karts company. It features 2-stroke racing karts that can reach 80 km/h, geared more toward enthusiasts and track conditions, whereas KCT’s highest adult karts are 4-stroke up to ~90 km/h. Critically, Las Américas does not have a separate children’s track – it only runs one mixed-use circuit, so younger kids cannot race there. In contrast, KCT’s dedicated 250m junior track and two-seater karts mean families with small children can all participate safely. In summary: Las Américas is slightly shorter (857m) and has powerful rental karts for general audiences, but KCT’s longer track and specialized kids facilities make it more family-friendly. Both tracks charge similar prices per session, but Las Américas tends to attract slightly higher speeds and is often booked via separate excursion operators.
- Karting Club Tenerife vs. Gran Karting Club Lanzarote (Puerto del Carmen): On Lanzarote, the Gran Karting Club Lanzarote is famous for having one of Europe’s longest outdoor kart circuits. Its track is listed at 2,146 m – nearly double the length of KCT’s main track. It even claims to be “second longest in Spain” when combining both layouts (up to 1,560 m in racing mode). Lanzarote’s facility offers multiple circuits: a senior (270 cc) track at 80 km/h, a junior (160 cc) track up to 40 km/h, and a fully-electric kiddie circuit for ages 5+. They also provide a two-seater option. In comparison, KCT’s track is shorter (1200m vs 2146m) but still among the bigger tracks in Spain. KCT’s advantage is location: it’s convenient for Tenerife visitors, and it offers free south-island pickup. Lanzarote’s kart center also has a free hotel shuttle, but its distances from resorts (on a different island) and extra travel cost make KCT easier for Tenerife holidaymakers.
- Karting Club Tenerife vs. Gran Karting Club Gran Canaria (Maspalomas): Gran Canaria’s largest outdoor track in Maspalomas is 972 m long. It is shorter than KCT’s (1200m) and similarly outdoor. Gran Canaria also has an indoor option (“Indoor Karting Gran Canaria”) on a ~400 m track, but the main outdoor track tops out at 972m. Gran Canaria’s venue offers similar age-based karts but tends to attract local crowds. Tenerife’s KCT is often cited as superior for tourists because the southern Tenerife resorts are so close by, whereas Maspalomas is in the opposite direction of Gran Canaria’s main tourist areas. In family-friendliness, both have junior karts, but again KCT’s separate short track for children and on-site party offerings (podiums, screens, lunch) give it an edge for events.
- Karting Club Tenerife vs. Mainland Spain tracks: Many mainland tracks exist, some of them very large. For instance, El Viajero Fisgón notes that the Karting Club Vendrell (Tarragona) has a 1,310 m track (wider 8 m) and hosts international events. Fernando Alonso’s kart circuit in Asturias can be configured up to 1,800 m. These tracks often have multiple sub-tracks and top-tier facilities. By comparison, KCT’s 1,200m track is slightly shorter than Vendrell’s 1,310m but still very competitive. KCT is also homologated for high-level racing but with a strong focus on tourism – it may lack the sheer size of some mainland championship tracks, but it is very long by Canary standards. Its unique selling point is location: Tenerife’s pleasant climate and resort infrastructure. (By way of context, the Tambre stadium in Madrid is only 750m, and many indoor circuits are 400–800m, so KCT’s outdoor track is impressive.) In short, while mainland kart centers can offer longer or world-class racing setups, none can match KCT’s convenience for Tenerife visitors or its combination of family features and Costa Adeje sunshine.
Karting Club Tenerife: Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Where is Karting Club Tenerife located, and how do I get there?
A: KCT is in Parque de la Reina (Arona), just off TF-1 Highway at exit 66 (Las Chafiras). Its address is “Ctra. del Chó s/n, Salida 66 TF1, 38640 Arona”. Ample free parking is available on-site. Many visitors from Costa Adeje/Los Cristianos avoid driving altogether by using KCT’s free shuttle bus: call +34 922 730 703 and staff will pick you up at your hotel (south Tenerife resorts only) and return you afterward. Otherwise, renting a car or taxi is easy in Tenerife, and public roads to Arona are well-maintained. (Tip: Set GPS to “Karting Club Tenerife, Salida 66 TF1” for convenience.) - Q: When is KCT open? Do I need to book in advance?
A: KCT is open daily. Regular opening hours are 10:00–20:00 (nonstop). In summer months the track stays open until 21:00. It closes only on a few holidays (e.g. Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve with shortened hours) as listed on the official site. During high season (Christmas, spring break) the venue can be busy, so it’s wise to reserve in advance if possible. Many local tour providers sell combination packages with KCT, and KCT itself offers online booking (including a 48-hour free cancellation policy). However, walk-in reservations may be available if the track is not full; calling ahead or booking through a local excursion operator is recommended for guaranteed slots. - Q: What are the session lengths and prices?
A: A standard adult racing session at KCT covers 7 laps on the senior track (this takes about 10–12 minutes). For children’s events on the junior track you get about 12 laps. As for pricing, it varies by kart class. According to the latest rates listed on booking sites, the cost per session is roughly: €35 for the full-power CRG Centurión (400cc) kart, €30 for the Super Kart Especial (390cc); €20 for Cadete Senior (200cc), €18 for Cadete Junior (180cc); and €22 for the adult-child Biplaza (160cc), €12 for the child Pony kart (120cc). These are similar to prices at other Tenerife tracks. Note that each booking is per kart (not per person), so a biplaza kart price covers two riders. No hidden fees are usually added, but optional extras (helmet cameras, snacks at the bar, etc.) cost extra. - Q: Are there age or height restrictions? Can a parent and child ride together?*
A: KCT is very family-friendly. Kids 3–5 years old can ride only in a two-seater “biplaza” kart with an adult driver. Children 6–9 must use the Pony Kart by themselves. Ages 10–14 use the Cadete Junior kart (180cc), and 15–17 can use the Cadete Senior (200cc). Anyone 18 and up drives an adult kart on the main track. Minimum height is usually about 1.2 meters (4 feet) for the smallest karts, and roughly 1.4–1.5 m for adult karts; staff will check safety belts fit properly. In practice, a child of 10 or older cannot share an adult kart – they must drive the junior karts. But parents can enjoy laps with 3–5 year-olds in the biplaza together. - Q: What safety equipment do you provide?
A: All drivers are given helmets (with visors) and safety suits/gloves as needed. Before racing, a safety briefing is required, covering track rules and signals. The venue is fully fenced and the karts have speed governors. KCT’s junior track is equipped with extra padding and a dedicated monitor on the circuit at all times. The facility is AEK- and FIA-homologated, meaning it meets strict safety standards. TripTenerife’s info page confirms “Todos los karts cumplen las normas internacionales de seguridad”. Staff patrols ensure helmets stay on and overtaking rules are followed. As one guide warns, tourists with heart conditions or extreme disabilities are advised against racing, though KCT does offer special disability-friendly karts.
- Q: Is it safe for small children? What about strollers and wheelchairs?*
A: Yes, KCT makes efforts to accommodate all ages safely. For kids, the Pony and Junior karts are limited in speed; Lanzarote’s info notes the Junior kart tops out around 40 km/h, and Tenerife’s smaller tracks are similarly slow. There are also always race marshals on hand. According to TravelTenerife, KCT even has wheelchair-adapted karts and a special harness system so that guests using wheelchairs – or toddlers in strollers – can ride safely. In short, the junior facilities and double-seater karts mean families can race together responsibly. Guests consistently say their children felt safe and had fun. Of course, adult supervision is required, especially for very young riders. - Q: What should I bring/wear?
A: Wear closed-toe athletic shoes (no sandals or flip-flops) and comfortable pants/shorts. Tie back long hair and remove dangling jewelry or scarves. The track surface can get hot, so lightweight clothing is recommended. The club will provide a helmet and race suit, so you only need to bring yourself and your sense of adventure. It’s wise to bring your own water: staff remind visitors to hydrate, and one review specifically advised bringing water because on-site drinks are expensive. Also consider sunglasses or sunscreen for sunny weather. - Q: What’s included and what’s extra?
A: Each kart session includes the instruction and the set number of laps on the chosen track. The price does not include food or photos. There is a small cafeteria/bar where you can buy snacks, soft drinks and coffee, but many visitors say it’s pricey, so bringing your own snacks is a good plan. The kart session does include official lap timing: after racing you’ll get a printout with your lap times and your best time. Helmets and safety gear are free of charge. Optional extras like in-helmet video (if available) will cost extra. If you want more track time, you can simply book another session (often at a discounted rate if pre-paid online). - Q: Do I need to book or can I walk in?
A: Advance booking is highly recommended, especially for larger groups or during busy season. Many local tour companies (including TripTenerife and GetYourGuide) sell packaged KCT sessions, which often include a time slot. Karting Club Tenerife’s own site also allows online reservations (with a policy of free cancellation 48h ahead). Walk-ins are occasionally accommodated if there’s spare capacity, but don’t count on it during midday or holidays. To be safe, book a slot for your preferred time. The staff do speak English and will confirm your slot when you arrive. - Q: Is it wheelchair/stroller accessible?
A: Yes, to some extent. The facility is mostly flat and the staff provide a special adapted kart for wheelchair users, so guests in wheelchairs can drive (with assistance). For toddlers in strollers, there is also a custom go-kart with a safety harness that can accommodate a small child plus an adult driver. The viewing terrace and café are accessible. If you have specific needs, it’s best to mention them when booking so they can make arrangements. - Q: What languages do the instructors speak?
A: The primary staff speak Spanish, but most also speak English. The GetYourGuide description notes instructors are bilingual (English/Spanish). Tenerife is very international, so you’ll likely find friendly help in English, and some staff may speak German or French as well (especially on weekends). If language is a concern, booking through a European tour operator often guarantees an English-speaking assistant. - Q: What if it rains? Does KCT operate in bad weather?*
A: Southern Tenerife has a very dry, sunny climate, so rain is rare. In the unlikely event of heavy rain or a storm, the track may close temporarily for safety. It’s best to check the weather forecast and call KCT if there’s severe weather. Usually, racing is resumed quickly once the track is safe. The entire facility is outdoors (no roof over the tracks), so normal light drizzle would likely postpone a session, but moderate rain is uncommon in Arona.
Karting in a Tenerife Itinerary
Karting Club Tenerife fits well into a multi-day Tenerife vacation. It’s located close to major south-coast resorts, so you could dedicate a half-day (or morning) to it. Here’s how it might slot into your trip:
- Accommodations (Where to stay): Nearby towns offer many hotels and rentals. Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje (Siam Park area) are about 10–15 minutes’ drive from KCT and have dozens of resorts and apartments. For example, Bahia Principe Fantasia and Hotel Cleopatra Palace in Costa Adeje are popular family hotels about 10 km north. Closer to the track, the El Chorrillo and Chayofa neighborhoods of Arona have mid-range hotels and villas; Hostal Neon and Hotel Pensión Cassandra are budget-friendly options within a 5-minute drive. Many guests choose accommodation in Adeje or Los Cristianos (for beaches and nightlife) and then take the free bus up to KCT on the karting day.
- Nearby Attractions: Arona is famous for its beautiful beaches (Playa de Las Vistas, Playa de Los Cristianos) and the family-friendly Siam Park water park (Costa Adeje) which is only 10–15 minutes away by car. If you have more time in the area, visit the mountainous Montaña de Guaza or take a dolphin-watching boat from Los Cristianos harbor. The Titsa bus line #415 stops near KCT, but most tourists find it easier to drive or take taxis. Restaurants near Arona include local favorites like El Cordero (Argentinian grill) and Rancho de Niňo, both traditional eateries popular with families. For dinner, nearby Adeje offers international cuisine and buffet hotels.
- Sample Itinerary: On a multi-day trip to Tenerife, one might spend an afternoon at KCT amid other southern activities. A typical plan: Morning at Siam Park or Teide National Park, then afternoon go-karting followed by a relaxed evening in Los Cristianos. Another approach is to combine KCT with neighboring Karting Las Américas or a mini-golf and spa resort in Adeje. Travel bloggers suggest pairing KCT with other adventure sports: for instance, a morning of karting followed by a jungle buggy ride or paragliding south of Tenerife. For families, KCT can be a welcome break between water park and beach days – it lets kids burn off energy while parents enjoy a unique experience.
- General Tenerife Travel Tips: Tenerife’s south coast (Arona/Adeje) is very tourist-friendly. The official Visit Tenerife site highlights KCT as one of the island’s fun leisure parks. Visitors should note that summer afternoons can be hot, so bringing sunscreen is wise. Spanish and English are commonly spoken; Euro is used, and credit cards are widely accepted. KCT sometimes offers combination tickets or discounts if booked together with a dolphin-watching cruise or water park on third-party tour sites – it’s worth checking bundled deals on sites like GetYourGuide or Viator. Finally, remember that Spanish mealtimes are late: lunchtime usually starts at 14:00, so plan your karting for the late morning or early afternoon if you want to avoid an empty stomach.
Karting Club Tenerife – Final Thoughts
Karting Club Tenerife is a standout attraction for anyone seeking an adrenaline rush in a holiday setting. Its long track (1.2 km) and high-quality karts give a real taste of racing in Tenerife’s beautiful climate. Families especially appreciate the two circuits: adults can battle it out on the main track while the kids zoom around the safe, smaller loop. Travelers consistently mention the fun of challenging friends or the kids to lap-time races, with on-track leaderboards adding to the excitement. After the action, you can relax at the terrace café or take advantage of group event packages (birthday parties, corporate Grand Prix races) that the club advertises.
Whether you’re staying in Costa Adeje or venturing around Tenerife, including Karting Club Tenerife in your itinerary brings a change of pace from beaches and hiking. As a promotional note: “Don’t leave Tenerife without racing at Karting Club Tenerife!” – an exclamation you’ll hear from the site’s staff and many experienced visitors. Indeed, with over 25 years of karting history on the island, KCT remains a must-do for speed-lovers. All things considered, Karting Club Tenerife delivers a memorable, high-energy outing that pairs perfectly with the rest of what Tenerife has to offer.
