Malaga doesn't switch off when summer ends. At Christmas and in winter, the Costa del Sol enjoys sunny days, mild temperatures and far fewer crowds than in July or August. It's a great time for outdoor plans that can feel too hot in summer.
If you're wondering what to do in Malaga in winter, this article gives you some ideas for this time of year. We also explain why a quad or buggy tour in the Sierra de Mijas is one of the best plans for the season, whether you're here on holiday or live locally.
Why is winter a great time for a quad or buggy tour?
• Pleasant temperatures: in winter it's comfortable to ride at any time of day, without the midday heat of the summer months.
• Clearer views: clear winter days are perfect for enjoying the views of the coast from the mountains.
• Greener countryside: after the first rains the mountains turn green, and the odd muddy stretch adds an extra touch of adventure to the tour.
• Fewer crowds: outside the high season it's usually easier to get a spot at the time that suits you.
• A plan to share: all our quads and buggies are two-seaters and automatic, so you can come as a couple, with friends or with the family.
Things to do in Malaga at Christmas: ideas for the festive season
Christmas in Malaga has a great atmosphere. Here are some ideas for your trip:
• Malaga city centre: stroll around the centre and see the Christmas lights on Calle Larios, among the most famous in Spain.
• Mijas Pueblo: its whitewashed streets and viewpoints over the coast are well worth a visit.
• The beach in winter: a walk along the promenade or lunch at a beach bar in the sun is something you can enjoy on many days in December and January.
• Adventure in nature: a quad or buggy tour in the Sierra de Mijas, just a few minutes from the coast.
A plan that works really well is to do the tour in the morning and save the afternoon for Malaga city centre and the Christmas lights.
More ideas for any time of year: things to do on the Costa del Sol.
Quad and buggy tours in winter: departures and prices
In winter we run tours every day except 25 December, 1 January and 6 January. There are morning and afternoon departures, for example at 10:00, 13:00 and 16:00. You can see all available times on our booking page.
All tours are guided and take place in the Sierra de Mijas. Prices are per vehicle, and each vehicle seats two people.
• Quad: 1 hour €80, 2 hours €120, 3 hours €165.
• Buggy: 1 hour €100, 2 hours €145, 3 hours €185.
The 2-hour tour is the most popular, as it gives you time to enjoy the trails and the views without rushing.
To drive you need a car driving licence (category B) and must be 18 or over. Children can ride as passengers from age 4 in a buggy and from age 6 on a quad.
More information: quad tours, buggy tours and quad or buggy: which one to choose.
Looking for a Christmas gift?
If you're looking for an original Christmas gift, you can give the experience with a gift voucher. It takes just a couple of minutes to buy online and you can personalise it when you purchase it. The voucher is valid for 3 months.
All the details: an original gift in Malaga.
For companies and groups: a different Christmas activity
If you're organising your company's Christmas activity or a group outing, a quad or buggy tour is a different way to spend a morning together before lunch or dinner.
More information: quad team building in Mijas.
For groups of more than 6 vehicles, ask us for a price by email at atvadventurescostadelsol@gmail.com or on WhatsApp at +34 656 79 67 54.
Tips for a quad or buggy tour in winter
• Comfortable clothes: wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and bring a jacket or sweatshirt, as it gets chilly in the morning and late afternoon.
• Closed shoes: better than light-coloured canvas trainers.
• Sunglasses: the winter sun sits lower, so they come in handy.
• Arrive 15 minutes early: this leaves time for the safety briefing and your gear (helmet for quads, goggles for buggies). We sell face bandanas for €2, although they're not compulsory.
• Book ahead: over bank holidays and the Christmas holidays it's best to secure your spot in advance. You pay a 20% deposit and the rest on arrival. You can cancel up to 72 hours before departure.
Frequently asked questions
Are you open at Christmas?
Yes. We run tours every day except 25 December, 1 January and 6 January.
Where do the tours start?
At our base in Las Lagunas de Mijas, about a 10-minute drive from Fuengirola, 15 from Benalmádena, 25 from Torremolinos and 30 from Malaga or Marbella.
Do you offer hotel pick-up?
We don't offer pick-up. If you don't have a car, you can take the Cercanías commuter train (line C-1) to Fuengirola and a taxi from there.
Can I rent a quad without a guide?
No. All our tours are guided tours in the Sierra de Mijas.