Gran Canaria is the destination for anyone seeking some dramatic nature and a feast of culture.
This “miniature continent” is known for its diverse landscape that permits you to hop from one adventure to the next. Where else can you hike a mountain, ride a camel through a desert and watch the sunset over a golden beach, all on the same day?
Here is the best of this Canarian wonder, broken down into 19 must do’s:
Maspalomas
The selling point of Gran Canaria is its iconic Maspalomas sand dunes. You must see them believe their enormous size, sometimes towering up to 20 metres tall.
Have a free for all of the northern desert and take exclusive photos amongst the dunes. Being such a large area, you are guaranteed to have your own untouched space to leave your footprints in the sand.
The ultimate way to explore this famous attraction is naturally, by camel! Camel Safaris are a cultural heritage — and they offer better views of Maspalomas from high up, so don’t miss out! The ride sets off every 15 minutes from Plaza del Hierro and there is no need to reserve.
After your excursion, cool things down with a stroll along Maspalomas beach and check out the lighthouse. For the adventurers that can still find energy, Maspalomas is also recognised for its buzzing nightlife.
Poema del Mar Aquarium
For a memorable trip with the kids, you can’t beat a visit to the Aquarium of Poema del Mar. You can guarantee a jam-packed day, is owned by the same people that set up the world’s best zoo and waterpark in Tenerife – Loro Parque and Siam Park.
Learn about an engrossing range of sea creatures in their habitats, split into three attractions. The giant tanks replicate a series of biospheres, from deep-sea and reef to jungle. Discover each of the creatures and how well they are taken care of with behind-the-scenes tours.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria + Vegueta
It is integral that you spend a day uncovering the capital city and its many significant traits. Las Palmas in the north is the home of spectacular beaches and their bays, including Las Canteras — the best urban beach in Spain.
It is one of the country’s main ports and still manages to hold onto its historic charm. So much so, that it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Gran Canaria’s Historic-Artistic Centre for decades.
Don’t miss a trip digging up the old town of Vegueta to max your understanding of Canarian culture. The borough is loaded with the island’s most meaningful architecture, dating back to as early as the 15th century, interwoven with traditional dwellings and gardens.
Barranco de las Vacas
Gran Canaria is fortunate to be home to one of Europe’s most intriguing natural spectacles. Barranco de las Vacas (Cow Ravine) is tucked away off the beaten track and is a treasure for anyone lucky enough to find it.
Its warping stone faces make you feel like you have landed on another planet and make brilliant photos that will be the envy of all your friends! The phenomenon was created over the years following an eruption from volcanic dust and nature has carved it into these curious shapes.
With a little determination, you can locate this peculiar site near the Agüimes province. If you park on the grey bridge on GC 550 and hop over the barriers, you will be able to follow the path that has been tread by many other excited explorers before.
Cenobio de Valerón
To learn about the native settlers in the Canaries and their way of life, we recommend checking out one of the most visited archaeological sites in Gran Canaria. Cenobio de Valerón on the northern coast is a series of hundreds of curious small caves situated under a giant stone arch.
The caves date back over 800 years, to when the natives used to store their grains here out of reach of thieves and animals. With the information provided on-site, this is an enthralling place to learn more about how the island has come to be.
Mirador Degollada de la Yegua
Do you want to see why Gran Canaria is so special, with only having to turn your head?
Mirador Degollada de la Yeuga shows you the mountains, the dunes and even the sea, all from the comfort of the same spot! It is no wonder people call it the best viewpoint on the island.
Stop at this lookout on your drive to or from Maspalomas and appreciate the awe-inspiring landscape from higher ground. Not only will you be able to admire the island’s terrain, but you will also be surrounded by native plants – altogether creating magnificent postcard pictures!
Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo
Situated near Las Palmas you will find the largest garden in Spain where you can admire an open-air gallery of Canarian flora.
Viera y Clavijo is the home of an exceptional collection of Micronesian species. Witness the common to the less common, and even some endangered.
Navigate the paths that weave between palms and succulents in their inviting hues and learn about the type of plants that survive in this unique climate.
Entrance is free and the centre is on the road to the capital city, making it an easy pitstop.
Roque Nublo
Is Roque Nublo the most magical mountain hike on the island? You tell us!
Wonderfully central and effortless to reach, this refreshingly undemanding hike should be on everyone’s Canaries bucket list. Though the remarkable views are enough of a reason to climb the peak, there are a bunch more advantages that come with it.
Translating to ‘Cloud Rock’, this extraordinary volcanic boulder is disguised by clouds due to its altitude, and the result is enchantingly eerie. It gets particularly busy in the afternoons when walkers visit for the sunset; the exhibit is delightful for different reasons at different times of the day.
Consider pitching a tent for the night to take advantage of the supreme stargazing conditions. We told you it is a natural wonder!
Mirador del Balcón
Mirador del Balcón is one of the most impressive viewpoints on the island. And if you’re looking for sea views, you won’t find much better than this!
Located on the western coastline of La Aldea de San Nicolás, the balcony pokes out over the Atlantic and gets a marvellous view of the western coast.
The mountainous strip of coastline that can be seen is referred to as the Dragon’s Tail due to its spiky elongated shape. From here you can really admire the makeup of this part of the island’s contours. On clear days you will even be able to wave at Tenerife!
If you have visited it before, it is worth stopping by again, since it has recently had a facelift to look even more striking than it did before! Not to mention the drive on the GC 200 is more than worth your while with its exciting sheer drops and hairpin bends.
Stargazing
The conditions in Gran Canaria make it the ideal place for seeing the stars. With warm nights, huge areas with no light pollution and high ground, this all adds up to bright starry skies.
In the Canaries, ground higher than 500 metres surpasses the clouds, blocking out any light that may impair the visibility, which locals call the “Donkey’s Belly”. You can locate these peaks all over the island for an extra special experience. The area around Roque Nublo is an example of this.
Natural parks are also successful for stargazing which can make an adventurous day-long trip in nature. For example, you could head to El Balcón and enjoy the sea views during the day and then stay for the view of the night sky.
If you want to get savvy, organisations such as Caneducam and Temisas Observatory run meetings with experts at viewing points and observatories around the island.
Tejeda Ravine
One of the most breath-taking towns in Spain is Tejeda, located in the Tejeda Ravine, or Big Ravine.
The traditional town is nestled at the foot of a giant dominating boulder known as Roque Bentayga. The ravine is an incredible example of the immense outcome of the eruption that occurred 14 million years ago.
The houses in Tejeda are mainly used for holiday homes so, if you are organised, it is possible to stay over in this otherworldly setting.
The traditional location is immersed in paths that walkers will adore. There are farms all over the ravine, surrounded by the iconic almond trees that are a reminder of the island’s popular marzipan creation.
Jeep Tours
You already know Tenerife hosts heaps of natural beauty, and often laying off the edge of (and on!) dirt tracks. 4X4 excursions offer the opportunity to hand over the wheel to your guide and take advantage of views from the passenger seat!
Your driver will take you on an off-road tour of the scenic route, otherwise impossible in a hire car.
You will have your mind blown away by locations like the Valley of a Thousand Palms. Your eyes will pop at the magnificent Lake Chira and the once nail-biting mountain roads will transform into a rollercoaster with killer views!
Choose between a tour of the north or south, with pickup from surrounding hotels. Most companies either offer a stop for lunch or a coffee, which will be lovingly included in the price tag.
Puerto de Mogán + Its Market
In the south of the island, you will find the sweetest fishing village in the world, known by some as ‘Little Venice’ for its canals and bridges.
Its picturesque streets are chilled out to roam, with little white houses and colourful edges, scattered with bougainvillaea. Bring your camera as there is still more to see!
The heart of Puerto de Mogán is its brightly coloured cove that is completely sheltered from the waves. It creates fantastic snorkelling opportunities and even has pedalos to hire.
You may wish to plan your visit around the street market, which takes place every Friday in Plaza de Gañanías carpark. We are sure you will find something you’ll love to take home, though it is just as absorbing to have a browse and learn about the culture.
Snorkelling
Snorkelling is the most affordable water sport out there; all you need is your equipment. Purchase masks and flippers from shops along the coast, or if you want something fancier, you can hire your gear from a dive centre.
Gran Canaria is home to a diverse selection of the Mediterranean, Atlantic and African sea life. And it is so simple and rewarding to discover.
Top spots include coves, where the fish are local to one area. Puerto de Mogán is rich in marine life, as are Águila and Pasito Blanco.
To see the best of the flora and fauna – book a snorkelling excursion with the experts, who will take you out to sea, where you can spot more interesting deep-sea species that can’t be found around the coast. For stronger swimmers, diving groups will show you the best of the deep sea.
Amadores Beach
If you’re going to visit any beach, make it Amadores! On the southwest coast of the island, this family-friendly retreat is known as one of the finest in Spain.
Do you want to know why?
If this Blue Flag’s shimmery blue waters and crystal-clear views weren’t enough to float your boat, maybe the fact it catches more rays than anywhere else in Gran Canaria will give you the nudge…
Moreover, though one of the most popular, it is, fortunately, the largest artificial beach on the island – so you won’t have to fight over the best spot!
Catamaran Cruise
Something everyone should do whilst in Gran Canaria is to book a day trip on a boat to breeze the Atlantic. The Canaries are one of the best locations to do a spot of dolphin and whale watching since these creatures love the climate as much as we do!
And there is no better company to go with than the Catamaran!
This luxury cruise has a glass bottom, great for children and people that don’t fancy the water. But if you were hoping for a swim and a snorkel in the deeps, they make a stop for that too! Enjoy refreshments while taking in exclusive views of the coast and the deep blue!
Booking Catamaran’s sunset cruise is terribly romantic, and your love will thank you for it!
Although the Catamaran reigns superior, any other verified boat trip will do to appreciate the island from a new perspective and to get a chance to see its wildlife up close. Most companies offer pick-up from hotels and inclusive drinks, so rest assured you have your trip in good hands.
Carnivals + Fiestas
If you are lucky enough to be visiting between February and March you will have landed in time to join in one of the oldest festivals in the Canaries. Get lost in the feathers and the face paint and dance the night away at Carnival!
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria throws an explosive bash not to be missed, with parades and drag queens and reggaetón on repeat. Bang on your best costume and boogie your way down to the streets.
But if you miss the Carnival, there are still plenty of opportunities year-round to keep your toes tapping!
Some to attend include Traida del Barro clay fest in July; Lomo Magullo in August and The Three Kings in January.
Tapas
The best way to finish off any trip is with a tasty dining experience in a local environment. And what better way to do so than heading for a tapa?
The traditional cuisine of the island is typically a choice of local meats, cheeses and wines. Sounds good right? Well, the only way to make that sound better is to get the maximum number of dishes, in miniature size portions, so you can pick and choose as you like!
Ideal for groups, but fantastic alone, about three dishes each should do the trick. There are restaurants within proximity to everywhere you go serving up this native feast.
To receive an authentic experience, you should trust the bars that look less glitzy, often with a handwritten menu and mismatching furniture! Tourist friendly bars will serve the dishes; you can’t beat the real thing with guaranteed local recipes.
