Discover the Gran Canaria: Island Highlights Tour with Optional Lunch, a full-day excursion designed for those eager to see the island’s most remarkable sights. Priced affordably with hotel pickup and drop-off included, this tour lasts approximately 6.5 hours and offers an engaging way to learn about the island’s culture, history, and natural beauty. The tour departs from Maspalomas, making it accessible for travelers staying in the southern part of Gran Canaria.

What makes this tour stand out is the chance to visit both famous landmarks and secret spots that normal tourist buses often cannot reach. It’s ideal for visitors who want a rundown of Gran Canaria’s diverse landscapes, from volcanic craters to charming villages, all led by a professional local guide. An optional traditional lunch offers a taste of local cuisine, adding extra value for those interested.

While the tour covers many highlights efficiently, it’s worth noting that it is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments. The pacing involves several stops, some lasting up to an hour, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule. The combination of scenic views, cultural insights, and well-organized stops makes this a recommendable choice for curious explorers.

Key Points

Full-day experience lasting approximately 6.5 hours with hotel pickup and drop-off
Visit key sites such as Aloe Vera Finca Canarias, Caldera de Bandama, Pico de las Nieves, and Roque Nublo
Learn about Gran Canaria’s culture and volcanoes from a professional local guide
Optional traditional lunch included in a local village or available for purchase
Stops for photos and sightseeing at scenic locations like Cruz De San Antonio and Presa del Mulato
Languages available include Dutch, English, French, and German

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Starting from Maspalomas: Pickup and First Stops

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Maspalomas, easing the logistics for visitors staying in the southern resort area. From there, the journey quickly moves to Aloe Vera Finca Canarias, where a guided tour and photo stop lasting about 35 minutes showcase the island’s aloe vera industry. The guide shares insights into local uses and cultivation, making this stop both educational and picturesque.

Next, the tour visits Caldera de Bandama, a volcanic crater with a 15-minute stop for photos and a guided visit. This area offers a glimpse into the island’s volcanic origins, with the landscape sharply contrasting to the lush coastal areas. Visitors can enjoy some quick pictures before heading to the Pico de las Nieves, which provides 15 minutes of free time to take in panoramic views of the island’s volcanic terrain.

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Exploring the Iconic Pico de las Nieves and the Church

Pico de las Nieves is one of the highest points on the island, offering sweeping vistas that reveal the volcanic landscape and the rugged terrain below. The stop allows 15 minutes of free exploration, perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenery.

The tour then proceeds to a 1.5-hour visit to a local church, which serves as a cultural highlight. This segment includes a guided tour and a break, giving visitors a chance to appreciate the island’s traditional architecture and perhaps observe local religious customs. The extended duration here ensures enough time for a leisurely experience and a deeper understanding of the local traditions.

Scenic Stops at Cruz De San Antonio and Presa del Mulato

After the church, the journey continues with a 15-minute stop at Cruz De San Antonio, a popular photo spot offering scenic views and a chance to capture memorable images of the landscape. This stop is ideal for a quick break and taking in the natural beauty of Gran Canaria.

The tour also includes a 20-minute visit to Presa del Mulato, a dam and water reservoir surrounded by lush greenery. This location provides another opportunity for photos and a chance to learn about the island’s water management systems, which are vital for supporting local agriculture and communities.

Discovering Authentic Gran Canaria and Optional Lunch

The tour’s final stop before returning to Maspalomas is at a local village or restaurant, where guests can opt for a traditional lunch. This meal offers a chance to taste regional specialties, adding a culinary dimension to the trip. The tour’s focus on local culture and scenic landscapes is reinforced at this point, providing a satisfying end to a full day of exploration.

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Logistics, Guides, and Flexibility

The local professional guide leads the group, providing informative commentary in Dutch, English, French, or German. The tour emphasizes a relaxed pace, with enough time allocated at each stop for photos, sightseeing, and learning.

Participants are advised to bring their passport or ID card, especially if they plan to explore the stops fully. The tour also notes an additional €10 supplement for pick-ups in the northern part of the island, which travelers should consider when booking.

The cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind for flexible planning.

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The Value of the Gran Canaria Highlights Tour

This tour offers excellent value for travelers interested in seeing a broad range of sights without the hassle of planning individual excursions. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics, and the knowledgeable guide makes the experience more engaging. The optional lunch provides a taste of local cuisine, though it is not included in the standard price.

Given the well-organized itinerary and the variety of stops—from volcanic craters to local villages—this tour is suitable for first-time visitors and those eager for a rundown of Gran Canaria’s natural and cultural highlights.

Limitations and Considerations for Tour Participants

While the tour covers many scenic spots, it may not be suitable for travelers with mobility impairments, as it involves some walking and uphill stops. The total duration of 6.5 hours means it’s best for those prepared for a full day of sightseeing.

The tour is focused on outdoor locations, so participants should be prepared for variable weather, especially at higher altitudes like Pico de las Nieves.

Why Choose This Tour for Your Gran Canaria Trip

This Island Highlights Tour balances scenic beauty, cultural insights, and practical convenience. The stops at notable landmarks like Roque Nublo and Caldera de Bandama are complemented by stops in local villages and viewpoints that reveal the island’s volcanic origins and rural charm.

The guides’ expertise and generous photo stops have earned praise, making this a reliable choice for travelers who want a well-organized, informative, and scenic experience. The optional lunch adds a pleasant culinary touch, perfect for those wishing to indulge in local flavors.

Ready to Book?

Gran Canaria: Island Highlights Tour with Optional Lunch

4.0

(156)

“Very well organized, very knowledgeable guide, Marine, enough pictures time, a lot of interesting facts around gran canaria. I recommend.”

— Madalina, March 23, 2021

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
The tour is not explicitly designed for travelers with mobility impairments, and the full schedule may be demanding for very young children. It works best for families with children who are comfortable with a full day of outdoor sightseeing.

What is included in the tour price?
The hotel pickup and drop-off and a local professional guide are included. The optional traditional lunch is available at extra cost, and lunch is not included in the standard price.

Are there any language options for the guide?
Yes, the tour is available in Dutch, English, French, and German. The specific language spoken depends on the booking.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This policy allows for flexible planning.

How long are the stops at each location?
Most stops vary between 15 and 35 minutes, with the church stop lasting 1.5 hours for a more in-depth experience. This pacing ensures a good balance between sightseeing and free time.

This Gran Canaria: Island Highlights Tour with Optional Lunch provides a well-rounded introduction to the island’s most scenic and culturally significant sites. Its organized structure, knowledgeable guides, and flexibility make it a worthwhile choice for visitors eager to explore Gran Canaria beyond the usual tourist spots.