Discover Gran canaria The Cumbre

Discover Gran Canaria The Cumbre offers a thoroughly engaging full-day tour that showcases the island’s diverse scenery and rich local culture. Priced at $52.28 per person, this 7 to 8-hour journey explores the fertile valleys, charming villages, and volcanic landmarks of Gran Canaria. The tour departs from the southern tourist zone, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making it convenient for visitors staying in popular resorts.

What sets this tour apart is the chance to visit Telde, Firgas, Valleseco, and the impressive Roque Nublo, all while enjoying panoramic views and tasting locally-produced rum at no extra charge. Its popularity is reflected in recent reviews, with a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars from 32 reviews, highlighting the knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and good value. However, some stops have shorter durations, and there’s no pickup in Las Palmas, which is worth noting for those staying farther north.

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive look at Gran Canaria’s landscapes and villages without the hassle of arranging multiple visits. It suits those interested in scenic vistas, local culture, and rum tasting but may be less suitable for those expecting extensive time at each stop or a focus on urban areas.

Key Points

• Full-day tour lasting approximately 7 to 8 hours from southern Gran Canaria
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off within the tourist zone
• Visits villages like Telde, Firgas, Valleseco, and the volcanic Roque Nublo
• Taste local rum at Arucas, included at no extra cost
• Offers panoramic views of Fataga Valley and Santa Lucía
• Guide and driver are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness

Gran Canaria Tour with Cultural and Scenic Highlights

This tour is designed to give a broad overview of Gran Canaria’s varied landscapes and villages in a single day. Starting around 9:00 am, the route takes travelers from the southern coast across fertile valleys, passing through notable towns like Telde, Arucas, and Firgas. The journey covers vivid almond groves, lush fields, and quaint towns, painting a picture of the island’s agricultural richness.

The inclusion of Roque Nublo as a key stop offers travelers a chance to photograph one of Gran Canaria’s most iconic landmarks. The Cruz de Tejeda provides a scenic vantage point, and a visit to San Bartolomé de Tirajana yields breathtaking views of Santa Lucía. The tour concludes with a stop at the Fataga Valley panoramic point at 450 meters, delivering impressive vistas and memorable photo opportunities.

Visiting the Villages: Telde, Firgas, and Valleseco

The tour makes stops at Telde, the original capital of the island, where travelers can appreciate local architecture and history. In Firgas, a charming town known for its waterfalls and historic streets, visitors only stop on Saturdays, which is important to plan around. Valleseco is the location for a lunch break (not included), offering a chance to relax amid rural scenery.

Each village presents a different flavor of local life, from the historical streets to the lush natural surroundings. Be aware that the duration at these stops varies, and some may be brief, limiting time for exploration.

Roque Nublo: The Iconic Volcanic Outcropping

One of the main highlights of the tour is the visit to Roque Nublo, a symbol of Gran Canaria. From Cruz de Tejeda, travelers get a prime vantage point to photograph this remarkable volcanic rock formation. The view encapsulates the island’s volcanic origins and natural beauty.

Photographers and nature lovers appreciate this stop for its panoramic scenery. The tour takes care to include this landmark, but the actual time spent there is limited, so photography should be prioritized.

The Scenic Fataga Valley and Santa Lucía Views

The tour’s route includes a stop at the Fataga Valley viewpoint at 450 meters, where the lush landscape and rugged terrain create striking visuals. Travelers can enjoy sweeping views of the valley and the town of Santa Lucía.

The visit to San Bartolomé de Tirajana delivers sweeping vistas over the town and surrounding landscape, offering a sense of the island’s diverse terrain. These scenic spots receive consistently high praise in reviews for their natural beauty.

Local Rum Tasting at Arucas

A notable feature is the rum tasting experience in Arucas. The town hosts Europe’s most important rum factory, which produces a variety of local spirits. The tasting is included at no extra charge, giving visitors a taste of Gran Canaria’s rum-making tradition.

It’s worth noting that some reviews mention that the tour’s original rum distillery visit is no longer part of the experience, but the tasting still remains. The guide’s knowledge and friendliness during this segment earn particular praise, making it a memorable part of the day.

The Role of Guides and Transportation

Guides like Simon and Sebastian are characterized as knowledgeable, friendly, and energetic. They help explain the island’s history, flora, and landscapes, enriching the experience. The coach used for transportation is described as comfortable and modern, with a skilled driver navigating the narrow mountain roads.

The group size is limited to 99 travelers, maintaining a manageable and engaging atmosphere. Most reviews highlight the guides’ effort to ensure everyone feels welcome and well-informed.

Logistics: Pickup, Duration, and Group Size

The tour departs at 9:00 am from the southern tourist zone, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, streamlining the day. The duration is approximately 6 hours, and most stops are relatively brief, optimized for seeing many sites in one day.

It’s important to note that Las Palmas is not included in the pickup area, so travelers staying there may need alternative arrangements. The group size typically remains below 100 participants, allowing for interaction and ease of movement.

Value and Limitations of the Tour

Pricing at $52.28 offers good value for money, considering the number of stops, scenic views, and included rum tasting. The tour includes a professional guide, sightseeing at key landmarks, and transportation.

However, some reviews mention that certain stops are short in duration, and the lunch break is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly. Plus, the rum distillery visit is no longer part of the itinerary, which slightly alters expectations for those specifically interested in rum tours.

Practical Tips for Participants

Travelers should prepare for short stops, bring a camera for scenic photography, and consider light snacks or drinks for the day. Since lunch is not included, dining options are available during Valleseco, or visitors can bring snacks. Wear comfortable shoes for walking around viewpoints and villages.

The tour’s timing allows ample opportunity to enjoy the views and learn about the local culture without feeling rushed. The guide’s multilingual commentary ensures everyone can follow along, making the experience accessible for diverse groups.

Discover Gran Canaria The Cumbre: Final Thoughts

This tour delivers a comprehensive snapshot of Gran Canaria’s villages, volcanic formations, and scenic vistas. The inclusion of rum tasting in Arucas and the stops at iconic landmarks like Roque Nublo make it a well-rounded experience for those interested in both natural beauty and local culture.

The good value and positive feedback about guides stand out, making it an accessible option for visitors wanting a full-day adventure without the hassle of self-driving. Limitations such as short stop durations and the absence of lunch should be considered, but overall, it remains a solid choice for exploring Gran Canaria’s highlights.

Travelers who enjoy scenic drives, villages, and cultural tastings will find this tour rewarding. It’s particularly suited for those who wish to see a variety of sites with minimal planning, all while enjoying the island’s stunning vistas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off within the southern tourist zone.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 7 to 8 hours, with most stops being brief.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Telde, Firgas, Valleseco, Cruz de Tejeda, Roque Nublo, San Bartolomé de Tirajana, and the Fataga Valley viewpoint, plus a rum tasting in Arucas.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, and the scheduled stop in Valleseco is for lunch, so participants should plan accordingly.

Can I buy additional drinks or food during the stops?
Yes, there are opportunities to purchase food and drinks during the day, especially at the lunch stop.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, but some reviews suggest that children might get bored during the short stop durations and long bus rides.

What language is the commentary given in?
The guide provides commentary in multiple languages including English, Spanish, German, and French.

Are the scenic views worth it?
Absolutely, the viewpoints of Fataga Valley, Santa Lucía, and Roque Nublo are highly praised for their beauty.

Is the rum tasting worth trying?
Yes, the rum tasting in Arucas is a highlight for many, offering insight into local spirits at no extra cost.

Can the itinerary be changed if the weather is poor?
Yes, the experience is subject to weather conditions, and if canceled, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

How is the group size?
The maximum group size is 99 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and viewpoints are recommended.

This guide give you an honest, detailed look at Discover Gran Canaria The Cumbre, helping potential participants decide if this scenic, cultural, and relaxing day trip fits their travel plans.