Full-Day Tour Exploring History, Nature and Aloe Vera Farm

Explore the diverse landscape and rich history of Gran Canaria with this full-day tour priced at $59.61 per person. Departing from southern Gran Canaria, the tour lasts approximately 7 hours and features pickup and drop-off services. It offers a well-rounded experience, visiting historic sites like Agüimes, Teror, and Valleseco, along with breathtaking natural landmarks such as Roque Nublo and the Guayadeque Valley. The tour also includes an educational visit to an aloe vera farm, where the miracle plant‘s uses and properties are explained. With guidance from a knowledgeable local guide and free admission to stops, this tour suits first-time visitors and those eager to see many highlights efficiently.

One notable aspect is the lunch stop in Valleseco, where a cost-effective three-course meal is available for around €13, though lunch is not included in the price. Travelers should be prepared for a long day on the coach with quick stops, as reflected in reviews highlighting the pace and timing. Despite some critiques about the bus size or tour organization, most praise the friendly guides and impressive scenery. This trip is ideal for those who want a rundown of Gran Canaria’s landscape and history without driving themselves.

Key Points

• Full-day guided tour exploring Gran Canaria’s landscapes, villages, and natural monuments
• Visit to Guayadeque Valley, Agüimes, Teror, Valleseco, Roque Nublo, and Aloe Vera farm
• Pickup and drop-off included from southern Gran Canaria hotels
• Approximately 7 hours in total, with several stops and lunch in Valleseco (not included in price)
• Guide speaks multiple languages, and the tour is suitable for most travelers

Gran Canaria’s Diverse Landscapes and Cultural Highlights

This tour offers a broad look at Gran Canaria’s diverse scenery and historic sites. Starting from the Casco Historico de Aguimes, visitors explore an ancient aboriginal settlement with cave-dwellings still in use today. The Guayadeque Valley, designated as a Natural Monument, features cave homes carved into volcanic rock, showcasing the island’s aboriginal past. The local guide provides insights into these prehistoric dwellings and the valley’s natural beauty.

Next, the journey continues to Arucas, famous for its local rum production and banana cultivation. This stop highlights the island’s agricultural heritage and offers a peek into local industry. The villa of Teror impresses with its Canarian-style architecture and the Basilica of Nuestra Sra. Del Pino, which is dedicated to the patron saint of the Canary Islands.

The group then visits Valleseco, a lush area with 80% protected natural space. Travelers gain free time to walk around the town and enjoy lunch at their own pace, with many opting for the €13 three-course menu. The surrounding landscape is characterized by abundant vegetation, making it a peaceful break from the coach ride.

Roque Nublo: The Natural Icon of Gran Canaria

One of the most striking sights on the tour is Roque Nublo, a massive volcanic rock formation standing eighty meters high. Recognized as one of the largest natural crags in the world, this site has historical significance as an aboriginal place of worship. The area around Roque Nublo is a protected natural park, established in 1987, and offers spectacular views of the island’s rugged terrain.

The stop at Roque Nublo provides enough time to take photos and appreciate the vast volcanic landscape. The guide shares stories about its cultural importance, making it a memorable highlight of the day for visitors.

Aloe Vera Farm: Learning About the “Miracle Plant”

The visit to the Aloe Vera farm showcases the growing importance of this medicinal and cosmetic plant in the Canary Islands. On this property, visitors learn about the uses and properties of aloe vera, which is increasingly cultivated for commercial purposes. The farm offers insight into how aloe vera is harvested and processed, emphasizing its health benefits.

Most reviews mention that the farm visit can feel like a quick stop, with some critics pointing out that it is primarily a retail shop that encourages purchases. Still, the educational aspect about the miracle plant remains a key part of the experience.

Practical Details: Transportation and Group Size

This tour departs at 9:00am, with pickup offered from hotels in southern Gran Canaria. The transfer usually takes place between 09:00 and 10:30 am. The group size is limited to around 40 travelers, providing a more intimate experience than larger tours. The coach used is generally comfortable, though some reviews note it is a coach rather than a minibus, which slightly limits the viewing experience.

Most participants find the guides multilingual, with some reviews highlighting guides who speak several languages, including German, English, and others. The driver is praised for their skill navigating the island’s mountain roads.

Pacing and Duration: What to Expect

The 7-hour tour includes multiple stops, with the longest being 2 hours in Valleseco for walking and lunch. Other stops, like Aguimes, Arucas, Teror, and Roque Nublo, are about an hour each. Some reviews mention that the pace can be quick, with short durations at each site, making it suitable for those who prefer a speedy overview rather than in-depth exploration.

Travelers should be ready for a long day on the coach, with most of the time spent riding between locations and listening to commentary. The lunch stop is a paid option, with many opting for the €13 three-course meal, which is well-rated.

Tour Reviews: Strengths and Challenges

Most reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the variety of sights covered, including mountains, villages, and natural landmarks. The guides’ multilingual abilities are a recurring highlight, helping international groups feel well-informed.

However, there are some critiques about tour organization; the speed of stops can feel rushed, and the large coach may limit views, especially during scenic drives. Plus, the Aloe Vera farm stop often feels more commercial than educational, with some visitors feeling it resembles a retail store rather than an authentic experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This guided tour suits first-time visitors eager to see many highlights of Gran Canaria without the hassle of driving. It offers good value for those interested in scenic views, villages, and natural landmarks. History buffs will enjoy the cultural sites, while nature lovers appreciate the mountain scenery and Roque Nublo.

Travelers who prefer a structured itinerary with commentary in multiple languages will find this tour offers a rundown. However, those seeking more time at each stop or a less rushed experience might find the pace challenging.

Final Thoughts on the Full-Day Gran Canaria Tour

This $59.61 experience delivers a broad snapshot of Gran Canaria’s landscape, history, and culture in a manageable day. The guides’ expertise, combined with the impressive scenery and variety of stops, makes it a compelling choice for new visitors.

While some may find the quick stops and large coach limiting, overall, most appreciate the value and coverage it provides. The lunch option offers good quality at a reasonable price, and the natural highlights like Roque Nublo leave a lasting impression.

For those wanting a well-organized, informative tour that covers main attractions without the hassle of self-driving, this full-day trip from VIMOTIONS offers an enjoyable and educational experience in Gran Canaria.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided from hotels in southern Gran Canaria.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Agüimes, Arucas, Teror, Valleseco, Roque Nublo, and an Aloe Vera farm.

Is lunch included in the price?
No, lunch is not included but can be purchased separately at around €13.

What is the group size?
Most groups are limited to around 40 travelers.

Are guides multilingual?
Yes, guides typically speak several languages, including English and German.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and variable weather in the mountains.

Can I expect a slow or rushed experience?
The tour pace is generally fast, with short stops, so it’s best for those comfortable with a full schedule.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers report most ages can participate, but consider the long coach ride and walking at stops.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is dependent on good weather; in case of cancellation, a full refund or alternative date is offered.