Gran Canaria highlights & hidden gems by 2 native guides

Unlock the Secrets of Gran Canaria with Local Guides

The “Gran Canaria highlights & hidden gems” tour offers a 7-hour journey through the island’s most captivating landscapes and cultural sites. Led by two native guides, this small group experience accommodates no more than 6 visitors, ensuring personalized attention and an authentic perspective. Priced at $108.91 per person, the tour balances impressive scenery with deeply informative narration, perfect for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Gran Canaria beyond the usual tourist spots.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on ancient traditions and indigenous heritage, including visits to sacred mountains, traditional villages, and cave drawings. While the itinerary includes notable viewpoints and charming villages, the emphasis remains on exploration away from busier tourist areas. The included lunch and drinks add convenience, making it a practical choice for a full day of adventure.

Key Points

• Small group size guarantees personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• Two native guides share insightful stories about Gran Canaria’s cultural and natural history
• Visits to sacred mountains, local villages, and volcanic craters reveal the island’s geological and cultural richness
• Panoramic views from Pico De Las Nieves showcase the island’s highlights including Roque Nublo and the Dunes of Maspalomas
• Includes lunch, bottled water, and all taxes, offering a worry-free experience
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but the winding roads may cause discomfort

Starting at Mirador Degollada De La Yegua: The Entrance to the Valley of Palms

The day begins at Mirador Degollada De La Yegua, a viewpoint that marks the entrance to a valley filled with over 1,000 palm trees. This spot offers an immediate sense of the lush landscapes that define Gran Canaria’s natural beauty. The 10-minute stop provides a perfect photo opportunity and a gentle introduction to the island’s scenery.

From here, the guides begin weaving stories about the landscape’s significance, setting the tone for a day filled with sights that blend nature and history. This stop is free of charge and provides a peaceful start before the next exploration.

Exploring Tejeda: One of Spain’s Most Beautiful Towns

Next, the tour arrives in Tejeda, a picturesque mountain village renowned as one of Spain’s most beautiful places. Visitors are given one hour to wander and take in the sights, which include traditional stone houses and scenic streets. Tejeda offers a glimpse of local life and a chance to appreciate the island’s architectural heritage.

While exploring, travelers can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere or browse local shops for handcrafted souvenirs. With no admission fees, the focus remains on the village’s charm and the opportunity to experience authentic Canarian culture.

Mirador Degollada De Becerra: Spectacular Views of the Sacred Mountains

The next stop at Mirador Degollada de Becerra provides a 10-minute visit to enjoy breathtaking views of Gran Canaria’s sacred mountains. This lookout offers an ideal vantage point to appreciate the volcanic landscape and the towering formations that have shaped the island’s geography.

The guides explain the significance of these sacred sites, which hold cultural importance for the Canarian people. This short pause emphasizes scenic beauty and cultural insight, encouraging visitors to appreciate the island’s geological history.

Pico De Las Nieves: The Highest Point with 360° Panoramas

At Pico De Las Nieves, the tour reaches the highest elevation in Gran Canaria, where 15 minutes are spent soaking in 360-degree views. From this vantage point, travelers see landmarks including Roque Nublo, Roque Bentayga, and the Maspalomas Dunes—plus distant neighboring islands.

This stop is perfect for photography and marveling at the diverse landscapes of Gran Canaria. The guides share stories about the volcanic activity that formed the island, adding depth to the visual spectacle.

Caldera de los Marteles: An Ancient Volcano’s Crater

A 10-minute visit to Caldera de los Marteles introduces visitors to an old volcanic crater. The caldera’s rugged terrain and volcanic formations highlight the island’s geological past. This site also offers an opportunity to reflect on volcanic activity that has shaped the landscape over millennia.

The guides help contextualize the crater’s formation, making it more than just a scenic stop—it’s a window into Gran Canaria’s geological evolution.

Discovering Aguimes: A Charming Local Village

The tour includes a 30-minute exploration of Aguimes, a village celebrated for its traditional architecture and authentic charm. Visitors walk through narrow streets lined with whitewashed buildings and local shops, experiencing a slice of Canarian village life.

Aguimes provides a relaxing break amid the landscapes, with the opportunity to see local artisans at work or purchase handmade crafts. Its preservation of cultural heritage makes it a highlight for those interested in authentic island life.

Enjoying the Scenic Drive and Cultural Narratives

Throughout the journey, travelers ride in an air-conditioned vehicle with private transportation, ensuring comfort as they move between sites. The winding roads offer stunning vistas but may cause discomfort for sensitive travelers, a point noted in reviews.

The guides, Inez and Juan, are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, making each stop informative and lively. Their insights turn scenic viewpoints into lessons about Canarian traditions, indigenous history, and natural phenomena.

Including Lunch and Drinks for a Seamless Experience

A key advantage of this tour is the included picnic lunch, featuring a sandwich, chocolate, fruit, and water. This convenient provision means no need to hunt for meals during the day, and it complements the active exploration.

Plus, bottled water is supplied throughout, along with all fees and taxes, making the price straightforward and transparent. Alcoholic beverages are included as well, adding to the relaxed, social vibe of the tour.

Practical Details: Timing, Meeting Point, and Booking

The tour begins at 8:30 am from a centrally accessible meeting point. It’s suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received instantly after booking. The tour operates most days, with an average booking window of 30 days in advance.

The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and the mobile ticket makes it easy to join the adventure. Travelers should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing but will appreciate the pace and depth of this curated experience.

Considerations: Roads and Comfort

While the tour offers rich scenery and cultural learning, the roads are quite windy and long, which may pose issues for those prone to motion sickness. The review mentioning illness on the van highlights this potential challenge.

Travelers should be mindful of their comfort, especially during the winding drives across mountainous terrain. Bringing motion sickness remedies could help improve the experience for sensitive guests.

Concluding Insights: An Authentic and Scenic Journey

This tour from Sky Rebels delivers a comprehensive look at Gran Canaria’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Led by knowledgeable local guides, it ensures an engaging day filled with spectacular viewpoints, charming villages, and insightful stories. The small group format lends intimacy and the chance to ask questions or explore at your own pace.

The inclusion of lunch and drinks enhances value, and stops at notable sites like Pico De Las Nieves and Aguimes make it a well-rounded experience. While winding roads may cause discomfort, the depth of cultural and scenic highlights compensates for this drawback.

This tour suits those craving an authentic, less touristy look at Gran Canaria, with a focus on history, geology, and local life. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the island’s best viewpoints without rushing, in the company of passionate and friendly guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $108.91 fee covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, all site fees, taxes, lunch, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 8:30 am and ending at the initial meeting point.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the winding roads may be uncomfortable for those prone to motion sickness.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and any motion sickness remedies if needed. The tour provides water and lunch, so no extra snacks are necessary.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, all fees and taxes are included; however, coffee and tea are not included in the package.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who are the guides?
The tour is led by Inez and Juan, two native Canarians known for their knowledgeable and engaging storytelling.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at the designated meeting point in Gran Canaria, with a convenient start time of 8:30 am.

Is there a recommended booking window?
Most bookings are made about 30 days in advance, so early reservations are advisable to secure a spot.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its focus on indigenous heritage, scenic viewpoints, and authentic villages combined with small group intimacy and local guides creates an enriching experience not usually found on larger tours.