Gran Canaria Tour: Past and Present

Gran Canaria Tour: Past and Present

This 8-hour guided bus tour offers an in-depth look at Gran Canaria’s heritage, natural beauty, and local culture for $50 per person. Led by an experienced local guide, the tour takes you through historic villages, stunning natural landmarks, and agaboriginal sites. The itinerary covers key landmarks like the Guayadeque Valley, Villa de Teror, and Roque Nublo, making it ideal for those interested in history, nature, and local traditions.

While the tour includes entrance fees to various attractions and pick-up and drop-off services, it does not include lunch or drinks. The experience is suitable for travelers who enjoy long bus journeys, engaging guides, and exploring diverse landscapes. It’s worth noting that some reviews point out long wait times for pick-up/drop-off and a less impressive lunch experience, so planning accordingly can help maximize enjoyment.

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Key Points

• Duration: 8 hours, with multiple stops across Gran Canaria’s highlights
• Price: $50 per person, including entrance fees to attractions
• Main attractions: Guayadeque Valley, Teror, Valleseco, Roque Nublo, Aloe Vera farm
• Guides: Professional guides speaking Spanish, English, and German
• Highlights: Cultural landmarks, natural parks, panoramic mountain views
• Considerations: Long bus ride with some waiting; lunch options are not included

Discovering the Cultural Heart at Agüimes and Villa de Teror

The tour begins with a visit to Agüimes, a town renowned for its ancient aboriginal settlement. Here, the focus is on preserving the island’s early history, with the village offering a glimpse into pre-Hispanic life. Later, the journey takes you to Villa de Teror, famous for its beautiful Canarian-style architecture and the Basilica of Nuestra Sra. Del Pino, honoring the Canary Islands’ patron saint.

In Teror, stately homes and palaces demonstrate the traditional architecture, illustrating the island’s historical wealth. The guide shares stories and legends linked to these sites, enriching the experience for those curious about local history.

Exploring the Guayadeque Valley and Cave-Dwellings

A major highlight is the Guayadeque Valley, declared a Natural Monument in 2000. This area is filled with cave-dwellings that date back to pre-Hispanic inhabitants, many still in use today. The guide leads visitors through cavern homes, emphasizing their aboriginal origins and current use.

The Guayadeque Valley is described as a magical spot with abundant natural beauty. It is an essential part of understanding Gran Canaria’s ancient cultures, and the walk through its unique landscape offers spectacular views and insights into traditional cave living.

Visiting Valleseco and Roque Nublo’s Iconic Cliffs

The village of Valleseco is characterized by lush vegetation and a large portion of its territory designated as a Protected Natural Area. Free time is provided here, allowing visitors to stroll its streets and enjoy local scenery (lunch is not included).

A highlight of the trip is the stop at Roque Nublo, one of the largest natural crags in the world. This volcanic rock formation rises eighty meters above its base and was historically used as a place of worship for the island’s inhabitants. The area around Roque Nublo was designated a protected natural area in 1987 and became a rural park in 1994, offering excellent photo opportunities and a glimpse into the island’s volcanic past.

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The Aloe Vera Farm and Local Products

A visit to an Aloe Vera farm showcases this “miracle plant”, which has become a key crop in the Canary Islands. Here, the guide explains the plant’s uses and properties, providing insights into local cultivation and commercialization. This stop highlights modern agricultural practices and the importance of Aloe Vera to the island’s economy.

Plus, the tour passes through Arucas, known for its local rum and banana cultivation, adding a flavor of local industry and agriculture to the day.

The Logistics and Guide Experience

The tour begins with pick-up arrangements at designated areas, with details provided 24-48 hours in advance. The entire trip involves long hours on the bus, with over 200 km traveled throughout the day. As a result, some reviews mention extended waiting times during pick-ups and drop-offs, leading to a later return to the hotel around 19:30.

Guides are described as knowledgeable and friendly, with the ability to speak Spanish, English, and German. One reviewer highlights the guide’s enthusiasm and expertise, especially in sharing stories and providing detailed information about the island’s landmarks.

The Pacing and Meal Options

The tour includes an optional lunch, with a cost of around $13-15, but lunch is not included in the tour price. The meal options received mixed reviews, with some finding the provided menu acceptable, while others felt it was not worth the price. Travelers should plan to bring their own snacks or meals, especially if seeking variety or dietary considerations.

The pacing of the tour varies, with some feeling that spending almost three hours on pick-up and drop-off reduces sightseeing time. The long bus rides may be tiring but are necessary to cover the extensive itinerary.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This Gran Canaria Past and Present tour suits history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those interested in local culture and traditions. It offers a rundown of the island’s heritage, landscapes, and agriculture. The inclusion of natural landmarks like Roque Nublo and Valleseco makes it appealing for outdoor lovers.

However, travelers expecting a fast-paced or luxury experience may find the long bus rides and wait times less ideal. It is best suited for those comfortable with bus travel and eager to see a wide variety of sites in one day.

Gran Canaria Tour: Past and Present – Final Thoughts

This 8-hour tour provides a broad look at Gran Canaria’s history, natural scenery, and local traditions at an accessible $50 price point. It includes several notable landmarks, from ancient cave dwellings to volcanic formations and picturesque villages. The professional guides and entrance fees add value, making it a practical option for those wanting an organized, informative day.

While some long waits for pick-up/drop-off and lunch quality are points to consider, the diverse stops and insights into local culture make this a worthwhile experience. It is best for travelers ready for a full, scenic day and eager to learn about Gran Canaria’s unique past and present.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts 8 hours, with departure and return times depending on availability.

How much does the tour cost?
It costs $50 per person, including entrance fees to attractions but excluding lunch and drinks.

What languages are available during the tour?
Guides speak Spanish, English, and German.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included. There is an optional meal available for around $13-15.

How are the pick-up arrangements handled?
Pick-up details are provided 24-48 hours before the tour, and designated areas are used.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What are the main stops on the tour?
Stops include Agüimes, Guayadeque Valley, Villa de Teror, Valleseco, Roque Nublo, and an Aloe Vera farm.

Is the tour suitable for those with limited mobility?
The itinerary involves walking at stops and bus travel, so those with mobility issues should consider this.

What should I bring?
Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, a windbreaker, and comfortable clothes.

Who would enjoy this tour most?
It is perfect for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and culture lovers eager to explore Gran Canaria’s heritage and landscapes in one full day.

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