Guayadeque Ravine and the High Peaks of Gran Canaria

Key Points

• Seven-hour guided tour covering volcanic sites, scenic viewpoints, and the Guayadeque Ravine.
• Visit to the Bandama volcano caldera and Pico de las Nieves, the island’s highest point, with impressive vistas.
• Stops in San Mateo, Santa Brigida, and Aguimes showcase charming villages and local scenery.
• Enjoy a meal at a cave restaurant in the Guayadeque Ravine, known for its cave houses and regional cuisine.
• Tour departs from multiple southern locations with pickup from hotels, but no service in Las Palmas or the north.
• Guide available in multiple languages including Dutch, English, French, German, and Spanish.

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Gran Canaria’s Volcanic Heart: Bandama Caldera and Pico de las Nieves

This tour begins with a drive from Maspalomas, passing through vineyards along the coast toward the Bandama volcano. The caldera formed between 47 and 123 AD offers a striking crater view from the Mirador, where panoramic vistas highlight the geological drama of the island. The guide provides insights into the volcanic activity, making this a compelling start for anyone interested in Gran Canaria’s fiery origins.

Next, the journey takes visitors to the Pico de las Nieves, the highest point on the island. From this vantage, you’ll enjoy spectacular views across Gran Canaria, with the landscape spreading out in every direction. This spot provides excellent photo opportunities and a sense of the island’s varied terrain.

Scenic Drive Through Villages and the Caldera de los Marteles

Following the volcanic highlights, the tour continues through traditional villages like San Mateo and Santa Brigida. These stops offer scenic drives and brief photo stops that capture the charm of rural Gran Canaria, with lush landscapes and colorful buildings. The guide’s commentary enhances your understanding of local culture.

The journey then moves on to the Caldera de los Marteles, a stunning volcanic crater area famous for its natural beauty. The drive along this region reveals a landscape shaped by volcanic activity, with unique land formations that invite exploration and picture-taking.

Exploring the Guayadeque Ravine and Cave Restaurant Experience

A highlight of this tour is the visit to Guayadeque Ravine, a deep, lush gorge renowned for its cave houses carved into rock slopes. Visitors have about 30 minutes to enjoy the scenery and learn about the area’s unique dwellings. The ravine’s tranquility and striking natural features make it a favorite for many.

The tour includes a lunch at a cave restaurant within the ravine, where regional dishes and tapas are served in an authentic setting. This experience combines culinary delight with the adventure of dining inside a cave, making it a memorable highlight of the day.

Afternoons in Aguimes and the Return Journey

After the cave restaurant, the tour heads to the old town of Aguimes, a town with well-preserved architecture and a charming atmosphere. Visitors can stroll through its streets and appreciate the local ambiance before heading back toward the southern resorts.

The return route includes scenic drives and brief stops, with the tour concluding at one of eight drop-off locations in the southern area, such as Maspalomas, Puerto Rico, or Playa del Inglés. The drop-offs are designed to be convenient and accessible for most travelers.

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Logistics, Group Size, and Guide Details

The tour offers eight pickup options outside hotel receptions in locations like Meloneras, Puerto Rico, Taurito, Arguineguín, and others. It lasts approximately 7 hours, with the journey covering multiple scenic and geological sites.

Transport is via van, providing a comfortable ride through the island’s diverse landscapes. The tour guide speaks several languages, including Dutch, English, French, German, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication and helpful commentary throughout the day.

Food, Physical Requirements, and Accessibility

The lunch at the cave restaurant is a regional meal, with options for regional food and tapas. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as the stops involve walking and outdoor sightseeing.

This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or babies under 1 year, due to the nature of the stops and terrain involved. The physical activity level is moderate, primarily involving short walks and scenic viewing.

Tour Strengths and Limitations

The strengths of this tour lie in its diverse itinerary, covering volcanoes, highest viewpoints, charming villages, and a cave restaurant. The scenic drives and panoramic views are consistently praised, along with knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience.

However, some reviews highlight limited time at certain stops, such as the cave houses, which may only be glimpsed from outside. Plus, pickup is only offered in the southern resorts—no service in Las Palmas or the northern part of the island. Travelers should also be aware of the no-show issue reported in one review, so confirming arrangements in advance is advisable.

Final Thoughts on the Guayadeque Ravine and High Peaks Tour

This 7-hour guided adventure offers a well-rounded look at Gran Canaria’s volcanic and cultural highlights. It’s ideal for visitors who enjoy natural beauty, scenic drives, and regional cuisine in a comfortable setting. The combination of geological sites, charming villages, and cave dining provides a memorable day on the island.

While the tour’s pace and limited time at some stops may not satisfy those seeking in-depth exploration of each site, the panoramic views and local flavor make it a worthwhile choice for most visitors. The guides’ multilingual ability and organized itinerary help ensure a smooth experience.

This tour stands as a practical way to see some of Gran Canaria’s most striking features in one day, especially for those staying in the popular southern resorts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and lunch.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from multiple southern locations such as Maspalomas, Puerto Rico, Taurito, Arguineguín, and others. Las Palmas and the north are not included.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include the Bandama volcano, Pico de las Nieves, San Mateo, Santa Brigida, Caldera de los Marteles, and Guayadeque Ravine with a cave restaurant lunch.

Is the tour accessible for all travelers?
It is not suitable for wheelchair users or babies under 1 year due to terrain and activity level.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak Dutch, English, French, German, and Spanish.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

How long is the visit to the Guayadeque Ravine?
The stop at the ravine lasts about 30 minutes, enough to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

What kind of lunch is included?
A regional meal in a cave restaurant includes local snacks, regional food, and tapas.

Are there any reviews about guide quality?
Yes, some reviews praise the knowledgeability and friendliness of guides, noting they provide good local insights.

Is this tour suitable for those interested in geology?
Absolutely—visiting volcanoes and craters offers a fascinating look at Gran Canaria’s volcanic landscape.

What are the main negatives reported?
Some mention limited time at certain stops and issues with pick-up arrangements in the past, so planning ahead is recommended.

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