Things to Do in Gran Canaria

1. Things to Do in Gran Canaria

2. Gran Canaria is a European destination like no other. This round island between Tenerife andFuerteventura boasts of a plethora of activities for one and all. No wonder its ports welcome millions of visitors each year. In Gran Canaria, there is something for the nature enthusiast, the archaeological aficionado, the foodie, the party lover, the surfer dude and even the little kids. There’s just so many things to do and see for everyone in this gem of an island.

3. Cueva Pintada There is no other place which evokes the ancient past of an island the way Cueva Pintada does. The famous museum and archaeological site in Gran Canaria lets visitors experience a sensory-filled blast from the past. Take a step in the painted caves which for centuries have held the memories of the Guanches, the ancient inhabitants of the island. Find out why this is revered as one of the most important historical spots in the Canaries.

4. The Painted Cave Archaeological Museum and Park is situated in Galdar, a municipality in the northwest of Gran Canaria. Galdar is held with great importance as it once was the capital of the island and where the King ruled in Pre-Hispanic times. However, it wasn’t until recently that the site was unveiled. It all started in 1862 when a farmer accidentally discovered the cave while picking pears. Since then, excavations have been organized which gradually revealed an entire ancient village. Efforts to protect and preserve the unearthed relics and dwellings were in full swing in the 1970s. The diggings took about 20 years to complete before the museum was built. Up to this day, archaeologists are still discovering and learning about the intriguing Painted Caves in Galdar. Since its discovery, it has continuously welcomed thousands of curious visitors every year. More than a treasure for archaeology, it’s a living testament to Gran Canaria’s beautiful and rich culture before its colonization.

5. Playa de Las Canteras There is no other place which evokes the ancient past of an island the way Cueva Pintada does. The famous museum and archaeological site in Gran Canaria lets visitors experience a sensory-filled blast from the past. Take a step in the painted caves which for centuries have held the memories of the Guanches, the ancient inhabitants of the island. Find out why this is revered as one of the most important historical spots in the Canaries.

6. Playa de Las Canteras is a beach like no other. Located northeast of the capital city of Las Palmas, it is one of the best urban beaches in Europe. Running parallel to its sandy beach is a long busy promenade filled with the shops, restaurants, and bars. Aside from the usual beach activities, it is also a haven for surfers and scuba divers. The 3-kilometer strip of golden sand makes it the longest beach in Gran Canaria. Playa de Las Canteras, nestled between La Isleta to the north and Santa Catalina to the east, is a favorite spot for tourists who love the modern amenities of its seafront promenade. Despite the abundance of shops, restaurants, and bars, visitors marvel at the cleanliness of the surroundings. In fact, Playa de Las Canteras is one of the only three beaches in Spain with an environmental accreditation. The beach and the activities cater to the needs of all travelers – that of relaxation and adventure. Combining the best that nature has to offer and the modern conveniences, it is no wonder that many of the visitors are returning guests.

7. Tamadaba Natural Park In a small continent, where does one go to experience the most stunning landscapes? Tamadaba Natural Park is Gran Canaria’s best bet. The oldest and biggest forest in the island is also the home of thousands of endemic plants and animals. Venture into its tree-lined hiking trail and be rewarded with the most breath-taking views below and of the neighboring island. In these parts of the earth, travelers can be alone with their thoughts, with nature’s hidden wonders keeping them company.

8. Parque Natural Tamadaba is a network of valleys, slopes, and mountains on the far west of Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands. The 7,500 hectares of land starts from the town of Agaete in the northwest and extends down to the towns of La Aldea de San Nicolas and Artenara. Each trail to its peak are defined by pine forests and arid grounds, sometimes steep, sometimes gravelly, but the views are always divine. The park also covers 18 kilometers of the island’s west coastline. Furthermore, the trail from the coast is as magical as the rest of the trails from the towns inland. The area is also part of the list of places in Gran Canaria which earned the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve qualification. So, when hikers climb the dangerous cliff off the west coast near the Guayedra Valley, it’s not surprising to find endangered plants and animal species native to the island. In Tamadaba Parque Natural, every cascading valley and mountain kissing the passing clouds spell out tranquility. With lots of things to do and scenery so grand, it’s a destination where families, couples, groups, and individuals surely love.

9. Doramas Park Doramas Park or Parque Doramas is the most beautiful urban park set in the capital city of Las Palmas, Gran Canaria. Thanks to the park’s cozy layout, child-friendly facilities, and lush environment, it has been a hit among families traveling to the Canaries in Spain. The park’s tree-lined gardens and lovely ponds are a home to certain endemic species of plants and animals. Its graceful fountains and waterfalls are like an oasis in the middle of a bustling district. With close proximity to a wide variety of activity spots, the park is definitely so much more than benches under shades of trees.

10. Once upon a time, Doramas Park was envisioned to become a zoo, but things ended up differently as it was built to be a park. It’s named after Doramas, the legendary Guanche chief warrior, who is known for his bravery in fighting the Spanish colonizers. Today, his legacy lives on within the 47,000 sqm territory of the park. Jardin Canario, situated inside the stylish residential space, is far away from the noise of the city. To its west end is Pablo Canario, a lovely constructed village that depicts the typical Canarian neighborhood. It’s also next to the renowned Santa Catalina hotel, famous for its old colonial architecture. The park’s central location and its warm, quiet atmosphere make it an inviting resting place for passing tourists. As one of the main attractions of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Doramas Park boasts of striking and serene features, with a mix of an oasis of green and water attractions. Guests can find solitude in its various lakes, waterfalls, fountains, and lush gardens. The abundance of trees provides shades for visitors and many intricately designed rock sculptures complete the picturesque sight.

11. Playa de Mogan Playa de Mogan is a secluded man-made beach at the foot of the ravine in Puerto de Mogan, Gran Canaria’s “Little Venice.” Aside from the perfect golden sand and a year-round pleasant weather, the beach’s beauty lies in the myriad of activities it offers. It’s a go-to place for people who want to explore the beauty of the Atlantic in the Canary Islands. Crowning a charismatic village and close to a busy harbor, it’s no wonder why people choose this as the ultimate holiday destination in Spain.

12. Guests arriving at Playa de Mogan quickly understand why it is one of the most popular beach options on the island. Through the harbor, they are greeted by the golden Saharan sand and ever calm waters. While exploring the town, they get lost in the old elegance of white-washed houses. Opposite the beach is a steep ravine which protects the shore and is a fantastic view in itself. The coast is also protected by the harbor wall, as well as a reef that keeps the waters tranquil and free from waves. On the port side, the waters are lined with rental ships waiting to sail. A network of bridges and canals further defines Puerto de Mogan. Getting off the beach and heading to the town, guests also find plenty of cafes, shops, and accommodations in its modern promenade. Walking farther, two-story houses with plant-embellished balconies and rooftops exude unmistakable colonial artistry. Be it in the water or on the shore, the adventures this beach offers are bound to be memorable for tourists.

13. Roque Nublo Looking for a break from the usual sun, sand, and sea? Hike to the mystical rock in the clouds, Roque Nublo. Found at the center of Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands, the second highest peak on the island is the perfect place to see the world differently in Spain.

14. Roque Nublo or Cloud Rock is named aptly due to its cloudy or misty view. On most days, it plays hide-and-seek through layers and layers of thick cottony, white clouds. On other days, it’s blanketed by a thin cool fog, making it hardly visible to hikers until it greets them upfront. But on ideal days, it stands tall against a backdrop of clear blue skies, a truly majestic sight to behold. The same volcanic eruptions that created the island of Gran Canaria over 4 million years ago shaped Roque Nublo. Towering at about 80 meters high, and set elevated in the heart of the municipality of Tejeda, this famous rock formation seems to send out an invitation to people from all around. Standing proudly at 1,813 meters above sea level, travelers are rewarded with a fantastic 360-degree view of the whole island. Sometimes even the Teide Volcano from the neighboring island of Tenerife makes a special appearance, congratulating hikers.

15. Playa de Gui Gui The perfectly secluded beach of Playa de Gui Gui in Gran Canaria is not your ordinary beach in the Canaries. This often sought after gem is hidden among ravines and rocks, and shows itself only after a challenging hike. Over the years, it has quickly become a favorite escape for those wanting to stray from touristy paths of the island to commune with nature. Due mainly to its remote location, Gui Gui has gained a reputation among naturalists and adventure-seekers. More than the destination, the journey to finding Gui Gui is a tale one would want to share with the future generations.

16. Carefully tucked away on the west coast of Gran Canaria, Gui Gui is far from the crowded attractions of the island. Located in the municipality of La Aldea de San Nicolas, the beach is only a few kilometers away from the town of Tasartico. Because of obscure signs, guests would have to keep their eyes open. Remote as it is, there are no buses that pass through this area. Hence, adventure seekers could only discover it by foot or by boat. The isolation of Playa de Gui Gui is enough incentive for travelers who want to avoid the massive crowds at Maspalomas and Playa del Ingles. Despite the grueling climb and the lack of modern amenities, it never fails to leave visitors in awe. The beach is an unspoiled paradise far away from the congested tourist attractions on the island of Gran Canaria. It’s not an ordinary hike, nor is it an ordinary beach. The pictures will speak for itself, but it is unlikely to do it justice. Travelers with brave souls would just have to seek the adventure and see for themselves.

17. Palmitos Park Palmitos Park is the most popular recreational spot in the island of Gran Canaria. This subtropical park offers the serenity of nature and the excitement of wildlife. There are thrilling shows featuring birds of prey and exotic birds that astonish its visitors. It also boasts of a one-of-a-kind experience with lovely and smart dolphins. These are on top of the collection of reptiles, mammals, birds, fishes, and other wondrous animals found here.

18. At the botanical garden, visitors lose themselves in the tranquility of nature’s beauty. It would be impossible to miss seeing the different types of palm trees and cacti in the garden. Palmitos Park also houses the largest orchid collection on the island. Dolphins are one of the fascinating animals in the world. For centuries, there are countless tales of how dolphins have saved humans lost at sea. And for reasons science could not explain, there is a natural affinity between us and dolphins. At the Palmitos Park Dolphinarium, we get the chance to see them with our own eyes. Even better, for an extra fee, we could have photo opportunities with these incredible animals. Those who are active on social media would, no doubt, share the thrilling experience with online friends. Exploring many of nature’s wondrous creations seldom happen in just a single day. But at Palmitos Park, that is what visitors experience. It’s inviting and peaceful environment is home to exotic and delicate wildlife, animals we might never have a chance to see again. The park is a break from the usual beach attractions all over the Canaries. In only half a day, this is where we could feast upon the beauty of animals from South Africa, Asia, and other parts of the world. More than sightseeing, it is also the intention of the park to educate and enlighten us on the amazing creatures they have. Here, we discover more about the world share with.

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