Gran Canaria is a fantastic island for short tours that pack a punch. Its diverse landscapes—from golden dunes to marine life—mean you can fill two hours with memorable experiences. We’re especially fond of the 2-Hour Segway Tour: Maspalomas Dunes, Playa Ingles, S.Agustin, which offers a fun way to explore the iconic sand dunes and seaside promenades. It’s a great option for those who want a quick, active introduction to the island’s more scenic spots without breaking a sweat. Plus, the local guide ensures you get insider tips and a smooth ride.
Whether you’re looking for a high-energy adventure or a relaxing nature encounter, Gran Canaria’s 2-hour tours cover a lot of ground. Below, we break down three top options—each offering a unique way to experience the island’s landscapes and marine life.
1. 2-Hour Segway Tour: Maspalomas Dunes, Playa Ingles, S.Agustin
At number 1 on our list, this Segway tour stands out for its combination of fun and scenery. For just $93 per person, you’ll glide along seaside promenades, cycle paths, and sandy dunes. The route takes you through Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés, two of the most lively areas on the island, but from a perspective that’s both relaxed and exciting. The highlight is definitely the nearby sand dunes, which are a must-see—and surprisingly easy to explore on a Segway.
The tour is led by a local guide with a knack for making beginners feel confident. Stop for a refreshing soft drink or ice cream along the way, which keeps things light and enjoyable. The 4.9 out of 5 review score from 18 travelers reflects its popularity, especially among those wanting a quick yet engaging way to see the coast. The only downside might be that it’s a bit more expensive than other short tours, but for the fun factor and scenic value, it’s well worth it.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a unique, scenic ride and a taste of Gran Canaria’s famous dunes in just two hours.
2. 2-Hour Dolphin and Whale Watching in Gran Canaria
Second on our list, this marine wildlife tour takes you out onto the Atlantic Ocean for a chance to see dolphins and whales. For around $40.64, you get approximately 2.5 hours of boat time, which includes the trip itself and the sightings. You’ll depart from Puerto Rico and cruise on a large, stable boat designed for whale watching, with capacity for nearly 150 people.
What makes this tour special is the opportunity to see marine mammals in their natural habitat, with the guide providing insider knowledge about their behavior. Reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides are and that sightings of dolphins are frequent. Travelers rave about the opportunity to see pods of dolphins and flying fish, making it a memorable outing for nature lovers. The boat’s size ensures comfort, and the onboard bar lets you relax and enjoy the views.
This tour is ideal if you want to combine a scenic boat ride with wildlife spotting—a true nature adventure in just a couple of hours. The main considerations are the potential for choppy seas and the fact that whales and dolphins are wild and unpredictable, but that’s part of the thrill.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers interested in marine life and the Aquadventure of spotting whales and dolphins in their natural environment.
3. 2 hours Green Mountains Horse Riding Tour
Our third pick offers a different kind of quick escape—a horseback riding tour through the Green Mountains of Ojos de Garza. For approximately 2 hours, riders of all skill levels can enjoy stunning views of the East Coast and inland mountains. The tour includes riding gear and is suitable for beginners, making it accessible even for first-timers.
The tour starts at Horse Riding Canaria, with a stop at Telde for a brief 15-minute lesson, then continues into the interior countryside. The ride takes you along tracks that are safe and easy to navigate. The guide’s warmth and safety instructions help you feel confident, and the scenery—breathtaking mountain vistas—makes for a memorable trip. The 4.8 out of 5 reviews underscore its appeal, with visitors praising the great horses and friendly guide.
This experience is perfect for those seeking a peaceful, scenic ride without strenuous effort. The only potential downside is that availability can vary, so booking ahead is recommended.
Bottom line: Best for those who want a relaxing ride amid natural beauty, especially if you’re new to horseback riding or want a gentle introduction to Gran Canaria’s inland landscapes.
How to Choose Your Perfect 2-Hour Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and fitness level. If you’re after a fun, active way to see the coast, the Segway tour offers a lively experience with some sightseeing. For wildlife enthusiasts, the dolphin and whale watching trip provides a gentle, scenic boat ride with exciting marine encounters. If a peaceful ride through mountain scenery appeals, then the horseback tour offers a relaxed way to connect with nature.
Pricing and time are also factors—the boat trip is the most budget-friendly, while the Segway offers a more dynamic experience. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the dolphin watch, which can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Gran Canaria’s short tours provide a fantastic way to maximize your limited time on the island. Whether you prefer high-energy rides, marine wildlife encounters, or peaceful horseback rides, there’s a 2-hour adventure for you. For most travelers, the Segway tour offers a fun, scenic overview of the dunes and coast, but if you’re passionate about marine life, the dolphin and whale watching trip is hard to beat. For quiet moments amid lush mountains, the horseback ride is a lovely choice.
Remember to book ahead and pick a tour that aligns with your interests, fitness level, and schedule. Whatever you choose, these brief excursions will leave you with a deeper appreciation of Gran Canaria’s natural beauty. Happy travels!