From Palmas: Pico de las Nieves & Roque Nublo Full-Day Trip

This tour promises a scenic journey into the heart of Gran Canaria, showcasing some of the island’s most breathtaking natural sights and charming villages. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, with over 843 reviews and a solid 4.7-star rating, it’s clear many travelers find it well worth their while.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the opportunity to stand atop Pico de las Nieves, the island’s highest point, with panoramic views that stretch to Tenerife if the weather cooperates. Second, the chance to marvel at Roque Nublo, a striking volcanic basalt rock that’s over 65 meters tall. Third, the local taste-testing at the Cross of Tejeda — sampling cheese, honey, and fruit — offers a delicious local flavor.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves winding mountain roads, which might be less comfortable for those prone to motion sickness or who prefer flat terrains. Still, this trip is perfect for anyone eager to see Gran Canaria beyond the beaches — nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those wanting a well-rounded day exploring inland.

If you’re after a comprehensive, value-packed experience that combines natural beauty and local culture with expert guidance, this full-day trip is an excellent choice — especially if you don’t want to rent a car or navigate the mountain roads yourself.

Key Points

• Stunning views from Pico de las Nieves and Roque Nublo provide picture-perfect moments.
• Guided experience with knowledgeable guides helps you learn about the island’s volcanic history and culture.
• Local tastes at the Cross of Tejeda add a flavorful touch with regional cheeses, honey, and fruits.
• Visit charming villages like Teror, with its Basilica of the Lady of the Pine, for a taste of local architecture and calm streets.
• Comfortable transport in air-conditioned coaches helps you relax during the long, scenic drives.
• Ideal for non-drivers or those who prefer guided tours, with pick-up and drop-off included in Las Palmas.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off with a convenient pickup from several central locations in Las Palmas, including hotels like Hotel Astoria, Reina Isabel, and the Marriott. The vehicles are described as air-conditioned coaches or minivans, which is a relief given the warm Canarian climate.

Traveling in a group of like-minded travelers, you’ll sit back and enjoy the scenic ride inland, passing through lush landscapes and rugged volcanic terrain. The roads are winding, with plenty of stops, so a comfortable, reliable vehicle and experienced driver are key. Reviewers unanimously appreciated the professionalism and skill of the driver, especially when navigating narrow, steep mountain roads.

Exploring the Volcano of Bandama

Your journey begins with a visit to the Bandama volcano crater, a dormant volcano that offers distinctive views of the volcanic landscape. While not always the main highlight, many travelers find this stop interesting because it gives insight into Gran Canaria’s volcanic past. The crater is a relatively easy walk, and the landscape feels otherworldly, especially with its rugged edges and volcanic rock formations.

Pico de las Nieves: The Island’s Highest Point

The highlight for many is reaching Pico de las Nieves, at 1,959 meters. From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas over the island’s mountain ranges and, if the weather allows, a clear sightline all the way to Tenerife. The views here are truly spectacular; you can see the volcanic ridges and valleys that make Gran Canaria so uniquely dramatic.

Travelers often comment on how surreal it is to stand at this altitude, taking in the panoramic scenery. One reviewer mentioned that visibility on a clear day allows you to see the neighboring island, making it a special moment for photo opportunities and awe. Be prepared for cooler temperatures up here, especially if visiting in winter.

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Roque Nublo: The Iconic Volcanic Monolith

Next on the itinerary is the Roque Nublo, a basalt rock formation towering over 65 meters. It’s not just a geological marvel but also an emblem of Gran Canaria’s volcanic history. The massive rock offers a striking contrast against the blue sky, and many reviews mention it as a “jaw-dropping” sight.

While the walk to Roque Nublo is manageable, it involves some uphill sections. The view from the top is worth the effort — you’ll see a sprawling landscape of volcanic craters, green valleys, and distant peaks. The rock’s size and shape make it a perfect spot for photos, and the sense of standing near something so ancient and naturally sculpted is undeniable.

Sampling Local Delicacies at Cross of Tejeda

One of the most enjoyable parts of this tour is stopping at the Cross of Tejeda, a popular vantage point and cultural landmark. Here, you can taste Canarian cheeses, honey, and fresh fruits — a real treat for your taste buds. The tasting is a highlight, with many reviewers appreciating the quality and variety of regional products.

This stop also offers fantastic views across the mountains, and it’s a great place to relax and soak in the scenery. Some travelers note that the stop can be brief, but enough to get a taste of local flavors and take photos.

The Village of Teror and Basilica of the Lady of the Pine

The trip concludes with a visit to the charming village of Teror, famous for its well-preserved traditional Canarian architecture and the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pine. The village streets are quiet, and the basilica is a peaceful spot to walk and admire the intricate woodwork and religious art.

Reviewers frequently mention how much they enjoyed wandering through Teror’s streets, soaking in the authentic local atmosphere. It’s a nice change of pace after the mountain scenery, providing a glimpse into daily life on the island.

Return to Las Palmas

The day wraps up with a scenic drive back to the city. The entire experience lasts around 7.5 hours, making it a full but relaxed day out. The group size is generally small enough to maintain a friendly atmosphere, and guides often share interesting facts in both English and Spanish.

Practical Details and Tips

Price and Value

While the tour doesn’t include lunch, the guide can recommend local restaurants or help you organize a picnic. The cost covers transportation, guided commentary, and tastings, which many travelers see as excellent value given the sights visited. For those who enjoy learning about local culture and natural landscapes, this is a comprehensive experience.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour is not suitable for children under 5 or wheelchair users. It involves some mountain driving and walking but is generally accessible for most able travelers. Be prepared for cooler weather at the summit and bring sun protection, especially in summer.

What to Bring

• Sun hat and sunscreen for protection against the sun
• A jersey or raincoat in winter
• Your camera or smartphone for capturing the views
• Some cash or card for optional tastings or souvenirs

Important Notes

• Tour can be canceled due to adverse weather conditions, so check the forecast.
• Pickup times are specific to your hotel, so be on time.
• The roads are narrow and winding, so motion sickness medication might be helpful if you’re sensitive.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Many reviewers praise the guides — describing Maria, Vanessa, and others as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. Their commentary enhances the experience, with visitors noting the guides’ ability to share interesting facts in both English and Spanish.

One traveler said, “Vanessa kept us well informed without talking non-stop,” which highlights the importance of a good balance between commentary and free exploration. Others appreciated how the coach driver skillfully navigated the mountain roads, making the journey smooth and safe.

The views are universally praised, with many describing the scenery as “breathtaking,” “mind-blowing,” and “unforgettable.” The stops at Pico de las Nieves and Roque Nublo are particularly cherished, with visitors commenting that these are moments you’ll want to photograph and remember.

The tasting stop at Cross of Tejeda received glowing feedback, with guests enjoying the chance to try regional cheeses, honey, and fresh fruit. Several reviews also mentioned how fun and educational the trip was — blending natural wonders with cultural insights seamlessly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those who want a full-day adventure away from the beaches, offering a chance to see Gran Canaria’s mountainous heart. It’s ideal for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and photography buffs eager to capture scenic vistas.

If you prefer guided experiences that take care of transportation and logistics, this tour saves you the hassle and adds expert commentary. However, if you’re sensitive to winding roads or traveling with young children, consider these factors before booking.

This tour offers excellent value, combining multiple highlights in one day, with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation. It’s a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of the island’s volcanic origins and rural charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 years old cannot participate, mainly due to the nature of the mountain roads and walking involved.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, a light jacket for cooler temperatures at higher altitudes, and your camera for capturing the scenery.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch isn’t included, but the guide can recommend local restaurants or help you organize a picnic. The stops at the Cross of Tejeda include tasting local products.

How long is the total tour?
The entire trip lasts around 7.5 hours, including pickup, sightseeing, tasting stops, and return to Las Palmas.

Are the stops suitable for all fitness levels?
Most stops are accessible, but some involve walking uphill or uneven terrain, especially at Roque Nublo. Prepare accordingly.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled in case of adverse weather conditions. Check the forecast before your day out and confirm with the operator if you have concerns.

This full-day tour of Gran Canaria’s volcanic peaks and charming villages offers a comprehensive look at the island’s natural beauty and local culture. With expert guides, comfortable transport, and stunning viewpoints, it’s a well-rounded option for travelers eager to explore beyond the beaches.

The trip’s balance of scenic views, cultural stops, and tasting experiences makes it particularly good for those who want a meaningful, educational, and beautiful day. If you’re comfortable with winding roads and eager to see the island’s highlands, this adventure will leave you with unforgettable memories and plenty of breathtaking photos.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group, this tour provides good value and a chance to connect with Gran Canaria’s rugged landscape and warm local traditions. All in all, a highly recommended excursion for anyone wanting to see the island’s heart in style and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: