Gran Canaria: Island Highlights Tour with Optional Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a way to see the best of Gran Canaria without the hassle of planning, this Island Highlights Tour offers a practical and immersive experience. While we haven’t personally taken it, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of a day packed with scenic beauty, cultural insights, and memorable moments.

What we love about this tour are the stunning vistas from Pico de las Nieves, the chance to learn from passionate local guides, and the opportunity to sample authentic Canarian cuisine in a charming village. It’s a well-rounded half-day adventure, balancing sightseeing, cultural exposure, and the chance for some fantastic photos.

One aspect to consider is that the tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments, due to the nature of some stops and the winding roads. Still, for those able to keep up, it offers a meaningful and visually rewarding glimpse of the island’s lesser-known corners.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic drives, enjoy learning about local traditions, and want a comprehensive day out without the stress of self-guided exploration. Perfect for those on a cruise stopover or anyone wanting a taste of Gran Canaria’s diverse landscapes.

Key Points

• Scenic Drives and Stunning Views: Experience panoramic vistas from Pico de las Nieves and other high points.
• Authentic Cultural Stops: Visit a traditional church and enjoy local insights from guides.
• Photo Opportunities: Multiple stops for capturing the volcanic landscapes and charming villages.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides like Carlos, Marine, and Chari bring knowledge and humor to the journey.
• Optional Lunch: Savor a traditional meal in a picturesque village setting—highly praised for its quality.
• Flexible and Informative: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with options for languages and flexible booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Pickup from Maspalomas and Starting the Adventure

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup from Maspalomas, saving you the hassle of arranging transport. It’s a convenient way to start a full day of exploration, especially if you’re staying nearby. You’ll be riding comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, often with a small group, making the experience more personal and engaging.

Aloe Vera Finca Canarias: A Refreshing Stop

The first stop is at an Aloe Vera finca, where you’ll get a guided tour and a chance to snap some photos of the lush, sprawling plantation. Guests have appreciated this stop for its relaxed vibe and the opportunity to learn about the island’s aloe cultivation. It’s a quick 35-minute visit but packed with photo opportunities and insights into the local agriculture.

Caldera de Bandama: Volcanic Wonders

Next, you’ll visit the Caldera de Bandama—a volcanic crater with a fascinating history. The guided tour here offers a glimpse into Gran Canaria’s volcanic origins, and the short stop (around 15 minutes) is perfect for quick photos and soaking in the landscape. Visitors often mention the interesting facts shared by guides, which make this stop both educational and scenic.

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Pico de las Nieves: The Highest Point

Perhaps the most anticipated stop is Pico de las Nieves, the island’s highest point. Here, you’re treated to breathtaking panoramic views—ideal for photos that will make your friends jealous. You’ll have approximately 15 minutes of free time to explore and enjoy the scenery. Reviewers have raved about the vistas, calling it “stunning” and “a real highlight.”

The Charming Church and Village Lunch

The tour includes a 1.5-hour visit to a traditional church, giving you a taste of local architecture and spiritual life. This break also provides an opportunity to walk around a picturesque village, often accompanied by local stories from guides. Many travelers mention the lunch as a highlight—served in a rustic restaurant, the meal is typically described as delicious, with wild chooks and fresh sandwiches. One reviewer noted it as “the best sandwich” they’d had in a while.

Cruz De San Antonio and Presa del Mulato: Picture-Perfect Moments

Further stops at Cruz De San Antonio and Presa del Mulato offer short photo sessions and opportunities to learn about local life and the landscape. These are quieter spots, loved for their natural beauty and the chance to stretch your legs.

Return to Maspalomas

After a full day of sightseeing, the trip winds down with the return journey, often with plenty of photo memories, new knowledge, and perhaps some new friends made along the way.

Transportation and Group Experience

The tour uses comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making logistics straightforward. Group sizes tend to be small to medium, fostering a more intimate and engaging atmosphere. Guides like Carlos and Marine are praised for their extensive knowledge and friendly approach—adding a personal touch to what could otherwise be a generic sightseeing trip.

Price and Value

While the tour does not include lunch or baby seats (which cost extra), the overall value lies in the comprehensive itinerary, expert guiding, and the convenience of door-to-door pickup. At around 6.5 hours, it offers a great way to cover significant sights without feeling rushed. The option to reserve and pay later adds flexibility, especially if your plans might shift.

Reviews and Authentic Experiences

From reviews, it’s clear that the tour wins points for well-organized logistics, guides’ extensive knowledge, and the quality of views and food. One guest called it “a fabulous day,” emphasizing the “expert driving” of Miguel and the “great commentary” by Chari.

A common thread is the appreciation for the authentic insights guides share—whether about volcanic landscapes, local traditions, or hidden spots travelers often miss. The lunch, especially, earns high praise for being both tasty and rustic, adding a genuine taste of local life.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded day out with scenic highlights and cultural flavor. It’s perfect if you’re keen on photo opportunities, learning from engaging guides, and indulging in authentic local cuisine.

If you’re not comfortable with winding roads or have mobility issues, you might want to consider other options. However, for those who can enjoy a full day of sightseeing, this experience offers excellent value and a memorable introduction to Gran Canaria’s diverse landscapes and traditions.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6.5 hours, including sightseeing stops and breaks.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel are included, making the start and end of the day hassle-free.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides speak Dutch, English, French, and German—so check your preferred language when booking.

Can I add lunch to the tour?
The tour offers an optional lunch in a local village, which many reviewers have praised for its quality.

Is the tour suitable for children or babies?
It’s not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments, and no baby seats are provided, so check if it fits your family’s needs.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, comfortable shoes, and camera for all those great photo ops.

Are the views worth the stops?
Absolutely. Stops like Pico de las Nieves and Roque Nublo are frequently highlighted as breathtaking highlights.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

To sum it up, this Gran Canaria highlights tour strikes a fine balance between scenic beauty, cultural insight, and practical convenience. It’s ideal for curious explorers eager to see the island’s lesser-known but stunning spots, taste local flavors, and learn from passionate guides. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor, this experience offers a meaningful glimpse of Gran Canaria’s diverse charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: