Gran Canaria: Red Gorge, Cave, Oasis Adventure Tour & Picnic

There’s something truly special about exploring Gran Canaria beyond its popular beaches and bustling resorts. This well-reviewed 7.5-hour tour offers a chance to connect with the island’s raw, untouched beauty — from dramatic gorges and ancient caves to tranquil villages and lush oases. The experience is designed not just as a sightseeing trip but as an authentic journey into the soul of the island’s landscapes and traditions.

What we love most about this tour is how accessible it is: no expert hiking skills are necessary, just a moderate level of fitness and a sense of curiosity. The guides’ local knowledge really brings each stop alive, and the inclusion of a Canarian tapas picnic makes the day feel like a true taste of Gran Canaria. Plus, the small group setting ensures a personalized, relaxed vibe. The only potential drawback? The tour runs only from October to May, as summer heat can make the experience less comfortable. It’s perfect for those wanting a peaceful escape into nature, especially if you’re interested in authentic, non-touristy spots.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

Nature lovers who enjoy short, manageable walks and scenic views will find plenty to love here. It’s also ideal for curious travelers eager to learn about the island’s landscape and culture without the strain of long hikes or overly busy crowds. If you’re after a relaxed, immersive day with expert guides and a delicious local meal, this experience is a great fit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Accessible short hikes suitable for most fitness levels
• Unique landscape including a stunning tuff ravine and aboriginal caves
• Authentic Canarian towns with peaceful, unhurried atmospheres
• Beautiful viewpoints perfect for photos and relaxation
• Local flavors through a cozy picnic featuring traditional tapas and fruits
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience

Why This Tour Stands Out

Gran Canaria’s landscape varies wildly, but this tour focuses on its more unknown, breathtaking corners. You’ll explore a spectacular tuff ravine—a natural formation that’s both a geological wonder and a symbol of the island’s volcanic history. Its towering, textured walls are a reminder of how powerful nature can be, and they offer incredible photo opportunities.

The inclusion of aboriginal caves adds a fascinating layer to the trip. These caves, dating back some 1500 years, give a glimpse into the lives of the island’s native inhabitants. You don’t need to be a seasoned hiker to appreciate these sites—just comfortable shoes for rocky paths. As one reviewer noted, “the caves added a bit of adventure,” and others appreciated how accessible the trails were, even for those with limited hiking experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins early with hotel pickup in seven different locations, including Las Palmas, Playa del Inglés, and Maspalomas. The small group size (limited to 7 participants) helps keep the experience intimate. Expect a comfortable, air-conditioned van ride, with the journey to the first stop taking about 50 minutes from the initial pickup point.

More Great Tours Nearby

Barranco de las Vacas

The first stop is at Barranco de las Vacas, a gorge that showcases the island’s volcanic past. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided walk of around 40 minutes through this rugged landscape. The views are remarkable, and it’s a great way to get your first taste of Gran Canaria’s natural beauty.

Temisas: The Authentic Canarian Village

Next, the tour visits Temisas, a charming village that seems to have stepped out of time. This spot offers a relaxed atmosphere where you can breathe in the peaceful, slow-paced lifestyle. Travelers have loved the photo opportunities here, and some have remarked on the delicious local products and the chance to see how Canarians have lived for generations.

Walk through the Oasis and the Canarian Caves

The adventure continues with an 80-minute hike through a small oasis—an unexpected green gem amid the rugged terrain. Here, you’ll learn about local agriculture and how water is vital to the island’s survival. The path is adventurous but manageable, and plenty of reviewers commented on how photo-worthy the scenery is, with lush palms contrasting the dry landscape.

Following this, you’ll explore the aboriginal caves—a highlight for many. These caves, linked to the island’s earliest inhabitants, provide an atmospheric glimpse into ancient life, complete with rocky paths that add a touch of adventure.

Santa Lucía de Tirajana: Local Flavors and Scenic Views

From here, the tour makes a stop in Santa Lucía de Tirajana for a short food tasting and a photo stop. The town is known for its culinary traditions, with some travelers mentioning that the local tapas served later is akin to homemade grandma’s recipe—simple, flavorful, and lovingly prepared.

Picnic and Relaxation

The highlight for many is the alfresco picnic in a beautiful setting. You’ll enjoy a selection of Canarian tapas, local fruits, and a chilled soft drink. The attention to detail, as one reviewer pointed out, elevates this into a genuine taste of island life: “Estefania cooked a traditional meal, and it was absolutely delicious.” The picnic offers a perfect break to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Final Stops with Scenic Views

After lunch, the tour continues with scenic walks around Lugar la Sorrueda—a peaceful spot with panoramic views of the southern mountains—and later, a photo stop at a viewpoint showcasing Gran Canaria’s rugged terrain and sweeping vistas. The last leg takes about 50 minutes back to your accommodation, concluding a full day of discovery.

What Makes This Tour Truly Special?

• Expert Guides: Both Laszlo and Estefania bring a wealth of knowledge, making history and geography come alive with stories and pictures. Several reviews emphasize how friendly and passionate the guides are, often sharing local insights that aren’t in guidebooks.

• Balanced Itinerary: The tour offers a perfect mix of scenic nature, cultural insight, and relaxed dining. The stops are well-paced, with enough time to explore without feeling rushed, as highlighted by guests who appreciated the well-organized schedule.

• Authentic Experiences: Instead of typical tourist traps, you get to see small villages, hidden trails, and ancient caves—places that reveal the true character of Gran Canaria.

• Photo Opportunities: Whether it’s the red ravine, lush oasis, or mountain viewpoints, there are countless chances to snap memorable photos. Several guests mentioned that guides took time to help with photography tips, ensuring everyone leaves with beautiful shots.

• Value for Money: The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a delicious local picnic, local fruit tastings, soft drinks, full insurance, and 15 digital photos of your adventure. This package offers a comprehensive, personalized experience worth considering.

Practical Tips for Participants

Bring comfortable shoes suitable for rocky paths and light hiking. A hat and sunscreen are essential, especially since the tour takes place outdoors most of the time. While no previous hiking experience is necessary, some moderate walking is involved—so check your fitness level beforehand. The tour operates only from October to May, avoiding the hottest months, which could make walking uncomfortable.

Average pickup times are around 8:20AM from Las Palmas and 9AM from Maspalomas, but you’ll receive exact details one day prior. It’s wise to arrive a little early for pickup and to bring some cash if you want to buy additional local products or coffee during stops.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a beautifully curated slice of Gran Canaria’s natural and cultural riches. It’s particularly suited for those who love small-group travel, enjoy short hikes, and want to experience authentic sights away from crowded tourist spots. The guides’ local expertise and the well-balanced itinerary make it a memorable day, especially if you’re eager to see the island’s less touristy, more genuine side.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic adventure with tasty local food, this experience ticks all the boxes. The combination of stunning landscapes, cultural insights, and a cozy picnic creates a well-rounded day that’s worth every euro.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years or those with mobility impairments, as some rocky paths and moderate walking are involved.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen are essential. Since the tour takes place outdoors, dressing in layers is advisable for changing weather conditions.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the trip is in a modern, air-conditioned van with pickup and drop-off included at your accommodation.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?
The tour features a traditional Canarian tapas picnic, so if you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to check with the provider beforehand.

How long is the total tour duration?
Starting from Las Palmas, expect around 9 hours, including pickup, travel, stops, and the return journey.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is English and German available as guide languages?
Yes, the tour is led by guides fluent in both English and German.

This experience delivers a genuine, well-rounded look at Gran Canaria’s natural beauty and local culture—perfect for travelers seeking authenticity, scenic views, and a relaxed pace. Whether you’re snapping photos, tasting regional flavors, or simply soaking in peaceful landscapes, this tour offers a memorable escape into the island’s quieter, more genuine side.

You can check availability for your dates here: