Folklore in Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria - Banana World Guided Tour in Gran Canaria

Visit the first Banana Museum, visit a traditional Canarian house and taste locally-made products.

Gran Canaria - Full-day Gran Canaria tour with Teror, Tejeda and typical lunch

Villages, viewpoints and volcanic rocks dot Gran Canaria's jagged spine. This tour weaves its way through some of the island's most dramatic landscapes, stopping along the way to visit gems such as Teror, Tejeda and Fataga. David, one of our local guides, says, ‘The legend of the apparition of the Virgin Mary in Teror still intrigues me. It was in 1481, amid the Castilian conquest of Gran Canaria, and it helped change the island's destiny.'And Teror is where your adventure begins. Strolling past the balconied townhouses of Calle Real de la Plaza towards the mountain-framed basilica of Our Lady of the Pine is one of the defining Gran Canaria experiences. A scenic mountain drive away is Tejeda, which is a bit of a looker itself – red-roofed, whitewashed houses sprinkled on the slope of a valley. David adds, ‘Every time there's a list of Spain's prettiest villages, Tejeda is near the top. Its setting is unbeatable.' There's also a pit stop at Las Tirajanas viewpoint to admire a vast volcanic caldera, as we make our way to Fataga to eat. A lunch made from locally sourced ingredients will be served in a family-owned restaurant. After a little amble through the town, we'll visit a nearby aloe vera plantation to get the lowdown on its medicinal properties. Generations of islanders have used extracts from the plant for skin burns.

Gran Canaria - Las Palmas de Gran Canaria sightseeing boat trip

Unwind and soak up the Las Palmas sun and sea breeze on this relaxing boat tour.

Gran Canaria - Nat Geo Day Tour: Guanches Mysteries Unearthed with an Archaeologist

Unveil the secrets of the Guanches, Gran Canaria's extinct aboriginal population, with an archaeologist on this National Geographic Day Tour. Begin your tour at La Fortaleza Museum, where you can learn about ancestral diets, uncovering the nourishment that fuelled generations past. You will also have access to the archive room, exclusive to National Geographic travellers. Inside, a pair of rare mummies will reveal stories about the lives and deaths of the island's original inhabitants. After, you'll enjoy some local delicacies such as olive oil, bread, Tenefé salt, and pastries made with gofio flour, almonds or figs. Next, explore La Fortaleza archeological site, the most complete in all Gran Canaria. Protected by law, it is important both in terms of its historical significance and location. See habitation caves adorned with paintings, granaries, stone houses, funerary monuments, engravings, and the island's oldest sanctuary. Learn why the Guanches' referred to it as the ‘Axis of the World', the place where heaven and earth converged. Witness the ancient way of life in La Fortaleza as you discover the tunnel that traverses the rock, offering panoramas of La Fortaleza de Abajo. This sprawling settlement of excavated houses is just a stone's throw away. Round off this experience with a scenic drive along winding roads to the foot of the caldera. You'll head to Mirador Santa Lucia, where you'll indulge in a typical Canarian lunch of regional cuisine with a side order of impressive views. As you relish the rich flavors, soak up the surrounding landscape and reflect on the history you've uncovered during this journey.

Gran Canaria - Nat Geo Day Tour: Gran Canaria's Southern Charms, a Photography Tour

Uncover the most photogenic corners of southern Gran Canaria on this National Geographic Day Tour. Your adventure begins in the village of Temisas, famed for its olive oil. Wander the narrow lanes lined with white houses with Arabic tiles, then discover the town square and capture traditional architecture. Next up is the hilltop village and authentic Canarian town of Tunte. Explore the charming streets, from the old washing places to the 19th-century fountain of El Rosal. Observe the details of a tile oven, original cobblestone paths, traditional houses, and the Casa Canaria de Tunte – a tribute to the ancient Canaries. As you will soon discover, Canarian villages are characterized by white-washed houses which can be dazzling in the bright sunshine. The photographer will give you valuable tips for making the most of the abundant light for great photos even in these conditions. Explore the villages at your own pace, taking snaps of the unique corners that appeal to you. There's plenty of potential subjects in these photogenic and typical Canarian villages. Climb to El Polvo viewpoint with its striking rock formation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the village and capture versatile images that tell its captivating story. The final stop is the sleepy hamlet of Fataga. Traverse the winding streets before gazing upon the striking stone massifs that flank the village. Finally, enjoy a spectacular drive down the mountain looking out to Meloneras and Maspalomas. View the imposing humpbacked sand dunes in the distance as you make your way to a local restaurant. Here, you'll review the photos and recap the experience over a well-earned lunch, after which the winning photograph will be revealed.

Gran Canaria - UD Las Palmas Gran Canaria Stadium Tour

Experience UD Las Palmas Gran Canaria Stadium like never before. Access the press conference room, the changing rooms, the tunnel to the pitch and much more!

Gran Canaria - Peaks of Gran Canaria: full-day hiking with pickup and lunch

Discover the peaks of Gran Canaria on a 9-hour guided tour. Hike in the central part of the island to see Pico de las Nieves, and learn about the the flora and fauna of this region.

Gran Canaria - Private Gran Canaria tour with cave lunch and wine-tasting

Gran Canaria is known as a miniature continent. And as soon as you travel inland on this private tour, you'll discover just why. Journey through mountainous landscapes and savour a local lunch in Bascamao. There are also stops in Artenara and a wine cellar. Esteban, one of our local guides, says, ‘It's high after high on this tour, starting with lunch at a cave restaurant with views and then going to the island's highest village. At over 1,200m above sea level, Artenara finds itself nestled on a ridge surrounded by jagged peaks.'Heading north via the Mogan Valley, snake your way through gorges and gaps towards the very centre of the island. The views along the way are camera-grabbingly good, so there'll be an occasional pit stop to take some pics. Lunch in a family-owned ‘cave restaurant' in the remote hamlet of Bascamao is next. Savour dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, with a side of views over the surrounding countryside and the ocean. What's more, with this visit, you contribute to the local community and economy.Afterwards, head to the highest town on the island, Artenara. Explore on foot this tiny village clustered around a whitewashed church or stick your head into the famed cave dwellings museum. Next, you'll head to the Presas viewpoint, among others, for views of alpine landscapes and the northern coastline. Round off the day with a Bandama crater photo stop, stopping en route by a family-run wine cellar to sample its volcanic earth wines.

Gran Canaria - Full-day excursion in the heart of the volcano

Enjoy hiking around Roque Nublo Rural Park. Try local specialties and enjoy stunning sunset views from Pico de Las Nieves, Gran Canaria's highest area.

Gran Canaria - Poema del Mar Aquarium skip-the-line tickets

Book your skip-the-line tickets to Poema del Mar Aquarium in Gran Canaria. Admire incredible marine life from all over the world, like crocodiles and moray eels.

Gran Canaria - Sioux City Entrance

Think thundering hooves, whirring spurs and shouts of ‘yeehah' on this trip to Sioux City – the Canaries' most authentic cowboy themed adventure park. Wandering the dusty streets of a replica old west town, the action happens all around you. From cattle runs and horseshows to gunfights and bank heists, it's an entertainment extravaganza, Wild West style.Kick off the adventure the moment you step foot in the park. Originally a movie set for a spaghetti western, it's all swinging saloon doors and one-room jailhouses. Packed with gun-slinging characters, it feels every bit the authentic American west.Throughout the day, you'll be wowed by cattle runs, horseshows, duels, fights and more – some when you least expect it. Don't miss out on the thrilling bank heist. The town sheriff faces down some dastardly outlaws in an exciting horseback shootout. All in all, an action-packed family day out.

Gran Canaria - Maspalomas Camel Tour

Tucked away in the southern tip of Gran Canaria is an oasis of unmatched beauty that'll make you think you're in the Sahara desert. The sand dunes of Maspalomas are hemmed in by the resorts of Playa del Ingles, Maspalomas and Meloneras – and there's no more authentic way to explore them than on the back of a camel.

Gran Canaria - Finca Los Olivos and rum distillery tour with cave-side lunch

Gran Canaria's seamless blend of Spanish, African and Latin American flavours makes for a culinary experience like no other. With your Scandinavian-speaking guide on hand to show you around, this tour serves up a selection of local delicacies, with a side order of scenic and impressive views. Lukas, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘There's a great mix of island landscapes and authentic flavours on this tour, and you'll get to find out how our wonderful local rum is produced from sugar cane.'We'll start with a light tapas treat in Finca Los Olivos, where you'll get to sample some classic Canarian specialities in a great setting. Next, you'll head to Arehucas distillery to sample some of its famed rum. The distillery tour includes an introduction to the history of rum in Gran Canaria, and how what was initially a side product of sugar production became one of the best loved island products. To finish off, you'll enjoy a tasting of some of the different rums produced at the distillery.Then, as lunchtime beckons, you'll round off your trip with a tasty Canarian lunch made with locally produced ingredients at a family-run restaurant. You'll either be under the cool, vaulted ceilings of the cave or out on the terrace with views of the valley and mountains.

Gran Canaria - The soul of Gran Canaria tour – villages, views and traditions

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Gran Canaria - Taste The Origins food tour with gofio mill and pepper farm

Get ready for an authentic taste of Gran Canaria's south-east. You'll begin with a guided stroll through the town of Aguimes, where cobbled streets and a pastel patchwork of lava stone houses are on show. Next, you'll head to a mill that's been using traditional toasting and grinding methods to produce a Canarian favourite, gofio, for over 75 years. From here, it's time for more tastings, with an hour and a half at PepeOil Eco Farm. As you tour the sustainable farm estate, you'll sample fresh fruit and homemade sugarcane lemonade, before trying local delicacies with the farm's pepper oils.

Gran Canaria - Delphinus Gran Canaria

This selection of diving packages are ideal for advanced scuba divers that want to take their skills to the next level. You'll be able to dive off the coast of Gran Canaria with the help of local instructors. There are over 17 options to choose from including Advanced Open Water classes, wreck dives, Emergency Response courses and even night dives. Friendly, knowledgable dive centre staff at will help you decide what's right for you.

Gran Canaria - Two-hour Oby Cat cruise with swim stop in Gran Canaria

Kick back, relax and let the Oby Cat do the sailing on this two-hour cruise along Gran Canaria's southern coast. Departing from Puerto Rico, you'll glide towards Meloneras, soaking up the sea breeze and coastal views as you go. Fancy a dip? The crew will drop the anchor so you can swim or try snorkelling with the gear provided. On deck, it's all about chill vibes – you can lounge in the sun, sip unlimited drinks like beer, cava and sangria and enjoy some serious R&R before heading back.

Gran Canaria - Vegas Rouge live at Sala Scala Gran Canaria

Vegas Rouge is turning up the heat at Sala Scala in Gran Canaria. Made for adults who love a little sparkle, this show brings the thrill of the Las Vegas Strip straight to the island. You'll experience a high-energy spectacle packed with stunning costumes, seductive choreography and non-stop entertainment. It's all glamour, music and showbiz magic, bringing together world-class dancers, acrobatics and artistry. So, grab your seat and let the razzle-dazzle begin.

Gran Canaria - Adults-only Oby Cat cruise in Gran Canaria

Jump aboard the Oby Cat boat for an epic adults-only cruise. You'll set sail on a four-hour afternoon trip along a stretch of Gran Canaria's volcanic south-west coast. Along the way, the skipper will anchor at a quiet bay where you can swim, snorkel, paddleboard or hit the waterslide. Prefer a slower pace? You can stretch out on the comfy sun deck with drinks from the open bar. You'll round off the day savouring Canarian favourites – paella and wrinkled potatoes with tangy mojo sauce are on the menu.

Gran Canaria - Gran Canaria mini train tasting tour of Firgas

In the north of Gran Canaria, you'll find Firgas, a hilltop town brimming with Canarian heritage. Here, you'll start your tour in charming style on a quaint mini road train, gently trundling between restaurants and shops for a taste of the region. You'll learn about the culture of Firgas, as well as its foodie side as you tuck into all sorts of tapas dishes over this two-hour, family-friendly ride.Look forward to traditional tastings, like gofio escaldado, a porridge-like, rich, savoury dish served at El Rincón de Marcos Restaurant. You'll get a taste of the locally grown watercress crops with watercress cheese at Maria Teresa's shop. And, you can taste some local treats at Deleite Canario, a company based in Firgas that's famed for their homemade jams and juices.At the end of the tour, you'll have around 40-minutes of free time to explore Firgas before returning to your hotel. Make sure you head to the centre to see the man-made waterfall tumbling 30 metres down Paseo de Gran Canaria Street – it's a real wow for kids and adults alike. Then, wander through the old town to see original glazed tiles and beautifully designed shields representing the municipalities of the island.