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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 an hour 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. Then, wander through the old town to see original glazed tiles and beautifully designed shields representing the municipalities of the island.

Gran Canaria - Exclusive off-road adventure around Gran Canaria’s mountain villages

This off-road adventure showcases Gran Canaria's natural beauty. You'll kick things off in Meloneras before rumbling along the El Juncal Trail in a 4x4. There are a few scenic stops at viewpoints like Cortadores along the way, each packed with photo ops to help you get that perfect Insta post – expect sweeping mountain views and pine forests that really show off the island's wild side. Next, you'll swing by the villages of Tunte and Fataga for a glimpse of local life. And, to wrap things up, there's a visit to an aloe vera farm, where you'll learn all about the plant's natural benefits.

Gran Canaria - Gran Canaria 4x4 adventure with aloe vera farm visit

Kickstart your adventure in the heart of Gran Canaria with this 4x4 off-road tour. You'll zoom through scenic landscapes, visiting Chira Viewpoint, San Bartolomé de Tirajana and Ayacata Village. Pause at the hillside village of Fataga, known as the Valley of the Thousand Palms, with free time to spend however you'd like. You can stroll by the whitewashed Canarian houses this place is known for, or stop by a restaurant for lunch. Then, buckle up again for a trip to an aloe vera farm, a must-see on the Canary Islands.

Gran Canaria - Half-day guided tour of Gran Canaria's volcanoes and vineyards

Explore Gran Canaria's diverse landscapes on a half-day tour. Visit Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo, Bandama Volcano, and enjoy a tasting at a local winery.

Gran Canaria - Canarian Almogrote cheese workshop

Book your spot now to join this Canarian Almogrote cheese workshop!

Gran Canaria - Full-day tour to the Sacred Mountains with Tejeda and Artenara peaks

Explore Gran Canaria's landscapes and cultures on a guided tour to the Sacred Mountains. Explore the villages of Tejeda and Artenara.

Gran Canaria - Guided trike tour in Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria's natural beauty takes the spotlight on this guided trike tour. You'll hop on your own trike, taking the open road from Fataga to Santa Lucia. Plus, you can ride solo or take a passenger with you. Along this scenic route, you'll pass through mountain landscapes, past deep ravines, and traditional Canarian villages. Feel the thrill as you tackle winding roads and take in the views along the way – this trip is ideal for both adventure junkies and nature lovers.

Gran Canaria - Gran Canaria OBY Catamaran Leisure Cruise

Set sail past Gran Canaria's rugged volcanic landscapes as you glide along the coast on this four-hour trip. Pop some fins and a mask on and dive into the clear waters of a secluded bay to spot native rays, octopuses and colourful parrotfish. Make the most of the water with the paddleboards and water slides provided, then relax on the sun deck. There's an open bar, stocked with cava, beer and soft drinks, to wash down a Canarian meal of paella, salads and fruit, too.

Gran Canaria - Theme park and bowling pass at Gran Canaria’s Holiday World

Ferris wheels and thrills are the order of the day on this outing to Gran Canaria's only theme park, Holiday World. With your exclusive TUI offer, as well as access to over 30 rides, you'll score a round of bowling at the 16-lane alley, along with complimentary popcorn to snack on.If you need some inspiration on which rides to hit first, you could start with getting a bird's-eye view of the park from the 27-meter-high Ferris wheel. If you feel the need for speed, try one of the rollercoasters that roar along at up to 50 kilometres per hour. If a stomach-lurching adrenaline rush is what you're looking for, then the 20-meter free-fall of the Sky Drop could be where you head. And, if you fancy something a little more subdued, there are plenty of family-friendly options, like bumper cars, bumper boats and carousels.Take a break from the rides to unleash your competitive side in a friendly(ish) game of ten-pin bowling at the park's modern bowling alley. In between strikes, you can order food and drinks from the restaurant. Then after your game, you can take a stroll through the amusement arcade, or chase another adrenaline spike on the rides.

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 - E-Scooter Step Kickstart Guided Tour Sightseeing Maspalomas

Enjoy E-Step Scooter with local guide, who will show you beautiful corners of Gran Canaria.

Gran Canaria - Market day in Puerto de Mogán

Canary Island beauty meets Mediterranean vibes in Puerto de Mogán. We're talking pretty plazas and whitewashed houses, where baskets of pink bougainvillaeas really make the place pop. And guess what? Our Friday trips land you right in the heart of Mercadillo, the liveliest market day in town. Our local expert guide, Phillipe, says “you can't come to the Canary Islands without spending some time at a market like the one you'll visit on this tour. Local food, traditional souvenirs, and occasionally live music are all in one place ready for you to get stuck in to.” You'll be picked up at your hotel and driven to Puerto de Mogán, giving you the chance to snap some Insta-worthy shots along the way. Once you arrive, you'll have plenty of free time to dive into the market. From fresh produce and local crafts to trendy fashion finds, it's souvenir heaven. Plus, you'll love the backdrop of palm trees and volcanic cliffs – it's like a postcard. The locals here are super friendly, and their market stalls are packed with unique finds and tasty treats. After wandering around the market at your own pace, grab those perfect send-home snaps, chill with a ‘cortado' – espresso mixed with warm milk – at a cute café, or stroll along the marina. You'll see exactly why Puerto de Mogan is dubbed ‘Little Venice' with its bridges and canals. Take it all in before heading back to your hotel.

Gran Canaria - Las Palmas Cultural

Soak up the rich history and vibrant culture of Las Palmas' Old Town on this guided tour of Vegueta. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this excursion promises an unforgettable journey through cobblestone alleys and centuries-old architecture. Ana, one of our expert local guides, says, 'One of my favourite things to do is just to ‘get lost' in the old town, strolling through the lanes at your own pace. Vegueta is so fashionable and atmospheric, it's like being in a movie.'Begin your adventure with a guided exploration of Vegueta's charming streets. Learn fascinating stories and discover hidden gems as you wander through this historic district. Step into the past at the renowned Museo Canario, where ancient artifacts and insights into the island's pre-Hispanic heritage await. Ana adds, 'without the generosity of Dr. Gregorio Chil y Naranjo, who willed his home as a place to house the museum, these precious artifacts might not be available for public viewing today.'Continue your cultural immersion with a visit to the Diocesan Museum, showcasing Gran Canaria's religious and artistic heritage. Marvel at the architectural masterpiece of the Cathedral of Santa Ana before enjoying some free time to explore Vegueta at your own pace. Stroll along its bustling streets, browse through quaint shops and boutiques, and perhaps pick up souvenirs or local crafts to commemorate your visit.