ABOUT GRAN CANARIA
A world to be discovered
“A giant, diverse playground;
no wonder they call Gran Canaria the tiny continent.”
From beautiful sandy beaches and coastline to epic rock-faces at altitude, choose your own adventure!
From hiking to climbing, surfing to exploring, there is so much to experience with us.
Gran Canaria is the most visited island in the Canary Islands. Quite often, it is called a “miniature continent” or “small continent,” this is not surprising because there is a varied landscape, architecture, and even climate in different parts of the island.
It is of volcanic origin and has a circumference of fewer than 250 kilometers, with more than one-fifth being beautiful beaches. Gran Canaria is a very diverse island, and if you travel across its relatively small area, the landscape and weather often change. In just one day, you can travel to places of European evergreen forests and the African desert environment. It is a truly unique place full of natural and architectural beauty. Lovers of undisturbed rest on the beach, and fans of active holidays will find their place here.
Discover the Hidden Gems of Gran Canaria
Beyond its popular beaches and resorts, Gran Canaria boasts secluded spots that showcase its rich natural and cultural heritage. Here are some must-visit locations:
Maspalomas Dunes
Experience the vast expanse of golden sand dunes at Maspalomas, a unique natural reserve that offers picturesque views and a serene atmosphere.
Roque Nublo
Embark on a hike to Roque Nublo, an iconic volcanic rock formation at 80 meters tall. The trail provides panoramic vistas of the island’s diverse terrain.
Guayadeque Ravine
This expansive valley is renowned for its archaeological significance and unique cave dwellings. Visitors can explore cave homes, a hermitage, and even restaurants carved into the rock, offering a glimpse into traditional Canarian life.
Cenobio de Valerón
An impressive pre-Hispanic collective granary, this site features over 300 caves used by the island’s original inhabitants for storing grain. It’s a testament to the ingenuity of Gran Canaria’s early settlers.
Los Azulejos de Veneguera
This area is known for its striking, multicolored rock formations resulting from mineral deposits. It offers a visual feast of vibrant hues, making it perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Barranco de las Vacas
Often likened to the Antelope Canyon in the USA, this narrow ravine features smooth, undulating rock walls that create a mesmerizing play of light and shadow. A hidden gem for hikers and explorers.
Azuaje Ravine
Located in the north of the island, this lush ravine is a haven for hikers, offering trails that wind through dense vegetation, past waterfalls, and a bubbling stream. It’s a serene escape into nature.
Explore Gran Canaria with Climbo
At Climbo, we are dedicated to providing immersive adventures highlighting the untouched beauty of Gran Canaria’s interior. Our curated activities include:
The Rainforest Tour
Traverse the ancient Doramas Forest, where you’ll encounter endemic flora, natural springs, and hidden waterfalls. This tour offers a deep dive into the island’s verdant heart.
The Red Canyon Tour
Walk through the stunning Tirajana Caldera, where volcanic rock formations and ancient indigenous trails reveal the island’s geological and cultural heritage.
The Volcano Heart Tour
Hike through the Volcano’s heart, reaching Gran Canaria’s highest point and enjoying stunning views of Roque Nublo and volcanic landscapes.
Adventure Activities for all
Canyoning in the Rainforest
Descend through lush rainforest canyons, navigating waterfalls, steep cliffs, rugged terrain, and ancient rock formations in a thrilling canyoning adventure.
Vía Ferrata
For adrenaline seekers, our Via Ferrata routes provide a vertical adventure, combining hiking and climbing, and offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Rock Climbing
Challenge yourself on the rugged cliffs of Tirajana Caldera with routes suitable for beginners and seasoned climbers, all set in a tranquil, unspoiled environment.
Interactive Map of Gran Canaria
SPOTS SUGGESTIONS FOR YOUR HOLIDAYS
Our Interactive Map of Gran Canaria is a carefully curated tool designed to help you discover the island’s hidden gems and unique attractions. Whether you’re a hiker, a history enthusiast, or simply someone seeking serene spots to unwind, this map will guide you through a variety of categories that highlight the island’s rich diversity.
Categories and Highlights:
- Hiking Trails
- Gran Canaria boasts an extensive network of hiking trails that take you through lush forests, volcanic landscapes, and dramatic ravines.
- Key trails include the Ruta de los Volcanes, Barranco de Azuaje, and the iconic Pico de las Nieves trek.
- Scenic Viewpoints (Miradores)
- The island is dotted with breathtaking viewpoints offering panoramic valleys, cliffs, and the Atlantic Ocean.
- Must-visit spots include Mirador del Balcón, Mirador de Unamuno, and Degollada de las Yeguas.
- Natural Monuments
- Gran Canaria’s volcanic origins are fully displayed with formations like Roque Nublo, Los Azulejos de Veneguera, and the Barranco de las Vacas.
- These locations are ideal for photography and marveling at the island’s geological beauty.
- Archaeological Sites and Interpretation Centers
- The island is rich in archaeological treasures that glimpse its pre-Hispanic past.
- Explore Cenobio de Valerón, the ancient Necropolis of Arteara, or the cave paintings at Risco Caído, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Interpretation centers like the Cueva Pintada Museum in Gáldar bring these historical stories to life.
- Beaches and Natural Pools
- While Gran Canaria is famous for its tourist beaches, the map highlights less crowded options and natural pools.
- Discover tranquil spots like Playa Güi-Güi, Charco Azul, or the Natural Pools of Agaete.
- Caves and Unique Formations
- Gran Canaria is home to impressive caves and rock formations, many of which were historically used as dwellings.
- Notable sites include the Cave Houses of Guayadeque and the Cuevas de Artenara, the highest village on the island.
- Waterfalls and Ravines
- The island’s ravines, such as Barranco de los Cernícalos, often hide stunning waterfalls, especially during the wetter months.
- These secluded spots are perfect for adventurers seeking a peaceful connection with nature.
- Cultural and Historical Sites
- The map also includes charming villages like Teror, with its colonial architecture, and Tejeda, often among Spain’s most beautiful villages.
- These spots are perfect for immersing yourself in Canarian culture and tasting local delicacies.
How to Use the Map
- The map is interactive and categorized by icons to help you quickly identify the type of attraction you’re looking for.
- Click on each location for a detailed description, practical information, and tips to maximize your visit.
Whether planning a multi-day exploration of the island’s trails or a relaxing day at a hidden beach, our map ensures you’ll uncover the most authentic and unforgettable experiences Gran Canaria offers.
Amy, Jess and Kat are experienced climbers, outdoor athletes and Instagram influencers
who helped us to make a promo video and make us and Gran Canaria more popular in the USA.
They have told us their experiences:
Jess. Surf and climbing lover
“I was surprised to discover the number of incredible surf spots in Gran Canaria. From beginner-friendly, sandy-bottom waves for learning, to reef-bottomed peeler’s to tackle in your weekly progress. We checked out the popular spots, but also discovered the more hidden areas where only the locals go.”
Kat. Photographer
“We explored hiking trails in diverse landscapes and of all levels of ability. The island is so vast and yet so small, which made exploring easy and fun. It was easy to feel as though we were in the middle of nowhere, only to find that we were just 30 minutes from the city! There was literally something for everyone.”
Amy. Climbing Guide
“One thing that I loved about climbing in Gran Canaria was the variety in the rock itself. In each sector of the island, there was something distinct about every climbing zone, which allowed for experimentation and improvement of both technique and endurance. Plus, the climbing community on the island is super active! I had a great time.”
