Gran Canaria, also called the “miniature continent,” is an island that offers unexpected diversity. From the golden Maspalomas Dunes in the south to the green laurel forests in the north, this Canary Island is perfect for an active holiday. Based on our personal hikes, we have put together a complete 7-day itinerary that combines the highest peaks (Roque Nublo, Pico de las Nieves), wild coastal canyons, and the archaeological sites of the Guanches. If you are looking for tips on hiking, where to start, and what to see, this guide includes all our personal tips and recommendations for discovering the unexpected secrets of Gran Canaria.
Gran Canaria Practical Tips
✈️Transport and Logistics
Flights to Gran Canaria: Direct flights from Vienna (similar to Tenerife) are secured for relatively affordable prices by Ryanair. Upon landing at Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), the rule is: if you don’t want to spend the entire week at a sun lounger resort in the south of the island, renting a car is an absolute necessity! We had an excellent experience renting from local companies (e.g., Cicar Gran Canaria). You get reasonable prices, no hidden surprises, a friendly approach, and they won’t fleece you financially on insurance.
When planning trips, we advise you to avoid traffic jams around Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, which will unnecessarily prolong your transfer time.
⚠️ Iconic Road (Must-do): Be sure to drive the GC 200 road above the coastal cliffs from Agaete to La Aldea de San Nicolás. This winding section beneath Tamadaba must be experienced before a tunnel permanently replaces it and the road ceases to be maintained due to falling rocks. And if you have adrenaline in your blood, you can immediately continue the crossing through the Veneguera foothills all the way to Mogán. You won’t forget that road either.
☀️Gran Canaria Weather
Gran Canaria weather, like on other Canary Islands, is very stable. The south is sunny and dry year-round, while the mountains and the northern part of the island (e.g., the area around Teror Gran Canaria) tend to be cooler and wetter. Always carry a jacket in your backpack, especially when heading to the mountains near Roque Nublo.
🛌 Gran Canaria Accommodation
You are on a circular island. For active hikers who want to explore the entire island by car, we recommend Gran Canaria accommodation in the southeast area, as close as possible to the highway entrance. For example, in the Telde area. Proximity to the highway allows quick access to all directions on the island. Definitely avoid the center of Las Palmas, where you will struggle with parking, and it will take you an hour to escape the city. However, if you are looking for relaxation with beaches and services, resorts around Mogán, the Maspalomas Dunes, Playa des Inglés, or Puerto Rico are a good choice.
Gran Canaria Hiking | mountains & canyons
🌋Roque Nublo, Pico de las Nieves, and Bentayga
These three monuments on the roof of the island form a mystical triangle and are the heart of Gran Canaria. Roque Nublo (the island’s symbol) is a mandatory stop, surrounded by many marked hiking trails. Prepare for an ascent, which is generously rewarded with views above the clouds.
- Mysticism on the Roof of Gran Canaria ➡️ Roque Nublo, Pico de las Nieves, Bentayga
🏞️ Wild West, Nature, and Waterfalls
For serious hikers, the less-known peak area is Mogán – Veneguera, which offers the wildest and most remote mountains. At the end of the Veneguera ravine, you can discover one of the island’s most inaccessible and protected beaches. However, the hiking trail will take you several hours.
Tamadaba Natural Park is a sacred place of the original Guanche inhabitants. It is an untouched paradise in its purest form that most tourists don’t even know about. We only met perhaps 4 people the entire day.
If you are looking for wild nature, greenery, and water, explore the canyons (Barrancos) of Gran Canaria. Barranco de Los Cernícalos will lead you to waterfalls, while the mysterious valley of Barranco de Azuaje offers a quiet walk with a climb up to the mysterious town of Moya.
- The Wildest Passes of Gran Canaria ➡️ Mogán, Veneguera, and La Aldea
- Hiking in Pristine Nature ➡️ Tamadaba Natural Park
- To the Waterfall in the Green Canyon ➡️ Barranco de Los Cernícalos
- A Walk Through the Lost Valley ➡️ Barranco de Azuaje
Following the Guanches and History
The original inhabitants, the Guanches, deserve separate attention. They lived peacefully on the island for 40 generations until Spanish conquistadors decided to “bless” them with progress and faith in God. Spain colonized the islands between 1402 and 1496, and the Guanches were ethnically and culturally absorbed by the settlers to such an extent that after a few battles, only 200 of the original 20,000 remained on the island. Follow their footsteps in Cuatro Puertas and Gáldar, where you will find fascinating cave dwellings. The picturesque northern town of Teror Gran Canaria is also worth visiting for its authentic architecture.
- Following the Guanches ➡️ Cuatro Puertas and Gáldar
🏖️ Maspalomas Dunes and Coastal Refreshment
Gran Canaria also offers a contrast in the form of the Maspalomas Dunes—a mini-desert right on the ocean shore, ideal for a sunset walk. The LGBTI+ community organizes a large week-long Pride event here annually. For refreshment after a hike, the natural Punty are a great tip—sea pools in the rocks, which you can find, for example, near Gáldar.
- How to Visit the Mini-Desert ➡️ Maspalomas Dunes
🍲 Gran Canaria Gastro Specialties
The island also offers robust cuisine that delights after a full day of hiking. An absolute must-try is Papas Arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) served with Mojo Rojo/Verde sauce. If you are looking for something heartier, try Ropa Vieja (Canarian meat and chickpea stew).
