Things to do in Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria's 'Little Venice' – visit Puerto de Mogan by boat

Puerto de Mogan is said by many to be the most beautiful town in Gran Canaria, and once you've set eyes on its toytown houses, it's hard to argue. This tour brings you by boat, docking right in the heart of the harbour after a scenic approach, so you avoid long walks from out-of-town parking lots. Maria, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Mogan's Friday market is a classic in Gran Canaria, known all over the island. And to arrive in the town by boat gives you that a spine-tingling sensation you get in anticipation of a special experience.'Sailing from Puerto Rico harbour, you'll glide along the rocky, volcanic coastline of the south before arriving at Puerto de Mogan. Cupped into cliffs at the mouth of a steep valley, it's known as ‘Little Venice' for its canal, blue-and-yellow-trimmed white cottages, wrought iron balconies and flower-festooned lanes. Traits that have made it very popular.Arriving by boat, you're in the middle of all the action straight away. Only we bring you to and from Puerto de Mogan by sea. Antonio, another of our local guides, say, ‘If you arrive by coach, not only is the journey less scenic but you have to walk a fair bit to get to the waterfront.' You'll have free time to relax at one of the many terraced cafés overlooking the yachts. Visit on a Friday and you can browse the market selling typical Canarian products. Oh, and there's also an enticing sandy beach to stretch out on, too. What is the itinerary for this experience?This experience runs on a Monday or a Friday, so the timings change depending on which day you go.Monday option:- 8:55am to 9:30am – pick-up from your hotel- 10:00am – arrive at the Mirador de Puerto Rico viewpoint*- 10:30am – boat transfer to Puerto de Mogan- 11:00am – arrive in Puerto de Mogan with around three hours of free time- 2:15pm – depart by boat back to Puerto Rico- 2:45pm – transfer by bus from the harbour to your hotel- 3:30pm – arrive back at your hotel----------Friday option:- 7:55am to 8:30am – pick-up from your hotel- 9:00am – arrive at the de Puerto Rico viewpoint*- 9:30am – boat transfer to Puerto de Mogan- 10:00am – arrive in Puerto de Mogan with around three hours of free time (including the market)- 1:15pm – depart by boat back to Puerto Rico- 1:45pm – transfer by bus from the harbour to your hotel- 2:30pm – arrive back at your hotel*If there is not enough time, the viewpoint stop may take place on the return to Puerto Rico in the afternoon Please note, the times and schedule may vary on the day

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 sangria, cava, beer and soft drinks, to wash down a Canarian meal of paella, salads and fruit, too.

Gran Canaria Spirit of the Sea dolphin-watching cruise

The thrill of watching dolphins in their natural environment is one of the great experiences Gran Canaria has to offer. Onboard Spirit of the Sea – World Cetacean Alliance certified for responsible whale and dolphin watching – you'll get to see these friendly and intelligent creatures in their natural habitat.There are six types of dolphins to spot, including bottlenose and common. And fin – the second-largest mammal – and pilot whales also make regular appearances. In fact, one-third of all species of cetaceans, which include whales and porpoises, can be found in these waters. The tour focuses on education with guides who share marine facts, help spot species and support real research. Spirit of the Sea are all about doing things responsibly, and their mission is simple – to show dolphins and whales while inspiring people to respect and protect them.You'll be able to keep a lookout for other creatures too – turtles, flying fish and brightly coloured parrotfish – thanks to the boat's viewing area. And, if you choose the second sailing of the day, there's a swim stop included, for when you want to cool off in the water.

Blue Bird dolphin and whale-watching cruise

Gran Canaria's Atlantic location makes it the perfect place to spot dolphins and whales. Hop aboard a ferry and cruise out to sea in search of the creatures. Feel the adrenaline as you catch your first glimpse of the animal, which may even treat you to a show, as they leap and plunge through the water. There's a swim and snorkel stop, as well as a free bar of soft drinks during the stop.

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.'After a visit to an aloe vera plantation to get the lowdown on its medicinal properties, you'll head into the Valley of a Thousand Palms for a wander around the cozy village of Fataga, all cobbled lanes, palm-fringed views and traditional Canarian architecture. There's a photo stop at Las Tirajanas viewpoint to admire a vast volcanic caldera, followed by a scenic mountain drive to Tejeda, which is a bit of a looker too – 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.' Next up is a local lunch in a family-owned restaurant, before you continue to Teror, the last stop on your adventure. 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.

Gran Canaria’s Poema del Mar aquarium and Guayadeque canyon tour

From the sea to the central mountains and even underground, you'll see the very best of Gran Canaria with this tour. You'll get up-close to more than 300 marine species in Poema del Mar aquarium, drive through the green valley of Guayadeque and tuck into a light lunch before wrapping things up with free time in the colonial town of Agüimes. Miguel, one of our local guides, says, ‘There's so much packed into one day. But for me, the most interesting part is Guayadeque, which represents a very important part of our prehistory.'First up is one of the most popular attractions in Las Palmas. With panoramic curved windows and countless exhibitions, Poema del Mar is where you'll get lost in a hypnotic underwater world that's home to hundreds of sea creatures. There are electric eels, bull sharks and fish that look just like Nemo. You can also take advantage of their state-of-the-art cinema, showcasing hourly screenings of interesting and fun short films.Next, you'll journey through the island's greenest corner to Guayadeque Canyon. It's famed for its cave homes, which the ancient aborigines built in lava bubbles, and winding hiking trails. After exploring, you'll refuel with delicious traditional tapas made from locally sourced ingredients. Then it's on to Agüimes, where you'll have some free time to wander through this pastel-coloured parish perched above the green ravine of Guayadeque. You can see the elegant church, stop for a coffee in a local café or take some selfies by the town's many statues.

Gran Canaria flavours with distillery visit and tastings

If the Canaries were a meal, Gran Canaria would be the main course – and the dessert. This exclusive tour will give you a flavour of the island and its cuisine while taking in its natural beauty. A rum factory tour, salt flats, a visit to Arucas town and a typical Canarian farm are all on the menu. Maria, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘This is my favourite tour – the driving is well spaced out and each stop is a looker. Plus, you get to sample some typical Canarian specialities in a fabulous setting.'First up is Salinas de Tenefé, where the salt flats are an important natural and cultural enclave where sea salt is produced as is has been for centuries. Next up is Arucas. Its colourful homes and flower-filled parks are overshadowed by the volcano-framed Church of St John the Baptist. You'll drop into the town's historic Arehucas distillery for a visit and to sample some of its famed oak barrel-aged rum. Afterwards, There's free time in town to explore on your own and grab some lunch if you like.But the best is yet to come. The highlight of the day is the award-winning Finca La Laja – a typical Canarian farm – located in a deep, vegetation-filled gorge near Agaete. In this wild and rugged setting, you'll get to taste local wines, cheese, Teror chorizo, Canarian ‘wrinkly' potatoes, cake and the farm's trademark coffee, which is grown here. You'll also learn how to prepare spicy ‘mojo' sauces.

Poema del Mar Aquarium and bus transfer package

From the same family as two of Tenerife's most popular attractions, Loro Parque and Siam Park, comes Poema del Mar aquarium in the heart of Las Palmas. Here you'll come face to face with over 300 marine species, including sharks, piranhas, clown fish and hundreds more. It promises a fun trip out for all the family.With a panoramic 36-metre-long curved window and countless exhibitions, Poema del Mar is where you'll get lost in a hypnotic underwater world that's home to hundreds of sea creatures. There are electric eels, bull sharks and fish that look just like Nemo waiting to be discovered.Lose yourself in The Jungle with creatures from different corners of the world, and head to the Reef where you'll encounter corals and fish of every colour imaginable. You can also take advantage of their state-of-the-art cinema, showcasing hourly screenings of interesting and fun short films, or venture to the Deep Sea with millions of litres of water. There's also free time to enjoy Las Palmas, Santa Catalina and Las Canteras beach.

Sites & Bites: Gran Canaria botanical garden and fresh fruits

Northern Gran Canaria is all non-stop natural beauty. This tour delves into this often-overlooked part of the island's treasure chest. You'll visit Spain's largest botanic garden and the home of the national fruit - a banana farm. Explorers sailing to the Americas would take green ones that ripened en route, exporting so many to Britain that Canary Wharf in London was named after the island.First up is a deep dive into this island's continent-like biodiversity. Planted on a hillside, Jardin Canario is the largest botanical park in Spain. It boasts more than 2,000 species of plants, 500 of which are endemic to the island. Tour the tree-lined grounds and learn all about the initiative's conservation efforts and environmental education programme. Next up is a banana farm, where you'll discover 13 varieties of plantain from all over the world. You'll get to taste some of the organic goodies here, like freshly picked fruits, preserves and juices.The final stop will include a guided tour of charming Firgas village, a cluster of narrow streets lined with traditional Canarian houses. Explore the photogenic streets with your guide, who will explain the presence of so many fountains in this little town. Afterwards, you'll have free time to discover more of the delights of Firgas at your own pace, perhaps stop for a leisurely coffee or look for souvenirs.

Full-day tour of Gran Canaria’s mountains and salt flats

Discover Gran Canaria's best-kept secrets on this full day tour. Starting on the sun-kissed side of the island in Mogán, this adventure is all about uncovering hidden spots, landscapes, and culture. Luca, one of our expert, local guides, says, ‘Gran Canaria's landscapes are so diverse, it's like visiting different countries in one trip – deserts, mountains, and lush valleys all in one place. With some of the most scenic routes on the cards, this tour is pure road trip goals.'You'll kickstart with serious wow-factor views cruising through Barranco de Los Azulejos – also known as Rainbow Valley. These multi-coloured mountains are totally one-of-a-kind and guaranteed to blow your mind. Then, you'll dive deeper into the heart of the island, and arrive at La Aldea. Local guide Sam spills the beans, ‘this area is known as the island's pantry because it's bursting with goodies – from mangos and veggies to those famous La Aldea tomatoes. And don't miss the avocados – they're the creamiest you'll ever taste.' Get your camera ready for some Insta-gold pics and soak up the chill village charm.Next, you'll drive to Agaete where the zig-zag cliffs of Dragon's Tail and Faneque cliff are perfect backdrops for your camera roll – you might even spot Mount Teide on a clear day. In Agaete you'll have free time to check out the local scene and grab a bite to eat. Then, we'll hit the showstopper Balcón viewpoint – you'll feel on top of the world – before wrapping things up at Salinas de Tenefé. Be wowed by the pink salt flats on a guided tour of the site, followed by a unique tasting experience.

Buggy tour of Southern Gran Canaria

The rugged terrain and winding trails of southern Gran Canaria make it ideal for an adrenaline-pumping buggy tour. This two-hour experience sees you take the wheel of an off-road vehicle for an action-packed adventure. What's more, there'll be photo stops at some of the island's most beautiful and deserted spots along the way.You'll navigate through the rugged desert landscapes of southern Gran Canaria, speeding along sandy and rocky trails, kicking up clouds of dust in your wake. Enjoy the breathtaking views as you speed along off-road routes in search of untouched places on the island.All you'll need is your driving licence and sense of adventure.

Full-day Las Palmas cultural walking tour

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.