South Gran Canaria: Off-Road Valleys & Villages Jeep Tour

If you’re after a way to explore Gran Canaria beyond the usual tourist spots, this Off-Road Valleys & Villages Jeep Tour might just be right up your alley. It’s a six-hour adventure that takes you through some of the island’s most spectacular scenery, with plenty of stops for photos, history, and even a local lunch. This tour is popular for good reasons — with a solid 4.5-star rating from nearly 1,000 reviews, it clearly hits the mark for many travelers.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines natural beauty with local culture. The panoramic views of the valleys and old villages are breathtaking, and the stops in charming towns like Tirajana bring a touch of authenticity. Plus, the small group size (limited to just 6 participants) helps keep everything personal and engaging. However, keep in mind that the off-road driving can be quite bumpy, especially on gravel tracks, which might not suit everyone, particularly those with mobility issues.

All in all, this tour is a great pick for those who want a mix of adventure, scenery, and a taste of local life. If you’re someone who loves exploring off the beaten path and enjoys jaw-dropping landscapes, you’ll probably find this experience well worth it. It’s also a good choice for travelers looking for a full-day activity that combines sightseeing with some adrenaline.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances the personalized feel and interaction with guides.
• Breathtaking views of valleys, mountains, and old villages offer excellent photo opportunities.
• Expert guides share insights, making the experience both fun and educational.
• Off-road driving provides a sense of adventure, but the terrain can be rough and bumpy.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in the south of Gran Canaria, adding convenience.
• Limited to 6 participants ensures a more intimate experience, though some may prefer larger groups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This jeep safari starts with a pickup from your hotel in the south of the island — you’ll want to be ready about 10 minutes before your scheduled time. The tour then kicks off in a comfortable, air-conditioned Jeep, perfect for tackling the rugged terrain. You’ll be accompanied by a live guide who speaks multiple languages, including English and Spanish, and who knows the ins and outs of Gran Canaria’s landscape and history.

The Route and Stops

The tour covers a variety of scenic highlights, each with its own charm. The first stop is a photo-worthy moment in Maspalomas, where you’ll get a quick safety briefing and a chance to stretch your legs. From there, the journey takes you through sweeping scenic drives, with views of Roque Noblo, the iconic volcanic peak, looming in the background.

You’ll drive through the Lake Chira area, where the landscape shifts to include lakes and lush greenery, giving you a glimpse of the island’s diverse terrain. The highlight for many is the Presa de Chira, a large reservoir surrounded by mountains, offering some striking photo opportunities. This part of the drive is often described as exhilarating, especially on gravel tracks that cut through the mountains.

Next, you’ll visit San Bartolomé de Tirajana, a charming town with a historic church and a bit of local flavor. Here, you get a longer break — about 95 minutes — to explore, grab a coffee, or simply relax in the town’s peaceful atmosphere. Multiple reviews praise the kind, knowledgeable guides, highlighting how they enrich the experience with stories and insights.

The tour then continues through Valley of the Thousand Palms, a lush, green area that truly feels like a hidden gem. The terrain is rugged but rewarding, and you’ll get to see the natural beauty that makes Gran Canaria special. You’ll also stop at the Mirador Las Moscas, a viewpoint that offers sweeping vistas over the landscape.

What You’ll Love

Travelers rave about the amazing vistas — from mountain peaks to valley floors, the views are consistently described as stunning. Many reviews mention how the guides help bring the scenery alive with interesting facts and humor, making the drive not just scenic but also fun. For example, one reviewer said, “Gide Karolis made our day full of joy and knowledge,” which shows how important a good guide can be.

The off-road experience is another highlight. Although it can be bumpy, it’s also a lot of fun — especially if you enjoy a bit of adventure. Several reviews mention the thrill of driving through less accessible parts of the island, feeling like you’re discovering a secret side of Gran Canaria.

The Food and Final Stops

The tour includes a stop at a local restaurant, with an option for a buffet lunch costing around €15. Many find this value for money, especially considering the quality and variety on offer. The buffet has been described as simple but satisfying, with some reviewers recommending trying the local fish or salads.

The last part of your day involves a visit to Mirador Astronómico de la Degollada de las Yeguas, where you can enjoy a quick photo, and then the bus (or jeep) heads back to your hotel in the south.

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The Value of This Tour

At $71 per person, this experience offers quite a bit of bang for your buck. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in a comfortable vehicle, and an engaging guide. The limited group size means fewer crowds and more personalized attention, which is a big plus. Plus, the stops are well-chosen, allowing you to see a good mix of natural beauty, local culture, and scenic viewpoints.

Considering the reviews, many travelers feel that the trip is well worth the price. The combination of stunning scenery, friendly guides, and fun off-road driving makes it a memorable way to experience a different side of Gran Canaria.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you enjoy adventure and exploring off the beaten path, you’ll love this tour. It’s also suitable for those who want a full-day experience with a mix of sightseeing and cultural stops. The small group setting is perfect for travelers who prefer a more intimate environment and personalized attention from guides.

However, be aware that the terrain can be rough and the ride bumpy, so if you’re sensitive to uneven surfaces or have mobility issues, this might not be ideal. Also, the tour doesn’t include lunch, so if you’re particularly hungry, consider bringing snacks or eating beforehand.

This experience appeals most to adventure lovers, scenery seekers, and those wanting to see parts of Gran Canaria that are less accessible by car or bus. It’s especially popular with travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of adrenaline.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included for designated locations in the south of Gran Canaria. You should be ready in your hotel lobby about 10 minutes early.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at a time you can check in depending on availability.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak multiple languages, including German, English, Spanish, Italian, and French.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not specifically marketed as family-friendly, and the off-road terrain might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and a hat. It’s also wise to have some cash for optional extras or small purchases.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is an option for a buffet at a local restaurant for around €15.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and smoking is not allowed in the vehicle.

Can I join from Las Palmas?
Pickup from Las Palmas is not available; this tour is only for accommodations in the south of the island.

Final Thoughts

The South Gran Canaria: Off-Road Valleys & Villages Jeep Tour offers a genuine and well-reviewed way to explore some of the island’s most captivating landscapes. It’s perfect for travelers eager for an adventure that combines scenic drives with cultural insights, set in a small-group environment that feels personal and relaxed.

While the bumpy off-road sections might be less appealing to some, those who love a bit of thrill and stunning vistas will find this trip rewarding. The guides’ knowledge, combined with the beautiful scenery and good value, makes it a solid choice for anyone wanting to see more of Gran Canaria’s natural and rural charm.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and slightly adventurous day out — especially if you enjoy off-road driving and small-group tours — this experience is likely to be a highlight of your trip. Just be prepared for some rough terrain and a hearty dose of stunning views.

You can check availability for your dates here: