Maspalomas: Southern Coast E-Bike Tour Option Tapas Tasting

If you’re looking to explore Gran Canaria’s southern coast without the hassle of a car or crowded tours, this e-bike adventure might be just what you need. We haven’t taken it ourselves, but based on detailed reviews and the tour outline, it seems like a balanced mix of sights, nature, and local flavor. It’s designed for those who appreciate scenic views, some light exercise, and a taste of local cuisine—all within a relaxed, small-group setting.

What we really like about this tour? First, the chance to see Maspalomas Dunes and the botanical gardens in a leisurely way, without feeling rushed. Second, the stop at a charming fishing village combined with a tasty lunch option makes it feel more like a local experience than just a sightseeing jaunt. That said, a potential consideration is that the tour isn’t off-road—so if you’re expecting rugged terrain, this might not be your best fit.

Overall, if you enjoy cycling, want an authentic look at southern Gran Canaria, and love combining activity with food, this tour could be a great pick. It’s especially suitable if you prefer small groups and guided insights, rather than wandering on your own.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines natural sights, local flora, and cultural stops in a 3-hour window.
• Comfortable e-bike experience: Suitable for riders aged 16+ with a maximum weight of 100 kilos per bike.
• Beautiful scenery: Dunes, botanical gardens, coastal views, and a volcanic beach.
• Tasty optional lunch: Tapas tasting at an old fishing village, with a scenic sea view.
• Small group size: Limited to 10 participants for a more personalized experience.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, keeping your plans adaptable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and First Stop: Maspalomas Dunes

Your adventure kicks off at the local shop inside the Cita Shopping Center in Playa del Ingles. From here, you’re quickly whisked away to the famous Maspalomas Dunes, a natural reserve that feels like an otherworldly desert. These golden sand dunes stretch out in a landscape that’s both stark and beautiful, offering a perfect start for photos and a first taste of Gran Canaria’s unique environment.

The dunes are a protected area, which adds a layer of importance to visiting them. You’ll be riding your e-bike nearby, absorbing the fresh air and vivid scenery. It’s a fantastic way to appreciate the less urbanized side of the island, away from the city buzz.

Botanical Gardens and Tropical Plants

Next, you’ll make a quick stop at the Botanical Garden of Maspalomas for a short walk. Here, your guide will point out native and tropical plants, giving you insight into local flora. According to reviews, the guide’s explanations are appreciated, and the stop offers a peaceful break from riding. It’s a chance to stretch your legs and learn about the island’s botanical diversity, which adds educational value to your trip.

Coastal Ride Along the Atlantic

Afterward, the tour resumes with a scenic ride along paths just a few meters from the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll pass by Meloneras Beach and Pasito Blanco Port, both offering views of the sea and bustling local life. Riding along the promenade, you breathe in the salty air, and the gentle breeze makes the experience especially pleasant.

This stretch is a highlight for many, as it combines easy cycling with some of the best coastal scenery. The route is flat and manageable, making it accessible for most riders, though the tour isn’t off-road—so don’t expect mountain biking trails.

More Great Tours Nearby

Banana Plantation and Historic Lighthouse

One of the tour’s unique stops is at one of the few banana plantations in the south of Gran Canaria. This is a rare glimpse into local agriculture, contrasting with the more touristy areas. Seeing banana plants growing in a sunny climate adds a practical touch to the trip.

Later, you’ll arrive at the old lighthouse of Maspalomas, built in 1890 and recognized as a monument of historical interest. The lighthouse has served as a beacon for ships for over a century and provides a great photo op, along with a sense of the island’s maritime past.

The Fishers’ Village of El Pajar

Your journey culminates in El Pajar, an authentic fishing village with volcanic beaches. Here, you can take a quick look around and enjoy the tranquil seaside setting. Many reviews mention this stop as charming and peaceful, a nice change from busier tourist spots.

Lunch and Birdwatching

From the village, you’ll have the option to enjoy a lunch with tapas, overlooking the sea. This is a valued part of the experience, especially for food lovers. The meal features local cuisine, and the setting—by the water—is perfect for relaxing after your ride.

Plus, on your way back, you’ll pass La Charca, a lagoon adjacent to the dunes. It’s a protected area hosting up to 40 species of migratory birds, making it ideal for birdwatchers or anyone looking to spot wildlife. The reviews highlight the lagoon as a peaceful spot, adding a touch of nature’s serenity.

What the Tour Includes and What It Doesn’t

The package covers your e-bike, helmet, reflective vest, a multilingual guide, a bottle of water, liability, and accident insurance, which means you’re set for a safe, comfortable trip. The tour’s cost, around $90 per person, is reasonable considering the variety of sights and small-group experience.

However, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to get to the meeting point. The optional famous fish tapas tasting costs an extra $20 per person, requiring at least two participants. This adds a delicious local touch but is not included in the base price.

Practical Considerations

• Minimum age: 16 years old with a parent
• Maximum weight per e-bike: 100 kilos
• Duration: 3 hours of riding plus stops
• Language: Guides speak Spanish, English, and Italian
• Group size: Limited to 10 people, which enhances the experience

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, along with your passport or ID. No security deposit is required for the e-bike, which simplifies things.

What Reviewers Say

Many past participants praise the knowledgeable guides, describing them as friendly and informative. Susanne mentioned, “The guide was very nice and explained a lot at each stop,” emphasizing the educational component. The scenery also earns high marks—both the dunes and coastal views seem to impress.

The quality of bikes gets a thumbs-up, with Susanne noting they were “technically top notch and very well prepared.” The small group size and personalized attention also come through positively, making it feel more like a ride with friends than a tourist herd.

Food is another highlight, with one reviewer calling the tapas “very tasty,” and appreciating the laid-back atmosphere overlooking the sea.

Some minor critiques include wanting more photo stops, but overall, travelers seem satisfied with the balance of riding and sightseeing.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This ride is perfect for active travelers who enjoy cycling in scenic settings. It’s a great fit for those who want to combine nature, culture, and a bit of food adventure in just a few hours. Because it’s a small-group experience, you’ll get personalized insights and avoid the crowds.

If you’re seeking rugged off-road biking, this may not be the ideal choice since the tour doesn’t include off-road sections. It’s also best for those comfortable on a bike and over 16 years old, since kids under that age aren’t permitted.

Families with teens might consider it if their kids are experienced cyclists, but it’s not specifically designed as a family-friendly tour for younger children.

FAQ

Do I need to know how to ride a bike?
Yes, since the tour involves riding an e-bike, you should be comfortable riding a bike, though the routes are flat and manageable.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the ride is on paths near the sea and doesn’t involve off-road terrain, making it accessible for most riders with some experience.

What’s included in the price?
Your e-bike, helmet, reflective vest, guide, bottled water, and insurance are included. Lunch with tapas is optional and costs extra.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility.

Is food included?
The basic tour does not include food, but you can opt for the tapas tasting for an extra $20 per person.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended. Bring a hat and sunscreen if it’s sunny.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, participants must be at least 16 years old and accompanied by a paying parent.

Can I do this tour if I have vertigo?
The tour isn’t suitable for people with vertigo, as it involves riding a bike and being near certain heights or open spaces.

Do I need to bring my passport?
It’s recommended to bring your ID or passport for identification purposes.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the shop inside Cita Shopping Center in Playa del Ingles and finishes at the same point.

Final Thoughts

This Maspalomas Southern Coast E-Bike Tour combines the joy of cycling with the beauty of Gran Canaria’s natural and cultural sights. It’s a smooth, scenic ride suitable for those who enjoy light activity with plenty of opportunities to pause and take in the surroundings. The optional tapas tasting adds a nice flavor of local cuisine, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

If you’re after a relaxed but immersive experience that balances outdoor exploration with delicious food, this tour offers good value. Its small-group setup and knowledgeable guide make it feel personalized, and the stops—from dunes to fishing villages—offer a well-rounded view of the island’s character.

For travelers who want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots without strenuous off-road biking, this experience checks many boxes. Just be prepared for a comfortable, manageable ride and a chance to enjoy some of Gran Canaria’s most picturesque landscapes.

Whether you’re into photography, nature, or simply want a unique way to see the coast, this tour could become a memorable part of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: