Guided tour of the Banana World

If you’re heading to Gran Canaria and are curious about the island’s agricultural side, a guided tour of Banana World might just be a highlight of your visit. This experience offers more than just a stroll around banana plants; it’s an opportunity to understand how this globally loved fruit is grown, processed, and enjoyed locally.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its blend of education and tasting — you get to learn about banana cultivation while sampling some delicious banana-based products. Plus, the tour is very well-rated, with over 2,800 reviews and a perfect 5.0/5 score, which suggests most visitors leave happy. That said, it’s not a lengthy activity, so if you’re looking for an all-day adventure, you might want to combine it with other excursions.

One thing to consider is the tour’s duration — around 50 minutes to an hour — which is just enough to get a solid overview but not a deep dive into banana farming history or techniques. Also, the tour runs rain or shine, so check the weather to make the most of your visit.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of light walking, learning, and tasting, especially those interested in local foods or farming practices. Families with kids over 5, couples, or solo travelers will find it engaging, but it’s particularly good if you want a relaxed, informative outing without too much time commitment.

Key Points

• Affordable and accessible: Priced at just over $16, it offers good value with included tastings and parking.
• Educational and tasty: Learn about banana growing while sampling wines, jams, and more.
• Well-rated guides: Visitors consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge.
• Tasting variety: Enjoy banana wines, jams, and even cosmetics made with bananas.
• Convenient location: Situated just 10 minutes from Las Palmas, easy to reach.
• Group size: Limited to 40 travelers, making it a more personal experience.

An honest look at what to expect

The basics of the tour: What’s included and how it flows

The guided tour of Banana World takes you to the banana farm nestled in Arucas, a charming part of Gran Canaria just a quick drive from the main city, Las Palmas. For about an hour, you’ll walk through banana plantations, learn how these plants are cultivated in the Canary Islands, and step inside the historic Canarian house from 1804, fully restored and serving as the interpretation center.

The tour starts at the Banana Museum, where your guide will guide you through the interesting process of banana cultivation. You’ll get close-up views of various banana varieties and learn about the island’s unique climate, soil, and farming methods that make Gran Canaria a notable banana producer.

What makes this tour special

Many reviews highlight the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guides, particularly mentioning guides like Ismael and Steven. They bring the experience to life with interesting facts and a friendly attitude. This personal touch makes the small-group atmosphere comfortable and engaging.

The tasting segment is a real highlight. You’ll sample several banana-based products, including artisan banana wines, jams, and cosmetic products. Some reviews even mention trying a banana wine or banana jams, which are not everyday treats. The sweet montaditos with banana jam, cactus, and aloe vera offer a nice variety and show how versatile bananas can be on the islands.

The tasting experience

Loved by many, the tasting is more than just a quick sip. It’s a chance to appreciate the different flavors and uses of bananas locally. Visitors often comment that the wines and jams are delicious and that the tour’s ending with these tastings is a perfect wrap-up. One reviewer, Christian G, noted that the sampling and guide’s storytelling made it one of the highlights of their trip.

The setting and accessibility

The location is picturesque, with lush plantations and a storied old house, making it a great spot for photos. The tour is near public transportation and has parking included, simplifying logistics. The group size is capped at 40, which helps keep things intimate and manageable.

Potential drawbacks

While the experience is generally very positive, a few visitors have mentioned minor issues. One reviewer pointed out that the meeting point was confusing initially, causing some late arrivals. Others have suggested that a few more historical details about banana cultivation on the Canary Islands could elevate the tour further.

The tour runs rain or shine, so if you’re visiting in wet weather, be prepared with suitable clothes. And because of its short duration, those seeking an in-depth, lengthy exploration of banana farming might find it a little light.

The full itinerary explained

Stop 1: The Banana Museum and Plantation Walk

Your day begins at the Banana Museum, where your guide will introduce the island’s banana culture. You’ll learn about the history, varieties, and farming techniques that make Gran Canaria’s bananas unique. Expect to see a restored Canarian house from 1804, which adds a historic charm to your visit.

As you walk through the plantation, you’ll notice the different banana varieties — many of which aren’t common elsewhere. The guides often share insights into how the island’s climate and soil contribute to the quality and flavor of the fruit. The walk is casual, suitable for most fitness levels, and offers ample photo opportunities.

Sampling banana-based products

After the walk, you’ll sample a selection of local banana products, like banana jams, wines, and cosmetics. Many reviewers have raved about the banana wine, noting its smoothness and unique flavor. The jams, especially the banana jam, are praised for their sweetness and freshness.

The shop and artisan products

Following the tasting, there’s an opportunity to browse the shop, where you can buy banana jams, wines, and even banana plants if you’re inspired to start your own garden. Many visitors mention that the product quality exceeded expectations, and it’s worth grabbing a few souvenirs.

Practical details and tips

The tour is scheduled for about 50 minutes to an hour. To get the most out of it, arrive prepared for some walking and bring comfortable shoes. Since parking is included and it’s near public transportation, logistics are straightforward.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience is ideal for food lovers, curious travelers, and those interested in agriculture. It’s suitable for most ages (over 5, generally), especially if you enjoy tasting local products and learning in a relaxed environment. Families, couples, or solo visitors looking for a light, informative outing will find this a worthy addition to their Gran Canaria itinerary.

If you’re hoping for an in-depth tour of banana farming techniques or historical details beyond cultivation, you might find it a bit brief. But for a fun, friendly introduction to the island’s banana industry, it hits the mark.

FAQs about the Banana World tour

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable for kids over 5, especially since it involves some walking and tasting. The friendly guide and engaging presentation keep it family-friendly.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts roughly 50 minutes to an hour, making it a quick but rundown of banana cultivation and products.

What’s included in the tour?
Your ticket includes a guided walk through the plantation, tastings of banana wines, jams, and cosmetics, plus parking fees. No additional charges for the tasting or entrance.

Can I buy souvenirs or products?
Yes, there’s a shop where you can purchase banana jams, wines, and plants. Many visitors recommend taking home a few jars of jam or a bottle of wine.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The provided information doesn’t specify accessibility details, but given the walk involves some outdoor paths, it’s best to check directly with the provider if accessibility is a concern.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour starts at Cam. del Laurel, 7, in Arucas, which is accessible by public transit and has parking included.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs rain or shine. If the weather is very poor, you might want to prepare accordingly, or check if the tour provider offers any alternatives or rescheduling options.

How far in advance should I book?
Most people book around 7 days ahead, which is a good idea since it tends to fill up quickly due to its popularity.

Is there an option for private tours?
The experience mentions private guided tours are available, so if you prefer a more personalized experience, inquire directly with Mundo Del Plátano Gran Canaria.

Final thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, engaging, and tasty experience that combines education with local flavors, the Banana World tour is a solid choice. It offers friendly guides, a variety of banana products to sample, and a chance to see a Canarian plantation up close — all for a very reasonable price.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy casual learning, are interested in food and agriculture, or simply want a change from the more typical sightseeing options. The small group size and positive reviews support its reputation as a memorable, value-packed outing.

While it might not satisfy those craving a deep technical or historical exploration, it more than makes up for that with its warm atmosphere and delicious tastings. Whether you’re a foodie, a family, or an inquisitive traveler, Banana World provides a delightful glimpse into one of Gran Canaria’s most unique crops.

Enjoy your trip and happy banana exploring!