Gran Canaria is a treasure trove for those who love uncovering stories from the past while enjoying stunning landscapes. Unlike many islands that focus mainly on beaches and resorts, Gran Canaria offers a diverse range of historical tours that blend cultural heritage, natural beauty, and local traditions. One standout is the Full-Day Tour Exploring History, Nature and Aloe Vera Farm, which combines a scenic drive with visits to ancient caves and charming villages. Whether you’re interested in aboriginal sites like Guayadeque or want to learn about the island’s agricultural roots in Agüimes, this itinerary offers a well-rounded introduction.
What makes Gran Canaria particularly appealing for history-focused tours is its blend of pre-Hispanic remains, colonial architecture, and agricultural traditions—all within a compact island. From exploring cave dwellings to strolling through historic towns, you get a sense of the island’s evolution over centuries. For those who want a comprehensive experience, multiple options include full-day excursions, intimate house visits, and specialized tours focusing on specific themes like banana plantations or aloe vera production. Below, we review the top four options to help you pick the perfect tour.
1. Full-Day Tour Exploring History, Nature and Aloe Vera Farm
This seven-hour guided tour offers an excellent overview of Gran Canaria’s historic and natural highlights. Starting in the lush Guayadeque Valley, you’ll see cave dwellings that date back to the island’s aboriginal inhabitants—some still inhabited today. The tour continues to Agüimes, a charming old town, and then to an aloe vera farm where you can learn about the plant’s healing properties. You’ll also visit Arucas, famous for its rum and banana cultivation, and the stately village of Teror, home to the Basilica of Nuestra Sra. Del Pino.
One of the biggest draws is the balanced mix of natural scenery and cultural sites. The tour’s local guide stays with you throughout, sharing insights into each location’s history and significance. The visit to Guayadeque’s caves is particularly compelling; declared a Natural Monument in 2000, this valley feels like stepping into a living museum. The tour includes a lunch stop (not included in the price) in Valleseco, known for its lush greenery.
Based on reviews, this tour is highly praised for its well-organized itinerary and knowledgeable guide. Travelers appreciate the comprehensive coverage, from prehistoric sites to colonial towns. For first-time visitors wanting an authentic taste of Gran Canaria’s past, this is a top pick.
Bottom Line: A full-day experience packed with history, stunning landscapes, and local flavor, ideal for those wanting a thorough introduction to the island.
2. Gran Canaria historical house with mango plantation in Mogan
For a more intimate glimpse into local architecture and agriculture, this two-hour tour in Mogan is perfect. You’ll explore a 200-year-old Canarian farmhouse, beautifully restored to showcase traditional architecture. The house has a collection of cactus plants of about 50 varieties, creating a quiet oasis of native flora.
The visit also includes a walk through a mango plantation, where you can see the fruit trees that play a vital role in local farming. Afterwards, you’ll visit a Vermouth factory—a local tradition—and enjoy a tasting of Vermouth and mango desserts. The combination of historic building and farming culture makes this tour stand out. It offers a hands-on experience of how locals lived and farmed centuries ago, with plenty of opportunity for photos and conversation.
Guests rave about the authenticity and personalized feel of this tour, emphasizing the restored farmhouse as a highlight. It’s well suited for visitors interested in architecture, local food, and agriculture. Since it’s short and manageable, it’s a great addition for travelers who want a taste of rural life without a long commitment.
Bottom Line: An engaging, small-group tour ideal for those curious about Canarian architecture and farming traditions, combining history with local flavors.
3. Gran Canaria Historical Tour
This eight-hour guided tour offers a comprehensive journey through Gran Canaria’s historical sites, making it perfect for travelers eager to learn about the island’s cultural evolution. It begins at the Caldera de Bandama, an impressive volcanic crater with stunning views and rich geological significance. You’ll explore the Jardin Botanico Viera y Clavijo, Spain’s largest botanical garden, which showcases native and endemic flora—a living showcase of the island’s natural history.
Next, the tour visits Vegueta, the historic heart of Las Palmas. Here, you stroll past colonial buildings and monuments that tell the story of European influence and urban development. The guide shares insights into the colonial era, trade history, and local traditions. The last stops include Santa Catalina Park and the El Barranco de Guayadeque, where you can see cave dwellings and learn about pre-Hispanic settlements.
This tour is praised for its engaged guide, who makes the history come alive, and its ability to pack multiple key sites into one day. It’s best suited for history lovers who appreciate cultural context and scenic landscapes. The admission tickets are included, making for a hassle-free experience.
Bottom Line: A detailed, well-rounded exploration for those who want to connect historical dots and see diverse parts of the island in one day.
4. Gran Canaria Historic Tour – Yestarday and Today Premium
At number 4 on our list, the Gran Canaria Historic Tour – Yestarday and Today Premium offers a six to seven-hour look at the island’s most fascinating sites. Starting from Las Palmas, this tour visits cave homes and a cave chapel in Guayadeque, giving a glimpse into prehistoric living conditions and religious traditions. It also includes a visit to an aloe vera plantation, where you’ll learn about the plant’s medicinal uses and see how it’s cultivated.
Additional highlights include a stop at Teror, famous for its Canarian architecture, and a banana plantation—a key crop for the island. The tour is perfectly suited for travelers who want an efficient yet thorough experience of both historic architecture and agricultural practices.
One of the benefits is the round-trip transfer from your hotel and the comfortable air-conditioned bus. The tour’s price is competitive, and the reviews point out it’s a good value for the coverage offered, despite a slight note that the tour can last closer to 9 hours.
Bottom Line: This tour is best for those who want a rundown of gran Canaria’s rural and historic landmarks, with the convenience of hotel pickup.
How to Choose the Right Historical Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re eager to see a broad range of sites in one day, the Full-Day Tour Exploring History, Nature and Aloe Vera Farm offers the best value. For a more intimate experience focused on architecture and local farming, the Mogan house visit is ideal. The Gran Canaria Historical Tour suits those wanting an in-depth cultural overview, while the Yestarday and Today Premium provides a compact, guided exploration with convenient transfers.
Think about your fitness level—some tours involve walking and outdoor exploration—plus whether you’d prefer a full-day or shorter experience. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Gran Canaria’s diverse historical tours make it easy to find an experience that matches your curiosity and schedule. If you want a comprehensive day exploring natural and cultural highlights, the full-day Exploring History, Nature and Aloe Vera Farm is hard to beat. For those seeking something more intimate, the mango plantation and house tour offers a taste of local life. Travelers who love urban history will enjoy the Vegueta** tour, while the Yestarday and Today tour hits the sweet spot for a guided, all-in-one experience.
No matter your choice, Gran Canaria’s historic sites promise a rewarding glimpse into the island’s soul. Book early, and prepare to step back in time—your adventure awaits.
