Las Palmas is a city that offers more than just beaches and sunshine. If you’re craving adventure, culture, or simply a way to see the island in a new light, the tours here have you covered. We’re particularly fond of the via ferrata “Amor & Odio”, which combines adrenaline with stunning mountain scenery, and the scenic ferry journey that makes island hopping both relaxing and picturesque. Whether you’re into physical challenges or cultural explorations, Las Palmas has experiences that can suit different interests and fitness levels.
In this list, we’ve included three of the best tours in Las Palmas. Each offers a different flavor of what the island can give you: high-energy mountain climbing, culture combined with rum tasting, and a scenic sea crossing between Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Read on to see which of these fits your travel style.
The types of tours that made our list include a thrilling via ferrata adventure, a cultural and tasting tour of scenic villages, and a scenic ferry ride crossing the Atlantic. Each one offers a unique way to experience Gran Canaria’s natural beauty, history, and local flavors. Below, we’ll dive into what makes each of these options worth considering.
1. Gran Canaria : Vía Ferrata “Amor & Odio” – Medium level
This via ferrata “Amor & Odio” offers a fantastic way to challenge yourself physically while soaking in impressive mountain views. The tour lasts about four hours, and it’s designed for those comfortable with moderate activity levels—think a good sense of balance and no fear of heights. The route features secured ladders, bridges, and cables, giving you the thrill of vertical climbing with safety gear and expert supervision.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on safety without sacrificing the adrenaline. You’ll use top-quality equipment, and your guide will share insights about the local environment and history as you go. The route is carefully chosen to provide intense emotions and a sense of personal achievement. The reviews speak volumes—participants praise the guide Aron’s expertise and friendliness, emphasizing how he shares local knowledge alongside the climbing experience. If you’re looking for a memorable adventure that combines physical challenge and scenic beauty, this via ferrata is a top pick.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for active travelers seeking a safe, guided climb with stunning mountain vistas. Book this experience if you want a hands-on adventure that will leave you with a story to tell.
2. Gran Canaria Shore Excursion Rum Tasting & Scenic Villages
For those who prefer cultural experiences combined with local flavors, this half-day tour is highly recommended. It begins with a visit to one of Gran Canaria’s most traditional villages, Arucas, famous for its picturesque streets and the impressive Arucas Church. You’ll also explore the Rum Distillery Arehucas, where you can learn about the island’s sugarcane history and taste different rums—a highlight for many visitors.
Afterward, a walk through Vegueta, the historic heart of Las Palmas, introduces you to the city’s rich culture and architecture. The tour combines a visit to the oldest parts of the island with a tasting of the local spirit, making it a well-rounded introduction to Gran Canaria’s heritage. The entire experience is well-organized, with convenient pickup and drop-off options from key locations like Maspalomas and the port.
Guests love how this tour balances sightseeing with tasting, and the guide’s knowledge about local traditions enriches the experience. It’s ideal for travelers who want to mix scenic, cultural, and culinary highlights in a manageable half-day.
Bottom Line: An excellent way to get a taste of Gran Canaria’s history, scenery, and flavors—perfect for those with limited time but a desire for authentic experiences.
3. Scenic Ferry Journey Between Tenerife and Gran Canaria
If you’re traveling between Tenerife and Gran Canaria, this scenic ferry offers more than just transportation. It’s a relaxing, 100-minute cruise across the Atlantic that lets you enjoy panoramic sea views and fresh sea air. The ferry operates multiple times daily, giving you flexibility in planning.
This journey is about making your travel part of the adventure. The ferry boasts comfortable seating, and the ride itself is smooth and quick—perfect for a break from land-based excursions. As you sail, you’ll appreciate the contrasts of the islands’ coastlines and the endless blue of the ocean. It’s an ideal option for travelers wanting a seamless transfer while soaking in the scenery.
While this isn’t a tour in the traditional sense, many travelers find that a ferry ride adds an extra layer of enjoyment to their trip. Whether you’re heading to or from Tenerife or just want a scenic way to get between these islands, it’s a memorable ride.
Bottom Line: A practical and scenic crossing that transforms your transfer into a mini sea adventure, especially suited for island-hopping travelers.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, fitness level, and available time. If you’re craving adventure, the via ferrata will give you a physical challenge and spectacular views. For a cultural and culinary experience, the village and rum tour offers a relaxed but enriching taste of local life. If your priority is transportation with a view, the ferry ride adds a scenic element to your travel plans.
Booking early is wise—especially for the via ferrata, which is popular among adventure travelers, and the ferry, which can fill up during peak times. Check the availability of each experience to fit your schedule, and consider combining tours if you have extra days.
Final Thoughts
Las Palmas offers a wide range of memorable experiences that go beyond the typical beach day. For thrill-seekers, the via ferrata “Amor & Odio” provides an exhilarating climb with breathtaking mountain scenery. Those interested in local culture and flavors will enjoy the scenic villages and rum tasting tour that showcases Gran Canaria’s heritage. Meanwhile, the scenic ferry makes island-to-island travel enjoyable and special.
For active travelers, the via ferrata is a must-do, while culture enthusiasts will appreciate the rich history uncovered by the village and rum tour. If you’re just passing through or want a relaxing way to see the ocean, the ferry is a smart choice. Whatever your travel style, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these great options. Happy exploring!
Feel free to explore further and pick your perfect adventure in Las Palmas—each one promises a memorable addition to your Canary Islands trip.
