Full Day Across the Island Tour from Las Palmas

If you’re visiting Gran Canaria and want to see more than just the beaches, a full island tour is a fantastic way to get a real feel for this diverse island. This particular tour, offered by ExcursionsGranCanaria.com, covers everything from volcanic landscapes to picturesque villages, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. It’s a good option if you’re after a rundown without the hassle of planning every stop yourself.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert commentary about the island’s culture, geography, and history makes it more than just a sightseeing trip. Second, the balance of scenic stops and free time—like a leisurely lunch in Fataga—lets you soak in the atmosphere at your own pace. The only possible downside? The full-day schedule means a long, sometimes winding ride, which could be tiring if you’re not comfortable with mountain roads. Still, for most travelers who want a well-rounded experience, this tour hits the right notes.

It’s particularly suited for those who want to see Gran Canaria’s varied landscapes without missing out on the key sights. If you enjoy learning about local culture, snapping photos of stunning views, and having comfortable transportation, this trip could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Island Coverage: See main highlights from north to south on Gran Canaria.
• Expert Guide: Learn about the island’s history, culture, and environment.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicles make for a pleasant ride.
• Balanced Schedule: Mix of guided stops and free time, including lunch.
• Good Value for Money: About $53 for an 8.5-hour tour with many notable sights.
• Booking in Advance: Usually booked around 13 days ahead, so plan early.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed for those who want to “see it all” in one day. We’ll start with a visit to the Caldera de Bandama, an impressive volcanic crater with fantastic views. You’re given about 15 minutes here, enough to snap some photos and take in the landscape. The walk to the viewpoint is brief, but the scenery of this large caldera is definitely worth it.

Next, you get to wander the charming streets of Santa Brigida, a small town with lush greenery and a history-rich center. Here, a quick coffee break is possible if you want to enjoy the local vibe. It’s a peaceful spot that provides a contrast to the more rugged landscapes.

From there, the highlight is Pico de las Nieves, the island’s highest point. You’ll enjoy expansive views over the mountains, with the iconic Roque Nublo and Roque Bentayga visible if the weather cooperates. If the clouds roll in, the guide will take you to other viewpoints along the drive—so you’re still likely to get some stunning scenery.

Moving south, the picturesque San Bartolomé de Tirajana offers a glimpse of traditional village life, with a free-entry museum in an old house. It’s a quiet, authentic spot that adds depth to your understanding of the island.

The lunch stop in Fataga is a highlight: this small, palm-filled village feels like a slice of oasis amid the rugged landscape. You’ll have roughly an hour to explore and grab a meal in a local taverna—meals start at about 7.50 euros, making it both delicious and affordable.

Finally, the Maspalomas Dunes are a must-see. You’ll have about 45 minutes to walk through the vast sandy landscape, and if you’ve packed swimwear, you might even take a quick dip in the ocean. The dunes are a striking natural feature and perfect for photos.

The Itinerary in Detail

Caldera de Bandama

A standout early stop, this volcanic crater is awe-inspiring. You’ll get a view over the crater from a designated viewpoint, providing a sense of the island’s volcanic origins. While the admission is free, it’s a quick visit but one that leaves a lasting impression of Gran Canaria’s fiery past.

Santa Brigida

Walking through the town’s cobbled streets, you’ll notice the lush surroundings thanks to natural water sources. The reviews praise Pavel, the guide, for his deep knowledge and engaging storytelling, which enriches the experience here. It’s a peaceful break from the more panoramic stops.

Pico de las Nieves

The panoramic views from the highest point on the island are breathtaking—weather permitting. You may even see Tenerife on the horizon, adding that extra wow factor. The view of Roque Nublo and Roque Bentayga, both iconic rock formations, makes this a photographer’s dream. If weather is bad, the guide will take you to other scenic viewpoints on the way down, which still promise beautiful vistas.

San Bartolomé de Tirajana

This village offers a peek into traditional Canarian life. The museum is in an old, well-preserved house, and it’s free to visit. It’s a quiet moment in your day that provides context about local customs and history.

Fataga

Often called the “Valley of a Thousand Palm Trees,” this charming village is surrounded by palms and lush greenery. The free time allows you to explore at your own pace and enjoy a tasty, budget-friendly meal. Expect traditional Canarian dishes and a relaxed atmosphere.

Las Dunas de Maspalomas

The dunes are the final highlight, and you’ll have enough time here for a walk and photos. If the weather is warm, you might want to bring your swim gear to enjoy the nearby ocean. The natural landscape is quite unique and offers great photo opportunities.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, making the long drives comfortable regardless of the weather. The group is kept small, with a maximum of 25 travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience. The driver is skilled at navigating mountain roads, which can be winding and steep, so if you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s worth bringing medication.

Price and Value

At around $53.29 per person, this tour offers excellent value given the number of sights covered in just over 8 hours. Reviews frequently mention how worth it this trip was, especially since it includes multiple key locations and engaging commentary. The guide’s storytelling adds value, turning a sightseeing tour into an informative journey.

Remember, food and drinks aren’t included, but the fixed-price lunch in Fataga is affordable, with meals starting at 7.50 euros. The flexibility to explore and learn makes up for the extra expense of eating out.

What Travelers Say

The overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight Pavel, the guide, as a standout feature—”brilliant,” “well-informed,” and “full of funny stories” are phrases repeated by many. Guests also appreciate the scenic variety, from volcanic craters to dunes, and the good organization of stops and timings.

Many mention that the tour is a great way to see a different side of the island beyond the resort-heavy areas. The mix of natural beauty and local culture, combined with the comfort of air-conditioned transport, makes this a well-rounded day trip.

A few reviews note that the long mountain drive can be winding, which might be uncomfortable for some, but the scenic rewards tend to outweigh this.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal if you want a rundown of Gran Canaria in one day without the hassle of driving yourself. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy learning from guides and want to see diverse landscapes—from volcanic craters to lush villages and sandy dunes. If you’re comfortable with a long day and mountain roads, this tour offers a fantastic value for the experience.

It’s not suited for travelers seeking a relaxed beach day or those who prefer short, leisurely excursions. Also, since the tour is guided only in English, it’s best for English speakers or those comfortable with the language.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 7 years, so it can work for families with older children who enjoy sightseeing and stories about the island.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours and 30 minutes, making it a full day of exploring.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there’s a stop in Fataga where you can purchase a meal starting from 7.50 euros, and you’re free to bring snacks if you prefer.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather; layers are usually best since the altitude and weather can vary. Wear comfortable shoes for walking around villages and dunes.

Is the tour suitable in all weather conditions?
Yes, it operates in all weather, but if conditions are poor (like heavy rain), the guide may adjust the itinerary or offer a refund.

How many people are in the group?
The group is limited to 25 travelers, providing a more intimate experience compared to larger bus tours.

Is there a lot of walking involved?
The stops involve some walking, but nothing too strenuous. The most walking occurs at the scenic viewpoints and in Fataga.

What is the booking process?
You should book about 13 days in advance, as the tour is popular and fills up quickly.

Wrap-up

This Full Day Across the Island Tour from Las Palmas offers a thoughtfully curated experience of Gran Canaria’s natural beauty, charming towns, and iconic sights. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting to maximize their island experience without the stress of planning, especially if you value good storytelling and a comfortable ride. With excellent reviews and a well-rounded itinerary, it’s easy to see why many consider it a highlight of their trip.

Whether you’re snapping photos of the volcanic craters, wandering through palm-filled villages, or marveling at the dunes, this tour provides a balanced mix of education, scenery, and free time. It’s particularly suited for those eager to explore beyond the beaches and dive into the diverse landscapes and culture of Gran Canaria.