Firgas, Tejeda, Guayadeque – VIP Tour Gran Canaria

Traveling through Gran Canaria offers a chance to see a variety of landscapes—from lush ravines and rugged mountains to quaint villages and fascinating caves. This VIP tour promises a comprehensive glimpse into the island’s less trodden paths, making it a solid choice for those wanting to explore beyond the beaches. We haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, but based on the reviews and itinerary, it’s a well-rounded day trip that packs in a lot of what makes the island special.

What we like about this experience is how it balances scenic views with cultural stops, all wrapped in the convenience of door-to-door transportation. Plus, at around $55, it’s quite a reasonable way to see a large chunk of the island without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. One thing to keep in mind is that some travelers found the overall experience not quite “VIP” enough, especially given the size of the group and certain transportation concerns. Still, if you’re after a full-day overview with guided insights, this tour could suit you nicely.

This kind of tour is best suited for first-timers or those who prefer a structured, relaxed way to see a variety of gran canario highlights without the stress of self-driving. It’s ideal if you want to fit a lot into one day, especially if you’re interested in scenic viewpoints, traditional villages, and unique local sites like cave houses and aloe vera plantations.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day out: Covers a wide range of sights, from villages to natural landscapes.
• Good value for the price: At around $55, it provides a balanced mix of sightseeing, transportation, and guided commentary.
• Scenic highlights: Expect stunning views from viewpoints like Tejeda and Tunte, and impressive landscapes like the Ravine of Guayadeque.
• Cultural and natural balance: Visit cave dwellings, an aloe vera plantation, and traditional towns.
• Hassle-free experience: Includes hotel pick-up and modern bus transport, making it easier to relax and enjoy.
• Group size and pace: With a maximum of 58 travelers, it’s not overly crowded, but some may find it less intimate.

An In-Depth Look at What the Tour Offers

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off early at 8:00 am, with pickups in touristic areas. The transport is modern, air-conditioned buses — a relief on warmer days — and the tour runs about 9 hours, giving you a full day of exploration without feeling rushed. Reviews mention that the pickup and drop-off process is generally smooth, though some comments highlight occasional delays or bus changes due to third-party arrangements. Still, most travelers seem to find the logistics manageable, especially with clear instructions.

The Guayadeque Ravine and Cave Houses

Our favorite part of the itinerary is the stop at Barranco de Guayadeque. This ravine is visually stunning, with cave houses carved into the mountain sides, offering a glimpse into a unique way of life. Visitors often find this stop quite authentic and intriguing. One reviewer appreciated the 30-minute visit, calling it “a brilliant opportunity to see less touristic side of the island.” It’s a quiet, scenic spot that’s perfect for photos and a sense of history.

Firgas and Its Famous Fountain-Waterfall

Next, there’s free time in Firgas, a charming town known for its water features and tiled benches representing each municipality. The highlight is the fountain-waterfall, a striking symbol of the island’s unity. You might want to wander the main square or visit the local church. According to reviews, this stop offers a slow-paced chance to soak up local life and snap some memorable photos. Some travelers enjoyed the fact that it was a peaceful break from busier tourist spots.

Valleseco and Lunch Options

The tour includes about an hour in Valleseco for lunch — optional, and not included in the tour price. Many opt for a local restaurant, taking the chance to taste authentic Canarian cuisine. Since the cost isn’t included, you might find some busy local spots or cozy cafes. Reviewers suggest that this break is a good opportunity to relax and recharge before heading into the mountains again.

Tejeda Viewpoint — A Photo Must

One of the most talked-about stops is at Tejeda, where the viewpoint offers sweeping views of Roque Nublo and Roque Bentaiga. This is reportedly the best photo spot of the day, and you’ll understand why when you see the rugged peaks and sprawling valleys. Even a short 10-minute stop here offers incredible photo opportunities and a chance to admire the striking geology of the island.

Tunte and the Tenth Municipality

A quick visit to Tunte in San Bartolomé de Tirajana gives a peek into local life. It’s a small town with traditional architecture and a quiet vibe. Many reviews mention that the free time here is enough to stroll around, enjoy the ambiance, or grab a quick coffee. It’s a peaceful spot that adds a touch of authenticity to the day’s journey.

Aloe Vera Plantation in Fataga

A visit to Finca Canarias Aloe Vera is a highlight for many. The plantation offers insight into the island’s aloe industry, and visitors often enjoy trying the products. The 30-minute visit allows for a relaxed exploration of the fields and a chance to shop for local skincare items. Multiple reviews praise this stop, calling it “an interesting experience” and noting the high-quality products available.

Barranco de Fataga and the Palm Valley

The last stop is at the Valley of the Thousand Palm Trees, a scenic viewpoint that showcases Gran Canaria’s lush, green landscapes. This peaceful spot is perfect for a final photo or a quick stroll. Reviewers mention that the views here are “marvellous,” providing a fitting end to the day’s scenic journey.

How the Tour Works in Practice

Travelers generally appreciate the mix of natural beauty and cultural sights the tour offers. The guided aspect is often highlighted positively, with reviewers mentioning knowledgeable and friendly guides who add context to each location. The day is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the scenery and explore.

However, some reviews point out that the “VIP” label might be a stretch in terms of exclusivity or comfort. The group sizes can be fairly large — up to 58 people — and some find the bus air conditioning not quite up to the mark, especially on warmer days. There’s also a note from a few travelers about the bus being sometimes delayed or changing vehicles, which can affect the overall experience.

One reviewer shared a less favorable experience at a restaurant, noting rude staff and a disappointing meal. But they clarified that this aspect is managed by a third-party restaurant, not the tour operator itself.

Price and Value

At roughly $55 per person, the tour offers a lot of value, especially considering the included transportation, guided commentary, and access to multiple highlights. For a full day of sightseeing, it’s quite competitive. You’ll get to see a mix of scenic viewpoints, traditional towns, and natural landscapes, which might be hard to arrange independently without a car.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is especially suited for visitors who want a structured, guided experience that covers a lot of ground in one day. It’s perfect if you prefer not to drive or plan every stop yourself and want to learn from a knowledgeable guide. It suits those interested in natural scenery and cultural sites equally, including families or groups of friends.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-organized way to see some of Gran Canaria’s most scenic and authentic spots, this tour ticks many boxes. The stops at viewpoints like Tejeda, the cave houses in Guayadeque, and the aloe vera plantation offer a good balance of natural beauty and local culture. The guides are generally praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more engaging.

Of course, if you’re after an ultra-exclusive or very intimate experience, this might fall a bit short. The group size and the “VIP” label suggest a more comfortable, hassle-free outing rather than a boutique or personalized tour. The price reflects this balance—an affordable way to get a broad overview without breaking the bank.

All in all, this tour is worth considering if you want a day trip that’s practical, scenic, and reasonably priced. It’s especially suitable for first-timers eager to get a real sense of Gran Canaria’s diverse landscapes, with enough comfort and guidance to make the day enjoyable.

FAQ

Is hotel pick-up included?
Yes, the tour offers pick-up and drop-off at touristic areas. Just send your accommodation’s name to arrange the closest pickup point.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore and enjoy the stops without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
It’s a full-day trip through varied landscapes, so wear comfortable clothing and suitable footwear. In winter, a sweater or light jacket is recommended, especially at higher elevations.

Can I get off the bus at specific stops?
Yes, most stops allow for free time, giving you the chance to explore each site at your own pace.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. There’s no minimum age specified.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is optional and not included in the tour price. You can choose to eat at the Valleseco restaurant or bring your own snacks.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, so plan accordingly.

If you’re after a full, scenic overview of Gran Canaria that combines culture, landscapes, and some comfort, this tour offers a practical way to see it all. Just keep expectations in check regarding the group size and transportation, but overall, it seems like a solid choice for making the most of your day on the island.