Gran Canaria: Banana World Guided Tour & Tasting

If you’re visiting Gran Canaria and looking for something a little different, the Banana World Guided Tour & Tasting offers a surprisingly engaging peek into one of the island’s most iconic crops. While it might not be your typical sightseeing stop, this experience is packed with interesting facts, beautiful scenery, and delicious local products. Whether you’re a food lover, a plant enthusiast, or just curious about where your bananas come from, this tour has something for you.

What really caught our eye about this tour is the chance to see over 7,000 banana plants and 150 avocado trees in one place — that’s a lot of greenery! Plus, the tasting of local jams, wines, and banana-based products is a real highlight, adding a tasty dimension you won’t get from just reading about bananas. On the downside, the tour lasts only about 40 minutes, which might feel a bit quick if you’re eager to spend more time exploring. Still, it’s a fantastic option for those wanting an authentic, no-fuss experience that combines learning and leisure.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, food, and cultural insights. It’s especially good for curious visitors who want to learn about banana cultivation in a scenic setting, but it might not be ideal if you’re after a lengthy or highly active activity. Also, those with mobility issues should note that the tour isn’t designed to accommodate impairments.

Key Points

• Educational and tasty: Guided tour plus product tastings make for a well-rounded experience.
• Beautiful views: Overlooks of the Atlantic Ocean and lush farmland are unforgettable.
• Diverse plant life: Besides bananas, the farm grows avocados and other fruits.
• Variety of bananas: Thirteen types of banana are showcased, appealing to plant enthusiasts.
• Authentic local products: Jams, wines, and even cosmetics made with Canarian bananas.
• Family-friendly vibe: While not explicitly marketed as kids’ activity, the short duration and scenic environment can suit families with older children.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Banana World Tour

When considering a tour like this, the first thing to understand is what it offers. It’s a 40-minute guided walk through the Hacienda La ReKompensa, a sizable farm covering over 56,000 square meters. The focus is on banana cultivation, but you’ll also see avocado trees and other fruits, which helps paint a full picture of tropical farming in the Canary Islands.

The Itinerary and What You’ll See

Your adventure kicks off at the Hacienda La ReKompensa, where you’ll meet your guide inside the Banana Museum. This is a good starting point because it sets the scene with some background about the farm and its history. From there, you’ll stroll through massive banana plantations—more than 7,000 banana plants stretching out in neat rows. Seeing the scale of the operation is impressive and gives you a real appreciation for how much effort goes into producing your banana snack.

The tour then takes you to a museum with lovely ocean views, which isn’t just about the history but also the techniques used in banana farming here. It’s a chance to see how the Canary Islands stand out in banana production, with some unique cultivation methods. The farm’s beautiful surroundings mean you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the sea and lush farmland, making it more than just a walking lesson about plants.

The Guides and Their Knowledge

Based on multiple reviews, guides like Steve, Daniela, Laura, and Jon consistently impress visitors with their friendly, humorous, and informative explanations. Many reviewers highlight how guides “came so well prepared with interesting facts,” and that they made the experience engaging with their humor. One review even mentions a guide named Daniella as “amazing, professional, kind, warm, and incredibly knowledgeable,” which speaks volumes about the staff’s dedication.

Tasting and Shopping

The highlight for many is the sampling of banana-based products. You’ll get to try local jams, banana quince, banana wine, and even cosmetic products—all made with Canarian bananas. The tastings are described as fun and sometimes surprising because of the variety available. Some reviewers mentioned that the tasting of jams and alcohols didn’t have a strong banana flavor, which might disappoint banana purists, but others appreciated the chance to explore local flavors.

In the Interpretation Center and shop, you can browse and purchase artisanal products. Many reviewers mention the deliciousness of the products and the beautiful views from the shop. This is a good spot for souvenirs or gifts, especially if you’re into trying local culinary or cosmetic items.

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The Experience’s Value

At around €15 to €20 per person, the tour is quite reasonable considering the short duration but rich content. Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their entertaining, knowledgeable, and friendly approach, which really enhances the value. The up-close look at the farm and the breathtaking views add to the overall experience, making it a worthwhile stop for a few hours.

Accessibility and Practical Considerations

A note for travelers with mobility issues: the tour is not suitable for those with impairments, likely because of uneven terrain on the farm. Also, it takes place rain or shine, so bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for the weather, whether sun or drizzle.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for foodies, plant lovers, and curious travelers who want to learn something different about the Canary Islands. If you enjoy scenic views and tasting local products, you’ll appreciate the variety and quality of what’s offered. It’s also a good choice for families with older children who are interested in plants or food, as the short duration keeps it manageable.

The Bottom Line

The Banana World Guided Tour & Tasting offers a compact but insightful experience into the world of banana cultivation on Gran Canaria. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and delicious local products, it’s a fun way to spend part of your day, especially if you’re into learning about local agriculture and trying regional flavors. While it’s not a lengthy or physically demanding activity, it’s packed with enough interesting content to make it worthwhile.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic outing that combines education and tastings, this tour is well worth considering. It’s especially suited for those wanting an off-the-beaten-path experience that’s both informative and enjoyable.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, the short duration and scenic farm environment could work well for older children who enjoy plants and tasting. Keep in mind that the tour isn’t designed for those with mobility issues.

How long does the tour take?
It lasts approximately 40 minutes, making it a quick but comprehensive visit.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because you’ll be walking around the farm. The tour takes place rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

Are there transportation options?
The tour starts at Hacienda La ReKompensa, and you can reach it by bus or car. Many reviews mention easy access from Las Palmas, with some reviewers noting that they found parking nearby.

What kind of products can I taste?
You’ll sample jams, banana quince, banana wine, and cosmetic products made with Canarian bananas. The tastings are included in the tour.

Can I buy products at the end?
Yes, the Interpretation Center and shop offer a variety of artisanal items, including banana-based foods and cosmetics, which are well-regarded by visitors.

In wrapping up, the Banana World Guided Tour & Tasting on Gran Canaria offers a delightful mix of scenic views, local flavor, and friendly guides. It’s a straightforward yet memorable experience, especially if you have a soft spot for good stories, beautiful landscapes, and tasty treats. Perfect for those wanting a quick cultural encounter with the island’s agricultural side.

You can check availability for your dates here: