Gran Canaria: excursion to the Laurisilva Forest

If you’re dreaming of a day immersed in nature on Gran Canaria, this excursion to the Laurisilva Forest might just be what you’re looking for. We’ve checked out the details, and it looks like a fantastic way to experience some of the island’s most impressive landscapes without the hassle of planning everything yourself. It’s a guided tour, lasting about 7 hours, that takes you through lush gorges, native flora, and scenic viewpoints on the island’s north side.

What really stands out about this trip is the chance to explore one of the most important ecosystems in Gran Canaria — the last remnants of laurel forests. Plus, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll get insights into the native flora and Canarian agriculture that you wouldn’t simply pick up wandering on your own. One small caveat? The walk can be physically demanding, so good footwear and some stamina are essential. This tour suits active travelers, nature fans, and those wanting a deeper connection with the island’s natural beauty.

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic hiking, cultural insights, and relaxed picnic time in a truly enchanting setting. If you’re up for a moderate hike and love being in the outdoors, it’s a memorable way to spend a day on Gran Canaria.

Key Points

• Immersive nature experience in the last laurel forests in the north of Gran Canaria.
• Small group size (4 to 16 people) for a more personalized experience.
• Guided hike with expert explanations on native flora, fauna, and Canarian agriculture.
• Spectacular panoramic views from the Virgin Valley and other viewpoints.
• Includes transportation, hiking poles, and a picnic lunch, offering good value for the price.
• Suitable for active travelers with proper footwear, but not ideal for children under 6 or those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour kicks off with pick-up from your hotel or designated location, giving you a hassle-free start. After about an hour by bus, you’ll arrive at Zumacal, where the guided part of the hike begins. The first stretch takes you down through a gorge that feels like stepping into a prehistoric jungle, dense with greenery and native plants. The scenery here is wild and untouched, and the guide’s insights help you appreciate the ecosystems thriving in this part of Gran Canaria.

The highlight of this section is the descent through the Doramas Natural Park, where the forest feels almost primordial. The guide’s commentary about the importance of this ecosystem adds depth to the experience, making it more than just a walk — it becomes a lesson in natural preservation.

As you walk, expect fantastic views from the Virgin Valley, where the landscape opens up to panoramic vistas of lush, green terrain. The tour then stops at Zumacal gorge for a well-deserved picnic, with a vegetarian sandwich and water included. Here, you can relax, soak in the scenery, and recharge before the next part of the hike.

Post-lunch, you’ll begin the ascent through a gorge lined with eucalyptus trees, lemon, and orange plantations. During winter, there’s even the chance to pick blackberries, adding a fun, seasonal element to the hike. The walk concludes with a visit to the plantations, where the mixture of cultivated land and wild forest shows the harmonious coexistence of nature and agriculture on the island.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Pickup from six locations: San Agustín, Playa del Inglés, Mogán, Maspalomas, Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, Arguineguín. This flexibility means you can choose a convenient starting point.
• Bus journey to Zumacal: About an hour, giving you a comfortable transit into the natural scenery.
• Guided tour at Zumacal (4 hours): The core hiking segment, packed with views and ecological insights.
• Short break in Valleseco: Free time for about 40 minutes to stretch or explore a bit.
• Return by bus: About 1.5 hours back to your drop-off point, ending the day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $76 includes a certified mountain guide, transportation, hiking poles, a vegetarian sandwich and water, and insurance. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience where your guide can give personalized attention.

However, the tour does specify that appropriate footwear is essential — trail shoes or hiking boots are recommended. If you don’t have your own, the company offers rental hiking shoes for €5, which is a fair deal considering the terrain. It’s worth noting that they reserve the right to refuse entry if you arrive in unsuitable shoes, so don’t skip this part.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

Given the physical aspects — a 7.5 km hike with 300 meters of elevation change — it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with walking on uneven terrain. People with mobility issues, pregnant women, and children under 6 are not recommended. The focus on nature and scenic views makes this ideal for adventure seekers or anyone wanting to see Gran Canaria’s lush, green side.

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The Experience in Detail

We loved the variety of landscapes this tour offers. Starting in the dense gorge feels like stepping into a different world, full of lush greenery and towering eucalyptus. The guide’s commentary brought the ecosystem alive, explaining how these forests are among the last of their kind in Gran Canaria. You really get a sense of stepping back in time, as the flora and fauna here seem untouched by modern development.

The panoramic views from the Virgin Valley are a real highlight — wide vistas of green hills stretching into the distance, a perfect backdrop for photos or just soaking in the scenery. The combination of forest, gorge, and cultivated plantations gives a well-rounded picture of the island’s ecological diversity.

The picnic break in Zumacal is just right — a vegetarian sandwich, water, and a chance to relax amid nature. It’s simple but satisfying, especially after the descent and before the ascent. The post-lunch walk through the eucalyptus gorge and lemon orchards is peaceful, with the scent of citrus and fresh earth filling the air.

Several reviews mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, adding a layer of enjoyment. We read comments like “the guide made all the difference, sharing stories and insights that made the scenery come alive.” The group size also gets praise for allowing more interaction and personalized attention.

Practical Tips for Your Hike

• Wear sturdy, treaded hiking shoes — rental options are available, but it’s best to secure your own if you can.
• Bring sun protection — a hat, sunscreen, and light, breathable clothing.
• Pack a light jacket or warm layer, as it can get cooler in the gorge or at higher elevations.
• Carry a small daypack with water, snacks, and your essentials.
• Be prepared for uneven terrain — take your time and listen to your guide’s advice.
• The tour takes place every Friday, so plan ahead if that’s your preferred day.
• If you’re unsure about footwear, contact the provider in advance to rent shoes or clarify any doubts.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who enjoy active outdoor adventures and want to see a side of Gran Canaria beyond beaches and resorts. If you’re comfortable walking several kilometers on uneven paths and enjoy learning about local ecosystems, you’ll find this hike rewarding. It’s also a good choice for travelers interested in ecological conservation or those wanting a peaceful day immersed in nature.

If your idea of a perfect holiday involves relaxing by the pool, or you have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. But for those looking for a memorable, scenic, and educational day in the wild, it’s a standout option.

The Sum Up

This guided excursion to the Laurisilva Forest on Gran Canaria offers a well-rounded way to connect with the island’s natural side. From the dense, jungle-like gorge to the sweeping views of the Virgin Valley, it’s a trek that rewards active travelers with stunning scenery and ecological insights. The inclusion of transportation, gear, and a picnic makes it good value, especially given the small group size and expert guides.

It’s especially suited for nature lovers and those comfortable with moderate hiking — a chance to breathe in fresh air, enjoy panoramic vistas, and learn about the island’s native plants and ecosystems. While not ideal for very young children or those with mobility challenges, it’s a memorable way to spend a day in the Canary Islands’ lush landscapes.

If you’re after a genuine outdoor experience with knowledgeable guidance, this tour will leave you with both great photos and meaningful stories to tell.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation from designated pickup locations is included, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel or accommodation.

What should I wear on the hike?
Appropriate footwear such as hiking or trail running shoes is essential. Comfortable clothes suited for walking and weather conditions are recommended, along with sun protection.

Can I rent hiking shoes if I don’t have any?
Yes, hiking shoes are available for rent at €5 per pair. Be sure to specify your size when booking.

How long is the hike?
The total distance is about 7.5 km, with an elevation gain of 300 meters. The hike lasts approximately 4 hours, plus additional time for breaks.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 6 years old, mainly due to the physical nature of the hike and terrain.

What’s included in the price?
A certified guide, transportation, hiking poles, a vegetarian sandwich, water, and insurance are included.

When does this tour run?
It takes place every Friday, so check availability and plan accordingly.

If you’re looking for a day of scenic hiking, ecological discovery, and peaceful natural beauty, this Laurisilva Forest tour is a great pick. Just come prepared, and enjoy the lush green wonders of Gran Canaria.

You can check availability for your dates here: