Gran Canaria from the Heights: Fataga and Tejeda

If you’re looking to see the best of Gran Canaria’s interior without the hassle of planning every detail, this “Gran Canaria from the Heights: Fataga and Tejeda” tour might be just what you need. It promises a mix of breathtaking views, authentic villages, and fascinating local insights—all packed into a manageable day trip. We’ve seen plenty of tours on the island, but this one stands out for its focus on scenic viewpoints and the chance to learn about local wellness traditions like Aloe Vera farming.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances spectacular scenery with cultural spots, giving you that feeling of understanding both the land and its people. Plus, the value for money seems solid, considering the stops and the included guide. On the flip side, a potential downside is that it’s quite a long day—if you’re not used to early mornings or full schedules, it might feel a bit rushed, especially with over an hour at Tejeda.

This tour suits travelers who love outdoor beauty, scenic drives, and charming villages. It’s particularly good for those wanting a relaxed yet informative day without the hassle of self-driving or organizing multiple stops. If you’re after a comprehensive look at Gran Canaria’s core natural and cultural highlights, it’s a strong choice.

Key Points

• Stunning viewpoints: The Mirador Degollada offers panoramic views of the Valley of a Thousand Palms.
• Cultural visits: Exploring villages like Fataga and Tejeda reveals authentic Canaria life and architecture.
• Natural wellness: Learning about Aloe Vera and its uses adds a unique local touch.
• Well-organized itinerary: The trip includes carefully planned stops with some free time to explore.
• Long but rewarding day: The full itinerary takes about 8-9 hours, ideal for those ready for a full schedule.
• Great value for scenery and culture: The price includes transportation, guide, and several memorable sights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off with pick-up options at around 33 different locations in the south of Gran Canaria. That’s a real plus—no need to worry about renting a car or figuring out public transport. Once onboard, the journey begins with a comfortable bus ride lasting about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in and get excited for the day ahead.

Mirador Degollada de la Yegua: A View to Remember

Your first stop is the Mirador Astronómico de la Degollada de las Yeguas. Here, you’ll be treated to views that are truly postcard-worthy. From this vantage point, the Valley of a Thousand Palms spreads out below, framed by mountains and sky. It’s a perfect moment to snap some photos or just soak in the scenery. Many visitors mention that this view alone makes the trip worthwhile, helping you appreciate the island’s diverse landscape.

Aloe Vera Farm: Learning about Natural Wellness

Next up is a visit to an Aloe Vera farm, where you’ll learn how this plant is cultivated and transformed into wellness products. If you’re into natural remedies or beauty products, this spot offers insights into local practices and the plant’s versatility. Several reviews mention the farm as a highlight, especially as it provides a glimpse into traditional agriculture and local entrepreneurship. It’s a relaxing stop that’s both educational and sensory, as you might get to see, smell, and even sample some Aloe Vera products.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Village of Fataga: A Quaint Mountain Retreat

After the farm, you’ll visit Fataga, often called a “little Venice” because of its whitewashed houses and cobbled streets. The village is small but charming, with vibrant bougainvillea and a peaceful atmosphere. The 20-minute free time gives you an opportunity to stroll, take photos, or just sit quietly and enjoy the mountain air. Many visitors say this is one of the most photogenic spots on the island, with a tranquility that feels worlds away from the busy beaches.

Tejeda: The Highlighted Village

The largest chunk of free time is spent in Tejeda—about 105 minutes—allowing plenty of room for exploration. Recognized as one of Spain’s prettiest villages, Tejeda offers great views of Roque Nublo, one of Gran Canaria’s iconic volcanic formations. You can enjoy local pastries, which are famous here, or simply soak up the serene mountain setting. The Mirador Degollada de Becerra nearby also provides stunning vistas. According to reviews, this stop is the “best in terms of scenery and atmosphere,” giving you a taste of authentic Canarian mountain life.

Scenic Photo Stops and Return Journey

The tour includes a couple of additional short stops for photos, with a final scenic overlook before the bus heads back south. The whole trip lasts roughly 8-9 hours, with the bus ride itself clocking in at around 75 minutes total. The buses are comfortable, and the group sizes are typically manageable, making the day feel leisurely rather than rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Spectacular views are the star here. From the mountain overlooks to the quaint villages, the constant visual feast makes it a top choice for landscape lovers. The inclusion of an Aloe Vera farm adds a local touch that differentiates it from purely sightseeing tours. The itinerary strikes a good balance between guided commentary and free time, so you can customize your experience—whether snapping photos, sitting quietly, or grabbing a snack.

Based on reviews, the value for the tour is seen as quite fair. The price covers transport, a knowledgeable guide, and access to several scenic and cultural sites. It’s a good option for those who want an organized day without the stress of planning each stop themselves.

Potential Downsides

If you’re not a fan of long days, this might be a bit much. With around 9 hours, it’s a full schedule, and some might find the long bus rides tiring. Also, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or motion sickness—since it involves quite a bit of travelling on the bus and walking at stops. Keep in mind that some of the stops are brief, so if you love having hours at each destination, this might feel a little rushed.

Who Is It Best For?

This tour is ideal if you’re looking for a scenic, well-rounded day that offers a taste of Gran Canaria’s natural beauty and authentic villages. It’s especially good for travelers who enjoy photography, outdoor scenery, and local culture but prefer to leave the driving and logistics to someone else. If you’re traveling with others who appreciate a mix of landscape and culture, most will find this trip rewarding.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from the south of Gran Canaria is included, and transportation is by comfortable bus.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 8 to 9 hours, including stops and free time.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price, but you’ll have time to buy souvenirs or snacks during free periods.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour isn’t specifically geared towards children, but if you’re comfortable with long bus rides and walking, older kids might enjoy it. It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or motion sickness.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking through villages and scenic viewpoints.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
Guides speak both English and Spanish; content is available in both languages.

Is the tour good value?
Most reviews suggest it’s good value, given the scenic stops, guide, and included transportation.

Will I get good photos?
Absolutely. The viewpoints are highly photogenic, especially Mirador Degollada and Roque Nublo views from Tejeda.

Are pets or food allowed on the bus?
Pets and food/drinks are not allowed in the vehicle.

Final Thoughts

This Gran Canaria from the Heights tour offers a carefully curated glimpse into the island’s most stunning mountain landscapes and charming villages. It’s well-suited for travelers craving a day of natural beauty and authentic village life without the hassle of organizing multiple stops themselves. The included viewpoints and local insights help bring the island’s landscape and culture to life in a way that’s both relaxing and inspiring.

While it’s a longer day and not designed for those with mobility issues, the experience’s overall quality and the breathtaking scenery make it a worthwhile option for most visitors. If you’re eager to see Gran Canaria from above, learn about local wellness traditions, and capture some memorable photos, this tour could very well be your highlight.

This tour is a solid choice for anyone looking to experience Gran Canaria’s natural and cultural charms in a single day—especially if stunning views and authentic villages top your list.

You can check availability for your dates here: