Gran Canaria: Full-Day VIP Tour by Bus

This experience made our article of Discover 15 Great Full-Day Tours In Gran Canaria.

Discover Gran Canaria’s Beauty with the Full-Day VIP Bus Tour

Thinking about exploring Gran Canaria beyond the typical beaches? This Full-Day VIP Tour by Bus offers a chance to see the island’s charming villages, lush valleys, and volcanic landscapes all in one day. It’s a pretty good option if you want a taste of the island’s varied scenery without the hassle of driving or planning multiple stops yourself.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the knowledgeable guides who bring each site to life with details that enrich your understanding. Plus, the stunning views you’ll encounter—especially crossing Roque Nublo and passing through pine forests—are definitely a highlight. On the flip side, some travelers mention that the tour duration can feel a bit tight, especially if you’re eager to spend longer at certain stops.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy organized excursions with comfortable transport, and who prefer to see a variety of sights without the stress of navigating on their own. If you’re okay with a full day out (roughly 9 hours) and want to get a broad overview of Gran Canaria’s interior, this could be a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioned buses makes the day easy and relaxing.
• Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the island’s culture, history, and natural features.
• Most stops showcase spectacular landscapes like canyons, pine forests, and volcanic rock formations.
• The value for money is quite good, especially considering the included stops, guide, and transport.
• Lunch isn’t included, so plan ahead or opt for the available options at stops.
• The tour is around 9 hours, making it a comprehensive yet manageable day trip.

What to Expect on the Tour

This tour kicks off with a pickup at a designated point, in a modern, air-conditioned bus. From there, it’s about exploring the island’s interior—away from the beaches and tourist spots—and focusing on authentic villages and natural wonders.

Starting Point and First Stops

You’ll begin by passing through Agüimes, a pretty traditional village with an old aboriginal quarter. It’s a quick glimpse into local life before heading toward Guayadeque, one of the most dramatic features of the tour. Here, you’ll explore the caves—these aren’t just tourist spots but actually inhabited and historically significant. It’s a chance to walk through a different kind of landscape that shows how locals have adapted to their environment.

Aloe Vera Plantation

Next, you get to visit an Aloe Vera plantation. This is more than just a photo stop—you’re invited to learn about the plant’s healing properties, and you might even get to test some of the products on your skin. It’s a practical stop that adds a bit of local industry insight and could be helpful if you’re into natural remedies.

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Northward to Firgas

After that, the tour heads north to Firgas, a town renowned for its charming streets and waterfalls. Many reviews mention that this is a peaceful, scenic spot where you can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy local architecture and views.

Passing Through the Green Interior

The drive through the Valley of a Thousand Pine Trees is a standout. You’ll cross mountain peaks and pass through forests of pine and almond trees, offering great photo opportunities. The landscape here is especially impressive, with canyons, volcanic rock formations like Roque Nublo, and lush greenery.

The Village of Fataga and Other Highlights

One of the most celebrated stops is Fataga, nestled in the “Valley of a Thousand Palm Trees.” Many reviews highlight how picturesque and authentic this village feels, with narrow streets and traditional architecture. It’s a perfect spot for a quick exploration, a photo or two, and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

End of the Day

The tour wraps up with a return to your starting point, passing through more scenic areas and farms. Keep in mind, the exact timing can vary depending on traffic and the number of stops, but most reviews note the full day is quite fulfilling.

The Experience and the People

One of the real strengths of this tour is the guides and drivers. Multiple reviews praise the guides for their helpfulness and knowledge. For example, several mention how Carmelo and other guides explained the sites nicely and kept the group engaged. The driver, especially noted for his skill on challenging roads, deserves recognition for getting everyone safely to those scenic spots.

The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for personal interactions and questions. Many travelers appreciated the comfort of the transportation, with some noting the bus was clean and well-maintained.

Price and Value

At $56 per person, this tour offers solid value. Considering it includes transport, guiding, and visits to multiple sites, it’s a cost-effective way to see parts of Gran Canaria you might not reach on your own. The fact that you’re accompanied by an expert guide enhances the experience, making it more informative than just a sightseeing drive.

What About Food?

Lunch isn’t included, which some might see as a downside, especially on a 9-hour trip. However, most stops have options for food and drinks, with reviewers mentioning that the available food was good and reasonably priced. There’s also the opportunity to bring snacks or water, especially for the longer stretches.

Considerations for Travelers

• The duration can feel a bit rushed if you want to spend more time at each stop. Some reviews mention wishing for extra minutes at Firgas or Roque Nublo.
• The road conditions are sometimes described as “scary,” especially on narrow mountain roads, so this trip might not be suitable if you’re uneasy about driving in such conditions.
• Mobility issues could be a concern, as the tour isn’t designed for electric wheelchairs, and some sites involve walking.

Who Will Love This Tour

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Gran Canaria’s interior without the hassle of driving themselves. It’s perfect if you appreciate nature, picturesque villages, and cultural insights. The guide’s commentary and scenic stops make it a more enriching experience than just sitting on a bus.

If you’re traveling with friends or a family that enjoys sightseeing, the mix of landscapes and cultural stops will keep everyone engaged. Just be prepared for a full day, and consider your comfort on winding mountain roads.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from your hotel or the nearest designated point is included, in touristic areas. However, note there’s no pickup or drop-off in Las Palmas or at the Harbour—you’ll need to go to Parque Tropical by yourself.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, including return transfers. Exact times can vary based on traffic and stops.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if needed.

Is lunch included in the price?
No, lunch isn’t included, but many stops have food options, and the reviews suggest the available meals are reasonably priced and tasty.

What languages are guides available in?
The tour offers guides in Spanish, German, and English, so check which language suits you best when booking.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, and electric wheelchairs aren’t allowed. The full-day nature and mountain roads might be better suited to older children or adults.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, some water, sun protection, and perhaps a light jacket for higher elevations. Remember that some stops involve walking but facilities are usually available.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Gran Canaria Full-Day VIP Tour by Bus offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s landscapes, villages, and natural wonders. The value is compelling, especially with a friendly guide and scenic stops that make the long day worthwhile. If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and picturesque way to explore the island’s interior, this tour deserves consideration.

While it might feel a bit rushed at times and roads can be tricky, the overall experience—highlighted by stunning views, insightful guides, and authentic villages—is likely to leave you with a deeper appreciation for Gran Canaria beyond its beaches. It’s a solid choice for those who want to see a broad slice of the island in comfort and style.

You can check availability for your dates here: