Mountain bike excursions

If you’re considering a mountain biking adventure in Gran Canaria, there’s a tour that promises an escape into some of the island’s most breathtaking landscapes. While this experience isn’t for everyone—especially if you’re not quite at a moderate fitness level or expecting all equipment to be provided—it offers a chance to see parts of the island that are often missed by typical travelers.

What we really appreciate about this tour are the expert guides who seem dedicated to making the experience enjoyable. The fact that snacks, water, and even photos are included adds a nice touch of value. On the flip side, a potential hitch is the ambiguity around bike inclusions, which has caused some confusion for past travelers. This tour is best suited for those who love outdoor activity, enjoy scenic views, and prefer small-group experiences for more personalized attention.

Key Points
– Scenic routes through iconic parks like Nublo and Pilancones offer memorable views.
– Small groups make for a more tailored experience and easier navigation of tough sections.
– Mechanical assistance during the ride helps keep the adventure smooth, even if you encounter minor issues.
– Snacks and photos are included, adding extra value for a full day of activity.
– Bicycle use is not included, so you’ll need your own or rent separately.
– The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness levels, so prepare accordingly.

An Overview of the Experience

This mountain bike tour in Gran Canaria is designed to take you into the rugged, scenic heart of the island. Starting at an altitude of 1,950 meters, it’s a journey that promises fantastic views and a variety of terrains. The tour is roughly 3 to 5 hours long, depending on your pace and stops, and features a small group size—up to 8 travelers—which helps ensure everyone gets personalized attention.

The tour is organized by Gravity Center, a provider with a clear focus on quality guidance and safety. They handle transportation, provide mechanical assistance, and even take photographs during the ride, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery rather than worrying about logistics. The price of around $89.80 per person is a decent value, considering the included snacks, drinks, and videos.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Parque Rural del Nublo

The adventure kicks off at the Parque Rural del Nublo, a must-see spot that offers some of Gran Canaria’s most iconic vistas. Expect to see sweeping views of volcanic landscapes and the impressive Nublo rock formation itself. Here, the focus is on soaking in the natural beauty, with no admission fee, which makes it even more accessible.

While the ride here lasts about three hours, the actual enjoyment comes from the scenery and gentle riding. Past participants have highlighted how guide Manuel made the experience stand out, noting his effort to capture photos and videos of everyone. The landscape is a natural highlight—an open space that’s perfect for photos and simply taking in the fresh air.

Stop 2: Parque Natural Pilancones

Next, the route takes you into the Pinar of Pilancones. This part of the tour immerses you in lush greenery and pine forests, offering a different kind of visual treat. It’s a chance to breathe in the pine-scented air and enjoy the quiet of the natural park.

Expect another three hours of riding, with the focus on enjoying the surroundings rather than pushing physical limits. One reviewer appreciated the effort of the guide, especially when some riders struggled with the terrain, emphasizing that guide effort is a real plus for this experience. Like the first stop, there’s no entrance fee, so you’re only paying for the guided experience and transportation.

Stop 3: Barranco de Guayadeque

The final highlight is the Barranco de Guayadeque, a stunning ravine that extends deep into the island’s interior. The ride here is more dramatic, with steep drops and impressive geological formations. It’s a visually striking part of the tour and offers a real sense of adventure.

This stop also lasts around three hours, and the terrain offers a mix of challenges and stunning views. Past reviews speak to the guide’s dedication—making a genuine effort to ensure everyone stays safe and engaged. The ravine’s depth and rugged beauty make it a fitting climax to the day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers your transportation from the meeting point, snacks, drinks, and high-resolution photos and videos. These little extras go a long way in making the experience feel more complete and less stressful. The snacks include sandwiches, energy bars, water, and soda—perfect for refueling after some pedaling.

However, bicycle use is not included, which is a point worth noting. You’ll need to bring your own bike or rent one separately. This can be a downside if you’re expecting a fully inclusive package or haven’t arranged your bike ahead of time, especially since there was a review mentioning confusion about bike inclusion. Make sure to clarify this before booking or plan to rent locally.

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour departs daily from the Gravity Center in Vecindario, Las Palmas, around 9:30 am, and it wraps up back at the start point. The maximum group size is small—only 8 travelers—so you won’t find yourself lost in a crowd. This is nice if you prefer a more personalized experience, but it also means spots can fill up quickly, especially if you’re booking a week in advance, which most travelers seem to do.

Given the moderate physical fitness requirement, this tour is accessible for many, but be prepared for some challenging sections. The guide’s effort to assist and support riders who struggle was highlighted by a reviewer who appreciated how much they tried to accommodate everyone’s pace.

Balancing Value and Experience

At around $89.80, this tour is reasonably priced considering what’s included. The three stops in beautiful parks, the transportation, snacks, photos, and guided support all add up to a well-rounded package. That said, the absence of bike inclusion means you’ll need to plan ahead to rent or bring your own bicycle—adding a layer of complexity if you weren’t already prepared.

The shared experiences from past travelers emphasize the professionalism of the guides and their dedication. Manuel, in particular, gets praise for making the ride special. The effort to make the tour engaging—taking photos, offering mechanical help—really enhances the overall value.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits outdoor lovers who want to see some of Gran Canaria’s natural highlights without tackling overly technical trails. It’s good for those with moderate fitness levels and an appreciation for scenic mountain landscapes. If you enjoy guided tours with small groups and are comfortable arranging your own bike, this could be a great choice.

However, if you’re expecting an all-inclusive package or don’t have your bike sorted, you might find some hassle. The tour’s flexibility and personalized approach make it ideal for travelers who want a more intimate, less commercial experience—and who value expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the bike included in the tour?
No, the use of bicycle is not included. You’ll need to bring your own or rent separately.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience takes approximately 3 to 5 hours, depending on stops and pace.

What is the fitness level required?
A moderate physical fitness level is recommended. The terrain can be challenging but is manageable for most intermediate riders.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends at the Gravity Center in Vecindario, Las Palmas.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, snacks, water, soda, and an energy sandwich are included in the price.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellation is free if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Full refund applies.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly advertised as family-friendly, the moderate pace and scenic stops could appeal to older children and teens comfortable with mountain biking. Always check your child’s fitness level and biking experience before booking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an active way to explore Gran Canaria’s stunning natural scenery, this mountain bike excursion offers a well-rounded, guided experience that balances adventure with comfort. The small group size, expert guidance, and included photos make it an appealing option for those who love outdoor activities. Just clarify the bike rental details beforehand, and be prepared for some physical effort.

It’s not the most budget-friendly or all-inclusive experience, but the chance to ride through iconic parks like Nublo and Barranco de Guayadeque, with professional support and scenic vistas, makes it worthwhile for enthusiasts. Whether you’re visiting solo, as a couple, or with friends who enjoy cycling, this tour could be a highlight of your Gran Canaria trip.