Private Bandama Caldera, Botanic Garden(/Wine*), Old Town

If you’re planning a trip to Gran Canaria and looking for a well-rounded experience that combines jaw-dropping scenery, local flora, and a taste of historic charm, this private half-day tour ticks all those boxes. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest this is a smart way to get a sense of the island’s diverse landscape and culture without spending an entire day on the road.

What we love about this tour? First, the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views from Bandama Mountain—a volcanic crater with a commanding panorama of the northeast. Second, the chance to explore the Old Town of Las Palmas, where narrow streets and historic buildings tell stories of the island’s past. One thing to keep in mind is that, depending on your interests, you might prefer the optional wine tasting instead of the botanical garden—an extra cost, but well worth considering if local wines spark your curiosity. This tour seems tailored for those wanting a blend of nature, history, and good food, especially if you enjoy a flexible, private experience.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views from the top of Bandama Caldera.
• An insider look at Las Palmas’ historic Old Town.
• Visit Europe’s largest open-air botanical garden or opt for a local wine tasting.
• The tour is private, with flexible options for pickup and drop-off.
• Knowledgeable guides share insights in multiple languages.
• It’s a 3-hour experience, ideal for those who want a taste of the island without a full-day commitment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What This Tour Offers: A Well-Balanced Itinerary

This half-day excursion is designed to showcase some of Gran Canaria’s most visually impressive spots, packed into roughly three hours. The tour begins conveniently in the heart of Las Palmas, with a meeting point at Lentini near the Monopol traffic lights—an easy spot to find whether you’re staying downtown or arriving by cruise ship.

The Highlights You’ll Love

1. The Caldera de Bandama
One of the main draws here is the volcanic crater itself. Standing at the top, you’re treated to sweeping views of the northeast coast. It’s one of those sights that makes you appreciate the island’s volcanic origins. The caldera last erupted ages ago, creating a perfect volcanic bowl that’s both impressive and a little surreal. The photo stops here give you chances to snap memorable shots of the rugged landscape, and reviews confirm that the view from the summit is spectacular—Elizabeth even mentioned enjoying the “breadth of knowledge” from guides about such formations, which enhances the experience.

2. Botanical Garden or Wine Tasting
Next, you’ll visit Europe’s largest open-air botanical garden, a sprawling space filled with native cacti, pine forests, and an ancient laurel forest. It’s a paradise for plant lovers and those curious about local flora. The guide explains the different plants and trees, making it educational as well as scenic.

However, if wine piques your interest, you can opt for a delicious wine tasting at an old, charming house with a setting that feels authentic and unpretentious. This upgrade costs around €15 per person paid on-site and is a lovely way to enjoy local flavors in a relaxed atmosphere, according to reviews that highlight the quality of wines and tapas served.

3. Old Town of Las Palmas
The tour ends in the Old Town, where you can wander freely—exploring historic streets, enjoying local markets, or just soaking in the lively atmosphere. The guide drops you off here, giving you the flexibility to continue exploring on your own or catch a cab to nearby areas like Santa Catalina or Las Canteras beach for a small extra fee.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Traveling in a private bus means comfort and flexibility. The guide, speaking in English, Spanish, German, and other languages (by request), is praised for their friendliness and knowledge. Elizabeth mentioned that the guide’s “breadth of knowledge about the Canaries” made the trip more engaging, and Robert appreciated how sociable and informative the guide was, sharing insights into local cuisine and flora.

The logistics are straightforward—if you don’t have your own transport, pre-booking a transfer from your hotel or the harbor is encouraged. The extra fee of €15 for a guide and taxi pickup makes the experience even more seamless, especially if you’re arriving via cruise or hotel stay in Las Palmas. For those in Maspalomas or southern resorts, the transfer is a bit pricier (€70), but it saves you the hassle of figuring out local buses or taxis.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $108 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusions: a private guide, flexible pick-up options, and visits to some of the island’s most picturesque sites. If you’re keen on learning about local plants, tasting wines, or simply enjoying panoramic views, the cost aligns well with the experience. Plus, with the possibility of customizing the day—switching botanical gardens for wine tastings, or requesting pick-up from your accommodation—it becomes quite convenient.

More Great Tours Nearby

Deep Dive into Each Stop

Bandama Caldera: A Volcanic Wonder

The caldera is one of the island’s most distinctive natural features. The volcanic crater last erupted long ago, but its shape remains perfectly preserved, offering visitors an almost otherworldly landscape. The view from the top is worth the visit alone—an expansive vista that stretches over the northeast coast, with volcanic hills and lush patches of greenery. Many reviews mention how striking and photogenic this spot is, making it perfect for a quick photo session or just soaking in the vastness.

Botanical Garden or Wine Tasting: Nature or Flavors?

The botanical garden is a sprawling outdoor space where you’ll see cacti of all sizes and the lush laurel and pine forests. It’s educational and scenic, perfect for those interested in native plants or simply wanting a peaceful walk among beautiful greenery. The guide’s explanations enrich the visit, revealing interesting facts about the local flora.

Alternatively, the wine tasting experience offers a chance to sample local wines and tapas in a cozy setting. The reviews highlight the quality of wines served and the friendly atmosphere. It’s a relaxing stop, especially if you’re a wine enthusiast or want to experience a taste of local gastronomy.

Exploring the Old Town

The final stop drops you right into the historic heart of Las Palmas. The old streets are full of character, with traditional shops, markets, and charming cafes. Elizabeth loved the “breadth of knowledge” from the guide about local history, which made wandering here even more interesting. You have time to explore at your own pace, perhaps visiting landmarks linked to Columbus or Conquistadors, or simply enjoying the vibrant street life.

Practical Aspects and Tips

• Duration & Timing: The tour lasts around 3 hours, making it perfect for a half-day adventure. Check availability to find a start time that suits your schedule.
• Transportation: The private bus ensures comfort, but if you’re arriving by cruise or staying outside Las Palmas, pre-booking a transfer is a good idea—especially for hassle-free logistics.
• Cost Considerations: The main tour cost is $108, with optional extras like wine tasting (€15) or transfers (€15 from Las Palmas, more from Maspalomas). These add-ons can enhance your experience but are not mandatory.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes are recommended—many walking stops are involved, and the terrain can be uneven at the caldera or botanical gardens.
• Language & Guides: Multilingual guides are available, making it accessible for diverse travelers. Their knowledge and friendly tone are often praised in reviews.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals to travelers who want a mix of nature, history, and local culture without dedicating an entire day. It’s suited for those who appreciate small, private tours with flexible options. If you’re interested in botanical gardens or local wines, this tour offers good choices at a reasonable price. It’s also great for first-time visitors wanting a curated overview of Gran Canaria’s highlights without the pressure of large group tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour is private and flexible, it’s mainly designed for adults interested in sightseeing, nature, or wine tasting. Children could enjoy the scenery, but it might not be specifically family-focused.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers options like swapping the botanical garden for wine tasting, and the guide can arrange different drop-off points or pickups.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 3 hours, making it ideal if you want a quick yet comprehensive glimpse of the island’s highlights.

Are the guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, Spanish, German, French, Portuguese, and Italian, with special requests possible.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the private guide, transportation, and drop-off at the Old Town. Insurance is also included.

Are transfers necessary?
Pre-booking transfers from your accommodation or the harbor simplifies logistics, especially if arriving by ship or staying outside Las Palmas.

Can I stay longer in the Old Town after the tour?
Absolutely. The guide drops you off there, giving you free time to explore, shop, or grab a bite.

What about the wine tasting optional upgrade?
It costs €15 on-site and is highly recommended if you enjoy local wines and tapas. Be sure to pre-order via WhatsApp if you’re interested.

Is the tour wheelchair or mobility accessible?
The provided information doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to contact the operator if you have specific needs.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a nicely curated experience of Gran Canaria’s natural beauty and historic charm. With stunning views from Bandama Caldera, the chance to wander through Europe’s largest outdoor botanical garden, and a stroll through Las Palmas’ Old Town, you get a well-rounded taste of the island in just a few hours.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who value comfort, personalized attention, and flexibility. The optional wine tasting adds a lovely local flavor, making it a versatile choice whether you’re interested primarily in scenery, culture, or gastronomy.

While it may not be packed with adrenaline or adventure, this tour provides a peaceful and visually rich snapshot of Gran Canaria—perfect for first-timers and those who want a gentle, informative introduction to the island’s highlights.

Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply want a relaxed way to explore, this experience can fit seamlessly into your itinerary, helping you create lasting memories without feeling rushed.

###

You can check availability for your dates here: