If you are a lover of hiking and nature, Gran Canaria is a destination not to be missed. This volcanic island, with its diverse landscape, offers routes for all levels, from gentle hikes in green forests to challenging ascents of towering peaks. Discover some of the best routes in Gran Canaria to enjoy spectacular scenery, ancient history and unique wildlife.
Why do routes in Gran Canaria?
Adventure is guaranteed in Gran Canaria, with its great diversity of landscapes including volcanoes, forests, ravines and dunes. Thanks to its stable climate all year round, the routes in Gran Canaria are ideal for hiking in all seasons.
These routes offer breathtaking views and safe trails, allowing hikers to connect deeply with nature. From easy routes to challenging ascents, the routes in Gran Canaria are suitable for all levels. You will also be able to enjoy the local flora and fauna, such as the blue chaffinch and the pigeon rabichemaking each tour unique.
So, if you are looking for a destination for your next adventure, Gran Canaria is the perfect place to enjoy hiking surrounded by natural beauty.
The best routes in Gran Canaria
1. Pico de las Nieves - Roque Nublo route
This route is an unmissable classic in Gran Canaria, starting from the Pico de las Nievesat an altitude of over 1,900 metres. From here, the trail descends between canary pine trees y brooms to the emblematic Roque NubloThe volcanic monolith is 80 metres high. Along the route, you will be able to enjoy the rich flora of the island, such as bejeques y tajinasteswhile contemplating breathtaking views of the island.
On the way, you can observe birds such as the blue chaffinchthe long-eared owl and the common kestrelas well as reptiles such as the giant lizards of Gran Canaria. This route offers a perfect combination of nature, history and spectacular landscapes, being one of the best options to enjoy the island's biodiversity.
Distance: 6 km
Difficulty: Media
Duration: 2 h 30 min
One of the routes in Gran Canaria most recommended for first-time visitors to the island.
2. Route of the Lime Trees of Moya
Looking for shade, coolness and lush vegetation? This route is for you. Located in the north of Gran Canaria, the Los Tilos de Moya Nature Reserve preserves one of the last fragments of laurisilvaa subtropical rainforest. In this environment grow vineyards, laurels, barbusanos y giant fernscreating a cool and sombre atmosphere.
The trail will take you through gullies and waterfallswhere you can observe birds such as the capiblanco blackbird and the pigeon rabicheas well as native reptiles. This route is ideal for those looking for a quiet hiking experience, surrounded by nature in its purest state.
Distance: 2 km
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 1 h
Perfect if you want to discover one of the routes in Gran Canaria greener and more accessible.
3. Guayadeque Ravine Route
This route is undoubtedly a jewel of the southeast of Gran Canaria. The Guayadeque Ravine stands out as one of the oldest and most spectacular landscapes in the Canary Islands, offering breathtaking views and unique biodiversity. Here, you can find tabaibas, teasels, canary dragon trees y cactusThe plants, which bring colour and life to this arid landscape.
In addition, the ravine is home to numerous natural cavesThe visitor will also be able to see the local fauna, such as the native fauna of the Canary Islands, such as the Canary Islanders. Along the route, you will also be able to observe the native fauna, such as the giant lizards of Gran CanariaThe endemic bumblebees and various species of bats that inhabit the caves.
Therefore, this route is ideal for those who are looking for not only a natural tour, but also an immersion in local history and culture. With its breathtaking views and unique connection to the island's past, the Barranco de Guayadeque is, without a doubt, an unforgettable experience.
Distance: Variable
Difficulty: Media
Duration: 2 to 4 hours, depending on the section chosen
One of the routes in Gran Canaria with the greatest ecological and ethnographic value.
4. Route around the Caldera de Bandama
Have you ever been inside a volcano? In the Bandama Caldera you can. This volcanic crater is home to a unique ecosystem with species like white sage, mastic, wild olive trees y cornicalesadapted to the volcanic terrain.
It is also home to birds such as the loggerhead shrikethe canary stonechat and the robinThe caldera offers an excellent opportunity for wildlife spotting enthusiasts. Arriving at the edge of the caldera, you will be rewarded with one of the most panoramic views in Gran Canaria, including the north coast and surrounding mountains.
If you're looking for a route that combines nature, volcanic history and spectacular views, the Bandama Caldera is ideal, giving you a unique experience on the island.
Distance: 3.2 km
Difficulty: Media
Duration: 1 h 30 min
A different and perfect option if you are looking for routes in Gran Canaria close to the capital.
5. Fallen Crag and the Sacred Mountains
A cultural experience with Senda Ecoway
If you're looking for a route that combines history, nature and spirituality, the guided tour to Fallen Crag and the Sacred Mountains is one of the most unique experiences in Gran Canaria. This place, declared World Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, is home to vestiges of the first Canary Island civilisations, such as cave engravings, sacred caves and rock formations that connect the present with the past of the aboriginal Canary Islanders.
The route takes place along sabinas, rockroses y broomsand you will be able to observe the typical fauna of the island, such as the Gran Canaria blue chaffinchwhich is endemic to the island, and birds such as the kestrel y giant lizards. This volcanic and rugged landscape is also home to medicinal flora which has been traditionally used in folk medicine.
During this experience with Ecoway PathThe guides will share with you details about the geology of the place, the historical development of the island and the relationship between the natural formations and the culture of the aboriginal Canary Islanders. Without a doubt, this is one of the routes in Gran Canaria culturally richer, perfect for those interested in the island's history and biodiversity.
What does this activity include? Local guide, hiking equipment, transport (optional) and insurance.
👉 Find out more about Fallen Crag on the UNESCO website
Read more about the Sacred Mountains of Gran Canaria
6. Guided tour to Roque Nublo
The classic, but with a different twist
The Roque Nublo is one of the best-known symbols of Gran Canaria and one of the most important routes in Gran Canaria most travelled. This 80-metre high volcanic monolith is one of the most impressive natural structures on the island. Although it is a popular destination, to do so with the unique approach of Ecoway Path offers a much more in-depth experience, where you will learn not only about the geography of the island, but also about its flora and fauna.
The road leading to the Roque Nublo is surrounded by canary pine trees, brooms, bejeques y tajinastesplants that give colour and life to this volcanic landscape. During the tour, the guides from Ecoway Path They will explain the geological origin of Roque Nublo and its importance in the mythology of the ancient Canarians. In addition, you will have the opportunity to observe birds such as the buzzard eaglethe blue chaffinch and the common kestrelThe area is a great place to enjoy the breathtaking views of the centre of the island.
What does this activity include? Expert local guide, hiking equipment, transport (optional), insurance and geological and botanical explanation.
👉 Book your place here
Check the weather forecast for the ascent of Roque Nublo in aemet
More about Roque Nublo in the Rural Park
7. Trekking to Ventana del Nublo
Spectacular views and mountain silence
The Ventana del Nublo is one of the most unique rock formations on Gran Canaria. This trail will take you to the top of the island, from where you will have an amazing view of the Roque Nublo and the rest of the island's volcanic landscape. Along the way, you'll be surrounded by lush vegetation, including canary pine, gallocrestas, tajinastes and several species of lichens that cover the stones.
Along the route, you will be able to observe a great diversity of wildlife, including birds such as the blue chaffinchthe tomato warbler and, with any luck, the loggerhead shrike. This is one of the routes in Gran Canaria which offers peace and serenity, ideal for nature lovers and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
The tour is designed for all levels and, during the tour, a local guide will provide you with valuable information about the rock formations, the island's ecosystem and the legends surrounding the island. Ventana del Nublo.
What does this activity include? Expert guide, hiking equipment, insurance and optional transport.
👉 Discover this route here
More about trails in the Nublo Rural Park
8. The Rainforest Tour: Doramas Forest
Explore the Canarian rainforest with Senda Ecoway
The Doramas Forest is one of the few places in Gran Canaria where you can get into an environment of laurisilva and discover what the island's original forests were like. This humid and green ecosystem, unique in the Canary Islands, is home to an exuberant flora, with species such as vineyards, barbusanos y tree ferns. You can also enjoy the rich fauna of the area, which includes birds such as the pigeon rabichethe wren and the canary blackbirdand reptiles such as the giant lizard of Gran Canaria.
Ecoway Path offers you a guided tour of this unique environment, where you will learn about the biodiversity, natural history and ecological importance of this subtropical forest. This is an ideal place for those who want to escape the heat and enjoy the shade and coolness that the nature of the summits offers. It is, without a doubt, one of the routes in Gran Canaria lesser known but of great natural value.
What does this activity include? Expert local guide, hiking equipment, insurance and transport (optional).
👉 Book your place on this unique tour
Discover the ecological value of the Doramas Forest
Visit the Doramas Natural Park
Conclusion
Routes in Gran Canaria offer a unique experience for hiking enthusiasts, with stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity and a climate that allows you to enjoy nature all year round. From breathtaking ravines to lush forests, each route connects you to the essence of the island. Whether you're looking for a leisurely hike or a bigger challenge, Gran Canaria has something for you. No matter your level, you'll always find a trail that inspires you to explore - get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of the Canary Islands' most fascinating destinations!
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