Gran Canaria: a continent in miniature
Gran Canaria, the third-largest of the Canary Islands, is a hiker’s dream. With its diverse landscapes, ranging from lush rainforests to volcanic deserts, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual walker, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to explore the island’s natural beauty. Our guidebook to walking in Gran Canaria is your ideal companion.
Stay in Las Palmas or in the south around Maspalomas/Playa del Inglés
Las Palmas, the island’s capital, is an excellent base for exploring Gran Canaria’s hiking trails. The city offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels.
However most people stay in the south to soak up the sun and for the glorious beaches. So there are excellent transport connections to and from the south.
Roque Nublo
The island’s signature landmark, ‘Cloud Rock’ can either be the goal of a strenuous hike or you can round it on an easy circuit. It is easy to appreciate why it was sacred to the Guanches, the island’s first inhabitants.
Arteara and the Guanche cemetery
The highlight of this walk is the Guanche cemetery — a mass of simple stone graves, lost to the unobservant eye, in a vast welter of rock — an enormous, centuries-old landslide.
Then the hikes follows mostly level tracks in and out of barrancos; it’s easy going, but long.
Barranco de Güígüí
The Barranco de Güígüí is a deep ravine located in the island’s western region. The ravine can only be accessed by boat or on foot.
The hike to the ravine is challenging but rewarding, with the beach at the mouth of the ravine the author’s favourite in the entire archipelago.
The best time to visit Gran Canaria for walking
The best time to visit Gran Canaria for walking is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
However, the island can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering its own unique charm. Christmas is high season, as is Easter, when prices rise.
In summer it is usually not too hot for walking, and that has become a popular time to visit (but with climate change, it is hard to predict temperatures from one year to the next).
Tips for hiking in Gran Canaria
• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear: Our book has suggestions for what to pack.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks: Hiking can be thirsty work, so it’s essential to stay hydrated.
• Respect the environment: Leave no trace and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Check the weather forecast: Gran Canaria’s weather can change quickly on the heights, so it’s important to be aware of the forecast before heading out.
• Don’t take risks!: It is important to carry a mobile or smartphone, to be aware of emergency telephone numbers and to tell a responsible person where you are going and what time you plan to return. Always remember, your speed will be determined by the slowest walker in your group.
Gran Canaria is a hiker’s paradise, offering a diverse range of trails to suit all levels of fitness. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging mountain hike, you’re sure to find the perfect trail to explore. Buy our guidebook to walking in Gran Canaria.
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