Gran Canaria boasts a backdrop of beautiful beaches, volcanic valleys and sleepy colonial villages. What with its tasty cuisine and crowd-pleasing line-up of attractions and activities, it’s fair to say that there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Gran Canaria. From water sports and hiking trails to the history-steeped capital, Las Palmas, you’ll find something for adventurers, nature lovers and families alike.
Top six things to do in Gran Canaria
1. Explore the Maspalomas Dunes
The vast sand dunes of Maspalomas are a must-see in Gran Canaria. Because they’ve got a very fragile ecosystem, the dunes are a protected nature reserve and need to be explored with care. Join a guided sunrise or sunset tour of the Maspalomas Dunes for an extra-special experience.
2. Get involved with some watersports
Gran Canaria’s mild climate makes it the perfect place for water sports. You can pick between sailing, windsurfing, body-boarding, surfing and scuba diving – so you’ll be spoiled for choice. And if you’d rather skip the adrenaline rush, there are lots of laid-back nautical activities to choose from, such as glass-bottom boat trips and sunset cruises.
3. Go wild whale and dolphin watching
Book a wild whale and dolphin-watching cruise in Gran Canaria for your chance to see an array of marine life. The island’s waters are home to whale species that are there all year round, and those that pass by as they migrate, so you’re almost guaranteed sightings no matter what time of year you visit. You’re in with the chance of seeing dolphins play, jump and splash around your boat. Several boat tours depart daily from Puerto Rico.
4. Get to know the capital, Las Palmas
The island’s capital is a great place to base yourself, or visit on a daytrip, thanks to its buzzing restaurant and nightlife scene, great beaches and history-steeped centre. Visit the colourful old town, Vegueta, and discover cobblestone alleys, monuments and palaces. If you visit Las Palmas in February, be prepared to see carnival celebrations tohat rival those in Rio and New Orleans.
5. Take in the views from Roque Nublo
If you’re looking for a prime hiking spot, look no further than Nublo Rural Park. Here, you’ll find Roque Nublo – an ancient volcanic rock – which is one of the largest crags in the world. The 360-degree views from the top will have you reaching for your camera. It takes about 10 minutes to reach Roque Nublo via a walking trail starting at La Goleta car park.
6. Taste traditional food and drink
Delve into Gran Canaria’s culinary scene and taste your way through the island’s most popular dishes with a food tour. Try local delicacies like papas arrugadas con mojo – these so-called ‘wrinkled’ potatoes are cooked in extra-salty water and smothered with a spicy sauce. You can also tuck in to Flor de Guía cheese – thistle flowers give it its unique flavour – and freshly caught fish. Wine-lovers can head to the local vineyards and bodegas in the northeast to learn about the winemakers’ age-old processes and taste some of their wines.
