Unique Experiences on Gran Canaria

While for many Gran Canaria is a holiday island paradise, there is more to the island than its wonderful climate, sandy beaches and blue seas. It is the ideal holiday destination for those who like a varied trip. There are plenty of opportunities to relax, but also take part in active adventure sports and find out about its history and culture. If you are looking for a unique experience on this wonderful island, you will certainly have a number of options to choose from. Below we will explore our 4 favourite experiences, that will also give you an overview of the different sorts of activities available on the island.

 

#1 Stargazing

Gran Canaria is one of the best places in Europe to stargaze. Its position nearer the equator, low level cloud, limited light pollution and laws regulating air traffic create the perfect conditions for unforgettable views of the cosmos. Taking a workshop with stargazing tour company is a great way to explore the night sky. You will be picked up from your hotel 90 minutes before sunset and taken to the mountains in the west of Gran Canaria where light pollution is at is lowest. There with the company’s large 16’’ telescopes you will be shown the wonders of the night sky. You will receive expert guidance on reading the sky and be able to spot the constellations of the north and south hemispheres. Through the telescope you can see planets, nebulae and galaxies in more detail. The amazing sight of the stars all around you is simply breathtaking!

 

 

#2 Experience the Sea Life

The Canary Islands are home to a rich variety of marine life including several species of whales, dolphins, eels, fish and of course sea turtles! One of the best ways to experience this beautiful array of wildlife is to explore it up close by snorkelling, diving or via a boat trip. There are plenty of options around Gran Canaria to choose from. You can combine a sailing tour with snorkelling in the best spots around the coast or choose to take a day diving and explore the island’s impressive volcanic features below the waves. There are reefs, strange volcanic formations and even wrecks to be explored!

 

 

#3 Hike the Caldera de Bandama

The striking site of this 1000 metres wide, 216 metres deep crater is awe inspiring! It was formed around 2000 years ago and is named after a 16^th Flemish merchant, Van Damme who settled around the crater and plated vineyards. The are still produces wine and after your hike, make sure to treat yourself to a glass of the local Rioja! The hike down to the base of the crater will take around 30 minutes down a well-marked route and slightly longer to hike back up the steep walls. It is a moderate hike and you will need to have boots as the path can be slippery in places with much gravel. It is a wonderful hike into a different world full of fragrant eucalyptus and orange trees and alive with the sound of insects, lizards and birds of prey.

 

 

#4 See Ancient Cave Paintings

Gran Canaria is home to the Cueva Pintida or Painted Cave, unique to the Canary Islands and a fascinating place to visit. The pre-Hispanic cave has beautiful geometric patters that are thought to be some sort of calendar and are full of symbolism and iconography unique to this civilisation. There are also the remains of a pre-Hispanic settlement on the site as the modern town of Galdar is situated on the island’s ancient capital, Agaldar. Visitors can find out all about this ancient history on a guided tour. The archaeological remains are protected from the elements by an enclosed shelter with suspended walkways enabling visitors a closer look at what the island’s original inhabitants left behind. Make sure to book your tour in advance and gain an insight into the island’s past.