Gran Canaria: excursion to the Barranco de los Cernícalos

If you’re seeking a truly authentic way to explore the wild side of Gran Canaria, the excursion to Barranco de los Cernícalos offers just that. This guided hike delivers a deep dive into volcanic landscapes, lush vegetation, and rich biodiversity—all within a manageable 3-hour adventure that balances nature and local culture.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines stunning scenery with educational moments, like spotting kestrels or feeding native lizards. Plus, the small group size (up to 16 participants) means you’ll get plenty of personalized attention. That said, it’s worth noting that this trek requires suitable footwear and a basic level of fitness—so it’s best suited for hikers who are comfortable on uneven terrain.

This experience appeals most to travelers who crave genuine nature encounters and cultural exploration without the lengthy time commitment of full-day outings. If you’re after breathtaking views, a chance to see local wildlife, and a peek into traditional village life, this tour is a perfect fit.

Good To Know

• Unmatched scenery: Explore some of the most impressive volcanic landscapes in Gran Canaria.
• Wildlife encounters: Spot kestrels, hawks, reptiles, and even feed native lizards.
• Cultural insight: Visit a picturesque village with colonial architecture and local products.
• Convenient logistics: Includes transportation, guide, and small group size for a personal experience.
• Moderate difficulty: Suitable for those comfortable with uneven terrain and brief ascents.
• Authentic experience: Discover a ravine with a history in agriculture and pastoralism.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Barranco de los Cernícalos Excursion

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off with pickup from six central locations—Maspalomas, Mogán, Bahia Feliz, Meloneras, Puerto Rico, and Arguineguín—making it easy to access from most popular resorts. The bus ride to the northeast of Gran Canaria takes roughly 50 minutes, giving you time to settle in and enjoy the scenic drive through the island’s diverse landscapes before reaching the trailhead.

Once on-site, the guide—their name or specific credentials aren’t specified, but reviews suggest they’re knowledgeable and enthusiastic—takes you through the volcanic site where specific minerals in the lava foster unusual vegetation. The small group setting (min. 4, max 16) ensures a friendly, engaging atmosphere, and hiking poles are provided to support stability on uneven paths.

The Hike Itself: What to Expect

The 7 km trail is described as having a difficulty level of 1.5, which translates to a moderate walk with some elevation gain—about 250 meters of ascent and descent. While this isn’t a strenuous trek, it does require decent footwear and comfort with uneven terrain. The path winds through a landscape shaped by volcanic activity, with features like beautiful waterfalls and lush greenery that thrive thanks to a perennial stream.

We loved the way the guide explained how the minerals support rare plants, adding a layer of scientific curiosity to the walk. The lush vegetation, combined with the sight of the stream, creates a jungle-like atmosphere that’s quite surprising given the volcanic origin.

Wildlife and Nature Highlights

One of the most memorable parts of this tour is the chance to observe native birds and reptiles. The ravine is a hotspot for kestrels—hawks and harriers—who hunt in the area, drawn by the abundance of small rabbits and canary lizards. According to reviews, the guides frequently spot these birds, making the wildlife viewing a highlight.

If you’re lucky, you might get to feed the lizards near the picnic spot, which adds a fun, interactive element to the day. The biodiversity here isn’t just for spotting—it’s also about understanding how these species adapt to the volcanic environment.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Picnic and Cultural Visit

After exploring the ravine, the group stops at a designated picnic spot. Here, a vegetable snack and water are provided, but travelers often mention that bringing extra snacks or a hat for sun protection is a good idea. The picnic offers a relaxed moment to absorb the surroundings and get closer to the native lizards.

Following the hike, the tour continues to Agüimes, a village renowned for its colonial architecture and historical charm. With about 40 minutes of free time, visitors can wander through narrow streets, admire traditional buildings, and browse local crafts and products, including the famous bronze statues from the colonial era.

Return Journey and Final Stop

The return includes a 30-minute bus ride back to the starting points, with drop-offs at the same six locations. Many reviewers appreciated the seamless transportation, which allows you to focus on the experience rather than logistics.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

The Natural Beauty

This hike stands out thanks to the dramatic volcanic scenery, waterfalls, and verdant vegetation thriving in a mineral-rich landscape. The views are genuinely stunning, and real wildlife sightings add a layer of excitement. It’s an excellent way to see a side of Gran Canaria that’s often overshadowed by beaches and resorts.

The Cultural Touch

The visit to Agüimes enriches the experience, blending nature with local history and architecture. It’s a perfect way to appreciate how people have historically interacted with this rugged environment.

Value for Money

At $76 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded experience that includes transportation, an expert guide, hiking poles, snacks, and insurance. Considering the small group size and the variety of sights, it’s a fair price for a day filled with adventure and discovery.

Ideal for Active Travelers

While not overly challenging, the trek does require some mobility and proper footwear. It’s best suited for those comfortable with light hiking, nature walks, and a bit of uphill terrain. Families with children over six who enjoy outdoor activities would also find this suitable, provided they’re prepared for uneven paths.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Wear hiking shoes or trail running shoes; rental options are available for €5 if needed.
• Pack sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable clothes suited for outdoor activity.
• Bring a daypack with water, extra snacks, and layers for changing weather.
• If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, bring binoculars for better birdwatching.
• Remember to be on time for pickup, especially if staying in more remote accommodations.

Final Thoughts

The Barranco de los Cernícalos excursion offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural insights, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an active, authentic experience in Gran Canaria. It’s a chance to explore volcanic landscapes in a relaxed, guided setting, with plenty of opportunities for memorable wildlife sightings and cultural discovery.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a manageable half-day adventure that stands out from more typical tourist activities. If you’re longing for scenic views, local village charm, and a chance to spot native animals, this hike will deliver—without taking up your whole day.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The total experience lasts approximately 198 minutes, including transportation, the guided hike, and free time in the village.

What locations can I be picked up from?
You can choose from six pickup points: Maspalomas, Mogán, Bahia Feliz, Meloneras, Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, and Arguineguín.

What should I wear on the tour?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, hiking shoes or trail running shoes (or rent them), sunscreen, and a hat are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for children over six who are comfortable walking on uneven terrain. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or wheelchair users.

What wildlife might I see?
Birds like kestrels, hawks, or harriers are common, along with reptiles and native canary lizards.

Does the tour include food?
Yes, a vegetable snack and water are provided during the picnic, but bringing extra snacks is advisable.

How difficult is the hike?
It’s rated as a 1.5 on the difficulty scale, suitable for those with basic fitness and comfortable on moderate slopes.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transport from your hotel or designated pickup points is included in the price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In summary, the Barranco de los Cernícalos tour combines the best of Gran Canaria’s volcanic scenery, active wildlife, and charming local villages. It offers a balanced glimpse into the island’s rugged beauty, perfect for travelers seeking a memorable outdoor experience that’s both manageable and enriching.

You can check if your dates are available here: