Maspalomas: Hiking in the Waterfalls with Sky Rebels

If you’re after an adventure that combines natural beauty, local insights, and a touch of fairy-tale magic, the Hiking in Waterfalls with Sky Rebels offers an authentic way to explore Gran Canaria beyond the usual tourist spots. This small-group tour, led by passionate native guides Inés and Juanjo, promises a journey into the lush Barranco de los Cernícalos, a scenery-filled trail dotted with endemic species and hidden corners.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized attention with groups capped at six participants ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd. Second, the knowledgeable guides share stories about local life, plants, and wildlife, making the hike both educational and entertaining. Third, the stunning waterfalls and scenery truly feel like something out of a storybook.

One thing to keep in mind? The hike covers 8-9 km with some uneven terrain and a total walking time of about 4 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate outdoor activity. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a meaningful, small-group experience with a local touch—ideal for those who love nature, stories, and a bit of adventure.

Good To Know

• Small Group: Limited to 6 participants for personalized attention
• Expert Guides: Inés & Juanjo share local stories and flora/fauna insights
• Scenic Route: 8-9 km hike through fairy-tale landscapes and waterfalls
• All-Inclusive: Sandwiches, fruits, snacks, and walking sticks provided
• Authentic Experience: Support local business and learn about local life
• Comfort & Preparation: Proper hiking shoes, sun protection, and water are essential

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience at a Glance

An Introduction to the Tour

This 5.5-hour adventure begins with a convenient pickup from select locations in Maspalomas, including Avenida de la Unión Europea and the Estación de Guaguas. The ride to Barranco de los Cernícalos takes about 40 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in and chat with your guides.

Inés and Juanjo, the founders of Sky Rebels, are not just guides—they’re passionate locals who’ve been sharing their love for Gran Canaria since 2013. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and their storytelling about family roots and traditional ways of life adds a layer of depth to the hike.

What’s Special About Barranco de los Cernícalos?

This valley, described as a “playground” by the guides themselves, is one of the most beautiful hiking spots on the island. It’s not only about the stunning scenery; it’s about understanding how human life has historically adapted to, and used, this environment.

Expect to see endemic species—more than 300 native plants and animals—many of which are unique to Gran Canaria. The guides point out these plants along the trail, sharing stories about their medicinal and practical uses. The route features a mix of scenic river crossings, lush greenery, and waterfalls, which offer perfect spots for photos and rest.

The Trail and Its Highlights

The 8-9 km trail is considered easy to medium difficulty. While mostly suitable for anyone with a moderate fitness level, the uneven terrain and some steeper sections do require good shoes and attention.

The hike includes several key moments: walking along a river up the mountain, spotting waterfalls, and passing through scenic views that nearly make you forget the modern world exists. The guides keep the atmosphere lively with tales of local history and nature. Reviewers mention how Inés and Juanjo’s storytelling enhances the experience, making it more than just a walk—it’s a personal journey.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Food, Rest, and Refreshments

Included in the tour are sandwiches, local fruits, and chocolates, which are perfect for refueling amidst the scenic stops. Snack breaks are thoughtfully spaced and give you a chance to enjoy the views and chat with your guides. They also provide walking sticks, which help with stability during trickier sections.

One reviewer mentioned that they appreciated the vegetarian option, showing the guides’ flexibility and attention to individual needs. While water isn’t included, there’s plenty of opportunity to bring your own, especially considering the warm Canarian sun.

The Guides and Their Local Wisdom

Inés and Juanjo’s passion for their island shines through every part of the tour. Reviewers highlight how they go beyond mere facts, sharing personal stories and cultural insights that deepen the connection to the landscape.

One reviewer said, “They shared lots of stories about their ancestors, which made the hike even more memorable.” This personal touch transforms a typical nature walk into a meaningful cultural experience.

Their ability to make everyone feel comfortable, even those scared of heights, adds to the tour’s appeal. They’ll help you confidently navigate tricky sections and keep the mood light with humor and fun anecdotes.

Supporting Local Business

Not only do you get an authentic experience, but you also directly support local entrepreneurs. Sky Rebels is a small local business, and your participation helps sustain their passion for sharing Gran Canaria’s hidden gems.

Practical Details and Value

Pricing and What’s Included

At $100 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a full-day experience with expert guides, transportation, and food. The included sandwiches, fruits, snacks, and walking sticks mean you won’t need to worry about packing much besides good shoes, sun protection, and water.

Transportation

The round-trip transport from Maspalomas is seamless and comfortable, with pickup from several key locations. This saves you the hassle of organizing your own transfers and makes the whole experience smooth from start to finish.

Duration and Pacing

Spreading the hike over approximately 4 to 4.5 hours of walking, with additional stops, means you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The total tour duration of 5.5 hours is well-balanced, including transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 6 participants, the small group size enhances interaction and allows your guides to tailor the experience. It also ensures a more intimate setting, perfect for asking questions and soaking in the scenery.

What Reviewers Love Most

Multiple reviews mention the knowledge and friendliness of Inés and Juanjo. Travelers fondly describe feeling like they’re hiking with friends rather than strangers, which adds to the personal charm. The stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes consistently earn praise, with many noting it as a highlight of their trip.

The snacks and food are also a big hit, especially the variety and the vegetarian options. Several reviewers highlight the attention to detail and the enthusiasm of the guides as key reasons they would recommend this tour without hesitation.

Possible Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers pointed out the need for proper hiking shoes and sun protection due to uneven terrain and the Canarian sun. With a moderate difficulty level, it’s not suited for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, as confirmed by the tour guidelines.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits nature lovers who appreciate a personal touch and storytelling. It’s perfect for those wanting to explore Gran Canaria’s lesser-known landscapes while learning about local life. The small group setting and focus on endemic plants and animals make it ideal for curious travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and a bit of adventure.

If you prefer large tours or are looking for a strenuous hike, this might not be the best fit. But for anyone wanting a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and fun, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up: Is This Experience Worth It?

Absolutely. This tour offers an authentic and intimate way to explore Gran Canaria’s waterfalls and lush scenery with passionate local guides. The small group size enhances the experience, making it more personal and engaging. You’ll leave with not just photos, but stories, knowledge, and a deeper appreciation for the island’s natural and cultural heritage.

The value is clear when you consider the included food, transport, and expert guidance. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a relaxed yet informative day in nature, away from crowds.

For those interested in discovering Gran Canaria’s endemic species and waterfalls while supporting local businesses and enjoying engaging guides, this trip is a true highlight.

FAQ

What is the walking distance of the tour?
The hike covers about 8-9 km in total, which is manageable for most people with moderate fitness.

Is the terrain difficult?
The route is rated as easy to medium difficulty. It involves uneven terrain and some slightly tricky sections, so proper hiking shoes are recommended.

What should I bring?
Bring hiking shoes, water, comfortable clothes, and sun protection. The tour provides snacks and walking sticks but not water.

Are there vegetarian options for food?
Yes, the tour offers vegetarian options, and reviewers noted the good quality of snacks and sandwiches.

How long is the actual walking time?
You’ll walk for approximately 4 to 4.5 hours, with plenty of stops for sightseeing and resting.

What is included in the price?
Guides, sandwiches, fruits, snacks, walking sticks, and transportation to and from the trailhead are included.

Is this suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

What languages are the guides speaking?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication for international travelers.

In summary, if you’re after a scenic, culturally enriching, and personal hiking experience in Gran Canaria, this Waterfalls tour with Sky Rebels offers a genuine taste of the island’s natural beauty and local life, all within a relaxed, small-group setting.

You can check if your dates are available here: