Maspalomas: Roque Nublo – hiking on volcanoes by Sky Rebels

If you’re planning a trip to Gran Canaria and want to experience its volcanic beauty beyond the typical tourist spots, a guided hike to Roque Nublo with Sky Rebels might be just what you need. This tour promises a blend of natural wonder, cultural insights, and authentic local flavors—all led by passionate native guides.

What caught our eye? First, the exclusive access to Roque Nublo, which has been restricted since 2025, making this tour a rare opportunity. Second, the small group size of just six participants ensures a personalized experience where you can truly connect with your guides and ask all those curious questions. Lastly, the delicious picnic of sandwiches, fresh fruits, and chocolates offers a tasty break amidst the stunning scenery.

A potential consideration? The tour involves about 4-5 km of walking, which, while manageable for most, might be challenging for those with mobility issues or very young children. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy light hiking and are prepared with comfortable shoes and sun protection.

If you’re after an immersive and well-organized excursion that combines adventure with storytelling, this tour suits travelers who love nature, culture, and a touch of local flavor. It’s perfect for those wanting to see Gran Canaria’s volcanic heart while learning about its legends and history.

Good To Know

• Limited access to Roque Nublo makes this guided tour a rare opportunity to visit the iconic site.
• Small group size enhances interaction, making the experience more personal and engaging.
• Expert local guides, Inés and Juanjo, bring the island’s stories and legends to life.
• Included picnic of sandwiches, fruits, and chocolates adds a delightful touch to the day.
• Comfortable transportation in a minivan with pick-up and drop-off points simplifies logistics.
• Weather considerations could affect the tour, especially in windy, hot, or rainy conditions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction to the Tour Experience

This guided hike to Roque Nublo, run by Sky Rebels, offers a chance to explore one of Gran Canaria’s most photographed landmarks without the hassle of independent access. Since the site’s restricted entry, booking a guided tour becomes essential—and lucky for you, Sky Rebels excels at making it seamless and enjoyable. You’ll be picked up from designated spots in Maspalomas, then whisked away in a cozy minivan with a maximum of six travelers, ensuring an intimate and friendly atmosphere.

What makes this trip stand out? The guides—Inés and Juanjo—are not just knowledgeable but passionate about sharing their island’s stories, flora, and legends. You’ll spend about two hours exploring Roque Nublo itself, with plenty of photo opportunities, a picnic break, and insights into the local culture. The route also includes scenic viewpoints and a visit to San Bartolomé de Tirajana, offering a well-rounded experience that balances nature, history, and local life.

The cost of around $100 per person may seem steep, but considering the included transportation, guided expertise, and picnic, it offers good value—especially since access to Roque Nublo requires prior booking and cannot be done independently anymore.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup and Scenic Drive

The tour begins with a pickup from several central locations in Maspalomas, such as the Shopping Center San Agustín or the Estación de Guaguas. This convenience means no need to rent a car or navigate public transport on your own, which is a plus given the current restrictions on parking at Roque Nublo.

Once aboard the minivan, the journey is about five minutes to a viewpoint where you’ll have a brief stop to stretch your legs and take some photos. This is a nice warm-up, setting the tone for the stunning landscapes ahead.

The Highlight: Roque Nublo

The core of the tour is the approximately two-hour visit to Roque Nublo, a natural rock formation that has become a symbol of Gran Canaria. This part involves a combination of sightseeing, a guided walk, and a picnic. The hike itself is around 3 km, with a total walking distance of 4-5 km—which is manageable for most active travelers.

Inés and Juanjo make sure to share fascinating stories and legends about the site, enriching the experience beyond just a scenic walk. One reviewer mentioned how Juanjo’s driving and explanations made the car ride enjoyable even before reaching the site, while Inés was praised for her knowledge about the island’s flora and history.

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Scenic Views and Photo Stops

On the way back, the route includes a scenic drive with a couple of additional stops—perfect for snapping photos and absorbing more of Gran Canaria’s volcanic scenery. The final stop in San Bartolomé de Tirajana offers a chance to explore a typical village, with some free time for shopping or simply soaking up the local atmosphere.

The Picnic and Cultural Insights

A highlight for many is the included picnic, featuring sandwiches, fresh fruits, and chocolates. This thoughtful touch provides energy for the walk and a taste of local simplicity and hospitality.

Logistics and Practicalities

Transportation is smooth and comfortable, with the guides taking care of all logistics, including liability and accident insurance. They also provide hiking poles if needed, which is helpful for those who prefer a little extra support.

Weather conditions can influence the route or timings, especially in cases of wind, rain, or fire danger. The guides are transparent about possible route changes, prioritizing safety while maintaining the quality of the experience.

What You’ll Experience on the Day

Stunning Views: As you approach Roque Nublo, the landscape dramatically shifts into volcanic terrain, with rugged peaks and expansive vistas. From the top, you’ll see sweeping views of the island’s volcanic peaks and lush valleys—a picture-perfect moment for photography.

Cultural Stories: Inés and Juanjo bring the island’s legends to life, sharing stories that make the landscape even more meaningful. Whether it’s tales about the formation of the rock or local folklore, these narratives add depth to your walk.

Authentic Local Flavor: The visit to San Bartolomé de Tirajana offers a glimpse into traditional Canarian village life, with a chance to explore local shops and see the architecture that reflects the island’s heritage.

Comfort in Small Group: With only six participants, there’s plenty of room for questions and personalized attention. Many reviewers appreciated the relaxed, familiar atmosphere that made the day feel like a trip with friends rather than a tour.

Taste of Gran Canaria: The picnic, curated with local ingredients, offers a delicious break that adds a personal touch to the experience. The chocolates and fruits are a simple but appreciated reminder of local hospitality.

The Value of the Tour

At $100, this tour offers a comprehensive package that includes transportation, expert guidance, and a memorable experience at one of Gran Canaria’s most iconic sites. Compared to the cost and effort of trying to visit independently—especially with parking restrictions—it’s a hassle-free way to see the best of the volcanic landscapes with expert insights.

The guides’ local knowledge, the small group size, and the well-organized itinerary ensure that you won’t feel rushed or lost in crowds. Instead, you’ll get to savor each moment, learn, and enjoy at a relaxed pace.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy light to moderate hiking and want a personalized, cultural adventure. It’s perfect for those who value guided stories and local insights, making the landscapes even more meaningful.

It’s also suited for visitors who prefer small group tours for a more intimate experience or those who want to avoid the hassle of independent access and transportation logistics. However, those with mobility issues or very young children should consider the walking distance and terrain.

Final Thoughts

Sky Rebels’ guided hike to Roque Nublo offers a fantastic way to connect with Gran Canaria’s volcanic soul. With passionate local guides, manageable hikes, and a scenic route that covers cultural and natural highlights, this tour delivers real value for the price.

If you’re craving an authentic, immersive experience that combines breathtaking views, engaging stories, and a taste of local life—all without the stress of planning this complex outing yourself—this trip is well worth considering. It’s a memorable way to see Gran Canaria’s volcanic core up close, guided by people who truly love their island.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at designated locations in Maspalomas, plus transportation in a comfortable minivan.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, access to Roque Nublo is restricted, so booking ahead is required to secure your spot.

What should I bring? Carry water (about 1.5 liters per person), sunscreen, warm clothing, and comfortable shoes suitable for walking.

Is the tour suitable for children? Not recommended for children under 6 years due to walking distance and terrain, and for those with mobility limitations.

How long is the walk? The hike covers about 3 km, with a total walking distance of 4-5 km, making it accessible for most active travelers.

What happens in bad weather? The tour takes place in all weather conditions, but routes might change if there’s a yellow alert for wind, rain, or fire risk.

Can I bring my drone? No, drones are not allowed during the tour.

Are food and drinks provided? The picnic of sandwiches, fruits, and chocolates is included, but you should bring your own water.

How many people participate? The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 participants, offering a small-group experience.

What is the overall experience like? Expect stunning scenery, insightful stories, comfortable logistics, and a memorable connection to Gran Canaria’s volcanic landscape.

In essence, this tour combines the natural beauty, cultural depth, and local hospitality of Gran Canaria into one memorable day. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply seeking a hassle-free way to see Roque Nublo, Sky Rebels provides a fun, informative, and authentic outing.

You can check if your dates are available here: