From Palmas: Pico de las Nieves & Roque Nublo Full-Day Trip

This highly-rated tour offers a comprehensive look at some of Gran Canaria’s most spectacular natural sights and charming towns, all from the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle. With over 800 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, it’s clear many travelers find this experience both memorable and well worth the price.

What makes this trip particularly appealing? First, the stunning panoramic views from Pico de las Nieves, the island’s highest point, are a highlight that keeps visitors in awe. Second, the visits to iconic volcanic landmarks like the Roque Nublo monolith and Bandama crater provide a tangible connection to the island’s volcanic past. Lastly, the chance to explore authentic Canarian villages like Teror and sample local products makes this tour a treat for the senses.

However, some should note the winding mountain roads and several stops, which might not suit travelers prone to motion sickness or looking for a fast-paced experience. The tour suits those eager to see the island’s natural beauty, enjoy local delicacies, and discover its small towns without the hassle of driving. It’s ideal for anyone who prefers guided trips with expert insights over navigating alone.

Good To Know

• Breathtaking Views: From Pico de las Nieves, you’ll get expansive vistas, possibly even as far as Tenerife on clear days.
• Volcanic Landmarks: Roque Nublo and Bandama crater offer a unique glimpse into Gran Canaria’s volcanic origins.
• Cultural Charm: The villages of Teror and Vega de San Mateo showcase traditional Canarian architecture and local markets.
• Local Tastes: You can sample cheese, honey, and fresh fruit at the Cruz de Tejeda stop.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides in both English and Spanish help bring the island’s history and geology to life.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transportation in modern vehicles with hotel pickup and drop-off, making for a smooth day out.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Gran Canaria Highlights

This full-day trip offers a well-rounded experience, blending natural beauty with cultural exploration, all wrapped in a comfortable, guided format. It’s ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives, learning about local history, and tasting regional specialties without the stress of planning or navigating.

Itinerary Breakdown

Starting from Las Palmas, the tour begins with a pickup at designated hotel locations, including the Hotel Astoria and Reina Isabel. From there, you’re whisked inland, heading toward San Mateo. The journey itself is part of the fun — winding mountain roads with plenty of twists and turns, so be prepared for some scenic but curvy drives.

The first major stop is the Bandama volcano crater. This dormant caldera is a fascinating geological feature, offering a chance to stand at the edge of a volcanic crater and learn about the island’s volcanic activity. Several reviews mention that the views here are striking, and the experience provides a sense of the island’s volcanic nature. One reviewer noted that the guides share plenty of interesting facts, making the stop both educational and awe-inspiring.

Next, you ascend to Pico de las Nieves, the highest point on the island at 1,959 meters. Here, panoramic views of Gran Canaria’s peaks and valleys unfold before you. On clear days, some travelers have even glimpsed Tenerife’s silhouette, a sight that makes the climb worthwhile. Reviewers have described this as a “jaw-dropping” experience, emphasizing how the vistas are particularly stunning when the weather permits.

From there, the tour takes you to Roque Nublo, an enormous basalt rock formation that’s over 65 meters tall. This iconic symbol of Gran Canaria is easily recognizable and a favorite photo spot. Many reviews praise the stop, with one mentioning the “super beautiful” scenery and the guide sharing detailed insights about the volcanic formation, enriching the visit.

Local Tastings and Village Visits

One of the trip’s charming features is the stop at Cruz de Tejeda, a mountain cross with a viewpoint offering fantastic photo opportunities. Here, visitors can try local Canarian products like cheese, honey, and fresh fruit. Reviewers often mention the quality and variety of tastings, emphasizing how much they enjoyed the authentic flavors. A reviewer particularly appreciated the opportunity to sample local cheese and honey, describing it as a highlight.

Afterward, you’ll explore the village of Teror, renowned for its beautifully preserved architecture and the Lady of the Pine Basilica. A walk through Teror reveals cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and a peaceful ambiance. Several comments highlight the charm of this small town, with one reviewer saying it “felt like stepping back in time.”

Free Time & Market Visits

Depending on the day, there might be additional free time. Saturday visitors often enjoy the local farmers market in San Mateo, where fresh produce, cheeses, and meats are on display. One reviewer noted this was their favorite part, enjoying the opportunity to browse and sample regional products.

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Practical Considerations & Comfort

The tour’s duration is about 7.5 hours, making it a full but comfortable day out. Transportation is in a modern vehicle, with hotel pickups at specified times, from 9:10 AM onward. The group sizes tend to be manageable, allowing for personalized attention from guides.

Weather can vary with altitude, so travelers are advised to bring sun protection in summer and a light jersey or raincoat in winter. The tour involves some winding roads, so those prone to motion sickness might want to take precautions. Reviewers mention that the driver navigates these roads skillfully, making the experience more relaxing.

Guides & Value

Feedback consistently praises guides like Maria, Vera, and Francesco, who are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging. The guides’ ability to share interesting facts in both English and Spanish adds value and makes the experience accessible for diverse groups.

While lunch isn’t included, the guide often helps recommend local restaurants or suggest options for a picnic, enhancing the culture.

Price & Overall Value

Given the comprehensive nature of the tour—covering volcanic landscapes, mountain peaks, charming villages, local tastings, and expert guidance—the price provides good value for travelers eager to see the island beyond the beaches. This trip is especially appealing for those without a rental car or those wanting an easy, informative way to explore.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who love natural scenery, cultural visits, and learning about local history. It’s a strong choice for those who prefer guided tours to maximize their time and avoid the complexities of driving winding mountain roads. If you’re interested in photography, regional food, and authentic small towns, this trip covers all those bases.

However, if you’re seeking a more active, hiking-focused adventure, this might not be the best fit since it’s primarily a sightseeing and tasting tour. Also, those with mobility issues or who dislike winding roads should consider the tour’s mountain drives and stops.

FAQs

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses modern vehicles, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride through the mountain roads.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and layers suitable for changing weather conditions at high elevations. In winter, a jersey or raincoat might be useful.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, children under 5 years old are not permitted on this tour. It’s also not suitable for wheelchair users.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled in case of adverse weather conditions, so check the forecast and communicate with the provider if needed.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but the guide can help suggest local restaurants or picnic options.

Can I join if I stay outside Las Palmas?
The pickup service is available only from specific locations in Las Palmas. Check with the tour operator for alternatives if your accommodation isn’t listed.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of breathtaking views, volcanic wonders, and charming villages. It’s especially valuable for travelers seeking a guided, informative day without the hassle of renting a car or navigating narrow mountain roads. The combination of stunning landscapes, local tastings, and expert guides makes it a compelling choice for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and photo aficionados alike.

While the winding roads and busy stops might not suit everyone, those who revel in mountain scenery and regional flavors will find this experience a highlight of their Gran Canaria trip. With excellent reviews praising the guides and the scenery, this tour provides a strong value for anyone wanting to see the island’s core natural beauty.

To sum it up, if you want to genuinely experience the diverse landscapes and authentic villages of Gran Canaria in a single day, this trip delivers on those promises and more.

Note: Always check availability and current conditions before booking, especially in case of weather concerns or seasonal changes.

You can check if your dates are available here: