Gran Canaria: Highlights & hidden gems with Sky Rebels

Traveling to Gran Canaria offers more than just beaches and resorts — it’s a landscape of volcanic peaks, charming villages, and breathtaking viewpoints. This 6.5-hour guided tour by Sky Rebels promises an authentic glimpse into the island’s natural beauty and local culture, accompanied by two passionate native guides, Inés and Juanjo.

What immediately caught our eye is the small-group format—with a maximum of six travelers, you get a more personal experience, detailed explanations, and the chance to truly soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. Also, the inclusion of a local picnic and the opportunity to visit both well-known attractions and secret spots make this tour stand out.

However, be prepared for some winding mountain roads, which could be a concern if you’re prone to motion sickness or travel with very young children. This tour is better suited for those who enjoy scenic drives, outdoor exploration, and culture. Perfect for curious travelers eager to see beyond the typical tourist spots, this experience combines adventure, history, and natural beauty in a balanced way.

Good To Know

• Intimate small group maximizes interaction and flexibility.
• Native guides Inés and Juanjo bring genuine local insights and stories.
• Diverse highlights including Tejeda, Pico de las Nieves, and volcanic landscapes.
• Panoramic views of Roque Nublo, Maspalomas Dunes, and other islands.
• Authentic experience with a picnic, local culture, and scenic drives.
• Limited accessibility for children under 10 or travelers with mobility issues.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Gran Canaria with Sky Rebels: An In-Depth Review

The Experience and Overall Vibe

Sky Rebels’ highlights & hidden gems tour aims to give you a well-rounded look at Gran Canaria’s landscape and culture. Guided by Inés and Juanjo, both proud locals, you’re encouraged to see the island through their eyes — with stories, personal anecdotes, and a genuine passion for sharing their homeland.

The small-group setup means you’re not just another face in a crowd but part of a close-knit adventure. As one reviewer, Janssen from Belgium, put it: “Ines and Juanjo let you experience the outings in a family atmosphere,” making the day not just educational but warm and personable.

Why We Love This Tour

First, the diverse stops bring the island’s different facets to life. From the lush valley of 1,000 palm trees to the volcanic craters and charming villages, each site feels meaningful rather than just a photo op.

Second, the local guides are a highlight. Their storytelling and videos, combined with music and local canary tunes, elevate the experience. As Jimmy from the Netherlands shared, “Juan José and Inés were thrilled as much as us, showing us new colors and sights,” which hints at their dedication and enthusiasm.

Third, the scenic drives are thoughtfully planned. They avoid the tourist traps, taking you through lesser-known viewpoints and secret spots that large buses can’t access, like Degollada de la Yegua.

Lastly, the culinary touch—the included picnic with sandwiches, fruit, chocolate, and water—adds a relaxed, authentic flavor, allowing you to enjoy local flavors amidst spectacular vistas.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Pickup options are conveniently located in Maspalomas, such as Shopping Center San Agustín and the Estación Parque Tropical. The tour kicks off early, with the guides giving a warm introduction and setting the tone for a day filled with discovery.

Degollada de la Yegua: The first stop offers sweeping views of a valley dotted with hundreds of palms. This spot alone is worth the trip for nature lovers, providing an excellent photo opportunity and a first taste of the island’s lush side.

Scenic Drive & Hidden Gems: From here, you’ll take a leisurely drive through varied landscapes, enjoying video montages and music that match each scene. The guides’ commentary makes the landscapes come alive, sharing insights about volcanic formations, flora, and the island’s geological history.

Tejeda – The Charming Village: Considered one of Spain’s most beautiful villages, Tejeda is a highlight. Here, you have about an hour to explore on your own — whether that’s wandering the cobblestone streets, visiting the church, or indulging in almond sweets and coffee at a local café. The charm of Tejeda is its blend of traditional Canarian architecture and stunning mountain views.

Pico de las Nieves: The highest point in Gran Canaria offers 360-degree views of the island, Roque Nublo, and distant islands. Many reviewers, including Jimmy, mentioned the “astonishing views” and the opportunity to see iconic landmarks from above. The short stop here is perfect for photos and just soaking in the expansive scenery.

Volcanic Landscapes & Caldera de los Marteles: The descent through the east side reveals contrasting volcanic terrain, including the ancient crater at Caldera de los Marteles. The flora here differs markedly from the lush valley, offering a different perspective on the island’s volcanic past.

Aguimes: Ending in this vibrant village, you’ll see colorful streets, local sculptures, and a lively atmosphere. It’s a perfect final stop to enjoy some local life, take photos, or pick up souvenirs before heading back.

Return: The journey concludes with a scenic drive back to Maspalomas, with the guides sharing final stories and answering questions.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Transportation & Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable van with individual air conditioning, ensuring a relaxed ride through winding mountain roads. The small group of six means you won’t be crammed or rushed, and the guides can adapt to your pace.

Price & Value

At $115 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the customized experience, local insights, scenic routes, and included picnic. Compared to large bus tours, the intimacy and personal touch make it feel more special. One reviewer pointed out the value, noting how Sky Rebels’ prices are actually more affordable when booking directly.

The Guides: Inés & Juanjo

Both guides are praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendliness. Janssen from Belgium mentioned how they provided “matching videos and music,” making the scenery more memorable, while Jimmy appreciated their thrilled and passionate attitude. Their storytelling adds a layer of authenticity that makes you feel you’re exploring with local friends rather than just guides.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is the winding mountain roads, which might be a concern for those prone to motion sickness. Plus, children under 10 are not suited for this experience, and those with mobility impairments may find the terrain challenging.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to go beyond the beaches and explore Gran Canaria’s natural and cultural diversity. It suits those who enjoy small-group tours, scenic drives, and authentic local encounters. If you’re a curious adventurer eager to see viewpoints inaccessible by big buses and enjoy meaningful storytelling, this is a perfect fit.

It’s less suitable for families with very young children or travelers with mobility issues, due to the winding roads and walking at stops.

Final Thoughts

This tour by Sky Rebels offers a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and adventure, all delivered with genuine passion and local expertise. The focus on small groups and personalized attention makes it stand out among larger, more impersonal excursions.

You’ll love the diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to volcanic craters, and the authentic local stops that give insight into Gran Canaria’s soul. The viewpoints are spectacular, and the guides’ storytelling adds a layer of understanding that’s hard to find elsewhere.

If you’re seeking a well-rounded, intimate journey that captures the essence of Gran Canaria, this tour is a worthwhile choice. It’s best for those wanting more than just sightseeing — a genuine, memorable experience that combines adventure, beauty, and local charm.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup in Maspalomas at designated points, transportation in a comfortable van, a picnic with a sandwich, chocolate, fruit, and water, plus the guidance of two native guides.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, this experience is not suitable for children under 10 years old, mainly due to the winding mountain roads.

Can I join from locations outside Maspalomas?
Pickups are only available in Maspalomas, so private tours are needed if you’re staying elsewhere.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6.5 hours, with flexible stops to explore and take photos.

What should I bring?
Water, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and shoes are recommended. Drones, food, alcohol, and drugs are not permitted during the tour.

Is the tour operated in English and Spanish?
Yes, guides speak both languages, enhancing the experience for diverse travelers.

What if the weather isn’t great?
The activity operates in all weather conditions, so be prepared for sun or rain.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to a maximum of six travelers for a more personalized experience.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Most stops involve minimal walking, but be prepared for some uphill or uneven terrain at certain viewpoints.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this tour from Sky Rebels offers a rich, personal, and scenic way to explore Gran Canaria’s highlights and secret corners. It’s perfect for travelers craving an authentic look at the island’s landscapes, culture, and breathtaking viewpoints, all delivered with warmth and local knowledge.

You can check if your dates are available here: