Gran Canaria: Rural Villages Guided Sightseeing Tour

Travelers craving an authentic look at Gran Canaria beyond its beaches and resorts will find this Rural Villages Guided Sightseeing Tour to be a delightful way to connect with the island’s heart. Spanning about 8 hours, this tour takes you through picturesque villages, breathtaking mountain vistas, and iconic natural sights, all with roundtrip transportation and the option to enjoy a Canarian lunch. Based on numerous reviews and detailed itineraries, it’s clear this experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s unique character.

What we love about this tour is how it balances scenic beauty with cultural insights—you get fantastic photo opportunities, a taste of local food, and the chance to explore traditional cave houses. The expert guides, like Kevin or Fabrice, bring energy, humor, and a wealth of knowledge, making each stop both informative and fun. The tour’s value for money is another attractive aspect, especially considering the comprehensive itinerary and comfortable transportation. However, travelers with limited mobility should note that the tour isn’t suited for those with mobility impairments or large luggage.

This experience is perfect for those who want to see more than just touristy spots, preferring instead to wander through authentic villages, enjoy panoramic mountain views, and learn about local life. If you’re after a day of discovery, stunning scenery, and culture—all in a comfortable setting—this could be your ideal Gran Canaria outing.

Good To Know

• Authentic village visits allow you to experience local life away from crowded resorts.
• Expert guides like Kevin and Fabrice make the day engaging with their knowledge and humor.
• Breathtaking scenery including sand dunes, mountain vistas, and coastal views.
• Flexible stops for photos, sightseeing, and tasting local products.
• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioned vehicles suitable for long drives.
• Good value considering the duration, inclusions, and scenic diversity.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour kicks off with pickup from over 35 southern locations around Maspalomas, including popular hotels and landmarks like the Rey Carlos and Lopesan Costa Meloneras. This wide range of pickup points makes it convenient for most travelers staying in the south. Expect to be picked up early in the morning, with the tour lasting around 8 hours, including transport and stops.

Scenic Drive to Maspalomas and Mirador las Moscas

The first stop features a quick photo session at Maspalomas, famous for its vast sand dunes that resemble a desert landscape. From here, the journey continues with a scenic drive where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the dunes and coastline. Reviewers like Haidar appreciated the well-planned route and the stunning vistas, noting that guides often share interesting facts about the landscape.

Fataga, the “Valley of the Thousand Palms”

Next, the tour visits Fataga, a charming village famed for its history and lush greenery. Here, you’ll have about 20 minutes to snap photos, walk around the old town, or grab a local coffee. The scenery is often described as tranquil and photogenic, perfect for capturing memories of the lush valley contrasted against the surrounding arid landscape.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

San Bartolomé de Tirajana and Tejeda

The journey continues through San Bartolomé de Tirajana, another scenic spot with sweeping views. Then, the tour reaches Tejeda, the highest altitude point in the area, known for its almond bakery and panoramic vistas. Reviewers like Jenny mentioned that Tejeda offers breathtaking scenery and a chance to learn about local almond production. You might find yourself tempted by the famous almond sweets or simply overwhelmed by the views.

Artenara: Cave Houses and Cultural Charm

One of the most remarkable stops is Artenara, with its iconic cave houses built into the mountainside. Guided by knowledgeable staff, you’ll explore this unique village which offers some of the best photo opportunities on the island. Visitors have praised the guided tour in Artenara, highlighting the opportunity to walk through the cave dwellings and learn about traditional ways of life.

Fontanales and Monte Pavon Mirador

On the way to the northern part of the island, the tour pauses at Fontanales for a quick scenic drive and a stop at Monte Pavon Mirador. From here, you can take in sweeping views of the Las Palmas cityscape and Tenerife in the distance. Reviewers like Angela appreciated the combination of scenic drives and photo stops, noting the views are truly spectacular.

Moya and Beyond

Further north, the drive passes through Moya, where you’ll stop briefly to appreciate more natural beauty. Another highlight is the drive along the north coast, where banana plantations and the splash of waves along the rocky shoreline provide authentic Canarian scenery.

Final Stops and Return

The tour winds down with a scenic drive back south, passing the vibrant city of Las Palmas. The journey lasts around 1 hour before returning to your pickup location, offering a comfortable way to end a day filled with discovery and striking views.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides

Reviews consistently praise guides like Kevin, Fabrice, and Charles for their professionalism, humor, and depth of knowledge. They make sure you don’t just see the sights but also understand their significance. Guests appreciate the engaging commentary and the personal touches that make the day memorable.

Stunning Natural Scenery

From the massive dunes of Maspalomas to the mountain peaks of Tejeda and Albarrada cave houses, the scenery is genuinely spectacular. The panoramic stops at Mirador las Moscas and Monte Pavon are favorites for breathtaking photographs and peaceful moments.

Cultural and Authentic Village Visits

Unlike typical bus tours that stick to main roads, this trip ventures into small villages like Fataga and Artenara, which are full of character. Walk through narrow streets, admire traditional architecture, and learn about local customs—these are features that reviewers like Haidar and Jenny have particularly enjoyed.

Tasting Local Products

While the tour doesn’t include a fixed lunch, there is an option to enjoy a Canarian meal, often at scenic stops like Fontanales. Many reviewers highlight the value of sampling local foods and products, which adds flavor to the experience and supports local businesses.

Excellent Value for Money

With roundtrip transportation, expert guides, and multiple photo and sightseeing stops, the cost of this tour is justified by its richness of experience. Reviewers frequently mention that the day felt full and well-organized, delivering more than what they expected.

Practical Tips for a Great Experience

• Dress comfortably: Expect a lot of walking through villages and scenic spots.
• Bring a camera or smartphone: The views from Mirador las Moscas or the cave houses are unforgettable.
• Layer your clothing: The high altitude in Tejeda can be cooler, so consider bringing a light jacket.
• Prepare for the weather: The tour runs rain or shine, so pack an umbrella if rain is forecast.
• Luggage considerations: Large bags or electric wheelchairs aren’t permitted, so travel light.
• Consider the pace: The day involves multiple stops, so be ready for a full but relaxed day exploring at a gentle pace.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This guided tour is ideal for travelers eager to explore inland Gran Canaria beyond beaches and resorts. It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic drives, authentic local culture, and photo opportunities. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers will all enjoy the mix of natural beauty and cultural insights. It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those looking for a very active adventure—this is more of a scenic, relaxed day out.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The full experience takes about 8 hours, including pickup, sightseeing, and return to your accommodation.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, and a professional tour guide.

Can I buy lunch on the tour?
Lunch is optional and not included in the standard price. There are stops where you can purchase local food or enjoy an optional Canarian meal.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most older children will enjoy the scenic stops and cultural visits, but it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility issues or very young kids due to the walking and uneven terrain.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, a camera, sunscreen, and a hat are advisable. Large luggage and electric wheelchairs are not permitted.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour runs rain or shine, so be prepared for all conditions. If severe weather occurs, the guide will ensure safety and might adjust the stops if needed.

Final Thoughts

The Gran Canaria Rural Villages Guided Sightseeing Tour combines stunning landscapes, authentic village visits, and insightful guiding into a memorable day out. It offers excellent value for those eager to see the island’s interior, taste local products, and capture postcard-worthy photos. The knowledgeable guides and well-planned itinerary make it a standout choice for travelers wanting a deeper connection with Gran Canaria’s character.

If you’re looking for a relaxed yet enriching experience that showcases the natural and cultural beauty of the island away from crowded tourist spots, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s a wonderful way to spend a full day exploring the varied landscapes, historic villages, and scenic viewpoints that make Gran Canaria truly special.

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply someone wanting to see the island’s less traveled paths, this tour offers a meaningful and scenic adventure that won’t disappoint.

You can check if your dates are available here: