Discover Gran canaria The Cumbre

Discover Gran Canaria The Cumbre: A Complete Guide

Planning a day to explore Gran Canaria beyond its famous beaches? This full-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s charming villages, stunning volcanic scenery, and local traditions. With professional guides, comfortable transportation, and a diverse itinerary, it’s a popular choice for travelers wanting to see more than just sunbathing.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances scenic viewpoints with cultural stops, giving a genuine taste of Gran Canaria’s varied landscape and local life. A standout feature is the rum tasting in Arucas, which many reviewers mention as a highlight—an authentic experience that adds flavor to your day. On the flip side, some may find the short stops and long bus rides a bit tiring, especially if you’re eager to explore each spot at your own pace.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic drives, small village charm, and guided insights. It’s ideal for those who prefer a structured day with logistics taken care of, yet still want to soak in incredible views and local flavors. If your ideal trip involves more walking or discovering hidden corners independently, you might find this tour somewhat rushed.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining scenic vistas, villages, and cultural stops
• Expert guides enhance the experience with engaging commentary
• Comfortable transportation suitable for a full day of sightseeing
• Affordable price point offers good value for multiple highlights
• Limited free time at stops, so plan for short visits
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off (south zone), making logistics easier

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am, with convenient pickups from the tourist zone in the south of Gran Canaria. You’ll spend around 7 to 8 hours exploring, making it an efficient way to see many of the island’s highlights without rushing. The group size is capped at 99 travelers, but most reviews suggest it feels more intimate, thanks to professional guides and a comfortable bus.

Transportation

Expect a modern, spacious coach that’s well-maintained, with some reviewers mentioning the driver’s impressive skill navigating narrow mountain roads. The ride itself is smooth, with plenty of opportunities for photo stops or just relaxing while taking in the views. The group size and vehicle style make it a practical and stress-free alternative to renting a car, especially if you’re not confident driving mountain roads.

The Scenic Route

The journey takes you from the fertile southern valleys up through mountainous terrains, offering panoramic views that are often described as “breathtaking” or “stunning.” We loved the way the route showcases granular details of island life, passing through towns like Telde, Arucas, and Firgas, each with its own character.

Village Stops and Cultural Highlights

• Telde: The ancient capital, with its traditional streets and local vibe.
• Firgas: Known for its charming fountain and narrow streets, but only on Saturdays.
• Arucas: Home to the neo-Gothic church and the most important rum factory in Europe. The rum tasting is often highlighted as a highlight, providing a genuine taste of local craftsmanship.
• Valleseco: A quiet village where lunch is usually enjoyed (note: food is not included), giving you a chance to recharge.
• San Bartolomé de Tirajana: Offers sweeping views of Santa Lucía, perfect for photos.
• Cruz de Tejeda: The main viewpoint where you can photograph the iconic Roque Nublo—a volcanic outcrop symbolizing the island’s volcanic roots. Reviewers mention how Simon, the guide, made the history and geology of the area engaging and accessible.

The Highlights: Views and Iconic Landmarks

Roque Nublo is a clear standout—visible from Cruz de Tejeda, this volcanic formation is a must-see. Reviewers describe it as a “symbol of Gran Canaria”, and the stop here offers a photo opportunity unlike any other on the tour. We loved the way the guide explained its significance, making it more than just a pretty picture.

Another highlight is the Fataga Valley, where you’ll stop at 450 meters elevation for sweeping views of lush valleys and rugged cliffs. Many reviews note that these vistas are “more scenic than expected,” making it a worthwhile pause.

Cultural and Food Experiences

While the tour does not include lunch, you’ll stop at Valleseco for a meal (not included)—a good chance to try local dishes, or bring snacks along. Some reviews mention the reasonably priced and simple but tasty options during this stop.

The rum tasting at the Arucas distillery is a key feature, with reviewers describing it as authentic and enjoyable. One reviewer noted the distillery tour is no longer part of the itinerary, but the rum tasting still remains, providing insight into Gran Canaria’s tradition of rum-making.

The Guide and Group Experience

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with Simon frequently mentioned for his enthusiasm and storytelling. They say he provides clear, engaging commentary in multiple languages, making the experience accessible and enjoyable. The driver, Jose, also earns praise for his skill in navigating the mountain roads.

Some Drawbacks to Consider

Though many reviews are positive, some travelers found the stops too short, leaving little time to explore each location in depth. A few mentioned that the stops outside towns (like the rum factory or certain viewpoints) are several miles away, and getting to them within the allotted time can feel rushed.

One reviewer pointed out that the rum distillery visit advertised was not part of the tour anymore, which could be confusing if you’re expecting a full distillery tour with tasting.

Price and Value for Money

At around $52.28 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the number of stops, the guided commentary, and transportation. With hotel pickup and drop-off, the convenience adds to the appeal. Reviewers mention that it’s an excellent way to see a diverse slice of the island if you’re limited on time.

While food isn’t included, the lunch stop provides flexibility—you can choose to eat at local cafes or bring your own snacks. The price balances well with the experience, especially given the variety of viewpoints, cultural stops, and engaging guides.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a structured, guided day that covers mountain views, village charm, and cultural insights. If you enjoy learning about local traditions (like rum) and capturing spectacular vistas, it’s a good fit. It’s also suitable for those who prefer transportation logistics taken care of, rather than driving themselves.

However, those who want more free time at each stop or intimate exploration might find the short durations limiting. Also, if you’re not keen on long bus rides or prefer to visit hidden corners independently, this might not be ideal.

The Sum Up

The Discover Gran Canaria The Cumbre tour offers a great balance of scenery, culture, and comfort. With knowledgeable guides, stunning viewpoints, and a value-oriented price, it’s an appealing choice for those who want a rundown of the island’s highlights in a single day.

While some stops feel brief, the overall experience provides a well-rounded taste of Gran Canaria’s landscapes and traditions. The inclusion of rum tasting and easy logistics makes it especially appealing for first-time visitors or those with limited time.

If you’re after a value-packed day that balances scenic beauty with cultural flavor, this tour is a worthwhile addition to your Gran Canaria itinerary. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy guided experiences and organized sightseeing rather than spontaneous exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include hotel pick-up and drop-off?
Yes, the tour offers pick-up and drop-off from the tourist zone in the south of Gran Canaria, making logistics easier.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts roughly 7 to 8 hours, including travel, stops, and sightseeing.

Are food and drinks included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, but there’s a stop at Valleseco where you can purchase food or bring your own.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Many travelers mention the panoramic views from Cruz de Tejeda, the Roque Nublo photo stop, and the rum tasting at Arucas as the most memorable parts.

Can I customize or extend my stops?
Since stops are relatively short and pre-planned, the tour is more about guided sightseeing rather than flexible exploration.

What language is the guide’s commentary in?
Guides provide commentary in multiple languages, including Spanish, English, and German.

Is this suitable for children or families?
While most reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, some mention that younger children might get bored during long bus rides or brief stops, so consider your family’s interests.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera. Snacks or water are optional, as food is not included.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves short walks at stops but no specific accessibility information is provided, so check with the provider if needed.

This guided journey across Gran Canaria promises scenic vistas, cultural insights, and a taste of the island’s flavors—all in one comfortably organized day. Whether you’re after iconic views, learning about local traditions, or just enjoy a well-paced guided trip, this tour makes a compelling choice.