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This guided tour of the Barranco de los Cernícalos promises a chance to experience some of Gran Canaria’s most stunning and lesser-known natural landscapes. Spanning around 7.5 hours, it offers a well-balanced mix of hiking, wildlife spotting, and cultural exploration, making it a fantastic choice for nature lovers and curious travelers alike. What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to walk among vertical cliffs, lush vegetation, and waterfalls, all while being guided by local experts who truly know the area.
One aspect we especially appreciate is the small group size, which typically ranges from 4 to 16 participants. This keeps the experience intimate and allows guides to personalize the journey, answer questions, and share insightful details about the environment and local flora and fauna. That said, the tour requires good walking shoes and a bit of stamina, as it involves approximately four hours of hiking on uneven terrain. If you’re after a leisurely stroll, this might not be the best fit. However, if you’re eager to explore Gran Canaria’s wild side with knowledgeable guides, this trip is an excellent choice.
This tour suits active travelers who love discovering pristine natural spots, want to learn about endemic wildlife, and enjoy a taste of traditional Canary Island villages. It’s perfect for those who can handle a full day outdoors, and it offers a truly authentic experience away from the busy tourist spots.
Key Points
- Authentic Nature Experience: Walk through lush ravines with waterfalls and endemic flora.
- Wildlife Spotting: Encounter native reptiles, birds, and even the island’s famous giant lizard.
- Cultural Stop: End the day exploring a charming village with colonial-era architecture.
- Small Group Tours: Personalized guidance from expert naturalists within intimate groups.
- Value for Money: The price includes transportation, guiding, insurance, and a snack, making it a comprehensive package.
- Physical Activity: Expect about 4 hours of hiking; suitable for active travelers.
The Magic of the Barranco de los Cernícalos
This ravine, classified as a special nature reserve, is a true highlight for anyone wanting to see Gran Canaria’s greener, more lush side. Unlike the island’s arid volcanic landscapes, this area boasts tall palm trees, ferns, and native plants, creating a lush oasis amid the dry surroundings. The sound of trickling streams and waterfalls adds to the peaceful, almost magical atmosphere.
Guides like those from Hiking World Gran Canaria are praised for their knowledgeable explanations, which add depth and context to the scenery. One reviewer called the guide “super friendly and competent,” making the hike both educational and enjoyable.
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The Hike: What to Expect
The terrain is varied but manageable for those with moderate fitness. Expect to walk along secret trails and waterfalls, crossing streams and navigating vertical cliffs with the guidance of sturdy hiking poles (included in the tour). The trail is set within the vertical walls of the ravine, offering spectacular views from different angles.
Travelers have mentioned the murmur of water and the sight of small waterfalls as some of the most charming aspects. The lush vegetation provides shade, helping to keep the temperature comfortable, and there’s plenty of opportunity to stop and take photos or simply soak in the scenery.
Wildlife and Plant Life
The area is a haven for wildlife, including birds such as kestrels, falcons, and eaglets. One reviewer noted the chance to see the native giant lizard, which is unique to Gran Canaria. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of these reptiles basking in the sun or darting through the undergrowth.
The native flora is equally impressive—palm trees, ferns, and endemic plants thrive here, making it a botanist’s paradise. Guides often point out specific species, enriching your understanding of the island’s delicate ecosystem.
The Picnic Spot and Connection with Nature
A highlight for many travelers is reaching a peaceful picnic spot surrounded by nature. Here, you can enjoy a small sandwich or snack while observing lizards scurry around—an excellent moment to connect with the environment. If you’re feeling generous, sharing your snack with the local lizards is a charming experience many mention.
Cultural and Village Exploration
After the hike, the tour continues with a visit to Agüimes, one of Gran Canaria’s most beautiful villages. Its colonial architecture, bronze statues, and traditional buildings offer a glimpse into the island’s history and cultural richness. This part of the tour provides a relaxing contrast to the vigorous hiking and is perfect for exploring local crafts or sampling regional products.
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Transportation
Pickup is offered from five different locations—Maspalomas, Mogán, Playa del Inglés, Puerto Rico, and Arguineguín—making it convenient regardless of where you stay. The round-trip bus takes about an hour each way, giving you time to relax and prepare for the hike.
Duration and Timing
The entire experience lasts around 7.5 hours, including transfers, hiking, and free time in Agüimes. Starting times vary, so be sure to check availability to fit it into your schedule.
What to Bring
Since this is an outdoor adventure, appropriate gear is crucial. Pack comfortable, sturdy shoes (trail or hiking boots recommended), sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and weather-appropriate clothing. A small daypack for water, snacks, and personal items is advised. The tour provides hiking poles, but you must wear suitable footwear—rentals are available if needed.
Accessibility and Suitability
The experience is not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues. The terrain involves rough paths and uneven surfaces, so good mobility and fitness are recommended for a comfortable hike.
Cost and Value
At $76 per person, the tour offers good value considering the guided experience, transportation, insurance, and included snack. Reviews praise the professional guidance and the chance to see an untouched side of Gran Canaria, making it worth the investment for those eager to explore.
One traveler from Germany described the experience as “a great walk through a beautiful area” with a “super friendly and knowledgeable guide,” highlighting how the guide’s expertise enriches the hike. The consistent praise for the stunning views and wildlife encounters suggests that this tour delivers on its promise.
Another reviewer appreciated the opportunity to see granite cliffs, waterfalls, and native flora, emphasizing how the natural beauty surpasses expectations for a half-day hike. The chance to feed lizards at the picnic spot was a memorable highlight for many.
This excursion offers a chance to really connect with Gran Canaria’s natural environment, far from the hustle of beach resorts. It’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a good walk and want to discover the island’s rugged, lush side. The small group format and expert guidance ensure a personalized experience that feels both educational and adventurous.
If you’re after a meaningful outdoor activity that combines scenic beauty, wildlife, and cultural touches, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s a fantastic way to see a different part of Gran Canaria—one that’s often overlooked but absolutely worth exploring.
However, if you prefer leisurely sightseeing or have mobility limitations, this might not be the best fit. But for those ready to lace up their hiking boots and enjoy a full day immersed in nature, this experience promises memorable moments and stunning views.
Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from five designated locations, with round-trip bus transfers.
Do I need to bring my own hiking gear? You should wear suitable footwear, such as hiking boots or trail shoes. If needed, hiking boots are available for rent at €5 per pair.
How long is the hike? Expect approximately four hours of hiking through the ravine’s trails, with breaks and scenic stops along the way.
Can children join this tour? No, it’s not suitable for children under 6, due to the terrain and activity level.
What should I pack? Bring comfortable, sturdy shoes, sun protection, weather-appropriate clothing, a daypack, and water. Snacks are provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.
Is the tour suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility issues? No, due to the demanding nature of the terrain, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments.
What language is the guide available in? Guides operate in English, German, and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations regardless of your preferred language.
To sum it up, the Barranco de los Cernícalos tour on Gran Canaria provides an authentic, scenic, and educational outdoor experience. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way through lush ravines, waterfalls, and wildlife, you’re set for a memorable adventure that offers a taste of the island’s natural beauty far from crowded beaches. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or curious explorer, this trip offers a blend of activity, culture, and pure nature that will leave you inspired.
