Las Palmas, Botanical Gardens and Bandama Volcano Tour

This 8-hour tour in Las Palmas offers a comprehensive look at some of the most captivating sights in the Canary Islands. For just $35 per person, travelers can enjoy a mix of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and scenic views—all organized with a comfortable transportation setup and guided insights. The tour is perfect for those wanting a well-rounded taste of the city’s history, nature, and local flavor without the hassle of organizing separate excursions.

What makes this experience stand out is the chance to walk through the historic Vegueta neighborhood with a guide, discover the impressive Cathedral of Santa Ana, and then relax in one of Europe’s top botanical gardens. The visit to the Bandama Volcano adds a dramatic natural element, giving you both a sense of local geology and a chance for some memorable photos. However, note that the tour’s value depends on your interest in these diverse sights and your comfort with a full day of sightseeing.

A potential consideration is the pace—there’s a fair amount packed into the day, and some might find the breaks a bit frequent, as noted by one reviewer. Nonetheless, this tour suits curious travelers eager to see a variety of sites with a knowledgeable guide, especially those who appreciate a blend of culture and nature in a manageable time frame.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining cultural, historical, and natural highlights
• Comfortable transportation in modern, air-conditioned buses
• Guided insights from multilingual guides, enhancing the experience
• Flexible options for pick-up points close to your hotel
• Cost-effective price considering the inclusions and variety of sights
• Authentic experiences like walking through Vegueta and exploring the botanical gardens

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

The Convenience of Pickup and Transportation

Starting your day with a pickup from one of 37 designated locations around the southern tourist areas makes this tour accessible. The modern, air-conditioned bus ensures comfort during the approximately one-hour transfer from your hotel or accommodation area to the first stop. This setup minimizes hassle and maximizes time for sightseeing and exploration.

While the exact pickup times vary depending on your location, this arrangement is a practical benefit, especially if you’re staying in Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, or nearby resorts. The return is also via a similar route, dropping you off conveniently close to your hotel or a chosen point, with the understanding that there’s no pickup or drop-off in Las Palmas city or the harbor—so, plan accordingly if your accommodation is in town.

Organized Itinerary with a Clear Flow

The tour’s itinerary is well-structured to maximize your time and experience. After a brief one-hour coach journey, you’ll arrive at Vegueta, the historic heart of Las Palmas, where your guide will lead a 20-minute walk through the cobbled streets, pointing out key landmarks like the Cathedral of Santa Ana, the Town Hall, and the ruins of the Bishop’s Palace. You’ll then have about 40 minutes of free time to explore at your own pace—perfect for grabbing photos, browsing local shops, or simply soaking in the atmosphere.

Next, the visit to Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo offers a chance to walk among some of Europe’s most impressive plant collections. With 45 minutes allocated, you’ll get a good overview of the diverse flora, including some exotic species that thrive in the Canary Islands’ climate. According to reviews, this botanical garden is a highlight, described as “one of the greatest botanical gardens in Europe,” which is a great reason to linger and enjoy the lush surroundings.

The final stop at Caldera de Bandama provides sweeping views of the volcanic crater. The 15-minute photo stop allows you to capture memorable shots of the rugged landscape, and some guides might share interesting facts about the volcanic activity that shaped this part of Gran Canaria. Travelers have appreciated the “stunning views” here, making it a fitting conclusion to your nature-focused stops.

Deep Dive into Vegueta and Its Cultural Significance

Vegueta, the old quarter of Las Palmas, is a treasure trove for history buffs. The guide-led walk takes you through narrow, historic streets where you’ll see the Cathedral of Santa Ana, a prime example of Gothic architecture. The cathedral’s intricate details and impressive facade are true highlights—expect to spend some time admiring its craftsmanship.

Nearby, the Perez Galdós Theater adds a touch of elegance, and the Columbus Museum offers insights into the city’s maritime history and its connections to the New World. The local market is also worth a quick peek for local produce and crafts, adding flavor to your understanding of Canarian life.

Botanical Gardens: A Green Escape

We loved the way the botanical garden showcases a wide variety of plants, emphasizing the Canary Islands’ unique climate and flora. The garden’s size and diverse collection make it a standout feature, especially for plant enthusiasts or those seeking a peaceful break from the busier sightseeing spots.

The garden’s reputation as “one of the greatest botanical gardens in Europe” is well-earned, as it offers lush scenery and photo opportunities galore. It’s an excellent place to relax, walk among colorful blooms, and appreciate the island’s botanical diversity.

The Volcanic Wonder of Bandama

The Bandama Crater is a standout highlight for its dramatic landscape. The 15-minute stop provides enough time for photos and a quick appreciation of the geological forces that formed this massive volcanic caldera. The views from the rim are expansive, and the landscape’s rugged beauty is impressive.

How the Tour Feels in Practice

One reviewer remarked that “everything was fine, but the breaks were too frequent,” which seems to suggest the pacing might be a bit slow for some travelers. However, these breaks do give you moments to relax, take photos, and absorb the surroundings without feeling rushed.

The guides, often praised for their knowledge, add context and stories, making the experience more engaging. The group size tends to be manageable, and the multilingual guides ensure everyone can follow along comfortably.

The Cost and Value Proposition

At $35 per person, this tour offers an accessible way to see a variety of sites without the need for separate bookings or transportation arrangements. The price includes transportation, a guide, and insurance—making it a straightforward choice for budget-conscious travelers who want a well-organized day. Keep in mind, entry tickets for attractions like Poema del Mar Aquarium are extra, but the core experience of sightseeing and guided commentary is well-covered.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a balanced day of culture, nature, and scenic views. Perfect for those who appreciate a guided experience with insightful commentary, especially if you’re interested in historic districts, botanical gardens, and volcanic landscapes. It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer to see multiple sights without the hassle of arranging transport or tickets.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or only want to focus on one or two attractions, you might find the itinerary slightly packed. Also, those staying in Las Palmas city might need to make arrangements to reach the designated pickup points, as the tour does not include pickups in the city itself.

The Sum Up

This Las Palmas, Botanical Gardens, and Bandama Volcano tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the island’s natural beauty and historic charm. The combination of guided walks, scenic stops, and free time allows you to soak up the atmosphere without feeling overwhelmed. The knowledgeable guides, along with the stunning views at each stop, truly bring the destinations to life.

The value for money is solid, considering the inclusions and the diversity of sights packed into an 8-hour day. It’s especially suited for travelers who want an organized, informative, and scenic experience that covers a lot of ground. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to tick off some must-see spots, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to explore Las Palmas.

For those who enjoy a mix of cultural discovery and natural landscapes, and don’t mind a full day of sightseeing, this tour is a smart choice. Just be prepared for some breaks, and bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and curiosity. You’ll leave with plenty of images and impressions to remember your Canary Islands adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, you are picked up from a designated location in the southern resort areas, and transportation in a modern, air-conditioned bus is included.

Can I join the tour from Las Palmas city?
No, this tour does not include pickups or drops in Las Palmas city or the harbor. You’ll need to go to one of the specified pickup points in the southern areas.

How long is the drive between stops?
The initial transfer from your pickup point to Vegueta lasts around one hour, and subsequent travel between the stops is generally brief, allowing more time for sightseeing.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but you can bring your own or purchase food at local spots during the free time in Vegueta or Las Canteras Beach.

Is there an entrance fee for the botanical garden or volcano?
Entry tickets for attractions like the botanical garden and Bandama volcano are not included in the price. You might find optional tickets for places like Poema del Mar Aquarium need to be purchased separately.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but note that non-folding wheelchairs and electric wheelchairs are not permitted, so consider mobility needs.