Gran Canaria: Rum, Wines and Banana Tour

If you’re after a day out that combines culture, culinary delights, and stunning scenery, the Gran Canaria Rum, Wines, and Banana Tour is a fantastic choice. This guided excursion offers a deep dive into the island’s iconic products—rum, wine, and bananas—while giving you a genuine taste of Canarian life. It’s a well-balanced mix of educational stops, tastings, and gorgeous views, all packed into around eight hours of lively exploration.

One of the things we love most? The tour’s emphasis on authenticity. You get to see traditional production methods, learn fascinating stories behind each product, and taste some of the best local offerings. Plus, the guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness—making the experience more engaging and enjoyable.

However, a consideration is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking and standing, especially visiting the Banana Museum and the vineyards. It’s not a relaxed, sit-down experience at every stop, so if mobility is a concern, plan accordingly. Also, the included lunch isn’t part of the tour price, and some reviews mention it being quite limited, so you might want to bring snacks or prepare for an extra meal on your own.

This tour suits food lovers, cultural explorers, and anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of Gran Canaria’s unique flavors. If you enjoy learning about local products and seeing authentic working farms and factories, this will tick all your boxes.

Key Points

• Authentic and educational stops: Visit the Rum Factory, Banana Museum, and a local wine cellar.
• Tasting experiences: Sample Canarian rum, wines, and coffee, with the chance to learn how they’re made.
• Hands-on activity: Learn to prepare Mojo canario, the iconic Canary Islands sauce.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect scenic drives and stunning views in the north of Gran Canaria.
• Comfortable transportation: Modern, air-conditioned bus with pick-up from popular touristic areas.
• Value for money: At $78 per person, the tour offers a full day of cultural and culinary discovery.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting at the Arehucas Rum Distillery

Your journey begins with a visit to the well-known Arehucas Rum Distillery in Arucas. Here, the air is thick with the scent of sugar cane, setting the perfect tone for a day focused on Canarian craftsmanship. You’ll get a guided tour (in English and German) that walks you through the entire process—maturation, distillation, and refining—showing how sugarcane transforms into smooth, flavorful rum.

What makes this stop particularly appealing is the chance to taste some of the finest rums straight from the source. Reviews highlight the Carta Oro as a standout—its robust flavor and aroma often leave visitors pleasantly surprised. One reviewer mentioned, “the tour guide was very knowledgeable and friendly, and the rum tasting was a real highlight.” The guided aspect means you’ll learn about the history of Rum in the islands, which adds context to each sip.

The Banana Museum: A Quirky Cultural Stop

Next, the tour heads to the Banana Museum, an unexpectedly charming and informative spot. Here, you’ll get a snapshot of how bananas have shaped the cultural and economic landscape of Gran Canaria. The museum showcases the story of banana cultivation, from introduction to the island to its social significance today.

This stop isn’t just about looking at bananas—it’s about understanding their role in Canarian identity. Visitors have praised the visit for its engaging presentation and the chance to purchase products made from bananas, like wines, creams, and pâtés, which make for authentic souvenirs. One review calls it “a very interesting journey through the history and social importance of bananas,” and mentions that even non-enthusiasts leave with a new appreciation for this yellow fruit.

Exploring the Local Wineries in Agaete

After soaking up banana culture, the tour moves north to Agaete, where the landscape turns volcanic and dramatic. This is where the wine tasting comes into play. You’ll visit a local finca, walking among the vines and learning about winemaking in volcanic soils—a process that gives Canarian wines their distinctive character.

The guided wine tasting, praised for its professionalism and depth, offers a selection of regional varieties. Tour reviews often mention how the guides expertly explain the differences between the wines and the influence of the volcanic terrain. One guest specifically raved about the expertise of the winemakers and how the smells, sights, and tastes created a full sensory experience.

Making Mojo: A Hands-On Culinary Workshop

To top off the day, you’ll participate in a workshop on how to make Mojo canario, the signature sauce of the Canary Islands. This activity is a fun, practical way to connect with local cuisine. Expect to learn about ingredients and techniques that have been passed down through generations.

While some reviews don’t detail this part extensively, the inclusion of this hands-on element adds value for those who enjoy cooking or want to take a piece of Canary Islands’ culinary culture home. The guide’s enthusiasm and clear instructions make it accessible even for kitchen novices.

The Logistics: What You Need to Know

Duration and Transport

The tour runs for about 8 hours, with pick-up from touristic areas using a modern, air-conditioned bus. The group size is generally manageable, creating a friendly atmosphere where questions are encouraged. Pick-up points are specified, but note that there’s no pick-up or drop-off in Las Palmas or the harbor, so plan to be at Parque Tropical if you’re staying in those areas.

According to reviews, the transportation is comfortable and punctual, a big plus for those who dislike long, cramped bus rides. The timing is flexible, but it’s important to arrive on time, as late arrivals won’t be eligible for refunds or rescheduling.

Price and Value

At $78 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive look into some of Gran Canaria’s best-known products, plus tastings and a workshop. Given the quality of guides, the inclusions, and the variety of stops, many reviews agree this is good value for money. The tour is packed with activities, which makes it ideal for those who want an active, engaging day rather than a passive sightseeing experience.

What’s Not Included?

Lunch is not included in the tour price, and some reviewers mention the provided options were limited or not representative of Canarian cuisine. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat in Agaete afterward. Souvenirs are also extra, so if you’re interested in local products, set aside some budget for shopping.

Accessibility and Considerations

While the tour is suitable for most, it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments or those using wheelchairs, as some stops involve walking and standing. The pace is generally lively, and the walking between sites can be a bit demanding.

Authentic Insights from Past Participants

Many reviewers highlight the professionalism and knowledge of guides, especially praising Tom, who was described as “super friendly,” “incredibly knowledgeable,” and able to switch languages effortlessly. One guest raved that his stories made each stop more meaningful, turning a sightseeing trip into a cultural lesson.

Taste-wise, the rum, wine, and coffee tastings consistently receive high marks. Guests often comment on the quality and variety of the products—the Carta Oro rum and the regional wines in particular—making the experience worth the price.

Some visitors did mention that the lunch was limited or not particularly authentic, so if culinary focus is high for you, consider this when planning your day. Still, the opportunity to learn how to make Mojo, a symbol of Canary Islands cuisine, adds a delicious, practical element.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies, culture buffs, and curious travelers who enjoy engaging with local traditions. It’s perfect for those interested in learning about production processes and tasting regional specialties in a relaxed, friendly setting.

If you’re after a full, active day that’s both educational and fun, this tour offers a well-rounded mix. However, if mobility is a concern or you prefer more leisurely, sit-down experiences, you might want to consider other options or prepare for some walking.

Final Thoughts

The Gran Canaria Rum, Wines, and Banana Tour delivers a memorable glimpse into the island’s culinary and cultural landscape. With knowledgeable guides, excellent product tastings, and scenic stops, it offers good value and a well-rounded experience. It’s especially suited for visitors who love learning through tasting and want a day packed with authentic local flavors.

While it might not be suitable for everyone—those with mobility issues or seeking a more relaxed pace might find it a bit demanding—the overall quality and variety make it a worthwhile choice for most travelers.

If you’re looking to combine sightseeing with delicious discoveries, this tour will leave you with a deeper appreciation for Gran Canaria’s character and a few tasty souvenirs to take home.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes transportation in a modern, fully air-conditioned bus from designated pick-up points.
What is the duration of the tour? The full experience lasts about 8 hours, including transfers.
Is lunch included? No, lunch is not part of the package and is available at an extra cost.
Are there any restrictions? The tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters.
What languages are guides available in? Guides speak English and Spanish, with some reviews mentioning German as well.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
Do I need to bring anything? Comfortable shoes for walking, and perhaps some snacks if you prefer more meal options beyond the included tastings.

Exploring Gran Canaria through its flavors is a fantastic way to connect with the island’s heart and soul. This tour offers a mix of education, taste, and scenic beauty that’s hard to beat for a full day of authentic Canary Islands culture.