From Las Palmas: Full-Day Tour of the North

Exploring the northern part of Gran Canaria with a guided day trip offers a fantastic way to see a side of the island that many visitors miss. This tour, priced at $52 per person, packs in a variety of highlights—from historic churches and lush banana fields to charming villages and scenic coastlines—all within 7.5 hours of sightseeing.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances cultural insights, nature, and delicious local produce, making it a well-rounded package for curious travelers. Plus, the small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personal touch that helps you really get to know the island’s hidden gems.

One thing to consider is that the tour isn’t suitable for young children under 6, and some stops might feel a tad brief, especially for those eager to linger longer at each site. Still, if you’re looking for an authentic taste of Gran Canaria’s north with plenty of photo-worthy moments, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, local food and drink, and exploring traditional villages without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect if you want a comprehensive yet relaxed day out that covers the best of northern Gran Canaria.

Key Points

• Authentic experiences: Visit charming villages, local farms, and scenic viewpoints.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides like Francisco (Fran) make the day informative and engaging.
• Diverse stops: From coffee plantations to wine tastings, there’s a lot packed into one day.
• Good value: At just over $50, the tour offers a balanced mix of cultural sights and scenic views.
• Comfortable transport: Small buses or minivans ensure a smooth journey between sites.
• Limited for young children: Under 6s are not permitted, so plan accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting bright and early from Las Palmas, this tour sets the tone with a visit to Arucas, a picturesque town famous for its stunning neo-gothic church of St. John. The guide, often praised for being both friendly and full of interesting facts, will probably share stories about its construction and significance. Travelers consistently mention how much they appreciated the guide’s helpfulness and knowledge—many citing Francisco (Fran) as an outstanding leader who made the experience memorable.

Next, the journey takes you into banana fields, where you learn about the island’s key export crop. We loved the way guides explained the cultivation process, adding a layer of understanding about local agriculture—something many travelers might overlook. As one reviewer put it, they gained a lot of insight into banana farming, which is a major economic activity here.

A visit to Firgas follows, a charming village famous for its ceramic benches that line the streets with vibrant, traditional tiles. It’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs and snap some photos of the colorful town, with many visitors noting how picturesque and well-preserved it is. Some say the brief stops are a little quick, but most found it a worthwhile experience.

Lunch is in Puerto de las Nieves, a lively fishing village with breathtaking views of the High Cliff—Europe’s highest. The port is a prime photo spot, especially with its scenic backdrop and the bustling local vibe. You can choose to grab some lunch here, either at a local restaurant or a casual café, with many enjoying the fresh seafood and the lively atmosphere.

The most unique part of the tour is the visit to Agaete, renowned for its coffee fields—the only coffee plantation in Europe. Here, the tour includes a coffee tasting and a chance to learn about the cultivation of Arabyca Typica, a rare coffee variety. Reviewers often mention how fascinating it was to discover Europe’s only coffee plantation, and many appreciated the opportunity to taste the coffee right where it’s grown.

Further along, there’s a stop at a vineyard for a wine and cheese tasting (optional at €7.50). The guide usually makes this part especially engaging, sharing insights into the local wine-making traditions and pairing the wines with regional cheeses and snacks. Reviewers highlighted the quality of the wine selection and the friendly staff, who made the tasting both educational and enjoyable.

Finally, the tour wraps up with panoramic views from Port of Las Nieves, giving you a perfect photo opportunity to end the day. The vistas of the coast, cliffs, and waterfront are stunning and often cited as a highlight by many travelers.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour operates via bus or minivan, ensuring comfortable transportation throughout the day. The small group size, as some reviews note, makes for a more personal experience—guides like Francisco ensure everyone feels engaged and well looked after, which elevates the whole trip.

Most reviews praise the driver’s skill and friendliness, contributing to a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere. The pickup and drop-off service from Las Palmas saves you the hassle of organizing transport, making it a convenient option for visitors staying in the city.

Value for Money

At $52 per person, this tour offers an impressive range of experiences. Compared to individual tickets for attractions or dining, the price is quite reasonable given the number of stops, the inclusion of a guide, and transportation. The optional wine and cheese tasting at €7.50 adds extra value, offering a chance to sample local products without needing to seek them out yourself.

Since the tour is a full 7.5 hours, you get a lot of sightseeing for your money, and most guests feel they leave with a good understanding of northern Gran Canaria’s culture, landscape, and flavors.

Authenticity and Highlights Based on Reviews

Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable guides like Fran, who go above and beyond to share local insights with humor and warmth. Many mention that the tour felt like a well-curated journey into the heart of Gran Canaria’s north, with “very interesting and different” stops that showcase the island’s varied landscapes and towns.

The scenery is another standout—stunning viewpoints, lush green fields, and rugged coastlines. Several reviewers mention how the views from the port and the cliffs exceeded their expectations, making for memorable photo moments.

The local food and drink experiences—from cheese to coffee and wine—are a major highlight. Travelers appreciated tasting the freshest regional products in authentic settings, often praising the quality and presentation.

Considerations for Travelers

While most reviews are glowing, a few noted that some stops felt a bit rushed. If you love lingering over sights or taking long photos, you might find the brief stops limiting. Also, the tour isn’t suited for children under 6, so families with younger kids should consider alternatives.

Weather can be unpredictable, so bringing sunscreen, hats, or layers is advisable. The guide recommends sunscreen, and many guests confirm that the scenic views and outdoor stops are sunny and bright, especially in the warmer months.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, well-rounded day exploring northern Gran Canaria, especially if you enjoy cultural insights, scenic vistas, and local tastings. It suits people who appreciate small-group outings and want to avoid the stress of planning their own itinerary.

History buffs, food lovers, and nature enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy, while those wanting a leisurely, informative experience will appreciate the personal touch of guides like Francisco.

Final Thoughts

For a modest price, this full-day guided tour delivers a comprehensive look at northern Gran Canaria’s most iconic sights and hidden treasures. It strikes a great balance between cultural, culinary, and scenic experiences, making it a smart choice for anyone wanting to understand the essence of this part of the island.

The combination of expert guides, stunning views, and delicious local products ensures you’ll come away with meaningful memories and plenty of photo opportunities. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a deeper dive, this tour offers a worthwhile way to spend your day exploring in comfort and style.

If you appreciate authentic experiences, value good guides, and want a relaxed yet rich day out, this tour will serve you well. It’s particularly suited for those who want to see the best of northern Gran Canaria without the hassle of organizing their own transport and itinerary.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Las Palmas, with comfortable bus or minivan travel.

How long does the tour last?
The full tour runs approximately 7.5 hours, with starting times depending on availability.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not permitted for minors under 6 years old.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Are food and drink included?
Lunch is not included but is available for purchase at the port. The optional wine and cheese tasting costs €7.50.

How much is the wine and cheese tasting?
It’s an optional addition, priced at €7.50, which includes three cups of wine, local cheese, and some appetizers.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, a hat, camera, and comfortable clothes are recommended for outdoor stops and scenic viewpoints.

This full-day tour offers a well-balanced taste of Gran Canaria’s northern charm. Whether you’re after scenic drives, cultural insights, or delicious local flavors, it’s a journey worth considering for your Canary Islands adventure.