Gran Canaria: Canyoning in the rainforest

Exploring Gran Canaria often conjures images of sun-drenched beaches and vibrant nightlife, but if you’re craving something more adventurous, canyoning in the rainforest offers a thrilling escape into the island’s wild side. This activity, rated 5 out of 5 based on four reviews, invites you to jump, rappel, and slide through lush canyon scenery, all while being supported by expert local guides. It’s a fantastic way to reconnect with nature while challenging yourself physically and mentally.

What I love most about this tour is its accessibility—no previous experience required, just a good level of fitness and a sense of adventure. The guides, especially Jorge, are praised for their professionalism and safety-conscious approach, which makes even nervous first-timers feel secure. That said, a potential consideration is the requirement for closed-toe, waterproof shoes, which some reviewers noted should be non-slip. This activity suits active families, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager for a hands-on, authentic nature experience.

If you’re looking for a day packed with adrenaline, stunning scenery, and friendly guidance, this canyoning adventure is a winner. It strikes a fine balance between thrill and safety, making it ideal for those who enjoy physical activity and breathtaking landscapes without the need for prior skills.

Key Points

• Authentic adventure in Gran Canaria’s lush canyon landscapes.
• Professional guides ensure safety and provide expert instruction.
• Suitable for all fitness levels, but not for very young children or pregnant women.
• Includes a scenic walk, swimming, and a safety briefing to prepare you for the fun.
• Affordable price point offers great value for a 4-hour activity.
• Rain or shine, this activity runs, ensuring no missed fun due to weather.

Discovering Gran Canaria’s Wild Side

While many travelers flock to Gran Canaria for its beaches and resorts, this canyoning experience reveals a rawer, less-trodden part of the island. The tour guides you to the Canyon Los Cernícalos, starting from a modest dirt parking lot on the right side of a curve. From here, you’ll walk for about 20 minutes to a viewpoint, soaking in the lush scenery along the way. The initial hike sets the tone—expect to navigate uneven terrain, which is part of the fun, and get your first glimpses of the dense greenery and waterfalls ahead.

This journey into nature is designed to be accessible, with a safety briefing and an introduction from your guides, who are fluent in both English and Spanish. The guides, especially Jorge, earn high praise for their professionalism. Manuela notes, “Jorge is a great Guide, we felt very safe and enjoyed the experience so much fun and adventure in a stunning nature of Gran Canaria.” Their expertise ensures that everyone feels confident tackling the various elements, from rappelling waterfalls to sliding down rocks.

The Heart of the Tour: Waterfalls, Rappelling, and Slides

The core of the canyoning adventure is what makes it stand out. Over the four hours, you’ll descend waterfalls, navigate river beds, and enjoy cool dips in the crystal-clear water. Expect to rappel down ropes, slide along natural rock formations, and even swim in certain sections. The experience is designed to be fun for families and adventure enthusiasts alike.

The reviews highlight the stunning natural scenery—the vibrant greenery, the roar of waterfalls, and the thrill of overcoming physical challenges. David mentions, “Super good experience in beautiful surroundings with dedicated instructors,” endorsing the professionalism of the team. The guides are not just safety-conscious but also knowledgeable about the area, providing insights into the local flora and fauna along the way.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour begins at the designated parking lot, which is easy to find and offers a clear meeting point. The entire activity lasts approximately 4 hours, with the option to check availability for your preferred start time. The itinerary includes a scenic walk to a viewpoint, a break for photos or a quick swim, and a safety briefing before heading out into the canyon.

Included in the activity are the services of a professional guide, who will explain everything about the route, safety measures, and the activity itself. The guides speak both English and Spanish, making communication straightforward for international visitors.

Participants should prepare by bringing passport or ID, change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, sportswear, personal medication, and closed-toe shoes. It’s important to note that this activity is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility or health issues. Also, alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited.

The Experience: From Fears to Fun

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is how the guides help participants overcome fears. Manuela recounts, “We felt very safe and enjoyed the experience so much,” thanks to Jorge and his team. The activity is designed to be inclusive, with instructions tailored to all levels of experience. The focus on safety and guidance makes it appealing for first-timers eager to try something new.

The natural waterfalls and slides are the standout features. Sliding down rocks and plunging into fresh water feels incredibly rewarding after a climb or rappel. Plus, the cool splash of water offers relief on warm days, making the adventure both exciting and refreshing.

The Value of the Experience

At $79 per person, this canyoning tour offers remarkable value considering the activity duration, professional guidance, and the unique access to Gran Canaria’s rainforest landscapes. Compared to other adventure activities on the island, it’s competitively priced and provides a comprehensive, action-packed four hours.

While it’s not a cheap thrill, the combination of safety, natural beauty, and the sense of accomplishment justifies the cost. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures personalized attention and a higher quality experience, which many travelers find adds to the overall enjoyment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for active travelers seeking a genuine outdoor adventure. It’s especially suitable for those comfortable with physical activity but not necessarily experienced in canyoning or rappelling. Families with older children (over 10) can enjoy it too, provided they’re fit and prepared. It’s less suitable for pregnant women, those with health issues, or mobility concerns, as it involves hiking and navigating uneven terrain.

In summary, if you’re craving an authentic, adrenaline-pumping experience that immerses you in Gran Canaria’s lush natural environment, this canyoning adventure offers a memorable day out. Expect stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and the thrill of conquering waterfalls and rocks in a pristine setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the canyoning tour?
The activity lasts approximately 4 hours, including safety briefings, walking, and the canyoning itself.

What should I bring with me?
You’ll need a passport or ID, change of clothes, a towel, sunscreen, sportswear, personal medication, and closed-toe shoes.

Is prior experience necessary?
No, the activity requires no previous canyoning experience, but a good fitness level is recommended.

Are children allowed?
Children under 10 are not suitable for this experience.

Can pregnant women participate?
No, pregnant women are advised not to take part due to physical demands.

What happens in case of rain?
The activity runs rain or shine, so be prepared for all weather conditions.

Where do I meet the guides?
The meeting point is a dirt parking lot on the right side of a curve near the canyoning site.

Is the activity safe?
Absolutely. The professional guides are experienced and provide thorough safety instructions, making it a secure adventure for participants.

Final Thoughts

For those looking to explore Gran Canaria in a way that combines fun, fitness, and nature, canyoning in the rainforest presents a perfect escape from the usual tourist spots. The guides’ professionalism, combined with the stunning scenery and exhilarating activities, makes for a memorable day. It’s suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers who want an authentic adrenaline rush amidst the island’s lush greenery.

While it requires some physical effort and a willingness to get wet, the rewards—spectacular waterfalls, natural slides, and the joy of overcoming challenges—are well worth it. If you’re after a unique story to tell and a sense of accomplishment, this adventure will leave a lasting impression of Gran Canaria’s wild, beautiful heart.

To sum it up, this canyoning experience offers excellent value, expert guidance, and an authentic outdoor adventure in the island’s rainforest terrain. It’s best suited for active travelers who crave an adrenaline-filled day surrounded by stunning natural scenery. Whether you’re traveling as a family, friends, or solo, this tour promises a day full of excitement, natural beauty, and unforgettable moments.