Gran Canaria: excursion to the Laurisilva Forest

This guided tour offers an engaging 7-hour adventure into the heart of Gran Canaria’s most captivating natural environment—the Laurisilva Forest in the Doramas Natural Park. Perfect for lovers of nature, scenic vistas, and a touch of authentic Canary Island charm, this experience combines scenic hiking, native plant spotting, and local agricultural sights.

What really sets this tour apart is the expertise of the guides, who bring the landscape to life with interesting stories and detailed knowledge. The journey through primitive jungle-like forests and fairytale-like valleys feels genuinely immersive, making it a highlight for nature enthusiasts.

A possible consideration? The hike requires appropriate footwear and a reasonable level of mobility. If you’re not comfortable walking 7.5 km with a 300-meter elevation change, this might not be the best fit.

This tour is well-suited for active travelers eager to explore Gran Canaria beyond beaches, especially those who enjoy learning about endemic plants and local farming traditions in a peaceful, stunning setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Ecosystem: Explore one of the island’s most important and impressive ecosystems in the Laurisilva Forest.
• Native Flora & Fauna: See endemic plants, eucalyptus trees, and even pick blackberries in winter.
• Spectacular Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas over the lush north coast of Gran Canaria.
• Guided Expertise: Knowledgeable guides lead you through each scenic stop, sharing stories and insights.
• Healthy Activity: Moderate 7.5 km hike, suitable for those with good mobility and proper footwear.
• Local Culture: Discover Canarian agriculture and enjoy a picnic in an enchanting forest setting.

Introduction: A Nature Lover’s Dream on Gran Canaria

If you’re craving an escape into the wild, this guided tour to the Laurisilva Forest offers just that—an engrossing walk through some of the island’s most pristine and ancient landscapes. It’s not just a hike; it’s a journey into what remains of Gran Canaria’s primeval forests, where the air smells of eucalyptus and the views stretch endlessly over green valleys.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to see the native flora and fauna up close, guided by experts who really know their stuff. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst towering trees and lush gorges makes this a truly relaxing and authentic day out.

One thing to keep in mind: this tour involves a fair amount of walking and requires suitable footwear—it’s not a casual stroll. Travelers who enjoy active exploration and want to connect with the island’s natural roots will find this tour especially rewarding.

The Itinerary: A Day of Scenic Discovery

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from six key locations: San Agustín, Playa del Inglés, Mogán, Maspalomas, Puerto Rico, or Arguineguín. This flexibility allows most travelers to start their day stress-free. After pickup, a comfortable coach ride of about an hour whisks you towards the northern part of Gran Canaria, setting the stage for nature’s grand show.

Zumacal and the Laurisilva Forest

Once arrived at Zumacal, a small town at the gateway to the natural park, your guide—an official local expert—begins the four-hour guided walk. This part of the tour is the core, where you’ll descend through a densely overgrown gorge and traverse the lush, jungle-like landscapes of the Doramas Natural Park.

The guides are known for their enthusiasm and deep knowledge, which makes the experience stand out. They point out endemic plants, share stories about the forest’s history, and highlight the geological features that make this area so unique. The scenery here is often described as a “primitive jungle,” reminiscent of distant times, with giant eucalyptus trees and a rich tapestry of native flora.

Virgin Valley & Vuelta del Camello

As you walk along the trail, you’ll reach the Virgin Valley—offering impressive panoramic views over the north coast’s green valleys and cliffs. This is a perfect spot for photos and simply soaking in the scenery. The trail continues along the Vuelta del Camello route to Zumacal gorge, where you’ll take a well-deserved break for lunch.

Picnic Among the Trees

The highlight of the day is a picnic in the forest, surrounded by high trees and the sounds of nature. The included vegetarian sandwich and water provide enough fuel for your exploration, and many reviews mention how peaceful and scenic this setting is. It’s a chance to unwind, take photos, and enjoy the tranquility of this ancient landscape.

The Ascent & Local Agriculture

After lunch, the walk begins to ascend through a deep gorge with tall eucalyptus and native plants. You’ll pass lemon and orange plantations, with winter offering the bonus of blackberry picking—an authentic, seasonal experience that adds a sweet touch to your day. The final part of the hike involves walking along the plantations, which brings a nice contrast to the forests and gorges.

Return Journey & Drop-offs

The journey back takes about 1.5 hours by coach, with the option for drop-off at several locations, including Puerto Rico, Arguineguín, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, San Agustín, or Mogán. This makes it easy to integrate into your broader Gran Canaria plans.

What We Thought: The Highlights and Realities

This tour excels in delivering a genuine connection to Gran Canaria’s natural environment. The guides, many of whom are praised for their extensive knowledge, make the experience especially valuable. Their stories about endemic plants and local farming traditions enrich the hike far beyond just scenic views.

The scenery is undeniably stunning. Travelers report that the views of the northern coast are breathtaking, especially from the Virgin Valley. The lush forests, full of giant eucalyptus and native plants, feel like stepping into another world—pristine, green, and full of life.

The pace is moderate, making this suitable for most active travelers, but proper footwear is essential. Many reviews highlight the importance of hiking shoes with good tread. If you’re unsure, the company offers rental boots for €5, which is worth considering if you don’t own suitable shoes.

The inclusion of a vegetarian sandwich, water, and insurance adds to the overall value, making this a reasonably priced way to spend a day immersed in nature. The small group size (4 to 16 people) ensures a more personal experience, and the pickup at your hotel means no fuss with transportation logistics.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues. The hike involves some uneven terrain and a 300-meter elevation gain, so it’s best suited for those with a reasonable level of fitness.

Travelers have expressed how the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge significantly elevate the experience, with some even calling it “the most beautiful hike in the Canary Islands.” It’s a day that combines physical activity with peaceful contemplation and learning—a perfect way to explore Gran Canaria’s less-known but equally stunning landscapes.

The Value Proposition: Who Is This Tour For?

This excursion provides excellent value if you’re looking to see a different side of Gran Canaria—its untouched forests, endemic plants, and quiet valleys. It’s an ideal choice for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of walking and want a guided experience that adds context and storytelling to their day.

Nature lovers and those interested in local agriculture will particularly enjoy discovering the lemon and orange plantations and blackberries in season. It’s also a fantastic option for travelers who appreciate expert guides who can share insights about the environment and history.

While the price might seem modest, the inclusion of transportation, guide, insurance, and lunch makes it a comprehensive, hassle-free way to explore the island’s natural heart. Just remember to bring suitable hiking shoes, sun protection, and warm clothing, especially in cooler months.

In summary, this tour is a beautiful, authentic way to connect with Gran Canaria’s landscape and heritage—perfect for curious explorers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone craving a peaceful escape from beaches and resorts.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including transportation, guided walk, picnic, and return.

Where are the pickup locations?
You can be picked up from San Agustín, Playa del Inglés, Mogán, Maspalomas, Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, or Arguineguín.

Do I need special footwear?
Yes. Hiking shoes with a treaded sole are necessary for safety and comfort. The company offers rental boots at €5 if needed.

Is the walk suitable for children?
Not really. It’s designed for ages 6 and above, but children should be comfortable with walking 7.5 km and uneven terrain.

Can pregnant women join?
No, this activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments.

What can I expect to see?
Endemic plants, eucalyptus trees, lemon and orange plantations, panoramic views, and the chance to pick blackberries in winter.

Is lunch included?
Yes. A vegetarian sandwich and water are provided for the picnic.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, and Spanish.

To sum it up, this guided hike into Gran Canaria’s Laurisilva Forest offers a meaningful and scenic escape into a landscape rarely seen by travelers. With knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and the chance to learn about local flora and farming traditions, it’s a fantastic choice for active travelers eager to explore the island beyond its beaches. Be prepared with suitable footwear and a sense of adventure, and you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of one of the most beautiful and pristine parts of Gran Canaria.