Gran Canaria: Off-Road Buggy Adventure in the Canyons

Taking a buggy ride across Gran Canaria’s southern landscapes offers a blend of adrenaline, spectacular scenery, and authentic island charm. This tour, run by Excursiones Canarias SL, promises a lively 2.5-hour escapade through the rugged terrain, with views that stretch across mountains, canyons, and traditional villages. It’s an experience packed with off-road thrills and plenty of photo-worthy moments, all guided by enthusiastic locals who know the terrain well.

What we really love about this adventure is how it balances adventure and sightseeing—you’re not just racing around in a vehicle; you’re exploring the authentic heart of the island. Plus, the guides shine with their friendliness, humor, and knowledge, making sure everyone feels safe and included. That said, a major consideration is the physical requirements: this activity is best suited for those who are comfortable with driving or riding in a buggy for two hours, and who can handle some dirt and dust.

This tour mostly appeals to adventure seekers, nature lovers, and families with children over 1.35 meters tall. If you’re after a scenic, fun, and slightly rugged experience, this off-road buggy adventure could be perfect. Just remember to come prepared with closed shoes, your driver’s license, and a sense of humor!

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Experience panoramic vistas of the Ayagaures Valley, reservoirs, and the surrounding mountains.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, humorous guides like Speedy and Eloy make the trip engaging and safe.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines scenic stops with exciting off-road driving, offering a well-rounded adventure.
• Practical Details: Two-hour ride, hotel pickup in select areas, and small groups for a personalized experience.
• Value for Money: Includes insurance, pickup, and a memorable adventure, with optional photo/video purchases.
• Age & Safety Restrictions: Children over 1.35 meters tall, driver’s license required, no pregnant women or those with back problems.

Exploring the Off-Road Buggy Experience

An Inside Look at the Itinerary

The adventure kicks off with a hotel pickup from popular southern locations like Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, or Meloneras—making it a seamless start without the hassle of figuring out transportation. Once on-site, you’re greeted by a lively team that makes safety briefings fun and straightforward, setting the tone for the day.

The tour begins with a drive to the scenic Ayagaures Valley, known for its reservoir and lush surroundings. From here, the real fun begins. Expect to navigate unpaved, dusty roads that wind through the mountains, revealing stunning views of the canyon, neighboring villages, and lush vegetation. Our guides—like the hilarious Speedy—are eager to share insights about the landscape, local life, and hidden gems along the route.

One of the notable stops is at the Pedro Gonzales viewpoint, offering a sweeping panoramic shot of the valley below—perfect for photos. Many reviews highlight how “Speedy whizzed around on his bike, taking photos/videos that you could buy later,” adding a fun, personal touch to the experience. Other stops include reservoirs and mountain outlooks, giving travelers ample opportunity to stretch, snap pictures, and soak in the scenery.

Off-Road Thrills and Scenic Stops

The highlight for most is the off-road segment, where the buggies hit the dirt and gravel trails, offering bursts of adrenaline. While some reviewers mention that most of the ride is on paved roads, the off-road sections are enough to satisfy thrill-seekers. One reviewer pointed out they’d prefer a bit more off-road driving, but still raved about the “brilliant and fun” off-road moments.

Expect to swap drivers at certain stops if you’re in a two-person buggy, making it a shared experience. The guides are adept at ensuring everyone gets a turn behind the wheel, and the route is designed to maximize views and off-road fun without being overly challenging.

Authentic Villages and Water Reservoirs

What sets this tour apart from many others is the genuine exposure to local life. Passing through charming villages in the south, surrounded by terraced farms and traditional houses, provides an authentic flavor of Gran Canaria. The reservoirs and Fataga Valley, famed for their lush greenery and historical significance, give you a taste of the island’s diverse landscapes.

In fact, one reviewer mentioned that the tour was “more scenic and varied than expected,” emphasizing the stunning vistas and the informative commentary from guides like Eloy and Lucian. Their passion for the landscape and humor keeps the group entertained and informed.

Practicalities and What’s Included

The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, including pickup and drop-off, making it a manageable activity within a day of sightseeing. It’s suitable for those with a valid car driving license—drivers and co-drivers both need to bring their licenses. Children over 1.35 meters tall are welcome, but pregnant women and those with back problems are advised to skip this activity.

Included in the price are insurance, the buggy ride itself, and pickup/drop-off from specific areas—primarily in the southern resorts. You’ll need to bring closed-toe shoes, and optional items like face protection bandanas and photos can be purchased on-site. Reviews mention that goggles are provided, which is essential given the dusty trails.

Guides: The Heart of the Experience

Many reviews emphasize how much guides like Speedy, Eloy, and Lucian enhance the tour. They’re praised for their friendly, humorous approach and their ability to keep everyone safe while ensuring maximum fun. For example, one reviewer said, “Speedy was hilarious and made the experience special,” highlighting how guides mix professionalism with entertainment.

Price and Value Perspective

While prices can seem steep if you’re eyeing the photos and videos—around €35 for a package—the overall value is solid. You’re getting a well-organized, guided experience that covers scenic viewpoints, off-road fun, and local insights. Reviews suggest that many feel they get their money’s worth, especially considering the small group setting, personalized attention, and the memorable moments created.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This activity is best suited for adventure lovers and those who want a taste of Gran Canaria’s natural beauty in an active way. Families with children over 1.35 meters tall will enjoy the shared driving experience, but it’s not recommended for pregnant women or anyone with back issues. The guides’ humor and local knowledge make it ideal for travelers who appreciate friendly, engaging hosts.

If you’re after spectacular views combined with a bit of adrenaline and don’t mind getting a little dusty, this tour hits the mark. However, if your idea of off-road adventure involves longer or more intense dirt trails, you might find this tour more on the scenic side with some off-road moments rather than full-blown adrenaline rushes.

Final Words

This Gran Canaria buggy adventure offers a fantastic mix of scenic sightseeing, off-road fun, and local charm. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge truly elevate the experience, ensuring everyone feels safe and entertained. The views of the Ayagaures Valley and the surrounding mountains are what make it memorable, especially for those who love capturing stunning photos.

The tour is well-organized, with convenient pickup options and a comfortable pace that lets you enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. While most of the ride is on paved roads, the off-road sections are enough to satisfy thrill-seekers and provide that rugged, adventurous feel.

In terms of value, the experience delivers more than just a joyride—it’s a chance to see Gran Canaria from a unique perspective, learn about local villages, and create lasting memories. It’s particularly good for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for an active day out that balances scenic beauty with a dash of adventure.

If you’re craving a fun, authentic way to explore Gran Canaria’s southern landscapes, this buggy tour is a solid choice that offers genuine value and unforgettable views.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 1.35 meters tall can participate, and they can ride as co-drivers or passengers, depending on the buggy setup.

Do I need a driving license?
Yes, a valid car driving license is required for drivers. If the co-driver also brings a license, they can take turns driving the two-seater buggies.

What should I bring?
Bring closed-toe shoes, your driver’s license, and consider bringing a face protection bandana (which can be bought on-site). Goggles are provided, but it’s good to have eye protection.

How long is the tour?
The activity itself lasts about 2 hours, but with pickup and drop-off, the entire experience is approximately 2.5 hours.

Is there any off-road driving?
Yes, the tour includes some unpaved, dusty roads and exciting canyon tracks, though some reviews mention the majority is on paved roads with a shorter off-road segment.

Can I buy photos and videos?
Yes, the guides typically take photos and videos during the trip, which are available for around €35. Reviewers suggest this is a good deal if there’s a group, but it can feel steep for just a few images.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English, French, German, and Spanish, with guides fluent in these languages.

Are there any restrictions I should know?
Pregnant women and anyone with back problems are advised against participating. The activity is not suitable for those under 135 cm in height.

This buggy adventure in Gran Canaria offers a genuine blend of scenic views and off-road fun, guided by friendly experts who make safety and enjoyment their priorities. Whether you’re after a family day out or an adrenaline-filled exploration, it’s a lively way to see the island’s rugged southern landscapes.