Hiking in Gran Canaria

Discover the island on foot with the best hiking in Gran Canaria, a paradise for walkers. Explore ancient royal paths crossing laurel forests, ascend to the base of the iconic Roque Nublo, or skirt a volcanic caldera. From the summit to the coast, the island offers you unique landscapes for an unforgettable adventure at every step, making it a top hiking destination.

Guide to Hiking on the Island

Gran Canaria is a miniature continent, and the best way to discover its essence is through its trails. Hiking in Gran Canaria allows you to go from arid canyons to lush forests in a matter of kilometers. Below, we present a guide with the essential routes for you to explore the island like a true local.

Hiking Routes at the Summit

The heart of the island offers the most spectacular views and some of the most important natural monuments:

  • Roque Nublo: the most emblematic route. A simple trail takes you to the base of this 80-meter monolith, a symbol of the island, with panoramic views over the Tejeda caldera.
  • Pico de las Nieves: reach the roof of Gran Canaria at 1,949 meters. From here, on clear days, the view of Mount Teide floating on a sea of clouds is simply magical.
  • Ruta de la Plata: an ancient royal path that connects Cruz de Tejeda with the south of the island, crossing pine forests and volcanic landscapes.

Hiking Through the Northern Forests

The north of the island hides green and lush gems, a legacy of the ancient Doramas jungle:

  • Los Tilos de Moya: a very easy circular path that immerses you in one of the last strongholds of laurisilva on the island, a humid and magical forest.
  • Tamadaba Pine Forest: explore one of the best-preserved Canary pine forests, with trails that overlook dizzying cliffs on the west coast.
  • Barranco de Azuaje: a route that follows the watercourse amidst exuberant vegetation, ideal for hot days.

Volcanic and Coastal Trails

Discover the volcanic origins of the island and its rugged coastline:

  • Caldera de Bandama: walk along the edge of a 1 km diameter volcanic crater or dare to descend into its interior, where an old farm is located.
  • Güigüí Beach: one of the most demanding and rewarding routes. After several hours of walking through canyons, you will reach a virgin black sand beach.

Whether you’re seeking the spirituality of Roque Nublo or the freshness of the laurel forests, hiking in Gran Canaria is the best way to connect with the nature and history of this unique territory.

How to choose hiking and adventure in this area

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