Things to do in Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria's 'Little Venice' – visit Puerto de Mogan by boat

Puerto de Mogan is said by many to be the most beautiful town in Gran Canaria, and once you've set eyes on its toytown houses, it's hard to argue. This tour brings you by boat, docking right in the heart of the harbour after a scenic approach, so you avoid long walks from out-of-town parking lots. Maria, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Mogan market is a classic in Gran Canaria, known all over the island. And to arrive in the town by boat gives you that a spine-tingling sensation you get in anticipation of a special experience.'Sailing from Puerto Rico harbour, you'll glide along the rocky, volcanic coastline of the south before arriving at Puerto de Mogan. Cupped into cliffs at the mouth of a steep valley, it's known as ‘Little Venice' for its canal, blue-and-yellow-trimmed white cottages, wrought iron balconies and flower-festooned lanes. Traits that have made it very popular.Arriving by boat, you're in the middle of all the action straight away. Only we bring you to and from Puerto de Mogan by sea. Antonio, another of our local guides, say, ‘If you arrive by coach, not only is the journey less scenic but you have to walk a fair bit to get to the waterfront.' You'll have free time to poke around the stalls selling typical Canarian products or just relax at one of the many terraced cafés overlooking the yachts. Oh, and there's also an enticing sandy beach to stretch out on, too.

Gran Canaria Spirit of the Sea dolphin-watching cruise

The thrill of watching dolphins in their natural environment is one of the great experiences Gran Canaria has to offer. Onboard Spirit of the Sea – World Cetacean Alliance certified for responsible whale and dolphin watching – you'll get to see these friendly and intelligent creatures in their natural habitat.There are six types of dolphin to spot, including bottlenose and common. And fin – the second-largest mammal – and pilot whales also make regular appearances. In fact, one-third of all species of cetaceans, which include whales and porpoises, can be found in these waters.You'll be able to keep a look-out for other creatures – turtles, flying fish and brightly coloured parrot fish – thanks to the Spirit of the Sea's viewing area. Plus, there's a swim stop included, for when you want to cool off in the water.

Aqualand Maspalomas

Thrills, spills, rides and slides – and lots of fun – await you at Aqualand Maspalomas. One of the largest of water parks in the Canaries, it has more than 30 attractions to keep the whole family grinning all day.

Sioux City Entrance

Think thundering hooves, whirring spurs and shouts of ‘yeehah' on this trip to Sioux City – the Canaries' most authentic cowboy themed adventure park. Wandering the dusty streets of a replica old west town, the action happens all around you. From cattle runs and horseshows to gunfights and bank heists, it's an entertainment extravaganza, Wild West style.Kick off the adventure the moment you step foot in the park. Originally a movie set for a spaghetti western, it's all swinging saloon doors and one-room jailhouses. Packed with gun-slinging characters, it feels every bit the authentic American west.Throughout the day, you'll be wowed by cattle runs, horseshows, duels, fights and more – some when you least expect it. Don't miss out on the thrilling bank heist. The town sheriff faces down some dastardly outlaws in an exciting horseback shootout. All in all, an action-packed family day out.

Gran Canaria’s Poema del Mar aquarium and Guayadeque canyon tour

From the sea to the central mountains and even underground, you'll see the very best of Gran Canaria with this tour. You'll get up-close to more than 300 marine species in Poema del Mar aquarium, drive through the green valley of Guayadeque and tuck into a light lunch before wrapping things up with free time in the colonial town of Agüimes. Miguel, one of our local guides, says, ‘There's so much packed into one day. But for me, the most interesting part is Guayadeque, which represents a very important part of our prehistory.'First up is one of the most popular attractions in Las Palmas. With panoramic curved windows and countless exhibitions, Poema del Mar is where you'll get lost in a hypnotic underwater world that's home to hundreds of sea creatures. There are electric eels, bull sharks and fish that look just like Nemo. You can also take advantage of their state-of-the-art cinema, showcasing hourly screenings of interesting and fun short films.Next, you'll journey through the island's greenest corner to Guayadeque Canyon. It's famed for its cave homes, which the ancient aborigines built in lava bubbles, and winding hiking trails. After exploring, you'll refuel with delicious traditional tapas made from locally sourced ingredients. Then it's on to Agüimes, where you'll have some free time to wander through this pastel-coloured parish perched above the green ravine of Guayadeque. You can see the elegant church, stop for a coffee in a local café or take some selfies by the town's many statues.

Aquarium Poema del Mar & Bus TUI Package

From the same family as two of Tenerife's most popular attractions, Loro Parque and Siam Park, comes Poema del Mar aquarium in the heart of Las Palmas. Here you'll come face to face with over 300 marine species, including sharks, piranhas, clown fish and hundreds more. It promises a fun trip out for all the family.With a panoramic 36-metre-long curved window and countless exhibitions, Poema del Mar is where you'll get lost in a hypnotic underwater world that's home to hundreds of sea creatures. There are electric eels, bull sharks and fish that look just like Nemo waiting to be discovered.Lose yourself in The Jungle with creatures from different corners of the world, and head to the Reef where you'll encounter corals and fish of every colour imaginable. You can also take advantage of their state-of-the-art cinema, showcasing hourly screenings of interesting and fun short films, or venture to the Deep Sea with millions of litres of water. There's also free time to enjoy Las Palmas, Santa Catalina and Las Canteras beach.

Full-day Gran Canaria tour with Teror, Tejeda and typical lunch

Villages, viewpoints and volcanic rocks dot Gran Canaria's jagged spine. This tour weaves its way through some of the island's most dramatic landscapes, stopping along the way to visit gems such as Teror, Tejeda and Fataga. David, one of our local guides, says, ‘The legend of the apparition of the Virgin Mary in Teror still intrigues me. It was in 1481, amid the Castilian conquest of Gran Canaria, and it helped change the island's destiny.'And Teror is where your adventure begins. Strolling past the balconied townhouses of Calle Real de la Plaza towards the mountain-framed basilica of Our Lady of the Pine is one of the defining Gran Canaria experiences. A scenic mountain drive away is Tejeda, which is a bit of a looker itself – red-roofed, whitewashed houses sprinkled on the slope of a valley. David adds, ‘Every time there's a list of Spain's prettiest villages, Tejeda is near the top. Its setting is unbeatable.' There's also a pit stop at Las Tirajanas viewpoint to admire a vast volcanic caldera, as we make our way to Fataga to eat. A lunch made from locally sourced ingredients will be served in a family-owned restaurant. After a little amble through the town, we'll visit a nearby aloe vera plantation to get the lowdown on its medicinal properties. Generations of islanders have used extracts from the plant for skin burns.

Treasures of Gran Canaria

Discover Gran Canaria's best-kept secrets on this full day tour. Starting on the sun-kissed side of the island in Mogán, this adventure is all about uncovering hidden spots, landscapes, and culture. Luca, one of our expert, local guides, says, ‘Gran Canaria's landscapes are so diverse, it's like visiting different countries in one trip – deserts, mountains, and lush valleys all in one place. With some of the most scenic routes on the cards, this tour is pure road trip goals.'You'll kickstart with serious wow-factor views cruising through Barranco de Los Azulejos – also known as Rainbow Valley. These multi-coloured mountains are totally one-of-a-kind and guaranteed to blow your mind. Then, you'll dive deeper into the heart of the island, and arrive at La Aldea. Local guide Sam spills the beans, ‘this area is known as the island's pantry because it's bursting with goodies – from mangos and veggies to those famous La Aldea tomatoes. And don't miss the avocados – they're the creamiest you'll ever taste.' Get your camera ready for some Insta-gold pics and soak up the chill village charm.Next, you'll drive to Agaete where the zig-zag cliffs of Dragon's Tail and Faneque cliff are perfect backdrops for your camera roll – you might even spot Mount Teide on a clear day. In Agaete you'll have free time to check out the local scene and grab a bite to eat. Then, we'll hit the showstopper Balcón viewpoint – you'll feel on top of the world – before wrapping things up at Salinas de Tenefé. Be wowed by the pink salt flats on a guided tour of the site, followed by a unique tasting experience.

Mogan Yellow Submarine Tour

The Yellow Submarine is as much a part of the seas off Puerto de Mogan as the shoals of fish that swim in them. It's a window on a weird and wonderful world of exotic marine life and shipwrecks that will unfold before your eyes during the 40 minutes this underwater adventure lasts.

Market day in Puerto de Mogán

Canary Island beauty meets Mediterranean vibes in Puerto de Mogán. We're talking pretty plazas and whitewashed houses, where baskets of pink bougainvillaeas really make the place pop. And guess what? Our Friday trips land you right in the heart of Mercadillo, the liveliest market day in town. Our local expert guide, Phillipe, says “you can't come to the Canary Islands without spending some time at a market like the one you'll visit on this tour. Local food, traditional souvenirs, and occasionally live music are all in one place ready for you to get stuck in to.” You'll be picked up at your hotel and driven to Puerto de Mogán, giving you the chance to snap some Insta-worthy shots along the way. Once you arrive, you'll have plenty of free time to dive into the market. From fresh produce and local crafts to trendy fashion finds, it's souvenir heaven. Plus, you'll love the backdrop of palm trees and volcanic cliffs – it's like a postcard. The locals here are super friendly, and their market stalls are packed with unique finds and tasty treats. After wandering around the market at your own pace, grab those perfect send-home snaps, chill with a ‘cortado' – espresso mixed with warm milk – at a cute café, or stroll along the marina. You'll see exactly why Puerto de Mogan is dubbed ‘Little Venice' with its bridges and canals. Take it all in before heading back to your hotel.

Gran Canaria summit sunset tour

As the sun tucks away behind the horizon, you'll toast to Gran Canaria's spectacular landscape on this exclusive sunset excursion. You'll travel inland through rustic villages and up its highest peak to see in the sunset with bubbly.

Las Palmas Cultural

Soak up the rich history and vibrant culture of Las Palmas' Old Town on this guided tour of Vegueta. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this excursion promises an unforgettable journey through cobblestone alleys and centuries-old architecture. Ana, one of our expert local guides, says, 'One of my favourite things to do is just to ‘get lost' in the old town, strolling through the lanes at your own pace. Vegueta is so fashionable and atmospheric, it's like being in a movie.'Begin your adventure with a guided exploration of Vegueta's charming streets. Learn fascinating stories and discover hidden gems as you wander through this historic district. Step into the past at the renowned Museo Canario, where ancient artifacts and insights into the island's pre-Hispanic heritage await. Ana adds, 'without the generosity of Dr. Gregorio Chil y Naranjo, who willed his home as a place to house the museum, these precious artifacts might not be available for public viewing today.'Continue your cultural immersion with a visit to the Diocesan Museum, showcasing Gran Canaria's religious and artistic heritage. Marvel at the architectural masterpiece of the Cathedral of Santa Ana before enjoying some free time to explore Vegueta at your own pace. Stroll along its bustling streets, browse through quaint shops and boutiques, and perhaps pick up souvenirs or local crafts to commemorate your visit.