Three Precious Gems of Canary Islands: Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and La Palma - Spain
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Destinations > Europe > Spain > Canary Islands: Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and La Palma
The Warmest Place in Europe for the Winter
Known for its perfect weather and sunshine, the Spanish Archipelago has always been a top destination for tourists from all over the world.
The Canary Islands consist of eight main islands and they are famous for their black and white sand beaches as well as their volcanoes! There are so many things to do in the Canary Islands that you might need a whole notebook to jot down your itinerary.
Other than Tenerife, which is the biggest and most populated island of the Spanish Autonomous Community, you should also plan a trip to stay on these three other fun islands:
Also explore: La Gomera, El Hierro, Fuerteventura, and La Graciosa
To have an extra special trip to the Canary Islands, consider picking up the short - but completely packed - Culture and Customs guide before you go! For example, one thing you should know about Spain, and the Canary Islands, is that the people tend to have a mentality to put things off until tomorrow - so you should come with a flexible concept of time! We wouldn’t have been prepared for that without this great little guide!
RELATED: Try a bowl of Rancho Canario soup with this authentic recipe from the Canary Islands!
What to see in Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria, or the Grand Canary Island, is located in the Atlantic Ocean, about 1,350 kilometers away from Europe. Even though it is the third largest island on the Spain archipelago, Gran Canaria is actually the second most populous of the Canary Islands!
This round-shaped volcanic island has various different climates and types of landscapes which is why it is also known as a “miniature continent” – in one area, you will come across heaps of mountains, and in another area, you’ll be arriving at a canyon and sandy dunes! Make your planning easy and get a feel for the island in this ultimate one-day tour which includes a picnic lunch.
Otherwise, continue reading to see our top picks for what to see in Gran Canaria!
Playa de las Canteras
According to the locals, Playa de las Canteras is the best urban beach that you can find around the island – especially when it is blessed with great weather all year!
So, feel free to pack your favorite swimsuits and walk on the golden sand that stretches for over 2 kilometers. In addition to building sandcastles and playing volleyball under the sun, you could also rent a kayak, go snorkeling, or even learn to scuba dive!
This is also a great spot to hang around after sunset - many people tend to come out to the promenade to have a couple of drinks at the bars or have dinner at the numerous restaurants, which makes this area lively at night.
BONUS: Just in case it’s raining or you need to get out of the sun, check out the Poema del Mar - an amazing air-conditioned Aquarium near the north end of the beach!
Photo courtesy of The Smooth Escape
Roque Nublo & Dam Mirador Los Hornos
Formed by a volcanic eruption about 4.5 million years ago, Roque Nublo Gran Canaria is one of the most famous landmarks on the island. This 80-meter tall volcanic crag is located in the central municipality of Tejeda and is standing on top of a hill!
So, how do you get to this enormous rock? You can start your 1.5 kilometer Roque Nublo tour at the parking area near the main road and reach the top in about 30 minutes! Even though the trail to Roque Nublo is not difficult, make sure you’re wearing suitable shoes and clothes – it can get slippery when wet and it is not entirely paved.
On a clear day, you can even see the peak of Mount Teide – all the way out on Tenerife – from the Roque Nublo lookout area!
Plus, you can also find an amazing dam that you can cross nearby called Dam Mirador Los Hornos. From the dam, you can witness another great view of the park surrounded by the Canary Pine Forest.
Gran Canaria Caldera de Bandama
This is another place that you should visit especially for those who are adventurous and love the outdoors. The Caldera de Bandama is actually a volcanic crater that is located in the municipality of Santa Brigada. [Book your exclusive small group tour here]
Unlike the trail at Roque Nublo where you’ll be starting at the bottom and hike your way through the top, the Caldera is the other way around!
You’ll be starting your journey to the crater at Pico de Bandama, a mountain that is 569 meters above sea level. From there, just follow the signs and trails to reach the crater. At a good pace, you could finish the trail in about an hour – however, don’t rush – try to enjoy the beautiful views that mother nature has on display for you in the Caldera.
Do keep in mind that because of its volcanic origin, certain parts of the area could be slippery and there will be rapid descents at times. It is highly advisable to wear decent hiking boots and don’t forget your sunscreen!
Photo courtesy of Ucman Scher from Brownboytravels
Reserva Natural Especial de Las Dunas de Maspalomas
[editors note: A photo of this location was not available at the time of publication. If you have a photo of this location that you’d like shared in our article - with photo credits and/or a link to your page - please send us a message. Thank you.]
The Gran Canaria Dunes area is a unique 400 hectares wild place in the Canary Islands that is protected by the Canarian government as a nature reserve. If you see pictures online, these huge dunes might look isolated in the middle of nowhere making you scared of getting lost; However, don’t worry as it is within walking distance to hotels and restaurants! Plus, there is also a beautiful beach nearby – not so isolated, right? As one of the highlights on the treasures of Gran Canaria tour, you won’t want to miss this gem!
So, bring along your camera and wander around Dunas de Maspalomas Gran Canaria as if you’re in the Disney Film Aladdin!
The combination of the bright yellow sand and the clear blue skies makes the landscape beyond amazing. As a reminder, the sand could be too hot during the day, so it’s better to wear a pair of shoes!
Photo courtesy of Ucman Scher from Brownboytravels
Puerto de Mogan, Gran Canaria
Located on the Southwest coast of the island, Puerto de Mogan is a beautiful place where you can find a picturesque resort and a fishing village. Set in the municipality of Mogan, this “Venice of the Canaries” has been attracting tourists from all over the world with their popular Friday markets and the spectacular beach – Playa de Mogan.
Get a unique view of the Southern coast of Gran Canaria by signing up for this sailboat experience that leaves from Puerto de Mogan. You’ll have the choice of relaxing on the cruise or learning to be one of the crew on this highly-rated sea excursion.
You can find a good variety of restaurants that serve traditional dishes in the vibrant village. With colorful flowers, exquisite Mediterranean architectural buildings, and crystal clear seawater, this small village should definitely be in your itinerary.
Lanzarote Attractions
Birthplace and home to the famous artist Cesar Manrique until his passing in 1992, this island is the fourth largest of the autonomous Canary Islands. Just like the other parts of the archipelago, you can travel to Lanzarote at any time of the year and have great weather accompanying you.
Known best for its beautiful volcanic landscapes, this island is the best destination for those who are searching for the beauty of mother nature. So, continue reading below to learn more about what to do in Lanzarote!
While you’re visiting Lanzarote, consider checking out the other islands nearby:
La Graciosa: Day Sail to La Graciosa
Fuerteventura: Ferry Ticket to Fuerteventura
Cueva de Los Verdes - Green Caves Lanzarote
Believe it or not, this mythological-looking cave in the Haria municipality was created by a volcano eruption 21,000 years ago! Back then, the Cueva de Los Verdes was used by the locals as a hideout from the pirate attacks. Now, Cueva de Los Verdes Lanzarote has become the most fascinating attraction on the island.
What makes it even more unique is that there is an auditorium in the cave that holds different genres of concerts and performances. So, make sure to check their website in case there are any performances going on!
The Cueva de Los Verdes tour might take up to 45 minutes and the guide will also talk about the history of the cave and how it was created. For the entry tickets, it cost 10 Euros for adults and 5 Euros for children aged 7 to 12.
Cesar Manrique Foundation
A trip to Lanzarote is not complete without paying a visit to the house of Spain’s famous artist and architect, Cesar Manrique. This unique house is built on lava fields and you can find a few quirky tunnels and gardens incorporated into the house that offer great views.
There is also a room located before the exit where you can see paintings by Cesar Manrique himself.
At the Cesar Manrique House, you can find a swimming pool and a small ballroom that is open to visitors! The whole house is surrounded by healthy plants, and the unique design where it seems as if the lava rock is flowing into the living room will definitely amaze you!
Don’t worry if you don’t have a car to get around Lanzarote. You can book transportation and entry tickets in advance here. The foundation helps you learn about the life and work of Cesar Manrique and how it continues to influence the development of Lanzarote even in present day.
Timanfaya National Park
A visit to this national park will make you feel as if you’ve been transported to another part of the galaxy! This 51.07 square kilometers park is made up entirely of volcanic soil and you can also find the iconic statue by Cesar Manrique called “El Diablo.”
Other than admiring the unique beauty of this National Park, tourists have a chance to witness a geyser of steam!
However, visitors are not allowed to roam around freely. So, the best way to enjoy this place is by taking the Timanfaya National Park Bus Tour where you get to enjoy scenic views in front of the window while the air-conditioned coach takes you around Ruta de Los Volcanoes – a narrow road which showcases the most spectacular areas of the national park.
Besides that, you can also go to the visitor center at Islote de Hilario where the staff will explain the geothermal anomaly.
Don’t forget to try out some foods cooked using the volcanic heat at Restaurante El Diablo too - a restaurant with circular panoramic windows designed by the one and only, Cesar Manrique.
The Timanfaya National Park Tickets cost around 12 Euros for adults and 6 Euros for kids aged 7 to 12. Plus, you can also get 20% off if you arrive after 3 p.m.
BONUS: Get up close and personal to 3 volcanoes on this guided walking tour around Timanfaya National Park. Great for those who want learn more about the geology of Lanzarote and get a more hands-on experience than the regular bus tour within the park.
Photo courtesy of Jiayi of The Diary of a Nomad
Jameos del Agua
Since the whole island is famous for its sunny weather, a descent into Jameos del Agua Lanzarote will grant you refreshing relief from the scorching sun outside. [Book your experience here!]
First, you’ll find a winding volcanic staircase surrounded by greenery that leads you to the first cave called Jameo Chico.
Moving forward, you’ll come across a volcanic stone path that will bring you to the lava tunnel.
Next, you will be stunned by the magnificent view of the natural saltwater lagoon - which is also home to a unique species of lobster called the blind lobster (also known as a blind albino cave crab – Munidopsis polymorpha).
You can also find a beautiful swimming pool in Jameo Grande that looks like an oasis especially with the palm trees around it. The restaurant on location offers a unique experience of dining in a volcanic tube. As there is limited seating, reservations are recommended.
Words won’t do this place any justice, but we do know that you’ll never forget your experience here at Jameos del Agua!
Photo courtesy of Jiayi of The Diary of a Nomad
Playa de Papagayo
If you’re thinking of relaxing on a beach with clear turquoise water, look no further as the most famous beach in Lanzarote, Playa de Papagayo, is the best place to fulfill your wish.
The beach is located within Los Ajaches Natural Park.
The golden sand combined with the beautiful seawater will no doubt impress you, but wait until you see the Ajaches mountains acting as the backdrop of the beach - your jaw will drop!
Since Papagayo Beach is located in the Natural Park, you have to pay a small fee to drive to the beach, but, there is no fee for those who go on foot!
For more adventurous visitors, you can also access Papagayo Beach on a kayak and snorkeling excursion from Playa Blanca.
Things to do in La Palma, Canary Islands
Unlike the other islands of the archipelago that are fully developed with busy cities, La Palma is completely the opposite. This paradise is smaller than both Gran Canaria and Lanzarote, however, there are still a lot of things to do in La Palma.
Surrounded by beautiful nature, this island is highly recommended for those who want to fill their itinerary with outdoor activities from dusk to dawn.
Puente de Los Tilos
The Los Tilos Viaduct is located in the municipality of San Andrés y Sauces. This magnificent bridge is built with an over 250-meter span arch across the deep green ravine.
Walk across the viaduct by foot to embrace the beauty of the green nature surrounding it.
The 150-meter deep ravine looks spectacular from the bridge!
If you wish to see the full view of the viaduct, head to the nearest village of San Andres. Nearby is the Cascada de Los Tilos.
Cascada de Los Tilos
One of the prettiest gems hidden in the lush green forest of El Canal y Los Tilos - an area that was declared as World Biosphere Reserve as well as a UNESCO Heritage Site.
To get to this gem, you have to walk for about 15 minutes away from the visitor center and go through a tunnel - keep in mind that this tunnel is fairly dark, so you may want to bring along a torchlight or use your your phone flashlight!
The pathway to the waterfall is just as interesting and fairytale-like as the waterfall itself, so simply stop and look around every now and then.
Once you’ve reached this waterfall, you’ll feel like you’re in Jurassic Park with all the green plants growing around the ravine! Go ahead and walk under the cold water - after all, when’s the next time you’ll be here?
#FunFact: This is the exact location where a scene from The Witcher, a television series on Netflix, was filmed!
Observatorio Astrofisico
Just when you thought you’ve seen everything on the island, La Palma gives you another surprise. The Astronomical Observatory of El Roque de Los Muchachos is a scientific research center that has an advanced set of telescopes - such as the Gran Telescopio Canarias - the largest optical-infrared telescope in the world.
It is recommended for you to get a guided tour at the observatory so that you can learn and get detailed scientific information about astronomy.
The observatory only has daytime tours at their location, so if you’d like to see the stars at night with an astronomer – check out this experience.
Also, don’t forget to take a look at the huge MAGIC telescope located at about 2,200 meters above sea level!
Caldera de Taburiente National Park
This is the main highlight of La Palma Island. At this national park, you can witness the Caldera de Taburiente which is the largest volcanic crater in the world!
While it is simple to drive up to the top near the lookout area, you can also hike up a trail along the ridges to witness a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean and the sea of clouds that make the view even more mind-blowing! However, do keep in mind that this is not an easy hike, so if you’re inexperienced, be sure get a guide. Also, remember to bring your hiking boots and lots of drinking water!
La Caldera de Taburiente is filled with dramatic waterfalls and amazing geological formations such as pillow lava, volcanic cones, and so many more fascinating things! So, looking at pictures online is not enough! You truly need to be here physically to take in the grandeur and the the beauty of this place.
We drove to the top as we were limited on time, however there is still a 15-30 minute walking path out to the primary viewing point - that comes complete with a hair-raising and nerve-testing path along the ridge just before the end. Trust us, it took us awhile to convince ourselves to actually go out there!
Near the parking area you’ll see another major point of interest here in Caldera de Taburiente La Palma - Roques de Los Muchachos, a rocky mound located on the highest point of the island which is also apparently the best spot in the world for astronomy - the Observatorio Astrofisico is located here as well.
The Roques de Los Muchachos Viewpoint offers you a magnificent view of the whole crater and Tenerife Island across the ocean!
The Volcano Route, La Palma
Another major attraction for hikers is the Volcano Route. Back in time, this place was an ancient road for peasants and merchants. Now, it has become a breathtaking hiking trail where you get to see spectacular views of the volcanic landscapes and the two slopes of the island.
Hiking here will show you such a contrast in different colors that you’ll feel like you’re Frodo from Lord of the Rings on an exciting adventure in Mordor.
At one point, you’ll see the lush green Canarian Pines and suddenly, you’ll see black lava trails as well as the red and yellow tones of the volcanic terrains.
You’ll also get to hike above the clouds through the volcanic ridge that divides the south of the island into two sides – east and west.
Starting your journey at Refugio El Pilar, just follow the posts near the parking area to begin your hike. Note that you should allocate six to eight hours, more if you’re stopping to take many photos or videos, to reach the lighthouse in Fuencaliente. So, make sure you’re well-rested before starting the La Palma Volcano hiking route!
Hiking enthusiasts will want to check out this back-to-back daily itinerary experience of 3 of the most beautiful hikes on La Palma.
Must See Things in the Canary Islands
These islands on the Spanish Archipelago surely do look small on the world map, but there are a lot of things to do here. You’ll definitely enjoy these Canary Islands points of interest - you have our word!
Even though they were never on our original travel plan, as we fled here in April to find warmer weather, the sheer awe that we felt while we were on these islands has been embedded itself into our souls - and has been a strong reminder of why we wanted to start traveling the world in the first place.
You can spend the whole day sunbathing at the amazing beaches or grab your backpack, put on your best hiking shoes and go for a hiking adventure with your best buddies. However, we would strongly recommend at least going on this sailboat experience from Puerto de Mogan in Gran Canaria, getting an overview of some of the less touristy spots of Lanzarote, and checking out the literally breathtaking views of Caldera de Taburiente on La Palma if you do make it out to the Canaries!
For those that like to get off the beaten path and have more authentic experiences, we recommend this lunch opportunity with tropical fruit farmers on La Palma.
You’ll get to learn about the variety of fruit they are able to grow and the 25+ varieties of mangoes they’ve been able to cultivate. Then, you’ll be treated to a 3-course homemade meal over engaging conversation. [Reserve your spot here]
FAQ’s
How much does it cost to travel to the Canary Islands?
The cost of traveling to the Canary Islands depends on several factors, such as the season, the island, the accommodation, the transportation, and the activities. The average daily budget for a solo traveler is about €80, which includes food, accommodation, local transport, and some entertainment. However, this can vary depending on your preferences and choices. For example, you can find cheaper flights if you book in advance or travel during low season, or you can save money by staying in hostels or camping sites instead of hotels. You can also find discounts or deals for some attractions or tours if you book online or in advance.
What are the best times to visit the Canary Islands?
The Canary Islands have a subtropical climate with mild temperatures and sunny days throughout the year. However, some months are better than others depending on what you want to do and see. Generally, the best times to visit the Canary Islands are from March to May and from September to November, when the weather is pleasant, the crowds are smaller, and the prices are lower. These are also good months for hiking, cycling, or exploring the natural parks and volcanoes. If you want to enjoy the beaches and the water sports, the best months are from June to August, when the sea temperature is warmer and the winds are calmer. However, these are also the peak season, so expect more tourists and higher prices. If you want to experience the local culture and festivals, the best months are from December to February, when the islands celebrate Christmas, New Year, and Carnival with colorful parades, music, and fireworks. However, these are also the coldest and rainiest months, so pack accordingly.
What are some other attractions or activities to do in the Canary Islands?
The Canary Islands offer a variety of attractions and activities for different tastes and interests. Besides the three islands mentioned in the blog post, you can also visit the other five islands: Tenerife, the largest and most populous island, which has the highest peak in Spain, the Teide volcano, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of La Laguna; Fuerteventura, the second largest island, which has the longest and most beautiful beaches in the archipelago, and the Corralejo Natural Park with its impressive sand dunes; La Gomera, the second smallest island, which has the Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with a dense laurel forest; El Hierro, the smallest and most remote island, which has the El Hierro Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich biodiversity and geology; and La Graciosa, the newest and least developed island, which has a tranquil and rustic charm, and the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park, a marine reserve with abundant wildlife. Some of the activities that you can do in the Canary Islands are: hiking, cycling, kayaking, surfing, diving, snorkeling, sailing, whale watching, paragliding, golfing, shopping, dining, and more.
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Enjoying the coastline of Puertito de guimar in tenerife - April 2018
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