In just a few kilometres, Gran Canaria goes from a dune desert to pine forests, from golden beaches to ravines and peaks above 1,800 m. That's why they call it a miniature continent. It's best enjoyed by combining the beach south, the capital and the inland villages and viewpoints. These are the places you shouldn't miss.
1. The Maspalomas dunes
In the south, the Maspalomas Dunes Nature Reserve is a small desert by the sea: kilometres of golden sand, an oasis with a lagoon and the island's most famous beach. It's the iconic image of Gran Canaria and a must for any visit.
Camel ride in the Maspalomas DunesCheck availability →2. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
The capital combines a beautiful historic centre (the Vegueta quarter, where Columbus stayed) with Las Canteras beach, one of the best urban beaches in Europe. It's worth a day to stroll, eat well and swim right in the centre.
Guided walking tour: Discover Las Palmas Old TownCheck availability →3. Roque Nublo and the interior
The island's heart is pure mountain: Roque Nublo, an 80 m monolith sacred to the ancient Canarians, presides over the highlands. Around it, white villages, viewpoints and ravines surprise anyone expecting only beach.
Discover the Banana Museum: A guided tour in ArucasCheck availability →4. Cetaceans and the sea
The south is dolphin and pilot-whale territory: boat and catamaran trips head out to watch them, many with swimming and snorkelling. A different way to see the coast and its marine life.
Spirit of the Sea: Gran Canaria dolphin and whale watching tourCheck availability →5. Adventure over the dunes
To feel the landscape, nothing beats an off-road buggy around Maspalomas or a camel ride over the dunes, a classic that kids love.
Buggy Adventure: The off-road tour of MaspalomasCheck availability →Between dunes, peaks and ocean, Gran Canaria offers far more than sun and beach. Book the headline experiences ahead (dunes and cetaceans) and leave a day for the interior, where the island shows its other face.