From Las Palmas: Fataga, Finca de Aloe Vera and Mercado Puerto de Mogán

If you’re looking to get a real taste of the south of Gran Canaria without spending your entire vacation on a bus, this 7-hour tour might just be what you need. It offers a balanced mix of scenic views, local culture, and relaxed exploration that feels both authentic and manageable. We’ve looked into what travelers generally love—and what they might find less appealing—so you can decide if this trip suits your style.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the chance to wander through the charming village of Fataga, often called the “Valley of the Thousand Palm Trees,” and the opportunity to learn about Aloe Vera, a plant so central to Gran Canaria’s identity. The tour’s highlight, Puerto de Mogán, with its lively market and picturesque setting, promises a memorable finish.

One possible drawback? The full day involves quite a bit of sitting—about 1.5 hours on the bus in total—and the schedule might feel rushed if you want to linger longer at each stop. Still, for those who enjoy varied experiences packed into a day, this trip offers solid value. It’s perfect for travelers eager for a taste of nature, culture, and coastal charm in a single outing.

Key Points

• Authentic Village Experience: Walk through Fataga’s traditional houses and cobblestone streets, experiencing genuine Canarian rural life.
• Educational Aloe Vera Visit: Learn about the cultivation and benefits of Aloe Vera at an organic farm—perfect for natural product lovers.
• Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities: Multiple viewpoints and scenic drives offer fantastic chances to capture memorable photos.
• Lively Market in Puerto de Mogán: Explore the vibrant Friday flea market, with local crafts, food, and souvenirs.
• Flexible Free Time: Ample time in Puerto de Mogán allows for lunch and independent exploration.
• Comfortable Transportation: Modern bus with a knowledgeable guide makes the day smooth and engaging.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour starts early, with pick-up options from ten different locations in Las Palmas—making it accessible no matter where you’re staying. Once on board, you’re greeted by a friendly guide and a comfortable ride through Gran Canaria’s varied landscape, which itself is a mini-travelogue of the island’s different faces. Expect to see lush valleys, rugged mountains, and coastal views, each revealing a little more about the island’s diverse character.

Stop 1: Scenic Viewpoint – 15 Minutes

Your first stop is a quick photo opportunity that gives you a panoramic view of the landscape. We loved the way this vantage point quickly sets the tone—highlighting the contrast between mountains and coastline—perfect for snapping a few shots or just soaking in the scenery.

Stop 2: Finca Canaria Aloe Vera – 45 Minutes

The Aloe Vera farm is a highlight that breaks up the drive nicely. Here, you’re taken on a guided tour that explains the plant’s cultivation, harvesting process, and uses. The farm emphasizes organic practices, which appeals to eco-conscious travelers. You’ll see Aloe Vera plants up close, learn how they’re processed into skincare products, and understand why they’re so symbolic of Gran Canaria.

A visitor notes, “It was fascinating to see the plants growing naturally and learn about their healing properties — I bought some natural cream to try back home.” This stop offers both visual appeal and practical information that adds depth to your understanding of local agriculture.

Stop 3: Fataga Village – 30 Minutes

Known as the “Valley of the Thousand Palm Trees,” Fataga’s narrow streets and traditional houses make it feel like stepping back in time. We appreciated the guided walk through the village, which reveals how local residents have maintained their heritage amidst modern tourism. The cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings give you a real sense of Canarian rural life.

While the time here is limited, it’s enough to stroll, take photos, and perhaps grab a coffee. Reviewers mention how charming the village is, with one saying, “It’s like a postcard—peaceful, picturesque, and full of character.”

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Stop 4: Puerto de Mogán – 30 Minutes

This seaside village, dubbed “Little Venice,” lives up to its reputation. Its canals, Mediterranean-style architecture, and colorful boats create a lovely scene. Visitors can wander, shop at the market, or simply relax by the harbor.

On Fridays, the market is lively, with stalls selling local crafts, food, and souvenirs. If you’re a fan of lively, open-air markets, this is the best time to visit. We loved the vibrant atmosphere and the chance to pick up unique gifts. Those with more time can extend their stay for lunch or further exploration, as the tour provides a generous 1 hour and 45 minutes here.

Final Stretch: Return Journey

After enjoying Puerto de Mogán, the bus takes you back to Las Palmas, with some commentary from guides and a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights. The total driving and sightseeing add up to around 7 hours—an efficient way to see a lot without feeling rushed.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This tour is operated by Canary Shuttle, utilizing a clean, modern bus with a friendly, multilingual guide. The tour is generally offered in English and German, making it accessible for many travelers. Prices are reasonable considering transportation, guided visits, and the included Aloe Vera farm tour.

The itinerary’s structure offers a good balance: a mix of scenic viewpoints, culture at Fataga, a nature and health-oriented stop at the Aloe Vera farm, and the lively market at Puerto de Mogán. The 1.5-hour drive each way is broken up by stops, so you won’t feel overly confined.

Please note, the tour is not suited for travelers with mobility issues, vertigo, or motion sickness, due to the varied terrain and bus ride. Also, it’s worth bringing comfortable shoes, some cash for shopping or snacks, and water—especially if you plan to explore the markets or walk around.

Value for Money

At around 7 hours, the price reflects a good value, especially given the inclusion of transportation, a guide, and an organized visit to the Aloe Vera farm. The market visit is free to explore at your own pace, making it flexible for personal interests.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded experience of southern Gran Canaria but prefer not to rent a car or navigate unfamiliar roads. It’s great for those who appreciate cultural sights, scenic beauty, and local markets all in one day. It’s also suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers interested in a relaxed yet informative outing.

If you’re interested in natural products, traditional villages, or simply want to enjoy some stunning views while learning about local life, this tour hits all those marks. Just keep in mind that it’s a full day, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace or longer exploration, you might want to consider extending your time in Puerto de Mogán separately.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to explore a slice of Gran Canaria’s diverse south. You’ll get to walk through a charming village, learn about Aloe Vera’s benefits, and enjoy the coastal beauty of Puerto de Mogán—all in one day. It balances scenic drives with authentic cultural experiences, making it perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive yet manageable trip.

The value is good, especially considering the guide’s insights and the variety of stops. While the schedule is tight, it’s well-suited for those who want to maximize their day without feeling overwhelmed. The highlight for many will be the stunning views—both in Fataga and from the viewpoints along the route—that leave lasting impressions.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a deeper dive into Gran Canaria’s local flavor, this tour provides a snapshot of the island’s natural beauty and cultural richness. It’s best suited for curious travelers ready to enjoy a day full of picturesque landscapes, local markets, and relaxed exploration.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes bus transportation, an official guide, a visit to the Aloe Vera farm, and travelers insurance. Food and drinks are not included.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel time, stops, and free time in Puerto de Mogán.

Are there pick-up options?
Yes, the tour offers pick-up from ten different locations in Las Palmas, making it convenient no matter where you’re staying.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, and cash are recommended. You might want to bring a camera or smartphone for photos, especially at viewpoints and markets.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or vertigo, and it may be challenging for those with serious mobility limitations.

When is the best time to go?
While the tour operates year-round, check availability and schedule. Note that the market in Puerto de Mogán is especially lively on Fridays.

Can I extend my time in Puerto de Mogán?
Yes, the tour includes about 1 hour and 45 minutes of free time in Puerto de Mogán, enough for lunch and a relaxed exploration.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
Yes, the tour is guided in both German and English.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot with Canary Shuttle through the booking platform, with options to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: