From Las Palmas High Mountains Tejeda & Artenara

Embarking on the tour from Las Palmas that takes you into the heart of Gran Canaria’s rugged highlands is a fantastic way to experience the island’s natural beauty and cultural charm. We’ve researched this trip thoroughly, and it’s clear that this excursion offers a memorable mix of scenic vistas, authentic villages, and educational stops—perfect for travelers craving more than just beaches.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s the opportunity to visit Tejeda, often called one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, with its picturesque setting and traditional Canarian houses. Second, the chance to explore Artenara’s cave museum adds an intriguing layer of history and local craftsmanship. That said, the 7.5-hour duration means a full day of sightseeing, so it’s best suited to those comfortable with a bit of travel time and outdoor walking.

One potential drawback is the group size—while described as “exclusive,” it still involves multiple stops and a bus tour, which might feel hurried for some. However, for those eager to see Gran Canaria’s highlands with a knowledgeable guide, this experience offers great value and authentic sights. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, cultural insights, and capturing stunning panoramic views.

Key Points:

• Stunning Views: Expect panoramic vistas of the Tejeda caldera and Roque Nublo.
• Authentic Villages: Explore two of the island’s most photogenic villages—Tejeda and Artenara.
• Cultural Insights: Visit a fascinating cave museum and learn how ancient Canarians navigated using the stars.
• Professional Guide: The tour features a skilled guide providing local stories and context.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance or reserve now and pay later for flexibility.
• Small Group Feel: Enjoy a more personalized experience in an exclusive group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour begins with pickup options at convenient locations in Las Palmas, including the Mercado de Vegueta, AC Hotel, and others. The pickup is in a comfortable bus operated by White Bus La Pardilla, making the journey relaxed from the start. Knowing your pickup point early helps set expectations—if you’re staying outside the city, the Vegueta market on Calle Calvo Sotelo is the designated spot.

Visit to Teror

About 20 minutes into the drive, you arrive in Teror, a town famed for its Marian significance and the Virgin of El Pino apparition dating back to 1481. Here, you’ll have about 40 minutes to explore at your own pace. The basilica is a highlight, and many visitors enjoy wandering through the streets lined with wooden balconies—a classic Canarian feature. Shops brimming with local crafts and souvenirs make this a nice chance for a quick bite or a memento.

Scenic Viewpoint

A brief 10-minute stop at a viewpoint of the Caldera de los Pinos de Gáldar offers a spectacular photo opportunity. From this vantage point, you’ll see the aftermath of recent volcanic activity, with the black mountain contrasting sharply with the lush surroundings. This stop is perfect for snapping pictures and appreciating the island’s volcanic origins.

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Artenara – Cave Museum and More

Next, it’s a scenic drive up to Artenara, the highest village in Gran Canaria. The guided 1.5-hour tour here includes a visit to the cave museum—a rare chance to see how the ancient Canarians carved homes into the rock and used caves for living and storage. The museum also showcases their navigation skills using stars, an insight that enriches understanding of local history.

The village itself offers spectacular views of the Roque Nublo and Roque Bentayga—massive volcanic formations that loom over the landscape like natural guardians. The narrow, cobbled streets and stone houses provide a perfect setting for photos and soaking in the traditional atmosphere.

Tejeda – The Jewel of the Highlands

The tour concludes with a stop in Tejeda, acclaimed as one of Spain’s most beautiful villages. Here, we spend about 1.5 hours exploring. The village’s placement over the Tejeda caldera provides incredible views and photo opportunities, especially of the Roque Nublo. Wander the streets, admire the terraced houses, and enjoy the local ambiance. The village’s setting makes it a perfect spot for lunch or just soaking up the scenery.

Return Journey

After Tejeda, the bus retraces its route, with a final hour-long drive back to Las Palmas. The experience wraps up with drop-offs at your original pickup points, leaving you with plenty of memorable sights and stories.

The Value and Experience

This tour offers a well-paced itinerary that balances scenic drives, cultural visits, and free time to wander and photograph. The inclusion of professional guides enhances the experience, providing local stories and context that you might miss exploring on your own. With museum entrance fees included, you get more than just sightseeing—you gain understanding of the island’s history and traditions.

The group size is kept intimate enough for a friendly atmosphere but large enough to feel organized and efficient. The 7.5 hours allow you to see the highlights without feeling rushed, making it suitable for travelers who want an immersive day in the mountains.

In terms of price and value, this tour is quite competitive, considering the inclusion of transportation, guide, museum entry, and multiple scenic stops. It’s a great way to experience Gran Canaria’s highlands without the hassle of self-driving or planning multiple separate trips.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who appreciate stunning landscapes, authentic villages, and a bit of local history. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy guided tours with informative commentary and want to avoid the stress of self-driving in hilly terrain. If you love picture-perfect scenes and learning about local traditions, this trip hits the mark.

However, those with mobility issues or who prefer a very relaxed pace might find some of the walking in villages or the steep roads challenging. Also, if you’re short on time or budget, there are other options, but none quite as comprehensive for the high mountain experience.

The Sum Up

This tour from Las Palmas to Gran Canaria’s high mountain villages delivers a well-rounded experience of natural beauty and cultural intrigue. The combination of stunning vistas, charming villages, and educational stops makes it a solid choice for travelers eager to explore beyond the beaches. The professional guides and included museum visits enrich your understanding of the island’s volcanic past and local life.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy scenic drives, authentic village atmospheres, and panoramic photography opportunities. The small-group atmosphere ensures a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and absorb the scenery.

In short, this trip offers tremendous value for anyone wanting a meaningful glimpse into Gran Canaria’s rugged highlands, making it a highlight for many visitors. Just remember to bring your camera, some comfortable walking shoes, and an appetite for unforgettable mountain views.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, including pick-up, sightseeing, and drop-off.

What are the pickup points?
Pickup options include Monumento Atis Tirma, Mercado de Vegueta, AC Hotel by Marriott, and Bull Hotels – Hotel Astoria. For visitors outside the city, the Vegueta market on Calle Calvo Sotelo is recommended.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved in villages and the uneven cobbled streets.

What language is the guide speaking?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear explanations for most travelers.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are time allowances for shopping and perhaps a quick snack in villages.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there much walking involved?
There is some walking in the villages and at viewpoints, but it’s manageable for most travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A light jacket might be helpful in higher altitudes.

Does the tour operate year-round?
Yes, but check availability to confirm starting times and dates, especially during off-peak seasons.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Most likely, as long as children are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking.

This tour offers a delightful way to connect with Gran Canaria’s volcanic soul and traditional villages. Whether you’re snapping photos of Roque Nublo or learning about the star navigators of Artenara, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the island’s rugged beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: