Tastes of Gran Canaria A Day of Flavours and Culture

If you’re looking for a way to see some of Gran Canaria’s most distinctive sights while indulging in its flavors, the Tastes of Gran Canaria tour might just be your ideal day out. It promises a blend of culinary delights, historic charm, and breathtaking scenery—all packed into about nine hours. What we love about this experience is how it balances interactive tastings with cultural insights, giving you an authentic taste of island life. The promise of local rum, coffee, and wines paired with stunning landscapes makes it attractive for those who want more than just a sightseeing pass.

One thing to keep in mind: this tour is quite full on, with multiple stops and about 1.5 hours at each major site, so travelers who prefer a leisurely pace might find some parts rushed. Still, the transportation, included meals, and expert guides provide excellent value for the price. It’s best suited for curious travelers eager to explore Gran Canaria’s culinary traditions and scenic routes in a single day.

Key Points

• Authentic experiences: Enjoy guided tours and tastings of bananas, rum, wines, and coffee.
• Diverse landscapes: From lush green areas to rugged southern views and picturesque villages.
• Cultural insights: Learn about local history, farming, and distillation techniques.
• Well-organized itinerary: Punctual pickups, clear schedule, and comfortable group size.
• Value for price: At just over $100, it offers a rich, full-day taste of the island.
• Authentic local stops: Small family-run estates and historic churches add character to the trip.

Starting Point: Punctual Pickup and Comfort

The tour begins at 9:30 am with a pickup arranged by MTS Incoming, which many travelers appreciate. The reviews indicate that this process is punctual and well-coordinated, setting a smooth tone for the day. You’ll be transported comfortably through the varied landscapes, starting in the more rugged southern parts of the island and heading northward. Expect a group size capped at around 55 people, which helps keep the experience intimate enough to ask questions and enjoy the guides’ insights.

Stop 1: Rekompensa Banana World

This is not just a “banana stop”—it’s a fascinating educational experience. Rekompensa Banana World tells the story of the banana from its early cultivation days to its global reach, highlighting its importance in local culture and economy. The guided tour is approximately an hour and a half long, with an included tasting that features banana drink, mojos, and fresh bananas.

According to reviews, visitors find this part interesting and educational, providing a vivid picture of how the banana became a worldwide staple. The experience goes beyond the fruit itself—it’s about understanding its cultural significance and the history of agriculture on the island. One reviewer noted how the museum provides a clear view on the importance of bananas in shaping the local economy and international trade.

Stop 2: Arehucas Rum Distillery

Next, you’ll visit the Arehucas Rum Distillery, a place that combines history, craftsmanship, and flavor. The guided tour explores the rum-making process, from selecting ingredients to distillation and aging techniques. The highlight is the tasting session, featuring two rum varieties that recently won awards at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

The tour lasts about an hour and a half, giving you enough time to learn and savor these spirits. Rum has a long tradition in Gran Canaria, and the distillery’s neo-Gothic architecture adds a touch of charm. Reviewers praise the experience for being informative and flavorful, with one mentioning how “you get an understanding of how local ingredients and techniques come together to produce quality spirits.”

Stop 3: Exploring Arucas

After the distillery, a quick drive takes you to Arucas, known as the Pearl of Gran Canaria. This small town is famous for its neo-Gothic church of San Juan Bautista, which dominates the skyline. You’ll have about an hour of free time here—plenty of opportunity to stroll, snap photos, or visit local shops.

Many reviews highlight how this part feels more authentic and relaxed. The town’s laid-back atmosphere is a contrast to the more tourist-heavy spots, making it perfect for soaking in local life. During your free time, you might visit the church or enjoy a walk in the park nearby, which is filled with lush vegetation and peaceful pathways.

Stop 4: Bodega Los Berrazales

The final stop takes you to Bodega Los Berrazales in the Agaete Valley, a family-run estate blending a winery with a coffee plantation. Here, you’ll explore the vineyards and coffee trees, learning how both products are cultivated in this lush environment. The estate is surrounded by fruit trees and scenic views, making it a memorable end to the day.

The tour of the estate lasts about 1.5 hours, and you’ll get to taste award-winning wines and premium Arabica coffee. This combination of wine and coffee tasting allows you to appreciate the rich agricultural side of the island. One review mentions that the estate is surrounded by beautiful scenery, adding to the overall pleasure of the visit.

For just over $100, this tour covers a lot of ground—literally and figuratively. It’s a full-day immersion into Gran Canaria’s flavorful and culturally rich landscape. You’re not just observing; you’re actively tasting and learning, which makes the experience engaging and memorable.

What stands out is the focus on authentic local products—from bananas and rum to wines and coffee—giving you insights that are hard to find in typical tourist itineraries. The inclusion of guided tours and free time strikes a good balance between structure and flexibility, allowing you to enjoy the stops without feeling rushed.

The reviews give a clear picture of a well-organized, informative, and delightful experience. Past participants appreciated the punctual pickups and the small group atmosphere, which fostered a friendly and relaxed environment. Many found the landscapes stunning, especially during the drive through the Agaete Valley, making the scenic aspect a highlight.

This experience is perfect for foodies and culture enthusiasts who want a comprehensive taste of Gran Canaria beyond the beaches. It suits travelers who enjoy learning about local industries—from agriculture to distillation—and sampling authentic products. If you’re a fan of scenic drives, charming villages, and historical architecture, this tour ticks those boxes as well.

However, if you prefer a very slow-paced, leisure-focused day, this might feel a bit rushed, especially with multiple stops. It’s ideal for those who want a full immersion in the island’s flavors and scenery in a single day.

The Tastes of Gran Canaria tour offers a compelling combination of culinary exploration, cultural insights, and breathtaking views. It’s excellent value for those eager to experience local traditions firsthand, from banana farming to rum distillation, and from wine tasting to coffee plantation visits. The organization and guides are praised for making the day smooth, educational, and fun.

This tour’s strength lies in its authentic stops—small estates, historic towns, and active farms—that help you understand what makes Gran Canaria special. The chance to taste award-winning spirits, wines, and coffee, all while enjoying the island’s diverse landscapes, makes it a well-rounded day trip for curious travelers.

If your goal is to explore Gran Canaria’s flavorful side in a well-organized, engaging package, this experience is worth considering. It’s particularly suited to those who value authenticity over cookie-cutter tours and who want to go beyond the usual sightseeing to truly connect with local culture.

Is transportation included? Yes, pickup is offered and included in the price, making it convenient to start your day without worries about logistics.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop and the scenic drives between them.

What is the group size? The tour can accommodate up to 55 travelers, which balances social interaction with manageable group dynamics.

Are meals or drinks included? While the tasting sessions at each stop are included, there are no specified meals, so you might want to bring water or snacks for additional comfort.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time, offering flexibility in case your schedule shifts.

What should I wear or bring? Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring villages and estates. Bringing a hat and sunscreen is wise, especially if the weather is sunny.

Is this tour suitable for all ages? Most travelers can participate, but the itinerary involves walking and standing at various sites. It’s best suited for those able to enjoy a full day of active sightseeing.