Discover the enchanting embrace of Gran Canaria along the iconic GR131 trek. In eight days, traverse the island from north to south, experiencing its striking contrasts. Wander through shifting microclimates and diverse terrains, from mist-clad cliffs to sun-kissed beaches, and fragrant pine forests to volcanic formations. Immerse yourself in the vibrant scent of wildflowers and coffee plantations and be captivated by the sight of towering dunes, island’s rugged interior and the chic coastal resorts adorned with Spanish colonial architecture. After 45 miles of ups and downs on ever-changing trails, savor a day of complete relaxation in Maspalomas. Unveil Gran Canaria’s secrets step by step, joined by expert local guides and like-minded adventurers.
Embark on an 8-day Gran Canaria adventure, traversing the iconic GR131 trail from north to south. Explore diverse landscapes of this awe-inspiring volcanic island and soak in the culture and irresistible vibes of quaint villages and coastal towns. Enjoy daily breakfast, seamless luggage transfers, and carefully picked B&B and hotel accommodations, along with convenient airport transfers. Traverse 45 miles of hiking trails over four days, and unwind for a day in lively Maspalomas. Discover the Canaries' allure on this hassle-free active retreat.
Given the availability of accommodations, the itinerary includes two possible options for Day 2 and Day 3. This means that the specific hiking routes for these days depend on the chosen accommodation, which may vary based on dates. However, rest assured that both options offer equally well-organized and scenic hiking experiences. You will find out which routes will be walked on Day 2 and Day 3 when the trip is confirmed.
Welcome to the start of your Gran Canaria adventure! Upon your arrival at the airport, you’ll be greeted by your Gran Canaria hiking guide and transported to the charming coastal town of Agaete on the northwest coast of the island. Settle into your accommodation for the night and relish the anticipation of the journey ahead. Your group will have the opportunity to connect over a welcome drink, introducing yourselves and sharing in the excitement. Rest well, for tomorrow marks the commencement of your explorations.
Option 1: Embarking from the harbor, your journey takes you through the captivating Tamada nature reserve on your way to Artenara. This area has garnered recognition as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. As you ascend to an elevation of 1,300 meters (4,265 feet), you’ll witness the striking beauty of the Canarian pine forests that grace the mountaintops, the dramatic coastal cliffs, and the diverse ecology of the ravines. The accommodation awaits just a few kilometers from Artenara, and you’ll be conveniently transferred there to rest and prepare for the following day.
Hiking: 12.7 miles (20.5 km)
Elevation change: +5,659 ft / -1,821 ft (1,725 m / -554 m)
Option 2: From Puerto las Nieves, the route takes you via the San Pedro valley to the village of El Hornillo. Skip the climb to the Tamadaba nature reserve and walk via the Agaete valley to El Hornillo. With this option, the so-called vertical kilometer is avoided. The altitude meters are slightly less, the distance is approximately the same as option 1. You’ll learn about which option you’ll be walking once the trip is confirmed.
Hiking: 12.4 miles (20 km)
Elevation change: +5,380 ft / – 1,771 ft (+1,640 m / -540 m)
Option 1: Today, you’ll set off from Artenara on a captivating hike towards Tejeda. This scenic route unveils Gran Canaria’s diverse landscapes, taking you through rolling hills, ancient volcanic formations, and charming villages that seem suspended in time. As you ascend to Tejeda, a mountain pass offering panoramic vistas, you’ll immerse yourself in the island’s unique flora and fauna. Spend some quality time with your guide and fellow hikers once you’ve settled into your accommodation.
Hiking: 8.5 miles (13.6 km)
Elevation change: +3,353 ft / -3,176 ft (1,023 m / -968 m)
Option 2: Via El Hornillo, your group will walk to Artenara to join the GR131 route again and then walk to and one of the nicest villages in Gran Canaria, Tejeda.
Hiking: 10.6 miles (17 km)
Elevation change: +2,788 ft/ –2,985 ft (+850 m / -910 m)
This is the heart of the adventure, where the challenge yields the most exquisite rewards. Having reached the summit, the descent to San Bartolomé de Tirajana beckons a transition from 1,700 meters (5,577 feet) down to 900 meters (2,953 feet). Settle into your accommodation and get some well-deserved rest.
Hiking: 11.2 miles (18 km)
Elevation change: +4,757 ft / -6152 ft (+1,450 m / -1876 m)
Begin your day with a nourishing breakfast as you prepare to leave San Bartolomé. A relatively short walking day awaits your group today. From San Bartolomé, you will leave descending to the next accommodation where your group will arrive in time to have an afternoon of rest. For those who want a long walk, it is possible to do hike some more on your own once you’ve reached your accommodation.
Hiking: 6.2 miles (10 km) or 12.4 miles (20 km)
Elevation change: +295 ft / –2,066 ft (+90 m / -630 m) or +1,410 ft / –3,379 ft (+430 m / -1,030)
The last stage of this journey goes mostly downhill to Maspalomas. You’ll walk through the barranco towards Maspalomas. This is a long descending road, with a bit more activity. The end point of this route is at the lighthouse, in the spectacular Maspalomas. A nice accommodation awaits you here, which is where you will stay for another 2 days.
Hiking: 11.2 miles (18 km)
Elevation change: +502 ft / -1499 ft (+164 m / -458 m)
With the hiking trails behind you, seize the chance to immerse yourself in Maspalomas’ vibrant offerings. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the captivating beaches, savor local cuisine in charming eateries, and indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments. Engage in recreational activities such as cycling, swimming, or simply basking in the warm sun. This day is tailored for relaxation and exploration, ensuring a memorable and fuss-free continuation of your journey.
As your remarkable journey draws to a close, bid farewell to your fellow adventurers and guides, carrying with you cherished memories of the Gran Canaria landscapes and experiences. Your airport transfer is arranged. Alternatively, if you wish to extend your stay, convenient bus connections from Maspalomas to Las Palmas airport are available, as well as the option of a taxi service.
If you are the type of person to trust in the universe to provide you with a pathway then these are the people who can help you achieve your way forward. I truly believe that by walking you make your path, and these walks are truly inspiring. The routes are at times challenging but remember it’s just one foot in front of the other. Your luggage and a hot shower waits for you at the end of an inspiring day walking. Great company, wonderful life experience. I recommend the trecks with the care and love of a great team.
This is the second time I have been out with Canary Hiking. Again well organised. Fantastic locations to spend the night. I’m going again in March.
What you get on this adventure:
What’s not included:
To fully enjoy and participate in the Gran Canaria guided hiking trip, a reasonable level of physical fitness is recommended. The trip encompasses a series of daily hikes, each involving varying degrees of elevation gain and descent. The terrain traversed ranges from mountainous paths to quiet villages, and the journey covers distances of around 9.3 to 13.7 miles (15 to 22 kilometers) per day.
While the adventure is designed to be both challenging and rewarding, it is important for participants to have a good level of endurance, as the hikes involve significant height differences, reaching up to 5,659 feet (1,725 meters) in elevation gain and 6,135 feet (1,870 meters) in descent. You can also expect some steep uphill and downhill sections, as well as winding paths.
Given the nature of the trek and the daily distances covered, participants should have a moderate level of hiking experience and be prepared for several hours of walking each day. Adequate physical preparation, including cardiovascular fitness and leg strength, will contribute to a more comfortable and enjoyable experience. Training and preparation in the months leading up to the trip will enhance your ability to fully appreciate the stunning landscapes and unique experiences that the Gran Canaria hiking journey offers. We suggest you practice by taking longer day hikes in hilly terrain, as well as activities such as cycling, swimming, or running.
If this trip sounds too challenging for you and you’d prefer something a little more relaxed, check out our other walking holidays in the Canary Islands!
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
Bring comfortable clothing you can easily move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. The climate is mild in Gran Canaria throughout the year, but you can expect the weather to be cooler and wetter in between October and January. We suggest you avoid hiking clothes made from cotton.
Group sizes and prices:
Gran Canaria guided trekking tour can be arranged for larger and private groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements:
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to Gran Canaria, people usually fly into Las Palmas Airport. You’ll be greeted by your guide at the airport and get a transfer to Agaete (usually in the morning or the afternoon on Day 1), where the tour officially begins.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. With medical insurance, if you have an accident or medical emergency on or off the mountain, you’ll avoid paying out of pocket for costly expenses. This covers everything from hospital treatments to emergency air transportation and more.
Travel insurance covers canceled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans.
We also expect you to respect local regulations and take measures to protect yourselves, your guides, and the communities you’re traveling to. For more information on travel recommendations and restrictions when hiking in Gran Canaria, Spain, please refer to Spain’s Foreign Travel Advice.
If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits
You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.
Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:
Basic
Flexible
Super Flexible
Early Bird booking
Want to be the first one to know when we publish new dates or secure your spot well in advance? Select a future month that suits you best and lock in your Early Bird spot in time with just a 10% deposit.
As soon as our guides publish new tour dates, you’ll be the first one to know. We’ll hold your spot for 2 weeks until you choose the date that suits you best.
More about how Early Bird bookings work below:
“GR 131 Gran Canary” was a wonderful and unique hiking experience with Mauk, Jeanne and Astrid. This hike was so well organised (e.g. accommodations, luggage transfers, hiking guides, on-time hiking planning for every day). I feel safe during the trip and I was able to only focus on hiking and enjoy the nature because the rest was managed perfectly by this group. Strongly recommended.