Contrasts of Gran Canaria

Contrasts of Gran Canaria

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8 Days From

$1835

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Tour Overview

Embark on the "Contrasts of Gran Canaria" tour, a captivating journey through Spain's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This tour offers a unique blend of sunny valleys, dramatic gorges, and iconic rock formations, alongside traditional white villages and fascinating cave dwellings. Explore the cosmopolitan capital, Las Palmas, with its stunning beaches and historic center. Enjoy extensive walking options with daily routes tailored to your preference, all while benefiting from the convenience of car hire to explore at your own pace. Stay in charming 4-star accommodations, including the tranquil Hotel Rural El Mondalon and the elevated Parador Cruz de Tejeda, both offering breathtaking views and modern comforts. With all buffet breakfasts included, this tour promises a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion in the heart of Gran Canaria. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Sunny fertile valleys, sweeping plateaux, plunging gorges, iconic rock formations, and ancient calderas.

  • Masses of archaeological, botanical, and geological interest.

  • Traditional white villages, forgotten farming hamlets, and fascinating cave dwellings.

  • Cosmopolitan capital Las Palmas with gorgeous beaches, fascinating museums, and a stunning historic centre.

  • Extensive walking options with a choice of 1 and 2 level walks daily.

  • Explore the UNESCO recognised old troglodyte settlements of Cuevas Caballero and Cueva de Los Candiles.

  • Visit the volcanic monolith of Roque Nublo with 360º views over the island.

  • Discover the archaeological site of La Fortaleza, a 2000-year-old fortified settlement.

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrive In Los Hoyos

Location: Gran Canaria

Accommodation Name: Hotel Rural El Mondalon

Collect your hire car at the airport and drive (30 mins) to the Hotel Rural El Mondalon, set in the most important vineyard area on Gran Canaria. It's convenient too for the island's vibrant capital, Las Palmas, with its seafront promenade and historic district of Vegueta.

Day 2 : Caldera De Bandama Walk

Location: Gran Canaria

Accommodation Name: Hotel Rural El Mondalon

Meals Included: Breakfast

It's a 10 minute drive to the fascinating Caldera de Bandama via the Jardin Canario - a stunning botanical garden set within a cliff - and Monte Lentiscal with its rich vineyards and wineries. Walk to the rim of the 1000m wide volcanic crater, created after Gran Canaria's last volcanic eruption, and savour the far reaching views over the mountains to Las Palmas - on a clear day, you might even see as far as Fuerteventura! Then descend to the bottom of the Caldera, passing ancient caves, deserted houses and abandoned fields, all that remains of previous habitation, before returning to the hotel.

Day 3 : Barranco De Azuaje Walk

Location: Arucas

Accommodation Name: Hotel Rural El Mondalon

Meals Included: Breakfast

Drive to Arucas (35 min), home of the Ron Arehucas Factory where you can learn about the history of the island's rum making and the almost disastrous effect it had on the local Doramas forest. Buy a sample of this local tipple (to enjoy later back at the hotel) then it's on to Firgas for the circular walk today.

Firgas is a well know pretty town where a fountain splashes in the plaza, and a waterfall rushes down the Paseo de Canarias, a stepped promenade waterfall framed by flower beds above an amazing mosaic lined street.

From this water-rich town you walk into an evergreen canyon, the Barranco de Azuaje. The gorge is surrounded by high steep walls with almost junglelike vegetation made of bamboo cane and bay tree, willow and fern. Widening as you reach the Barranco de la Virgen - Valley of the Virgin, where the heady scents of citrus are present as you walk through orange and lemon tree groves.

Day 4 : Artenara Ridge Walk

Location: Gran Canaria

Accommodation Name: Parador Cruz de Tejeda

Meals Included: Breakfast

Begin the day with a drive (45 min) to Parador Cruz de Tejeda, your home for the next 4 nights, to drop off your luggage before setting off on today's stunning walk. After an initial ascent to the Caldera de Tejeda ridge, the descent offers outstanding views over the deep ravines, picturesque mountainside villages and iconic rock formations in the centre of the island. The snow-capped peak of Mount Teide on neighbouring Tenerife can be seen in the distance too! Explore the UNESCO recognised old troglodyte settlements of Cuevas Caballero and Cueva de Los Candiles before arriving in Artenara - at 1,270m it's the highest village on the island with nearly 400 cave houses, most dating back to the 15th century. From here, it's a short taxi ride back to the hotel with its superb spa facilities and panoramic swimming pool overlooking the surrounding cliffs and ravines.

Day 5 : Barranco De Guayadeque Walk

Location: Gran Canaria

Accommodation Name: Parador Cruz de Tejeda

Meals Included: Breakfast

Starting from the extinct volcano of Caldera de Los Marteles (20 min drive), you ascend through pine forest to Cruz del Socorro with views onto the Barranco de Guayadeque, one of the most iconic ravines on Gran Canaria. Descend into the gorge past cacti, palm trees and poppies and take your pick from one of the many picture perfect picnic spots offering superb views of the dramatic landscape. The valley is full of stone walls, terraced fields, troglodyte dwellings and ancient caves, some of which are still in use today. Almond trees, agaves and prickly pears are in abundance and you're likely to spot the Gran Canaria Giant Lizard, kestrels, buzzards and ravens too. After your walk, perhaps head into the lower valley and Montana de Las Tierras or Cueva Bermeja. There are several labyrinthine bars inside the manmade caves here - perfect for a post walk drink or a snack! On the way back to the hotel why not finish your day with a stop at Pico de Las Nieves (1.949m), the island's highest viewpoint, with vistas that won't disappoint!

Day 6 : La Fortaleza De Ansite Walk

Location: Santa Lucia de Tirajana

Accommodation Name: Parador Cruz de Tejeda

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today's route takes you to Santa Lucia de Tirajana (50 min drive) and a descent through Canary palm groves to the pretty little villages of El Ingenio and La Sorrueda. Explore their characterful streets before continuing to the archaeological site of La Fortaleza, a 2000 year old fortified settlement chiselled out of steep rock which more recently was used in the 15th century by the indigenous islanders in their futile attempt to resist conquest by the Spanish. From here, pass through the site's original carved tunnel to an uphill path through olive trees back to Santa Lucia. Complete your day with a visit to the sleepy, white village of Tejeda, where their speciality almond biscuits and cakes are highly recommended!

Day 7 : Roque Nublo Walk

Location: Gran Canaria

Accommodation Name: Parador Cruz de Tejeda

Meals Included: Breakfast

Balanced on an 1800m-high rock plateau, the volcanic monolith of Roque Nublo dates to the Pleistocene Era and is a must-visit. Starting from Llanos de La Pez (10 min drive), ascend through pine forest to the Riscos de Tirajana ridge. From here, wide landscape views open up to the south, revealing deep barrancos and vertical cliffs. As you reach La Foguera, there are spectacular views to Roque Nublo, the Caldera de Tejeda - with Roque Bentayga towering in its centre - and deep ravines cascading down to the ocean. Then, ascend to 'The Rock' with 360º views over the island and as far as Tenerife, La Gomera and even El Hierro on fine days. Return to your car via the Presa de Los Hornos reservoir, the highest dam on Gran Canaria and consequently also known as the Summit Reservoir. Perhaps enjoy a spa session at the hotel and a drink on the terrace to admire the last stunning sunset of the week before dinner.

Day 8 : Leave Tejeda

Location: Gran Canaria

Meals Included: Breakfast

Leave Gran Canaria after breakfast

What's Included

  • 7 nights twin-centre accommodation in 4 star hotels

    Enjoy a comfortable stay with 7 nights of twin-centre accommodation in 4-star hotels.

  • All buffet breakfasts

    Start your day with a delicious buffet breakfast included each morning.

  • Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent

    Benefit from the management and support of a local Headwater-appointed agent throughout your tour.

  • Route directions and maps

    Receive detailed route directions and maps to guide you on your journey.

  • Car Hire

    Car hire is included for convenient travel around Gran Canaria.

What's Not Included

  • Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and must be arranged separately.

  • Visas & vaccinations

    Visas and vaccinations are not included and should be arranged independently.

  • Car Hire (when booking land only - available at a supplement)

    Car hire is not included when booking land only, but is available at a supplement.

  • Single accommodation (available on request - compulsory supplement)

    Single accommodation is not included but is available on request with a compulsory supplement.

  • Solo traveller supplement (where only one person is travelling on a departure date)

    A solo traveller supplement applies when only one person is travelling on a departure date.

Food

Canarian dishes tend to be simple and elegant, owing much to sun-ripened tropical fruits such as paw-paw, prickly pear and bananas, local vegetables such as sweetcorn and potatoes and fresh fish such as moray and snapper.Specialities include conejo al salmorejo (slow cooked rabbit with garlic, paprika and chili); rancho canario (a chickpea meaty soup), ropa vieja (chicken, pork and or beef stew); chocos (cuttlefish); and crema de puerros y bubangos (cream of leek and prawn stew). The most popular fish are members of the sea bass family - cherne, cabrilla or merluza are common, and you may find grilled swordfish (espada a la plancha), as well as calamares (squid), gambas (prawns) and pulpo (octopus).
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Accommodation

Hotel Rural El Mondalon offers a tranquil stay with a heated outdoor pool and traditional Canarian cuisine, while Parador Cruz de Tejeda provides spectacular valley views, spa facilities, and an elegant restaurant. Both hotels feature comfortable rooms with terraces or balconies, ensuring a relaxing experience. ...more ...less

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 7 nights of twin-centre accommodation in 4-star hotels. The first hotel is Hotel Rural El Mondalon, located on the edge of the Caldera de Bandama nature reserve, and the second is Parador Cruz de Tejeda, which offers spectacular views and is adjacent to the El Nublo Nature Reserve. ...more ...less

  • What are the dining options available at the hotels?

    Hotel Rural El Mondalon has a restaurant on site that serves traditional Canarian dishes with a modern twist, although it is closed on Mondays. Parador Cruz de Tejeda also has an elegant restaurant serving traditional Canarian cuisine.

  • What kind of transportation is included in the tour?

    The tour includes car hire, allowing you to travel conveniently around Gran Canaria and explore the island's landscapes and attractions at your own pace.

  • Are there any special features of the Hotel Rural El Mondalon?

    Yes, Hotel Rural El Mondalon is located in a tranquil area overlooking fertile vineyards and features a heated outdoor pool with views of the surrounding volcanic landscape. The bedrooms come with all the comforts expected from a 4-star hotel and include a small terrace.

  • What can I expect from the Parador Cruz de Tejeda hotel?

    Parador Cruz de Tejeda is situated 1500m above sea level, offering spectacular views of the surrounding valleys. The hotel features a spa, a pool overlooking the ravine and valley, and rooms with panoramic views and balconies.

  • What kind of walks are available during the tour?

    The tour offers extensive walking options with a choice of 1 and 2 level walks daily. These walks explore various landscapes including volcanic craters, evergreen canyons, and iconic ravines, with opportunities to see traditional villages and archaeological sites.

  • What are some of the highlights of the walks included in the tour?

    Highlights include walking to the rim of the Caldera de Bandama, exploring the Barranco de Azuaje with its jungle-like vegetation, visiting the UNESCO recognized troglodyte settlements, and ascending to Roque Nublo for 360-degree views over the island.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Exodus has been trading since 1974

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.

Reviews of this operator

Gergana Racheva  

Very helpful and prompt service

06-Jan-2023

Very helpful and prompt service. I called to check for an already booked trip and once we sorted this, the agent was ready to help me with another booking as well. He actually waited for me to book my flight tickets, answered all my questions, informed me of all my options. Exodus is a tour company I am using regularly due to the quality of their trips, ease of booking and helpfulness of their customer service team ...more ...less

Trustpilot
Tim Hardy  

Stunning walking. Walking the Amalfi Coast

04-Nov-2021

This trip takes you through the most beautiful parts of the Mediterranean walking with a guide and also discovering the wonders of Pompeii and Vesuvius. The hotel had a nice feel as family run, spotless and comfortable rooms, we were well looked after for breakfasts and dinner each day, and the barmen fixed some mean cocktails for us.! ...more ...less

paul green (Google Reviewer)  

Went on a tour of...

14-Jan-2022

Went on a tour of morocco in October and loved it ,mohamed the tour guide was excellent, probably go with exodus to India next year

Paul Green  

It's amazing what you can do in a week! Cycling the Dalmatian Coast.

08-Oct-2021

This holiday was extremely enjoyable. The itinerary is well planned and the route takes you to a variety of destinations. Not having been to Croatia before I didn't know there were so many beautiful small islands and I loved the ferry and catarmaran rides. The coastal route we took was dramatic and the World Heritage sites in Split and Dubrovnik very interesting and worth visiting. The Adriatic Sea was warm, blue and inviting, good for swimming even in October. The hotels we stayed in varied in size from medium to large. I particularly liked the one just outside Dubrovnik as I had a sea view. Tourists were plentiful in Split and Dubrovnik but in the other places we stayed there was an end of season feel and it was quiet on the roads and in the resorts. The food was good and our guide was always able to recommend a nice restaurant for our evening meal. The weather in October was good for cycling - not hot, partly cloudy most days and one day it rained! ...more ...less

Roger Wells (Google Reviewer)  

We have just returned from...

12-Feb-2025

We have just returned from a 2 week Exodus trip to Egypt, Alexandria to Aswan. We had a great time, enjoyable company, with an excellent guide, Sayed. All worked out as described. The 3 day Red Sea extension was relaxing. Even the train journey, Cairo to Aswan, was a great part of the experience ...more ...less

Mrs Y Morrison  

Fabulous company and trip

06-Jan-2023

We went overland from Cape Town to Zimbabwe through Botswana and Namibia. What a fantastic trip. Our first time with Exodus although we have travelled extensively around the world. We would highly recommend this company for such a brilliant trip - we got everything and more all at a good price. Thanks to everyone involved. We are looking at our next trip! ...more ...less

Trustpilot
Alison Payton (Google Reviewer)  

I've done 8 trips in...

17-May-2023

I've done 8 trips in the last 14 years with Exodus, and have been rewarded with a 10% discount on all future bookings. I feel very confident that I'll receive pleasant, efficient service, and have the unusual holiday experience that I'm looking for each time. I've trekked to the top of snow-capped peaks, wild-camped in the desert, seen amazing spectacles of nature, visited 4 capital cities in a week, and learned about local culture and experienced local hospitality in a way that I simply wouldn't on a conventional holiday. The quality of the accommodation and guides can vary, but this is mainly down to cultural differences and things that Exodus can't control. I've only ever complained once, my complaint was taken seriously, and I was sent a discount voucher - you can't say fairer than that. I remain a loyal customer. ...more ...less

David (Google Reviewer)  

Exodus are generally a good...

21-Aug-2024

Exodus are generally a good travel company. Things tend to run smoothly and trips well organised. Their customers tend to be at retirement age. Trips are a bit overpriced. I would also avoid trips in Europe, as these often focus on more coffee stops and meals, rather than walking. I would also recommend making sure your guide records any accidents you have, hopefully not applicable. I had one on Sierra de Aitana which the guide saw and knew about, but he and Exodus said it never happened when I followed up after the trip. I wasn’t putting in a claim, just suggested a safety improvement. They have since apologised and acknowledged this as an error. They are a good reliable option for outside of Europe trips. ...more ...less

Jacquelyn Moore (Google Reviewer)  

Food came quickly. Staff very...

07-Mar-2024

Food came quickly. Staff very friendly and polite . However the chef or person preparing the food did not seem to read the menu! If it says a meal should come with vegetables, you should not have to ask for them. They served shepherds pie with garlic bread! The munchies ice cream sundae said it should come in a glass with a flake but came in a little bowl with just a few munchies! When asking the staff were happy to replace and correct but customer should get what they order and what menu says first time round!! ...more ...less

johanna leonor (Google Reviewer)  

If you like to be...

07-Sep-2023

If you like to be mistreated Exodus is perfect for you. If you enjoy terrible choices for hotels and pseudo restaurants Exodus is perfect for you. Careless about their clients and loveless about their propositions. Exodus has been a dissatisfaction and disappointment about every dealing i and my group have had with him. Especially a man called Simone who just cares about the money he can get from you couldn’t care less about service. ...more ...less

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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Exodus Adventure Travels allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exodus adventure travels, 43 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Exodus Adventure Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exodus adventure travels charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

Contrasts of Gran Canaria

8 Days Starting in Los Hoyos, Spain and ending in Tejeda, Spain

Visiting: Gran Canaria, Arucas, Santa Lucia de Tirajana

Tour operator:

Exodus Adventure Travels

Tour code:

W07RI

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

Moderate

Age range:

12-99

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $1835 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 22-Feb-2025 but subject to change.