One of the most popular Gran Canaria tours is a boat trip along the stunning coast of Puerto de Mogan. This picturesque fishing village is a convenient jumping-off spot for adventures on the ocean wave. 

Boat trips come in all shapes and sizes, with everything from catamaran excursions to speed boat rides up for grabs. Most boat tours last around half a day, with ample opportunity to soak up the sun on deck as you watch the scenery glide by. 

The crew will drop anchor in a sheltered bay so you can jump overboard for a refreshing dip. Don’t forget to pack your swimming gear, sunscreen and a towel.

Depending on the operator, you’ll also have the chance to go snorkeling and discover the underwater kingdom. Watch out as reef fish dart past and see if you can spot a majestic ray gliding by. Gran Canaria scuba diving tours are also available, with Puerto de Mogan being one of the main hubs – beginners and experts are both welcome. 
 

If you fancy making like Lawrence of Arabia and riding a camel into the sunset, then these Gran Canaria tours are for you. Adapted to thrive in desert landscapes, camels are an ideal mode of transport for exploring the coastal areas. 

Popular locations for camel treks include the dunes at Maspalomas, the nature reserve of Fataga and the Valley of the Thousand Palms in Camellos. You’ll plod along at a relaxing place, giving you the chance to snap some photos during the ride. The views from up on your trusty mount are stunning. 

You can go it alone with a solo ride or hop on a two-seater saddle with a companion. Either way, you’ll have the time of your life. The route leads you far away from the road, venturing into areas where few tourists go.

As your ship of the desert carries you along the beaches and past rolling hills, take a moment to soak up the scenery. You’ll pass fragrant mango and orange groves as well as palm tree oases. 
 

For something a bit different, head underwater on a submarine tour. These unique ocean explorations are great for families or those who want to admire the fish without getting their feet wet. Submersible vessels usually have the capacity for around 10 people, keeping the experience personal. 

Once everyone is on board, the boat will motor out to sea on the surface, stopping when it reaches the ideal spot. Then the sub dives down to about 25 meters, where abundant wildlife lives among reefs and shipwrecks. 

The crystal-clear waters make for perfect viewing conditions, as you sit comfortably inside the submarine. Keep your eyes peeled as you descend into the depths, you never know what marine life will swim past your window. 

You’ll spend around 40 minutes submerged under the ocean, which is plenty of time to spot the shoals of fish and colorful sea anemones. Each passenger will have their own private seat beside a window, so everyone will enjoy front-row seats to the sea life show. 
 

Gran Canaria tours by boat are heaps of fun for all the family, and they’re even better when the dolphins come out to play. If wildlife is your thing, then you’ll love the specialist dolphin watching cruises. They focus on locating these lovable marine mammals so you can enjoy close encounters with them out at sea.

You’ll head out into the deep blue ocean on a catamaran, sailing yacht or glass-bottom boat. While the crew keeps watch for dolphins, you can sit back and relax on deck with a refreshing drink. Your guide will tell you about the local marine life as you cruise along. 

Although sightings are not guaranteed they are pretty frequent, so you have a good chance of seeing the dolphins. Watch as they plunge through the waves beside the boat – if you’re lucky you might even experience one jumping. 

Dolphins aren’t the only creatures you’ll encounter out here. Gran Canaria whale watching tours are also popular, with pilot whales often making an appearance. Turtles and flying fish are sometimes spotted too.
 

Once you’ve had your fill of golden beaches, it’s time to take a look at the historical side of Gran Canaria. The best way to explore the capital city of Las Palmas is on foot, preferably with a knowledgeable local guide to show you around. 

You’ll venture down cobblestone streets and discover secret plazas as you stroll around the old town. The guide will keep you entertained with tales and legends about Las Palmas during the walk. Of all the Gran Canaria tours, these are undoubtedly the most engaging. 

Highlights include the charming Vegueta and Triana neighborhoods, where fashionable merchant residences make good camera fodder. You’ll also get to see the Regental House and the Town Hall, as well as the Santa Ana Cathedral and the Museum of Casa Colón.

These city tours are a fun way to enjoy a bit of sightseeing without breaking the bank. You just need to tip the guide at the end of the walk according to how good you found the experience.  
 

The warm waters around Gran Canaria are the perfect breeding ground for all manner of marine life. Sea creatures thrive here, and fish populations are among the most abundant in the world. However, unless you’re a diver, it’s difficult to appreciate the natural wealth that resides beneath the waves.

The Poema del Mar Aquarium has solved this problem so that even landlubbers can set eyes on the weird and wonderful deep-sea world. The aquarium is one of the most-visited attractions in the Canary Islands and a favorite with families. It’s located in Las Palmas so it's easy to fit into your vacation schedule. 

There are several immersive exhibitions inside the aquarium. The centerpiece is a 360-degree viewing gallery looking out into the depths of the ocean – keep an eye out for bull sharks and seadragons. 

Meanwhile, the jungle exhibit recreates the aquatic rainforest world, with walkways and viewing areas getting you close to the action. Poison-dart frogs and glow-in-the-dark scorpions are among the many residents here. 
 

Get the adrenaline pumping with a guided buggy excursion around the rugged island interior. These Gran Canaria tours take you to places far off the beaten track, getting you fully immersed in this strange volcanic landscape. 

One of the most popular routes sees you exploring the natural park of Fataga, where deep canyons and traditional villages punctuate the terrain. You’ll be driving along unpaved roads into the mountains, exploring hidden ravines and taking in dramatic overlooks. Watch out for wildlife as you zoom along the trails.

There will be plenty of stops so you can take a breather and snap some photos. The panoramic views of the Ayagaures Valley and its reservoir are worth battling through all that dust!

You don’t need any experience behind the wheel of a buggy, just a driving license and a thirst for adventure. A companion can ride along with you in one of the 2-seater buggies – sharing the driving is allowed if you both have a license. 
 

Gran Canaria isn’t just about beaches and boat rides. The island is home to some incredibly diverse landscapes, at the center of which is a network of valleys and ravines. Many are inaccessible to hikers but for anyone brave enough to try it, canyoning opens up a whole world of wonder for adventurous explorers. 

Accompanied by a professional guide, you’ll navigate your way around a series of canyons, using ropes and a bit of courage. Rocky overhangs, steep cliffs and plunging waterfalls make up this wilderness playground – a head for heights is a must!

These trips take place in the lush heart of Gran Canaria, usually beginning with a short rainforest hike to get to the starting point. You will be given a wetsuit, harness and helmet to keep you safe during the scrambling. 

You’ll spend the day rappelling down waterfalls, jumping into forest pools and zooming down natural slides. If you’ve ever wanted to be Tarzan for the day, this is the way to do it.
 

While much of the beach action can be found down in southern Gran Canaria, don’t forget to explore the northern parts of the island too. The terrain up here is quite different, with a range of activities found only in this region. 

These Gran Canaria day trips often include wine tasting at a local vineyard in the beautiful Berrazales Valley in Agaete. Here, you’ll learn about the grape-to-glass process while admiring the countryside views. Sampling the finished product at the end is the icing on the cake. 

Many tours also visit a coffee plantation where tasting some delicious arabica coffee is on the menu. Then you’ll continue to the Guía area which is famous for its flower cheese – it’s made from thistle blooms. For an additional fee, you can try some if you like. 

Other points of call on the northern Gran Canaria tours include the fishing village of Las Nieves and the Neo-Gothic Iglesia de San Juan. Visits to a rum distillery and a banana farm just sweeten the deal.
 

Take to two wheels and roll around Maspalomas in style. You’ll be treated to some of the island’s best scenery as you cruise along the coast – just don’t forget to look where you’re going! Sand dunes, beaches and nature are all on the agenda during these unique Gran Canaria tours.

If you haven’t been on a segway before, don’t worry. There will be a short practice session at the start of the excursion, and the guide will show you what to do. Once you’re confident with your balance, it’s time to set off on an adventure. 

You’ll glide along the Maspalomas shoreline, stopping now and again to take photos as you please. The iconic lighthouse paints a pretty picture on the headland, and you’ll rest on the breakwater here midway through the tour. 

This natural reserve is known for its macaws, woodpeckers and other exotic birds, so keep an eye out as you ride through the dunes. Some tours also take place in the parks and squares in Maspalomas town for an urban twist.