Walking Tours in Gran Canaria

Las Palmas, the vibrant capital of Gran Canaria, offers the allure of golden beaches alongside the rhythm of city life. The Playa de Las Canteras is a sunseekers dream and  stretches invitingly along the city's coastline, while the historic district of Vegueta stands as a testament to bygone centuries.

On a walking tour in Gran Canaria, you are greeted by colonial architecture, bustling markets, and the sounds of local musicians. For those keen to delve deeper into the city's rich history, walking tours are an excellent way to explore.

Guided by knowledgeable locals, these tours explore alleyways, ancient churches, and lively plazas. For the adventurous and fit, walking tours to the natural areas of the island offer an alternative to a day in the city or on the beach.

Here's all you need to know about walking tours, one of the most captivating sightseeing tours in Gran Canaria.

What are the best walking tours in Gran Canaria?

Whether you have a small or large budget, there is a walking tour that will suit you. Walking tours for sightseeing or longer more strenuous hikes are all on offer in Gran Canaria.

Small group Las Palmas walking tour

On a small group guided tour on Gran Canaria, you have the benefit of the knowledge and insight of a local guide to show you the highlights of the old town district of Las Palmas, Vegueta and the Triana area.

The tour passes historic locations and significant monuments and landmarks which you can choose to visit later at your leisure. The activity also usually enters the Casa Museo de Colón which is dedicated to Christopher Columbus and his exploratory voyages.

Las Palmas: Self-guided walking tour

The best thing about a self-guided walking tour is that you can set the pace of your sightseeing, and take a break whenever you like.

On a self-guided tour of Las Palmas Old Town, you can explore the narrow alleyways, see the colorful colonial-style houses, and learn about the history of the city and island in a fun and interactive way.

A self-guided tour is facilitated by using your smartphone. You can even make use of the tour guide and map when you are offline, as it can be downloaded in advance.

Las Palmas Private walking tour

If you have specific interests or simply prefer to have the focussed attention of your tour guide, a private walking tour is a great way to delve into the culture and history of Las Palmas, Gran Canaria.

This type of tour typically covers the Old Town, Vegueta, and as you walk, you will learn about how this small settlement grew to become the modern metropolis of today.

As this tour will be for your group only, it can be customized to accommodate any special needs such as limited mobility or the need for regular breaks or rest stops.

Free walking tour in Las Palmas

Free walking tours operate in a unique way: instead of paying upfront, you tip your guide at the end based on your experience. These tours usually last between 1 and 3 hours.

Extras like entrance fees, snacks, or souvenirs are not included and you will need to pay for these on the day. It's important to book these tours online beforehand because they only happen if there are confirmed participants.

Reserva Natural Inagua Gran Canaria walking tour

A walking tour of the Reserva Natural Inagua Gran Canaria provides you with sweeping views of the island and access to natural areas including a protected pine forest.

These 6-hour excursions include transport from Las Palmas and are led by experienced hiking guides. After summiting the volcanic peak, you will make your way to the town of la Aldea de San Nicolas where you can enjoy a tasty meal and refreshing beverages.

Which places are visited?

Walking tours in Gran Canaria usually center around La Palmas, specifically the old town area of Vegueta. On a walking tour, you can expect to discover more about the town’s maritime connection as you explore Vegueta and Triana.

The tours navigate cobblestone streets, passing sites like the Cathedral of Santa Ana, the Plaza del Pilar Nuevo, the colonial houses on the route to Plaza de San Antonio Abad and the Casa Museo de Colón.

A tour to Reserva Natural Inagua Gran Canaria provides you access to some of the island’s most pristine and spectacular natural areas. You will be treated to panoramic vistas and access to forested regions not accessible by the general public.

How much do walking tours in Gran Canaria cost?

Small group Las Palmas walking tours start from around €15 per person and may include entry to the Columbus Museum, while free walking tours do not charge a booking fee, but ask you to tip your guide when your tour concludes.

A self-guided walking tour of Las Palmas is priced at €15 for groups of up to 4 participants. The tour can be downloaded and thereafter used without internet connectivity.

Las Palmas private walking tours cost in the region of €50 per person for smaller groups, including a beverage and snack or from €210 excluding entrance fees for exclusive groups of up to 15 people.

A Reserva Natural Inagua Gran Canaria walking tour is a 6-hour excursion priced from €150 per person. Time is included in the itinerary for lunch, but the cost of your meal is not included in the price.

What is included?

Small group and free walking tours provide you with a guided walking experience in Las Palmas, while a self-guided tour gives you access to a tour guide and map. Private walking tours include the exclusive service of a guide for the duration of your tour.

Some tours include entrance fees, while others do not. Certain types of tour may include a snack or refreshment.

A tour to Reserva Natural Inagua Gran Canaria includes transport to the reserve from Las Palmas and reserve entry fees.

Where does it start?

Tours have different starting points. Some walking tours begin close to a well-known landmark, while others gather near the tourist office or the San Telmo Main Bus Station.

You will be able to confirm the meeting point of your tour when you make your booking.

How long does it last?

The majority of walking tours in Gran Canaria last from 1 to 3 hours. The Reserva Natural Inagua Gran Canaria walking tour lasts around 6 hours in total.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

With the exception of the Reserva Natural Inagua Gran Canaria walking tour, most walking tours in Gran Canaria are suitable for people with reduced mobility and are accessible by wheelchair. It should be noted that many walking tours may include sections of cobblestone streets.

When is the best time for a walking tour in Gran Canaria?

The optimal time for a walking tour in Gran Canaria is during the pleasant seasons of spring from March to May and, autumn from September to November.

Mornings provide cooler weather and better visibility for exploring, while evenings offer a relaxed and scenic experience, especially for enjoying beautiful sunsets along the coast.

Travel tips

• Plan your walking route in advance, including notable sights and attractions you want to visit. This helps ensure you make the most of your time and don't miss any highlights.
• Dress in layers and consider bringing a hat and sunscreen to protect against the sun. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, as you'll likely be exploring on foot.
• Walking tours can be engaging and long, so carry water to stay hydrated. Pack some snacks to keep your energy levels up during the tour.
• Consider hiring a local guide for your walking tour. They can provide in-depth knowledge about the area, its history, culture, and hidden gems you might miss otherwise.