Gran Canaria: Banana Farm Tour & Tasting with Banana Wine

Summary

Banana farm stories in Arucas with wine, jam and old Canarian houses

You’ll walk through lush banana rows in Arucas, step inside a centuries-old Canarian house, and taste things you probably never imagined — like banana wine or jam with cactus. Local guides share stories as you wander, so you’ll leave knowing more than you expected (and maybe craving bananas for days).

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what a banana smells like before it hits the supermarket? I didn’t, honestly, until we wandered off the main road in Arucas and into this place — Banana World. It’s only about ten minutes from Las Palmas but feels way further. The air inside the plantation is heavier, almost sweet, and our guide (Miguel — he grew up nearby) kept stopping to let us touch the leaves or sniff the flowers. I remember him laughing when I asked if bananas really grow upside down. They do. Weirdly satisfying to see it for yourself.

The tour isn’t rushed. We ducked into this old Canarian house from 1804 — white walls, blue shutters, kind of echoey inside. There’s an interpretation center (never knew that was a thing) where they’ve got all these displays about how bananas are grown on Gran Canaria versus elsewhere. Miguel explained why local bananas are smaller but taste different — something about volcanic soil and less water? I half-followed but mostly just liked listening to him talk; his accent made everything sound friendlier.

I still think about the tasting part. They handed out little montaditos with banana jam (and another with cactus — surprisingly good), plus tiny glasses of banana wine. The wine is… odd, but not in a bad way? Sweet and sharp at once, like summer in a glass. There were other folks from Las Palmas there too; one woman said her grandmother used to work on a plantation like this. Made me wonder how many stories these fields have heard over the years.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Banana farm tour and tasting

• Visit Gran Canaria Banana Museum
• Tour banana farm and learn cultivation
• Explore restored Canarian house
• Taste banana jams and wines
• Shop banana-based artisan products

Top questions

How far is Banana World from Las Palmas?

It’s about 10 minutes by car from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Banana World in Arucas.

What do you taste during the Banana World tour?

You’ll try banana-based wines made in the Canary Islands and montaditos topped with banana jam, cactus, or aloe vera.

Is there parking available at Banana World?

Yes, parking fees are included for visitors at Banana World.

Can I visit Banana World by public transportation?

Yes, there are public transportation options available nearby.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Are there private tours available at Banana World?

Yes, private guided tours can be arranged at Banana World.

What’s special about bananas grown in Gran Canaria?

The bananas here are smaller and have a unique flavor due to volcanic soil and less water compared to other regions.

What’s included

Your visit includes guided entry to the Gran Canaria Banana Museum and farm, tastings of several banana-based wines produced locally in the Canary Islands, plus small bites like montaditos with banana jam or cactus. Parking fees are covered as well—just show up ready to wander and snack.