Gran Canaria: Canyoning Cernícalos Canyon with Photos & Picnic

Summary

Gran Canaria canyoning adventure through waterfalls forest jumps and laughter

You’ll feel your heart race as you jump into cool pools, rappel down waterfalls, and hike through Gran Canaria’s lush Laurisilva forest with a small group led by an experienced local guide. Expect laughter, muddy hands, a simple picnic among ancient trees—and photos to remember it all by long after you’ve dried off.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the light filtered through the trees — that kind of greenish haze you only get deep in a Laurisilva forest. We were standing at the top of Cernícalos canyon, wetsuits clinging to us (honestly, getting into mine was half the adventure). Our guide, Diego, handed out helmets and made a joke about my “rappelling face” — I guess I looked nervous. He’s been doing this since 2000 and it showed; he just had this calm way of explaining things that made me trust him right away.

The water was colder than I expected when we took our first jump. There’s this quick moment — toes on slippery rock, heart thumping — then splash. You taste mossy water and hear everyone laughing or shouting in Spanish. Sometimes we’d stop for a second just to listen: birds above us somewhere, water running below. Diego pointed out some wildflowers growing out of the rock and tried to teach us their names. I forgot every one except “viñátigo,” which I probably still pronounce wrong.

We rappelled down waterfalls (not as scary as it sounds), scrambled over boulders slick with spray, and even swam short stretches where the canyon narrowed so much you could touch both sides. Somewhere in there we stopped for a picnic — fruit, chocolate, nuts. My hands were shaking from adrenaline so I dropped my cookie in the mud but ate it anyway. The whole thing felt messy and real and good. And yeah, they took photos along the way so you don’t have to worry about your phone getting soaked.

I still think about how quiet it got sometimes between all the climbing and splashing around — just breathing damp air under those old trees with strangers who suddenly felt like friends. It’s not something you can plan for exactly; it just sort of happens while you’re busy trying not to slip on mossy rocks.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Canyoning adventure in Gran Canaria

• Wear neoprene suit and helmet
• Descend ravine following water course
• Walk, jump, climb, swim, and rappel
• Explore Laurisilva green forest
• Receive free picture report

Top questions

Is this canyoning tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels; guides provide instructions and equipment.

Are children allowed on the Gran Canaria canyoning experience?

Yes, but children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring for the Cernícalos canyon tour?

You don’t need special gear; wetsuit, helmet, harness, descender and neoprene shocks are provided.

Is lunch included during the day trip in Gran Canaria?

A picnic is included—fruit, chocolate, nuts, cookies and bottled water.

How many people are in each group?

This is a small-group tour for a more personal experience.

Is there an English-speaking guide?

Yes—the professional guide speaks English and Spanish.

Are photos included in the Gran Canaria canyoning tour?

Yes—a free picture report is provided so you can relive your adventure.

Can pregnant travelers join this activity?

No—it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to physical demands.

What’s included

Your day includes all technical gear—wetsuit, helmet, harnesses—and guidance from an experienced local guide fluent in English or Spanish. Bottled water is provided along with a simple picnic of fruit, chocolate, nuts and cookies during a break in the forest. You’ll also get free photos from your adventure to keep or share later.