Gran Canaria: Guided City, Garden & Crater Tour with Pickup

Summary

Walk historic las palmas see bandama crater and botanical garden

You’ll walk volcanic rims at Bandama Crater, breathe in lush scents at Spain’s largest botanical garden, and explore Las Palmas’ historic Vegueta quarter with a local guide. Includes hotel pickup and free time by Las Canteras beach — moments you’ll remember long after you’ve left Gran Canaria.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the first thing I’d notice at Bandama Crater to be the wind — it whipped around us as our guide, Marta, pointed out old lava flows curling along the rim. The view was wild and a little dizzying, honestly. You could smell something earthy in the air, almost like warm stone after rain. Marta told us how people used to farm inside the crater (I can’t imagine climbing up and down every day), and then she laughed when someone asked if you could still go down there. “If you want sore legs tomorrow!” she said.

The Jardín Botánico Canario was next — I’d seen photos but they don’t really get across how tangled and alive it feels. There’s this spot where the path dips under big palm leaves and suddenly it’s quiet except for birds somewhere above. I tried to name some plants (failed), but our guide just smiled and let us taste a tiny leaf from one of the local herbs — sharp, almost lemony. My hands smelled like it for ages after. We wandered past cacti taller than me and a pond where a couple of locals were sketching quietly.

Later in Vegueta, we had free time to wander old streets that felt sun-baked and slow. I ducked into a bakery for something sweet (no idea what it was called — sugary with almonds?) before heading to Santa Ana Cathedral. There were kids playing soccer in the square, their voices echoing off stone walls. It felt good just to sit there for a minute with no rush at all.

We finished near Las Canteras beach — Marta called it “the Copacabana of Europe,” which made everyone laugh but honestly I kind of get it now. The sand was soft underfoot and there was this salty breeze coming off the Atlantic that made me wish I’d brought my swimsuit. So yeah, if you’re thinking about a day trip in Gran Canaria with a local guide who actually knows her stuff (and tells good stories), this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Bandama Crater and Botanical Garden

• Visit Bandama Caldera viewpoint
• Explore Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo
• Tour Vegueta and Santa Ana Cathedral
• Free time in Vegueta: market and museums
• Free time at Las Canteras beach and shopping

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included on this Gran Canaria tour?

Yes, pickup is included from most tourist areas; just provide your accommodation name when booking.

How long does the Las Palmas city & crater tour last?

This is a full-day guided tour including several stops plus free time in Vegueta and by Las Canteras beach.

What attractions are visited on this Gran Canaria day trip?

You’ll visit Bandama Caldera, Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo, Vegueta old quarter, Santa Ana Cathedral, and Las Canteras beach area.

Is lunch included on the Gran Canaria city tour?

No set lunch is included; you have free time to eat at local restaurants or cafes during the tour.

Are guides knowledgeable about local history?

Yes, qualified local guides lead the tour and share insights about each site visited.

Can children join this Gran Canaria guided tour?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult throughout the day.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels; some walking is involved but nothing too strenuous.

Are service animals allowed on this Gran Canaria excursion?

Yes, service animals are permitted on this guided day trip.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from tourist areas (just send your accommodation details), drop-off at the end of the tour, entry to all main sites like Bandama Crater and Spain’s largest botanical garden, transport by modern air-conditioned bus, plus guidance from a qualified local expert throughout your journey.