Gran Canaria: Rainforest Hike, Eco Farm Tasting & El Puertillo Swim

Summary

Gran Canaria’s green heart, forest hike, farm flavors & volcanic pools

You’ll feel Gran Canaria shift under your feet — from ancient water mills in Firgas to damp laurel forests where every step wakes up your senses. Taste organic cheese at an eco-farm and end with saltwater on your skin in El Puertillo’s volcanic pools. If you want a day that lingers long after, this one’s for you.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll get your feet wet,” our guide grinned as we hopped out in Firgas — and he wasn’t kidding. The town’s all about water; you hear it everywhere, trickling down those old stone channels. We wandered past the Gofio mill (I still can’t pronounce it right), then stood for a minute just watching the Atlantic shimmer far off, sun breaking through morning clouds. It was quieter than I expected — just locals chatting over coffee and the sound of running water somewhere behind us.

The Azuaje Ravine hike started easy but got wild fast. Laurel trees above us, slippery rocks underfoot, that earthy smell after last night’s rain. Our guide stopped to show us some kind of tiny yellow flower — endemic, he said — and I tried to remember the name but gave up. At one point we crossed a stream barefoot because my “waterproof” shoes gave up early (bring extra socks). There’s this old spa ruin hidden down there, half-swallowed by moss and roots. Everyone went quiet for a bit; you could only hear birds and our breathing echoing off the ravine walls.

Lunch at Ecofinca Ventana Verde was honestly a surprise. I’d never tasted cheese that fresh or tomatoes that sweet — maybe it was just being outside after hiking, but everything felt brighter. The farmer explained their compost system with so much pride you couldn’t help but care too. Someone in our group asked about the goats and suddenly we were all laughing about goat yoga (which apparently isn’t a thing here… yet).

By the time we reached El Puertillo, my legs were tired but seeing those volcanic pools made me forget it all. Locals floated in the clear water while kids chased each other across black sand. I hesitated getting in at first (cold!) but didn’t regret it for a second once I did. That mix of salt on your skin and sun on your face — I still think about that moment sometimes when I need to slow down.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Firgas and Azuaje Ravine

• Visit Firgas town and water mills
• Hike through Azuaje Ravine laurel forest
• Discover ruins of Azuaje Spa
• Enjoy organic tasting at Ecofinca Ventana Verde
• Relax and swim at El Puertillo natural pools

Top questions

How difficult is the Azuaje Ravine hike?

The hike is easy to moderate, about 3 km with uneven paths, gentle slopes, stream crossings, narrow sections, and rocky surfaces.

Is hotel pickup included in this Gran Canaria rainforest tour?

The tour includes free transport service with air-conditioned vehicle but does not specify hotel pickup; check with operator for exact details.

What should I bring for the rainforest hike?

You should bring comfortable sportswear, hiking shoes (waterproof if possible), backpack, sunscreen, light food, at least 1.5L of water, raincoat, swimsuit with towel and dry clothes for swimming.

Are meals or tastings included on this day trip?

Yes, you’ll enjoy local product tasting at Ecofinca Ventana Verde featuring fresh fruits and artisanal cheese.

Are there restrooms along the trail?

No restrooms are available along the trail itself; facilities are available in Firgas, at Ecofinca Ventana Verde, and at El Puertillo.

Can children join this Gran Canaria rainforest tour?

The minimum recommended age is 5 years; children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult and only 4 child spots are available per tour.

Is swimming possible during this tour?

Yes, there is time to swim in the natural volcanic rock pools at El Puertillo near the end of the tour.

How large is each group on this guided tour?

The group size is limited to 20 people to keep things dynamic and personal.

What’s included

Your day includes certified professional guide throughout Gran Canaria’s north, transport by air-conditioned vehicle between stops like Firgas and Azuaje Ravine hike (about two hours walking), local product tastings at an eco-farm with fresh fruit and cheese sampling for lunch vibes, plus time to relax or swim at El Puertillo’s volcanic pools before heading back — photos taken by your guide included too.