A growing collection of places beyond the main resort areas for travellers who want to see a quieter, more local side of the island.
Gran Canaria is much more than its famous beaches and resorts. Across the island you can still find small coastal settlements, protected landscapes and green ravines that feel very different from the busiest tourist areas. These guides are a good starting point if you want to discover another side of the island, from small coastal settlements to green ravines and unusual volcanic landscapes.
El Risco is the westernmost neighbourhood of Agaete, around half an hour from the town centre. It retains a strongly rural character, with dramatic ravines, Charco Azul and a wild Atlantic beach.
Tufia combines a small coastal settlement, a beach and one of Telde's important archaeological areas. Nearby Aguadulce is a small, rustic beach with golden sand inside the protected Tufia natural area.
A green ravine with running water, willow woodland and waterfalls. The standard route from Los Arenales is one of Gran Canaria's most popular nature walks.
The famous Tobas de Colores are a short ravine of smooth, layered volcanic rock near Agüimes. Although popularly called Barranco de las Vacas, the colourful narrow section is actually in Barranco de Barafonso.
A remarkable troglodyte settlement carved into the cliffs of the Mesa de Acusa, where cave homes, archaeology and centuries of rural life share the same dramatic landscape.
A popular ravine route near Teror, historically known for its green scenery and wooden staircases. The main staircase section is currently closed after serious storm damage.
If you want to mix independent exploring with organised activities, browse our handpicked nature and adventure experiences across Gran Canaria.
Local information has been cross-checked against official tourism information from the Agaete Tourism Office, Telde Tourism, Gran Canaria Tourism, Agüimes Tourism and Teror Town Council's current Barranco del Álamo closure notice, plus Artenara Tourism information on Acusa Seca.