Discover Gran canaria The Cumbre

Discover Gran Canaria: The Cumbre offers an engaging glimpse into the island’s less touristy but equally captivating side. For about $52.28 per person, you’ll spend roughly 7 to 8 hours exploring a handful of picturesque villages, sweeping valleys, and volcanic landmarks. Guides like Sebastian and Simon earn praise for their energy and knowledge, making sure you get the most out of every stop. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from the southern tourist zone, which is a huge plus for those staying in that area.

What we really love about this experience are the breathtaking views from Cruz de Tejeda and the chance to sample locally-produced rum at Arucas, a notable highlight for many travelers. Plus, the comfortable coach means you can relax while taking in the scenery without the hassle of navigating mountain roads yourself. However, a quick note for potential guests: some reviews mention that certain stops are quite brief and that not all advertised features, like the rum distillery visit, are currently available, so it’s worth double-checking what’s included before booking.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy cultural exploration, scenic vistas, and authentic village atmospheres. If you’re a traveler who appreciates guided tours that balance sightseeing with storytelling, you’ll find this trip offers good value and memorable moments. It’s especially suited for visitors looking to see more of the island beyond the beaches, with an interest in local food, architecture, and natural landscapes.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day experience at just over $50
• Visiting key villages like Telde, Firgas, and Valleseco
• Stunning views at Cruz de Tejeda and Fataga Valley
• Rum tasting and visit to Arucas (included, but check current arrangements)
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Guides praised for energy and knowledge
• Some stops are brief, and advertised activities may vary

Detailed Review of Discover Gran Canaria: The Cumbre

The Basics: What to Expect

This tour is designed to show you the diverse charm of Gran Canaria beyond the beaches. For 7 to 8 hours, you’ll travel through fertile valleys and mountain roads, visiting several villages, viewpoints, and natural landmarks. The cost of $52.28 is quite reasonable considering the scope—covering multiple locations with local guide insights, some included tastings, and panoramic vistas.

The tour begins early in the morning with hotel pickup from the southern tourist zone, making it especially convenient for guests based in popular resorts like Bahia Feliz or Playa del Inglés. It’s a group experience, but the coach’s modern comfort makes it easy to relax between stops.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

The journey starts with a scenic drive south to north across Gran Canaria’s lush valleys. You’ll pass through Telde, the island’s first capital, where you might notice traditional architecture and local life. Then, the bus heads toward Arucas, known for its impressive neo-Gothic church and the island’s most important rum factory. The guide, sometimes Simon, is praised for his enthusiasm and knowledge, especially when explaining local traditions and history.

One of the highlights is a stop at Firgas (not available on Saturdays), famous for its waterfalls and tiled water channels, offering a chance to stretch your legs and take photos. The tour then makes its way to Valleseco, a small mountain town where you might enjoy a lunch break (not included), set against a peaceful backdrop of pine forests.

A major highlight is the visit to Cruz de Tejeda, a mountain pass with sweeping views of the Roque Nublo—a volcanic outcrop symbolizing the island. Here, the panoramic vistas are truly unforgettable. Several reviews mention how the scenery from this vantage point is breathtaking, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Next, the bus heads towards Ayacata, renowned for almond trees and rustic charm. The final stop is San Bartolomé de Tirajana, perched above Santa Lucía, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Before heading back, there’s a panoramic viewpoint over the Fataga Valley, at an elevation of 450 meters, ideal for a last photo opportunity.

The Highlights That Make This Tour Stand Out

Scenic vistas: From mountain passes to verdant valleys, the views are often described as “breathtaking” and “stunning,” giving you a true feel for the island’s varied terrain. The Roque Nublo photo stop is particularly cherished, representing the island’s volcanic origins.

Authentic village visits: You’ll get a glimpse of local life in small towns like Telde, Firgas, and San Bartolomé, with some reviews remarking on the peaceful, traditional atmosphere far from tourist crowds. These stops offer authentic photo opportunities and a chance to see typical Canarian architecture.

Rum tasting at Arucas: Included at no extra charge, the visit to the rum factory is a favorite among many. While some reviews mention that this activity might not always be available (e.g., due to COVID-related changes), the chance to sample local spirits in the birthplace of the island’s rum industry is a delightful addition.

The Guides and Transportation

The guides like Sebastian and Simon earn high praise for their energy, friendliness, and local knowledge. They go beyond facts, sharing stories and answering questions, which makes the experience more engaging. Many travelers appreciated that there was ample opportunity for photos and free time at scenic spots, so the trip doesn’t feel rushed.

The coach is described as modern, comfortable, and capable of navigating narrow mountain roads. The driver’s skill in handling tricky turns is often highlighted, especially in reviews mentioning Jose. The group size is capped at 99 travelers, but most reviews reflect a smaller, manageable crowd that fosters a friendly atmosphere.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is excellent value, some travelers noted that certain stops are quite brief, especially the visit to Firgas and San Bartolomé. If your priority is spending more time exploring towns or activities, this might feel rushed.

A key point to check: the rum distillery visit is currently not included according to the latest review, despite being advertised. Always verify current details before booking to avoid surprises.

The lunch stop at Valleseco is not included, so plan for some snacks or a meal on your own. The tour does not include pickup in Las Palmas, so if you’re staying there, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

Authentic Experiences and Value

Compared to other tours, this outing offers a genuine taste of local culture, stunning landscapes, and a relaxed pace. It’s especially suited for those who love scenic drives, photography, and small-town atmospheres. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the variety of sites visited as the main reasons for recommending this tour.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

If you’re eager to see the less touristy side of Gran Canaria, enjoy panoramic views, and want a convenient way to explore multiple villages and natural landmarks in one day, this is a good choice. It’s ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a comfortable, guided overview of the island’s diverse scenery. Keep in mind that some stops are quick, so if you prefer in-depth exploration, you might want a more specialized tour.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For the price, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Gran Canaria’s scenic and cultural highlights. The guide’s enthusiasm and the stunning vistas make it a memorable experience, especially if you’re short on time or prefer to relax while someone else navigates the mountain roads. You’ll love the views from Cruz de Tejeda, the charm of the small villages, and the local rum tasting (if available).

This trip suits travelers who enjoy guided storytelling, authentic village atmospheres, and scenic drives, and are happy with some brief stops. It’s not perfect for those looking for deep dives into specific sites or longer visits, but it excels as a cost-effective overview of some of the best that Gran Canaria has to offer.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from the southern tourist zone, making it convenient for travelers staying in resorts like Bahia Feliz.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience runs approximately 7 to 8 hours from pick-up to drop-off, allowing ample time for sightseeing and photo stops.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers professional guiding, visit to several villages, panoramic views, and local rum tasting (subject to current arrangements). Lunch is not included.

Are there any stops I should be aware of?
Some stops, like Firgas, may be quite brief or unavailable on certain days, and some reviews mention that the stops may feel rushed.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, travelers generally praise the modern coach and skilled driver for navigating tight mountain roads, ensuring a smooth ride.

Can I expect to get lots of photos?
Absolutely. Many guests highlight the opportunity to take stunning pictures at viewpoints like Cruz de Tejeda and Fataga Valley.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While most reviews are positive, some mention that young children might get bored during long bus rides or quick stops. It’s better suited for adults or older children who enjoy scenery and villages.

What if the rum distillery visit isn’t available?
The activity may be canceled or altered, so it’s wise to double-check with the tour provider before booking. Even without it, many still find the tour rewarding.

In essence, Discover Gran Canaria: The Cumbre is a solid choice for travelers wanting a balanced, scenic, and culturally enriching day without breaking the bank. Pack your camera, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare for a day of eye-opening vistas and charming villages.