Experience the thrill of exploring Gran Canaria’s stunning landscapes on a 2.5-hour guided ride in a 3-wheel Can-Am Ryker. Starting from Maspalomas, you’ll cruise through traditional villages like Santa Lucía, Tunte, and Fataga, enjoying breathtaking views of the island’s rugged mountains. Led by an experienced guide, this tour is perfect for those who want to combine adventure, local culture, and incredible scenery—all without needing a motorcycle license.
What we love most about this experience are two specific details: the freedom of driving a 3-wheel bike with a B1 car license—which makes it accessible for many—and the opportunity to stop at a fascinating archaeological site, La Fortaleza, adding a bit of historical context to the scenic ride. The second highlight is the chance to explore traditional villages, where you can soak in local architecture and charm away from tourist-heavy spots.
One consideration to keep in mind is the limited duration—at just 2.5 hours, it’s a quick taste of the island’s beauty, so if you’re craving a full-day adventure, this might feel a bit brief. However, for a relaxed yet exciting overview of Gran Canaria’s highlights, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for travelers who want an active, fun experience that combines driving and sightseeing without the hassle of planning every detail.
This tour suits those who enjoy a bit of adventure with cultural touches, travelers with a valid B1 car license, and anyone eager to enjoy stunning mountain vistas without the complexity of motorbiking. It’s especially perfect if you’re short on time but want a memorable, scenic experience with a touch of local flavor.
Key Points
- Accessible driving: You can operate the Can-Am Ryker with a B1 car license, opening the experience to many travelers.
- Stunning views: The tour offers panoramic vistas of Gran Canaria’s rugged landscape, ideal for photography and nature lovers.
- Cultural stops: Explore authentic villages like Santa Lucía, Tunte, and Fataga, gaining insight into local architecture and traditions.
- Historical interest: Visit the archeological site La Fortaleza for a glimpse into the island’s past.
- Comfort and convenience: Free hotel pickup and drop-off make it easy to join without logistical stress.
- Short but sweet: The 2.5-hour duration is perfect for a quick adventure, though it might leave those craving more wanting a longer experience.
In-Depth Review
What the Tour Includes and How It Works
This 2.5-hour adventure is designed for those who want to enjoy Gran Canaria’s mountain scenery from a different perspective—driving a Can-Am Ryker, a distinctive 3-wheel motorcycle with a 650cc engine. The price point of $89 per person offers reasonable value, especially considering that all helmets are provided and the tour includes free hotel pickup and drop-off in popular areas like Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, and others.
The experience begins with a brief safety briefing and a quick rundown on how to operate the vehicle—no motorcycle license required, just your B1 car license. This makes it accessible for a broad range of travelers, including those who might not usually consider motorcycle or scooter rides.
Itinerary Breakdown: From Maspalomas to Mountain Villages
Starting from Maspalomas, you’ll be driven in a minivan to the starting point, where you’ll meet your guide and get fitted with a helmet. The first leg takes you through the villages of Juan Grande and Vecindario, setting a relaxed tone before reaching Santa Lucía, one of the most charming local villages. Here, you’ll get a taste of traditional Canarian life, with cobbled streets and local architecture.
The highlight of the drive is a stop at La Fortaleza, an archeological site that offers both historical insight and a chance to stretch your legs. This stop is appreciated by travelers who enjoy a bit of cultural enrichment amid their scenic tour.
After a quick coffee break, the tour continues towards Tunte and Fataga. Both villages are renowned for their authentic feel—whitewashed buildings, narrow alleys, and mountain vistas. You’ll have opportunities to take photographs and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere far from bustling tourist spots.
Driving through the mountains back towards Maspalomas, you’ll experience exhilarating curves and sweeping views. The guide will narrate interesting facts about the landscape and local history, making the ride both fun and educational.
The Driving Experience
What makes this tour stand out is the unique driving experience on a Ryker—more stable than a motorcycle but still offering a sense of adventure. We loved the way the vehicle handles tight curves and the ease of control, which makes the ride accessible even for beginners or those unfamiliar with two-wheel bikes. The 650cc engine provides enough power for a exhilarating ride, while still feeling manageable.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthenticity and Scenic Highlights
The tour’s focus on traditional villages and panoramic views gives you a taste of authentic Gran Canaria. As one reviewer noted, “You get to see real local life, not just tourist spots,” which adds value for travelers interested in culture and landscape.
Practical Considerations
The free pickup and drop-off service simplifies logistics, especially if you’re staying in busy tourist areas. However, last-minute bookings with less than 24 hours’ notice might not guarantee pickup, so planning ahead is advised. Also, bring along sunglasses and water—the sun can be strong—and wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity.
Value for Money
At $89, this tour offers a fun combination of adventure, sightseeing, and culture—much more engaging than simply renting a car or taking a bus. You’re getting a guided experience that emphasizes scenic beauty and local charm, with the added thrill of driving a Can-Am Ryker.
Authentic Reviews and Real Experiences
Multiple travelers appreciate the “stunning views” and “authentic villages,” noting how the guided stops allow for layovers that aren’t rushed. The slow, scenic drive through mountain curves provides plenty of opportunities to photograph the landscape, as one review shared: “The views were breathtaking, especially from the mountain roads.”
Some travelers mention that the ride is short—just 2.5 hours—but found it perfect for a quick, exciting taste of Gran Canaria. Others emphasized the friendly guides and well-organized logistics, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who want a taste of motorized exploration without the need for a motorcycle license. It’s ideal if you enjoy scenic drives, local culture, and picturesque villages, but don’t want to commit to a full-day excursion. It also works well for those traveling in a group or as a couple, looking for a memorable, fun activity that breaks up a typical sightseeing day.
It’s less suitable for travelers seeking a deep-dive into history or a more extensive exploration—this is more about the thrill and the views in a compressed timeframe. If you’re physically uncomfortable riding or driving, this might not be the best fit.
The Sum Up
For a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and scenery, the Gran Canaria 3-Wheel Ryker tour offers an engaging way to see some of the island’s most beautiful spots. The ability to drive with a B1 car license makes it accessible and fun, while the stops at traditional villages and an archeological site deepen the experience beyond just a scenic ride.
The free pickup and drop-off add convenience, and the short duration makes it a perfect activity for those on a time crunch or looking for a introducing to the island’s mountain regions. Expect plenty of stunning views, authentic village charm, and a dash of local history—all delivered in a friendly, relaxed manner.
If you’re seeking a light yet memorable adventure that combines fun driving with cultural sights, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s particularly well-suited for those new to the island or wanting a quick, scenic thrill rather than an all-day commitment.
FAQ
Do I need a motorcycle license to join this tour?
No, a B1 car license is sufficient to operate the Can-Am Ryker, making it accessible for many travelers.
What areas does the pickup service cover?
The tour offers free pickup from several areas including Bahía Feliz, San Agustin, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, Meloneras, Arguineguin, Puerto Rico, Taurito, and Puerto de Mogan.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunglasses, water, comfortable clothes, and a helmet is included. Wearing suitable footwear for outdoor activity is advised.
Is the tour suitable for last-minute bookings?
Last-minute bookings with less than 24 hours’ notice do not guarantee pickup; you may be assigned a nearby meeting point instead.
What if I want to be dropped off at my hotel?
Standard drop-off is free for certain areas, but for premium drop-off, you can request a direct return to your accommodation—availability and conditions apply.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, including stops, making it perfect for a quick yet scenic excursion.
Is this experience suitable for families?
It’s best for adults with a valid driver’s license. The short duration and scenic nature make it suitable for families with older children or teenagers who can operate the vehicle safely.