Gran Canaria: excursion to the Barranco de los Cernícalos

Discover the Heart of Gran Canaria: The Barranco de los Cernícalos Excursion

Imagine walking through a lush, volcanic ravine where waterfalls cascade over rugged cliffs, and the air is filled with the calls of kestrels and other native birds. For just $76 per person, this guided tour takes you deep into the remote northeast of Gran Canaria to experience one of the island’s most stunning landscapes. Led by knowledgeable guides, the trip combines nature, history, and a touch of wildlife observation, all packed into about 3.5 hours of walking and exploring.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is how it balances natural beauty with cultural insights. The hike ends in a charming village, giving you a taste of local architecture and crafts. The second highlight is the opportunity to see native wildlife, including kestrels and canary lizards, making it a fantastic choice for nature lovers.

A potential consideration is that the distance is 7 km, with some uphill sections, which may be challenging for those with mobility concerns or very young children. However, the moderate difficulty level (1.5 out of 5) means most fit travelers can comfortably enjoy it. This experience suits outdoor enthusiasts, bird watchers, or anyone wanting to see Gran Canaria’s lesser-visited, natural side.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning volcanic landscapes with waterfalls and lush vegetation
• Wildlife sightings include kestrels, reptiles, and native lizards
• A cultural visit to a traditional village with typical architecture
• Moderate difficulty, suitable for most active travelers
• Includes transportation, guide, hiking poles, and snacks
• Best scheduled on Wednesdays; book in advance for flexibility

An In-Depth Look at the Barranco de los Cernícalos Excursion

When planning a day on Gran Canaria that veers away from beaches and busy tourist spots, this hike into Barranco de los Cernícalos offers a genuine taste of the island’s wild, volcanic heart. The excursion begins in the remote northeast, an area less crowded, with landscapes shaped by volcanic activity. The landscape here is defined by specific minerals found in the lava, supporting rare vegetation that thrives in this somewhat rocky environment.

The Landscape and What to Expect

The tour’s first moments set the tone: a 7 km trek through a spectacular ravine where the terrain varies from lush greenery to rugged volcanic rock. The trail elevation involves about 250 meters of ascent and descent, making it accessible to most hikers with a moderate fitness level. The terrain is well-defined but can be uneven in spots, so appropriate footwear—hiking shoes or trail running shoes—are essential.

One of the standout features is the small perennial stream that snakes through the valley year-round. During the rainy season, this stream feeds the jungle-like vegetation, transforming the landscape into a lush, vibrant environment. We loved the way this natural water source sustains the local flora and fauna, adding to the feeling of being in a true wilderness.

Wildlife and Birdwatching

The ravine is a favorite haunt for kestrels—hawks, harriers, and other raptors that hunt small mammals and reptiles in the area. Expect to see rabbits and canary lizards, which are often bold enough to be fed during the picnic stop if you’re feeling generous. Many reviewers mention the wonderful birdwatching opportunities, with one noting, “We loved the way kestrels seemed to hover just above us, as if watching us as much as we watched them.”

This rich biodiversity adds a layer of excitement for nature enthusiasts. The landscape supports reptiles, and you’ll probably spot some of the native lizards basking in the sun, providing a memorable interaction with local wildlife.

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Cultural and Historical Insights

The tour doesn’t just stop at nature—it also explores the historical legacy of the ravine. It’s an area historically used for agriculture and pastoralism, with evidence of old terraced fields and traditional practices. After the hike, the group visits a charming village, renowned for its typical architecture and colonial-era buildings. This village offers a glimpse into local life and craftsmanship, with some visitors enjoying discovering local products and bronze statues.

The Picnic and Wildlife Interaction

One of the most cherished moments, according to reviews, is the picnic break. It’s a simple vegetable snack and water, but the setting makes it special. If you’re patient enough to share a small piece of your sandwich, you might even feed the native lizards—a delightful experience for kids and adults alike. The quiet, scenic spot makes this a perfect moment of pause to soak in the natural beauty and wildlife sounds.

Practical Details and Comfort

The tour includes transportation—pick-up and drop-off at your hotel—making logistics straightforward. The group sizes are kept small (between 4 and 16 participants), ensuring a personalized experience. The inclusion of hiking poles helps with stability on uneven ground, and the accident and rescue insurance adds peace of mind.

Tips for a Better Experience

• Wear appropriate footwear—trail shoes or hiking boots are highly recommended.
• Pack warm clothing and sunscreen, as the weather can vary.
• Bring a daypack with water, snacks, and a camera.
• The hike takes place every Wednesday, so plan accordingly.
• The difficulty level is moderate, so most healthy walkers will find it manageable, but it’s not suitable for young children under 6, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

The Value of the Experience

At $76, this tour offers excellent value for those wanting a personalized, guided walk through the less touristy parts of Gran Canaria. It includes transport, insurance, a guide, and hiking equipment, making it a hassle-free day out. Compared to other excursions that focus solely on sightseeing, this one emphasizes active engagement with nature and local culture.

Travelers have consistently praised the stunning views and the chance to encounter native wildlife in their reviews. One shared, “The scenery was breathtaking—waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and so many kestrels I lost count.” Others appreciated the informative guides who shared insights into the landscape’s history.

The tour’s pacing is well-balanced, allowing plenty of time for photo opportunities and wildlife watching without feeling rushed. The cultural stop in the village provides a thoughtful conclusion, rounding out the experience with a taste of local life and architecture.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is perfect for outdoor lovers who enjoy moderate hiking and birdwatching. It suits those curious about Gran Canaria’s volcanic landscape and interested in local history. It’s also a good choice for travelers wanting a more authentic and less commercialized experience, away from crowded beaches or tourist hotspots.

However, if you’re traveling with very young children, have mobility issues, or are pregnant, this might not be the best fit due to the uneven terrain and physical demands.

Final Thoughts

The Barranco de los Cernícalos excursion provides a rare glimpse into Gran Canaria’s wild side, combining scenic beauty, wildlife, and cultural insights. It’s a well-rounded experience that emphasizes active exploration and authentic nature encounters.

For travelers craving a moderate hike with a scenic payoff, this tour offers stunning views, engaging wildlife, and a taste of local life—all in a manageable, well-organized package. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a birdwatcher, or simply someone looking to experience a different side of the island, this excursion is worth considering.

FAQ

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $76 per person, which includes transportation, guide, hiking poles, snacks, and insurance.

How long does the hike last?
The excursion involves about 7 km of walking, taking roughly 3.5 hours, including breaks and the picnic stop.

What’s the difficulty level?
It’s rated 1.5 out of 5, making it accessible for most active travelers with moderate fitness levels.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, hiking shoes, sunscreen, a daypack, warm clothing if needed, and water. Optional: camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Is it suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 due to terrain and physical activity level.

Can I feed the wildlife?
Yes, if you’re willing to share a small sandwich piece, you may feed the native lizards found during the picnic.

What about group sizes?
Small groups of 4 to 16 people ensure a personalized experience and more opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak German, English, and Spanish.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour runs every Wednesday, and reservations are recommended to secure your spot and enjoy flexible payment options. Cancelations are refundable if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

This guided hike through Barranco de los Cernícalos is an excellent way to uncover a quieter, more natural side of Gran Canaria—perfect for those seeking scenic views, wildlife encounters, and a taste of local history.

You can check availability for your dates here: