Las Palmas, on the island of Gran Canaria, offers an impressive range of tours that make the most of its diverse landscape and vibrant culture. Whether you’re craving the thrill of catching waves on La Laja beach or exploring mountain routes via via ferrata, this city is packed with options. Among the standout experiences, we particularly love the group surf lessons for their friendly vibe and beginner-friendly waves, and the cultural walking tours for uncovering the island’s rich history. If you’re arriving via cruise, the Rum Tasting & Scenic Villages tour combines flavor and scenery, offering a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.
For those planning their trip, this guide highlights the best tours in Las Palmas, helping you pick the right activity whether you want to surf, climb, or explore local villages. Each offers a unique window into the island’s natural beauty and local traditions, making your visit both fun and memorable.
Quick Overview
Our list features three top-rated tours that showcase different facets of Las Palmas and Gran Canaria:
– Surf lessons at La Laja beach, perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to improve their wave riding skills [].
– Via ferrata “Amor & Odio”, a medium-level mountain adventure that challenges both your physical and mental limits [].
– Rum tasting combined with scenic village visits, a cultural and culinary experience ideal for shore excursions [].
Now, let’s dive into the details of each.
1. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: Group surf lessons on La Laja beach
Starting with our favorite for active travelers, the group surf lessons at La Laja beach offer an authentic taste of island life. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours and costs $47 per person, making it an affordable and memorable way to learn how to surf or improve your skills. The instructors at Wavelovers, a school passionate about the ocean, blend professionalism with a relaxed atmosphere that encourages learning and fun.
La Laja’s volcanic sand seabed creates ideal conditions for beginners, with gentle waves that are perfect for building confidence. The small group size ensures personalized attention, whether you’re a total novice or have some experience. The instructors focus on safety, technique, and enjoying every second in the water. Many reviews mention how quickly they gained confidence, thanks to the friendly, expert guidance.
The beauty of this tour is not just catching your first wave but the chance to connect with the ocean in a relaxed setting. It’s perfect for adventure lovers who want a hands-on, active experience that’s both fun and easy to access.
Bottom Line: If you want to try surfing with expert guidance in a safe, friendly environment, this is a great choice. It’s ideal for first-timers and anyone wanting a quick, energetic boost in ocean skills.
2. Gran Canaria : Vía Ferrata “Amor & Odio” – Medium level
For those craving a mountain challenge, the Vía Ferrata “Amor & Odio” delivers a thrilling experience. This route takes about 4 hours and is rated as medium level, so it’s suited for active hikers who aren’t afraid of heights or some physical exertion. The activity combines climbing, zip lines, and traverses along iron paths, offering a unique way to explore Gran Canaria’s rugged landscape.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of safety and excitement. The equipment is top quality, and guides are well-trained to ensure everyone’s safety. During the climb, you’ll be treated to spectacular views, and the experience of overcoming personal challenges adds a real sense of achievement. The guide, Aron, is praised for his knowledge of local history and environment, making the adventure both educational and exhilarating.
Guests have shared how intense emotions and the feeling of conquering the route make this a memorable highlight. It’s perfect for active travelers looking for a physically engaging and scenic experience that pushes your limits.
Bottom Line: If you’re up for an adrenaline-pumping mountain adventure that combines safety, challenge, and nature, this via ferrata ranks high. It’s especially suited for those comfortable with heights and physical activity.
3. Gran Canaria Shore Excursion Rum Tasting & Scenic Villages
For a more leisurely yet culturally rich experience, the Rum Tasting & Scenic Villages tour offers a delightful 4.5-hour exploration of Gran Canaria’s charming villages and local flavors. This tour costs $282 per person and is ideal for travelers arriving by cruise ship or those wanting a relaxed culture.
The tour kicks off with a visit to the Distilerías Arehucas, where you can tour the rum distillery and sample some of the finest Canarian rums. Afterwards, the journey continues to Arucas, a picturesque village known for its beautiful architecture and lush surroundings. The tour concludes with a walk through the old town of Vegueta in Las Palmas, where you learn about the island’s history and enjoy local treats.
The combination of scenic villages, cultural insights, and tasting local rum offers a balanced mix of relaxation and discovery. Guests frequently comment on the knowledgeable guides and how the experience helped them understand Gran Canaria’s traditions beyond the beaches. This tour excels for travelers interested in food, history, and scenic drives, providing a taste of local life away from the coast.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice for those who want to combine cultural exploration with a sensory experience, especially if you enjoy tasting local spirits and strolling historic streets.
$282 per person
How to Choose
When selecting among these tours, consider your interests, fitness level, and time constraints. If you’re eager to learn a new skill and love the water, the surf lessons are a perfect, affordable way to get in the waves. For a more active physical challenge and mountain views, the via ferrata offers a memorable adrenaline rush. Meanwhile, those who prefer a relaxed, cultural experience with good food will find the rum tasting and scenic villages tour ideal.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot. If you’re traveling with kids or non-participants, check the tour details for age restrictions or physical requirements. Also, consider combining these activities with your general plans—surf lessons are great for mornings, while the scenic tour can fit into a cruise shore day.
Final thoughts
Las Palmas offers a wide array of tours to match different interests. For active travelers wanting to hit the water, the group surf lessons provide a fun, beginner-friendly introduction to surfing. Adventure seekers who enjoy heights and physical challenges will find the Vía Ferrata “Amor & Odio” an unforgettable mountain experience. Culture and flavor lovers will appreciate the Rum Tasting & Scenic Villages tour for its relaxed pace and local insights.
No matter your choice, booking in advance guarantees a spot in these popular experiences. With options for every fitness level and curiosity, your trip to Las Palmas promises to be both enjoyable and enriching.