Private Bandama Caldera, Botanic Garden(/Wine*), Old Town

If you’re looking for a half-day adventure that combines stunning natural beauty, local culture, and a touch of gastronomy, this private tour from Las Palmas delivers. For around $108 per person, you’ll visit Europe’s largest open-air botanical garden, gaze over the volcanic caldera of Bandama, and stroll through the charming Old Town of Las Palmas. Led by knowledgeable guides—sometimes in your preferred language—this experience promises a balanced mix of nature, history, and local flavor.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the spectacular views from Bandama Mountain are genuinely breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the northeast coast. Second, the option to swap the botanical garden visit for a wine tasting at a local winery adds a flavorful twist to the day. A potential consideration is the transport logistics—the tour does require some pre-arranged pickup or self-arrival, which might be less seamless for travelers staying farther afield. Overall, it’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic landscapes, cultural insights, and a relaxed pace.

If you enjoy scenic viewpoints, historic city strolls, and local wine, this tour is great for couples, small groups, or solo travelers eager to experience Gran Canaria beyond the beaches. It’s especially recommended if you value guided insights and a personalized touch.

Key Points

Stunning Views from Bandama Mountain: Panoramic vistas of the island’s northeast and the caldera itself.
Flexible Experiences: Choose between a botanical garden visit or a wine tasting, depending on your interests.
Authentic Old Town: Explore Las Palmas’ historic center, with opportunities for shopping, sightseeing, and local foods.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides who can speak multiple languages, enhancing your understanding.
Short but Rich: In just three hours, see the highlights without feeling rushed.
Value for Money: Well-priced at $108 with flexible options for transfers and upgrades.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Gran Canaria

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at a central location in Las Palmas, at the Lentini Monopol traffic lights, next to a monument celebrating Canary wrestling. This spot is easy to reach by taxi or bus—the nearby Teatro bus stop is just three minutes away, making it convenient even if you’re staying farther from the city center. For those who prefer a hassle-free start, pre-booked pickups from your hotel or accommodation can be arranged for an extra fee, which is worth considering if you’re traveling with luggage or want a more relaxed start.

First Stop: The Old Town of Las Palmas

After meeting your guide, you’ll begin with a brief exploration of the historic city center. This area is filled with centuries-old architecture, traditional markets, and the impressive Santa Ana Cathedral. According to reviews, guides are knowledgeable and share a wealth of information about local history, cuisine, and culture. One traveler noted, “the guide was very friendly, sociable, chatty and very good at sharing useful historic information.” This is a perfect place to soak in the local vibe, browse shops, or grab a quick coffee before heading out to the countryside.

Journey to Bandama Caldera

Next, you’ll hop into a comfortable vehicle to travel toward Tafira, an area known for its vineyards and lush landscapes. The drive itself is a scenic introduction to the island’s rural beauty. The highlight is the volcanic caldera of Bandama, a massive volcanic crater formed during the last eruption on the island, over 2,000 years ago. You’ll stop at the viewpoint for about 15 minutes, giving you enough time to snap photos of the remarkable volcanic landscape and appreciate the stunning panoramic views over the northeast coast.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting the Botanical Garden or Wine Tasting

From the caldera, you’ll make your way to the Canary Islands’ largest open-air botanical garden. Here, guides will introduce you to a diverse collection of native and exotic plants, including laurel forests, pine trees, and an impressive array of cacti. Travelers have enjoyed this part for its educational value and visual variety. One reviewer loved the opportunity to marvel at the amazing cacti of different sizes in the cactus garden.

Alternatively, for a 15 euro upgrade, you can opt for a delicious local wine tasting at a charming old winery. The wines are well-reviewed, and the tasting includes local varieties, offering a taste of Canary Island wine culture. Many travelers found this a memorable highlight—”enjoyed the guides’ breadth of knowledge about Canaries and efficient coverage of sites,” as one happy guest expressed.

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Gran Canaria

Ending in the Old Town

The tour concludes with a drop-off back in Las Palmas’ Old Town, giving you ample time to explore on your own. Whether you want to wander the cobbled streets, visit additional sites, or enjoy a meal in a traditional tapas bar, the flexibility is a plus. The organizer can arrange taxis to other parts of the city or nearby tourist spots like Maspalomas for an extra fee. This part of the tour allows for personal exploration and a chance to relax after the guided highlights.

What We Love About This Tour

One of the biggest drawcards is the guides’ knowledge and friendly approach. Several reviews praise the guides for their broad understanding of Canary Islands’ history, flora, and fauna, making the experience both informative and engaging. The stunning views from Bandama are equally appreciated—a truly awe-inspiring scene that’s worth the trip alone.

The wine tasting upgrade is another standout feature. It offers a chance to sample local wines in a beautiful setting, adding a culinary dimension many travelers enjoy. The botanical garden itself is a visual feast, especially for plant lovers and those seeking a peaceful walk amid lush greenery.

Potential Drawbacks or Considerations

The main consideration is transport logistics. While the tour offers a private group experience, it does require pre-arranged pickups or self-arrival at the meeting point. For travelers staying outside the city center, this might add some planning. Plus, the tour duration is just three hours, so while it covers the main highlights, it’s a quick snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration.

Also, if you’re particularly interested in the botanical garden, keep in mind the extra cost for the wine upgrade—though many find the added value well worthwhile.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits adventurous travelers eager to see natural volcanic landscapes, historic cities, and lush gardens in a short time. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided insights and want a personalized experience with flexible options like wine tasting. It’s also perfect if you’re short on time but want a well-rounded taste of Gran Canaria’s variety—from stunning views and botanical diversity to local culture and flavors.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a balanced mix of nature, history, and local gastronomy in just a few hours. The spectacular views from Bandama, combined with the informative guide, make it a memorable way to get to know Gran Canaria beyond the beaches. The option to enjoy a wine tasting instead of visiting the botanical garden** adds a flavorful dimension** for those interested in local wines and food.

While it’s not a full-day experience, the quality and authenticity packed into this half-day trip make it a great value. It’s especially suited to travelers who appreciate guided insights, scenic vistas, and personalized experiences. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, this tour promises a well-rounded, authentic taste of Gran Canaria.

FAQ

Can I start the tour from my hotel?
Yes, you can arrange a hotel pickup for an extra fee, making it more convenient and comfortable, especially if you’re staying outside the city center.

How long does the visit to the caldera last?
You’ll stop at the caldera viewpoint for about 15 minutes, enough time for photos and taking in the incredible volcanic landscape.

Is the botanical garden a large area?
Yes, it is Europe’s biggest open-air botanical garden, with a variety of plant collections, from cacti to laurel and pine forests, offering plenty of sights in a manageable outdoor space.

What does the wine tasting involve?
For an extra 15 euros, you can enjoy a visit to a charming wine house where you’ll sample local Canary Island wines, a delightful addition especially for wine enthusiasts.

What if I want to visit other parts of the city after the tour?
The guide can arrange a taxi for you at the end of the tour to places like Santa Catalina, Las Canteras, or Maspalomas for an additional fee.

How flexible is the tour timing?
Check the availability to see specific start times, and remember, you can reserve now and pay later for more flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely, especially given its moderate pace and focus on scenic and cultural highlights, making it a good choice for families with children or older travelers.

This tour offers a thoughtful mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and local flavors—a bit of what makes Gran Canaria such a unique island to explore.