Canary Islands Walking - Gran Canaria

Our trip starts in Aguimes a small, traditional town in the east of Gran Canaria. For those arriving on time our Leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 7pm for the welcome meeting and for those that wish, there is the chance to go out for dinner. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to arrive in Aguimes at any time. If you would like to receive a complimentary airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive at Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) which is around 20 minutes' drive. Should you miss the meeting, your leader will inform you of any essential information as soon as you catch up. If your flight arrives earlier in the day, perhaps you might choose to explore the historic narrow streets with pretty painted houses of the 'old town', or find a quiet cafe to sit in to acclimatise to the pace of life.

Today we make a walk along the main landmark of this side of the island - the stunning Guayadeque Canyon that runs south east along the slopes of Pico de las Nieves. There are lots of endemic plants, but the volcanic landscape has a lunar feel as we get closer to the deep gorge, reminiscent of Northern American canyons. We walk along a tarmac road for 30 minutes before heading into the gorge. This area has been inhabited since the stone age and the remains of cave dwellings from these times are still visible. As we walk we will also see some traces of lava fields from an ancient eruption of a smaller volcano. After the gorge we head back to Aguimes on foot. Please note there is little shade in the countryside around Aguimes, so strong sun protection is needed. Today's 12 kilometre walk is expected to take around four hours with 550 metres of ascent and descent.

This morning we drive west to to Degollada del Aserrador. From here we walk uphill on beautiful trail to the plateau with views of Roque Nublo mountain. A gentle ascent brings us to the base of Roque Nublo, the landmark rock of Gran Canaria and offering great views across the island and - weather allowing - across to neighbouring islands of the Canaries. After a picnic lunch we descend to La Culata where you can have a drink in a local café before continuing by bus to Tejeda (1076m). This small mountain village with white washed buildings is one of the prettiest hill village on Gran Canaria. There will be time for a quick walk around the town before driving onto La Aldea, our base for the next three nights. Today's eight kilometre walk is expected to take around three hours with 460 metres of ascent and 520 metres of descent.