Things to do in Gran Canaria Island
There is so much to see in Gran Canaria that, without a doubt, you will find that you do not have enough time to visit all the places you want. To really see and appreciate Gran Canaria, here is a quick overview of the must-do activities:
Scuba diving:
Gran Canaria is home to incredible biodiversity both on land and at sea. If you do not know what to do in Gran Canaria, there is nothing better than scuba diving to admire the countless marine creatures that inhabit the area. In the marine reserve of El Cabrón, you can see manta rays, sea turtles, fish of all colors and an abundance of crustaceans. If you are not afraid, you can dive in the wreck of Puerto Morgan or in the underwater cave of La Catedral, located not far from Las Palmas. Being able to reach a temperature of 23 ° C in summer, the turquoise waters of the island cannot be more welcoming.
Surf :
The Pozo Izquierdo coastline is home to some of the island’s most impressive surf spots. Sit on the sand and watch the surfers slip on the water. If you want to surf in the Canaries, do not hesitate to take a few lessons in one of the surf schools: friendly teachers will teach you the basics of this exciting sliding sport. With a little practice, you will manage to stand on your board in no time. Be careful however: surfing is extremely addictive: once you have successfully surfed your first wave, you will want only one thing: continue!
The Museum and Archaeological Park of Cueva Pintada:
The Archaeological Museum and Park of Cueva Pintada was built around a site of archaeological excavations dating from the pre-Hispanic era. From the elevated walkway, you will be able to contemplate this extraordinary site of the Canary Islands and go up the course of time until the Paleolithic. Do not miss to admire the rock art: they will allow you to know more about the symbolism and the iconography used by the local indigenous well before the beginning of the European colonization. You can visit the museum only as part of a guided tour. To avoid finding a closed door, remember to book your visit in advance.
The carnival of Gran Canaria:
As Gran Canaria is nown for its rum, you can be sure, the inhabitants love to party and participate in a festival or two. The biggest carnival takes place each year in February: you can attend a colorful parade of streets that will probably evoke the Rio Carnival or Sydney Mardi Gras. Many events are organized during the Carnival week, such as the Queen’s Election Gala or the Drag Queens Gala. Do not miss the closing party, during which you will be able to admire the ceremony of “El entiro de la sardina” (the burial of the sardine); a procession in which “widows” dressed in black wear a sort of giant sardine to the sea, load it on a boat and burn it at sea.
