Gran Canaria · Canary Islands
Hiking and camping the GR131 in Gran Canaria in 4 Days
The GR131 in Gran Canaria is a spectacular long-distance hiking route that crosses the island from south to north, revealing why Gran Canaria is often called a “miniature continent.” The trail leads hikers through pine forests, deep ravines, rugged mountains, and traditional villages, offering a rich mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The route starts in Maspalomas in the south and finishes in Puerto de las Nieves in the north, guiding hikers from coastal dunes up into the island’s mountainous interior before descending toward the dramatic northern coastline.
ACTIVITY OVERVIEW
📏 Distance
96km/59.6mi
⏱️ Duration
4 days
⛰️ Highest point
1,949m / 6,394 ft
📈 Elevation
4,080m / 13,400 ft
🗓 Best Season
October–April
ESTIMATED COSTS
🚌 Transfers
~15-30 EUR
⛺ Pitches
Free EUR
🍦 Food
~20-30 EUR per day
What to Expect
on the GR131 on
Gran Canaria
The GR131 on Gran Canaria showcases the island’s most iconic landscapes in a single coast-to-coast journey—from golden dunes and volcanic ridges to high mountain viewpoints and lush northern ravines. Hikers love it for its dramatic contrasts, big viewpoints like Roque Nublo, charming mountain villages, and the rare chance to experience the island’s wild heart on foot.
🏝️ Maspalomas dunes and southern coastline
Your journey begins beside the historic Maspalomas Lighthouse, with sweeping views of the sand dunes and Atlantic coastline—an iconic, almost surreal starting point for a coast-to-coast trek.
🏔️ Pico de las Nieves
The highest point on Gran Canaria, Pico de las Nieves (1,949 m / 6,394 ft), offers 360° views over deep volcanic calderas, pine forests, and even the silhouette of Tenerife’s Mount Teide on clear days.
🏞️ Roque Nublo
If you have the energy, you can visit one of Gran Canaria’s most famous landmarks, Roque Nublo. It towers over the island and offers breathtaking views across volcanic ridges and distant peaks, especially at sunrise or sunset.
⛰️ Tamadaba Natural Park
A protected highland forest on the northwest of Gran Canaria known for its ancient Canary Island pine forests, dramatic sea cliffs, and sweeping views across the Atlantic and the island’s rugged interior.
🗺️ Trail Map & Navigation
Full route overview with key waypoints and navigation information.
⚠️ The maps provided on this website are intended as a general guide only. Conditions, routes, and features may change at any time. Always rely on your own judgement and seek local or professional advice if possible.
🧭 Navigation Tips
Download offline maps before you go — cell signal can be unreliable.
Note water locations and emergency shelter options for each stage.
Check weather and trail conditions the evening before each stage.
Day-by-Day Breakdown
Everything you need to know for each stage
Preparation
in Las Palmas de
Gran Canaria
0
Getting to Gran Canaria
✈️ Fly
Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) is the major airport the island which is a good 4 to 4.5 hour flight from London. It is serviced by usual budget airlines such as easyjet and ryanair.
€60-€150
⛴️ Ferry
The ferry is a great option if you‘re coming from the previous leg in Fuerteventura. The main ferry operators for this route are Fred. Olsen Express and Naviera Armas. It is best to book this in advance for the best deal.
€50-€70 · 2 hours
Transport to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
🚕 Taxis
Taxis are plentiful and regulated which will cost about 30 EUR one way and takes 20 minutes.
~€30 · 20 min
🚕 Ride Sharing
🚫 Ride sharing services such as Uber and Bolt are not reliable on Gran Canaria.
Where to Stay
🏨 Hotels and Hostels
There are plenty of hotels and hostels which can be booked by all the popular online travel agent sites such as Booking.com, Expedia and Airbnb.
Dormitories - 10 to 20 EUR
Hostels / guesthouses: 25 to 50 EUR
Budget hotels: 40 to 80 EUR
€10-€80
🏕️ Campsites
🚫 Sadly, there are no campsites available
Stocking Up on Supplies
Decathlon is a large international sporting with equipment for almost every outdoor and athletic activity. It is a bit far sadly requiring 1-2 hours to get there back.
€5-€10
🛠️ Ferretería
Local hardware stores known as ferreteria generally stock camping gas.
€5-€10
⚠️ Check the connector type! Campingaz is a very common brand of camping gas in France but uses a proprietary connector instead the usual screw thread.
There are many supermarkets found dotted all over Las Palmas. Some of the larger ones which should may stock camping gas are:
Large supermarket in the northern part of town.
Decent sized supermarket located closer to the city center.
A large, well-stocked supermarket popular located closer to the southern part of town.
🎒 Decathlon
Decathlon Tamaraceite and Decathlon Telde (but are outside of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria).
🥾 Perojo Street Climb and Trekking Mountain Equipment
Located in the old town, this shop sells hiking boots, technical clothing, backpacks, ropes, and other outdoor essentials tailored for the island’s rugged terrain.
Things to Do
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the vibrant capital of Gran Canaria with a laid-back island atmosphere but with convenience and vibe of a proper city and plenty to do.
🏝️ Las Canteras Beach
One of the best urban beaches in Europe. You can swim, snorkel behind the reef (“La Barra”), walk the promenade, or just sit with a coffee and people-watch.
🍲 Mercado del Puerto
A lively food hall near Las Canteras—great for tapas, seafood, and cheap eats. Easy to reach on foot from the beach.
🏛️ Vegueta (Old Town) and Triana District
Wander cobbled streets, historic squares, and traditional buildings.
Maspalomas to
Tunte
1
8hr · 25.3km · 1430m ascent
This sections takes you from the dunes and the iconic Maspalomas Lighthouse, climbing steadily inland through dry ravines before eventually reaching the scenic mountain town of San Bartolomé de Tirajana (locally known as Tunte).
Top Tips
Honestly, just skip this stage. It was predominantly road walking and not very pleasant one at that. Cars and vans are continuously passing making it quite dangerous. If I had to do it again, I would have caught a bus straight to Tunte and started from there. However, if you’re a purest, please continue reading.
To get to Maspalomas, catch any bus to main bus terminal known as Estación San Telmo and then transfer to either Line 50 (fastest but less frequent) or Line 30. The journey should take between 40 minutes to an hour and cost between 4 to 7 EUR. Tickets can be purchased onboard by telling the driver your destination.
The official start point of the GR131 is the Maspalomas lighthouse which has been guiding ships since 1890.
Lots of road walking. Too much for my liking.
The main redeemer of this section is the trail between Ayagaures and Tunte. The views over the ravines are especially stunning during sunset.
Food Options
I would suggest getting a bite to eat in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. It is possible to eat down in Maspalomas but there will be less options and things a bit more expensive down there.
A great little local bar serving traditional Spanish food such as delicious bocadillos, churros and coffee.
€1-€10
A Portugese inspired cafe serving tasty pastries and sandwiches. Indoor and outdoor seatings are available.
€1-€10
A popular health-focused café serving smoothie bowls, fresh juices, speciality coffee, and light vegetarian breakfasts.
€10-€20
A highly rated local spot set right in the Barranco de Ayagaures with traditional Canarian and Spanish‑style food.
€10-€20
Located on the outskirts of Maspalomas, this is fast food restaurant serving simple bocadillos, fries, salads and ice cream.
€1-€10
👩🏻🍳 Self cater
Campsites
🌲 Wild camp just short of Tunte
Tunte to
Llanos de la Pez
2
9.5hr · 26.9km · 1,510m ascent
This section climbs from Tunte into the central highlands, weaving through quiet pine forests, past the atmospheric viewpoint area known as El Rubio, and along open ridgelines that lead toward the summit region of Pico de las Nieves, the island’s highest point, before arriving at Llanos de la Pez.
Top Tips
The pastries and food in Tunte is a must.
The GR131 section leading out of Tunte heading through Riscos de Tirajana is absolutely stunning. It so happens to overlap with the Camino de Santiago de Gran Canaria.
Visit Pico de las Nieves to watch the sunset from the highest viewpoint at 1,949 m (6,394 ft) on the island.
If you have the legs, you can easily modify the route to include Roque Nublo; 80-meter-high volcanic monolith and symbolic heart of Gran Canaria. Free tickets can be booked on the grancanariasenderos website up to 1 month in advance.
Food Options
Serves freshly baked bread, pastries, and cakes, along with coffee and simple bites like jamón (cured ham), Canarian cheese, olives and sandwiches.
€1-€10
🍽️ La Cueva
Offers hearty home-style options like coffee, fresh bread, pastries, and simple egg or toast dishes.
€10-€20
In the centre of Tunte, this casual spot serves basic breakfast items such as coffee, toast, pastries, and simple Canarian breakfast plates.
€10-€20
👩🏻🍳 Self cater
🍽️ Restaurante Grill La Cumbre
If you’re fast enough, you can treat yourself to hearty Spanish and Canarian food. Expect grilled meats and ribs with potatoes and peppers, bread with homemade alioli, and many more. Closes at 18:00pm.
€10-€20
👩🏻🍳 Self cater
Campsites
🏕️ Llanos de la Pez
You can reserve a spot up to 1.5 month in advance. For booking instructions, please see Booking Campsites in Gran Canaria.
Free
Llanos de la Pez to
Tamadaba
National Park
3
8hr · 23.7km · 1,350m ascent
The trail heads north from Llanos de la Pez through fragrant pine forests near El Rubio, opening onto the dramatic cliffs and ancient woodlands of Tamadaba Natural Park, where you’ll enjoy some of Gran Canaria’s most breathtaking mountain views.
Top Tips
Hacemos Bocadillos y Local Productos only opens on certain days. Always double check before relying on getting supplies here.
Admire the views of Roque Nublo and the Tejeda basin.
Explore Artenara, the highest village in Gran Canaria known for its traditional cave houses and amazing views.
Food Options
Local stalls where you can pick up fresh Canarian cheeses, jams, almonds and bocadillos (sandwiches), local almond pastries and bienmesabe cakes.
€1-€10
This is a hotel breakfast service which may be open to drop ins. Worth checking if you want a sit down breakfast.
€15-€25
🍽️ Restaurante Asador Grill de Yolanda
Opens at 9:00am which could be a little late. Although it is more a lunch/dinner place serving up grilled meats, roasted dishes, and hearty mains like steak, lamb, pork, and papas arrugadas.
€20-€30
Serving up Spanish and Canarian lunch dishes, such as stews, grilled meats, and hearty plates. The local cheesecake is amazing.
€10-€20
Offering Spanish and local dishes with vegetarian options and fresh ingredients.
€10-€20
🍽️ Restaurante Cumbres de Artenara
Authentic Canarian home-style cooking featuring hearty traditional dishes like rich stews and garbanzada but it is on the pricier side.
€20-€30
Well stocked supermarket to fill up on water and snacks for the last leg of the trail.
€1-€10
👩🏻🍳 Self cater
Campsites
🏕️ Llanos de la Mimbre (Tamadaba)
You can reserve a spot up to 1.5 month in advance. For booking instructions, please see Booking Campsites in Gran Canaria.
Free
Tamadaba
National Park to
Puerto de Las Nieves
4
6hr · 17.8km · 2230m ascent
The trail descends from the serene forests and cliffs of Tamadaba Natural Park toward the northwest coast, winding through rugged ravines and lush valleys before reaching the charming fishing village of Puerto de las Nieves, where mountains meet the sea.
Top Tips
Have a big self catered breakfast and make sure you have enough water for 5 hours of hiking as there’s no town or shops until you reach Agaete.
The water at the campsite is potable but I found it to be a bit too chlorinated for my taste. I personally store bought water from the supermarket in Artenara.
The decent into town is not a stroll in the park. Although it is not classified as difficult, sure footing and a stead head is definitely required.
The trail near the end is not really well marked so take the opportunity to wander through town and the little streets.
Food Options
👩🏻🍳 Self cater
A popular Canarian-marinera style restaurant known for fresh seafood and local dishes — grilled fish, fish soup, paella and traditional sides like papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo.
€10-€20
A popular seaside restaurant serving fresh seafood, grilled fish, tapas, and simple Canarian dishes.
€10-€20
👩🏻🍳 Self cater
Campsites
🏨 Hotels and Hostels
There are plenty of hotels and hostels which can be booked by all the popular online travel agent sites such as Booking.com, Expedia and Airbnb.
Hostels / guesthouses: 40 to 60 EUR
Budget hotels: 50 - 90 EUR
€40-€90
🏕️ Campsites
🚫 Sadly, there are no campsites available
Option 1
Unwinding in
Agaete
N
Relax
In this option, you stay in Agaete and take in the more quiet and scenic nature of the town. This option is a must if you plan to do the next leg of the GR131 in Tenerife.
Top Tips
If the weather is quite bad, the pools and beaches will be closed.
By far the most popular restaurants were the ones facing the marina just off the main street in Puerto de las Nieves.
In Ageate
🏊🏻♀️ Swimming
Have a swim at either Piscinas Naturales de Agaete (natural swimming pools) or Playa de Las Nieves (a pebble beach next to the harbour).
🌳 Stroll on the gardens
Huerto de Las Flores (Botanical Garden) is a small but lovely garden in Agaete town with tropical plants, shaded paths, and benches.
🏛️ Explore the old town
Wander the whitewashed streets of Agaete Old Town, small plazas, and church area — relaxed, authentic, and very different from resort towns.
Going Home
🚎 Public Buses
The best way to get to the airport is by bus. Catch Line 103 and then change at bus terminal (Estación San Telmo) for connecting services to the airport. Some of the lines you can catch are:
It would be best to consult your navigation apps on the day to see the most optimum way to get to the airport.
~€10 · 1.5-2 hours
🚕 Ride Sharing
🚫 Ride sharing services such as Uber and Bolt are not available in Fuerteventura.
Continuing On
⛴️ Ferry to Tenerife
If you’re doing the next leg of the GR131, you can catch a ferry from Gran Canaria to Tenerife which takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. There are about 6 to 8 departures a day, with the earliest around 06:00am and the last around 20:00pm.
The main ferry operators for this route is Fred. Olsen Express and prices range between 45 to 60 EUR depending on the day. It is best to book this in advance for the best deal.
Note: Ensure that you select the non-resident so that you get the right ticket as the ferries operators have special discounts which are available to residents only.
Option 2
Unwinding in
Las Palmas de
Gran Canaria
N
Relax
In option 2, we head back to Las Palmas where there a bit more things to do, greater accommodation choices and a wider selection of shops and restaurants.
Top Tips
Google maps is a good starting point but the timing can be quite off. Use the local apps such as GuaguasLPA and GuaguasGLOBAL for up to the minute timing.
Buses in Las Palmas have 3 card readers. Ensure that you tap on the right one (which is usually the middle one with the standard touch on symbol). But don’t worry, if you do tap the wrong one, nothing bad happens.
Many of shops are closed on Sundays.
Transport to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
🚕 Taxis
Regulated taxi are available and will cost about 80 to 100 EUR. Not really recommended.
€80-€100 · 1 hour
In Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
🛍️ Paseo de Las Canteras
Have a stroll on the oceanfront promenade.
🌅 Parque de Santa Catalina
Relax in the park and watch the local musicians and street performers.
🏝️ Munch Away
Eat at the many cafes and restaurants.
Going Home
🚕 Taxis
Taxis are plentiful and regulated which will cost about 30 EUR to 50EUR (depending on the time of day and luggage) one way and take 20 minutes.
~€30 · 20-30min
🚕 Ride Sharing
🚫 Ride sharing services such as Uber and Bolt are not available in Fuerteventura.
Continuing On
⛴️ Ferry to Tenerife
If you’re doing the next leg of the GR131, catch either Line 130 (fastest but runs less often) or Line 103 back to Agaete where you can catch a ferry from Gran Canaria to Tenerife. This will take about 1 hour and 20 minutes. There are about 6 to 8 departures a day, with the earliest around 06:00am and the last around 20:00pm.
The main ferry operators for this route is Fred. Olsen Express and prices range between 45 to 60 EUR depending on the day. It is best to book this in advance for the best deal.
Note: Ensure that you select the non-resident so that you get the right ticket as the ferries operators have special discounts which are available to residents only.
Booking campsites on
Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria offers quite a number of free campsites which can be booked online up to 1 month in advance. However, it does take a bit of time for non-spanish nationals as you have to get your identity verified by email. The steps required to book can be found below.
1. Create a account on the kc.Gran Caneria website.
2. Request access to the booking system by sending an email to oiac@grancanaria.com with the following:
Full name
Email
Phone number
Proof of ID
3. Book the campsite using their online booking service.
Credit to The Road Two Spoons for putting together the original guide.
Other bits of Useful Information
All the things which might have been missed.
🏕️ Wild Camping
Note: Wild camping is officially prohibited in the Canary Islands, but many hikers practice discreet bivouac following Leave-No-Trace principles to bridge wilderness stages where official accommodation is absent.
🚰 Water
The island can be very dry especially in the early stages. It is best up fill up in each town before you leave (usually 3–4 litres is enough depending on weather).
Please note that on the Canary Islands, tap water comes from desalinated sea water. This often has poor taste and high mineral content. Although it is perfectly drinkable, many opt to get store bought water which is very affordable on the islands.
🍔 Map of Food Spots
Finding great places to eat while on the trail can sometimes be tricky, so I’ve put together all my recommendations in a Google Maps list called
It includes places I’ve personally visited as well as others that are highly rated by the local community.
💩 Toilets
Fortunately, you will pass by at least one public toilets (known locally as baños públicos) each day. They can be found in town such as Tunte, Cruz de Tejeda and Artenara. You can also rely on official campsite to have proper flushable toilets and local bars and restaurants.
🚎 Public Transport Tip
Be careful when using Google Maps. Although the schedule is correct, it does not suggest all routes and the live times is usually off. It is best to provide a 15minute or so buffer and look at the schedule of the lines using the official website. It is also helpful to down the official bus app; GuaguasLPA and GuaguasGLOBAL for up to the minute updates.
📶 Phone Reception
Phone reception along the trail is generally quite good. Since you pass through one or two towns each day, you’ll usually have signal for most of the route. The only place where reception can be a bit patchy was around Tamadaba Natural Park near the campsite.
💶 Cash
Most places along the trail—supermarkets and larger restaurants—accept card payments, so it’s easy to manage expenses without carrying much cash.
The only spots that typically require cash are the small, traditional Spanish-style bars in the quieter towns. To give some perspective, I started the trip with €70 and ended with about €50 left, even while eating out at least once a day.
Helpful Links
Lotus Eaters Travels (lotuseaters.travel)
Great general guide to the GR131 and main source which I used to plan my trip.
Guaguas Global (guaguasglobal.com)
For all up to date bus information.
GranCanaria (grancanaria.com)
The official website for tourism in Gran Canaria. Provides information about booking campsites and reserving tickets to restricted nature reserves.
Reservas Roque Nublo (reservasroquenublo.com)
For booking tickets to access Roque Nublo as access us limited.
The Road Two Spoons (theroadtwospoons.co.uk)
Quick guide to access the camping online booking system.
Terms of Use
A quick but important note for all visitors: we do our best to share high-quality, accurate information, but it’s always possible that we’ve missed something or that conditions have changed. All GPS tracks (GPX files and maps) and route suggestions are meant to be used as general guidelines—not exact instructions.
Your Questions, Answered
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Excluding flights, you can expect to pay between 600GBP to 800GBP. The main thing which will cause costs will be food and drinks. Expect to pay between 20 and 30EUR per meal at refuges.