An Adventurous Ride Through Gran Canaria’s Mountain Villages and Panoramas
Our review of the Gran Canaria 3-Wheel Ryker Tour offers a close look at what promises to be an exhilarating way to see this diverse island. With a 3-hour guided trip driving a Can-Am Ryker—a three-wheeled motorcycle with a 650cc engine—you get a taste of the island’s breathtaking landscapes and charming villages. The best part? You can do this with just a B1 car license, making it accessible for those who don’t hold a motorcycle license but still crave a sense of adventure.
What I love about this experience is its combination of scenic driving and cultural stops. The tour includes visits to the traditional villages of Santa Lucía, Tunte, and Fataga, each brimming with local character and history. You’ll also enjoy stunning panoramic views of Gran Canaria’s rugged mountains and lush valleys that are often missed by typical bus tours. Another highlight? The free hotel pickup and drop-off—a real convenience, especially on an island where parking and navigation can be tricky.
However, a note of caution: this experience is limited to small groups of just six participants, which is great for personal attention but can fill up quickly. Also, keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so plan on bringing some snacks or enjoying the local cafes during breaks. If you’re expecting a high-paced adrenaline rush, this tour offers a more relaxed, scenic drive rather than high-speed thrills, but the views and cultural insights more than compensate.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Accessible Driving: No motorcycle license needed—just a B1 car license, making it easier for more travelers to participate.
- Beautiful Scenery: Expect sweeping mountain vistas and lush valleys, perfect for panoramic photos.
- Cultural Stops: Explore traditional villages like Santa Lucía, Tunte, and Fataga, with stops to learn about local life.
- Historical Insight: A visit to the archaeological site La Fortaleza adds a layer of history and interest.
- Small Group Experience: Limited to six people, offering a more personalized and engaging experience.
- Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Fataga.
Navigating the Details of the Tour
Starting Point and Pickups
The tour begins with a free hotel pickup in a minivan at one of seven designated locations, including Puerto Rico, Maspalomas, Puerto de Mogán, and others. The convenience of hotel pickup means you avoid the hassle of finding parking or navigating unfamiliar roads, which is especially handy if you’re staying in the popular tourist areas like Maspalomas or Puerto Rico.
The Itinerary: A Mix of Culture and Nature
The tour’s itinerary is well-structured, balancing scenic drives with cultural visits. After a brief 15-minute stop in Maspalomas for sightseeing, you’ll head towards Santa Lucía de Tirajana, a charming village where you’ll spend about an hour soaking in the local vibe. This spot is a favorite for its authentic atmosphere and traditional architecture.
Next, you’ll visit Tunte, a village renowned for its pottery and artisan crafts. This stop also lasts about an hour, giving you time to browse local shops and enjoy the quiet mountain surroundings. The highlight for many is the stop at La Fortaleza, an archeological site that provides a glimpse into the island’s ancient past.
The final major stop is Fataga, often called the “Valley of the Thousand Palms,” where you’ll enjoy scenic views and a relaxing break. The hour-long stop includes some guided commentary, making it a great opportunity to learn more about the landscape and local traditions. The tour then loops back to Maspalomas with a quick sightseeing segment before concluding.
What to Expect During the Ride
Driving the Can-Am Ryker is surprisingly easy and forgiving, even if you’ve never ridden a motorcycle before. The bike’s automatic transmission and stable three-wheel design offer a sense of confidence on twisting mountain roads. The guide—likely someone like “Antonio,” known for friendly and informative tours—will help you navigate traffic and provide commentary along the way.
Expect a relaxed pace with plenty of stops to take photos, stretch, and learn about the landscape and villages. The curvy mountain roads are quite fun, offering lots of panoramic views that are perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery. Be sure to bring sunglasses, water, and comfortable clothes—the weather can be warm, especially if you’re touring in summer.
The Experience’s Value: Who Will Love It?
Given the cost of around 3 hours of guided touring, the experience offers good value, especially considering the included hotel pickup and helmets. It’s particularly well-suited for adventurous travelers who want a fun, accessible way to see interior Gran Canaria without the need for a motorcycle license. If you enjoy scenic drives with cultural insights, this tour hits the mark.
People who prefer more active or high-speed adventures might find this a bit tame, but for those seeking laid-back exploration with a dash of adrenaline, it’s ideal. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers willing to share a small, intimate group will appreciate the personalized attention.
Price and Overall Worth
At a moderate price point, the tour provides a unique perspective on the island’s natural beauty and charming villages. The small group size means you get more interaction and tailored commentary, increasing the experience’s richness. While food isn’t included, the many local cafes you pass will suffice for a quick snack or coffee break, often enjoyed at scenic stops.
Who Should Avoid This Tour?
If you don’t hold a B1 car license, you can’t participate. Also, those who dislike mountain driving or have mobility issues might want to consider other, less physically involved options. The tour is not suitable for travelers with no driver’s license, as driving is part of the experience.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
This 3-hour Ryker tour offers a fantastic way to discover Gran Canaria from a different angle. With a blend of scenic mountain driving, cultural exploration, and small group intimacy, it delivers an experience both relaxing and engaging. The stunning views and visits to authentic villages make it stand out from more generic sightseeing options.
While it’s not a high-octane adventure, it’s perfect for adventure-seekers who prefer a more laid-back, scenic journey—especially those who love a bit of local flavor and history. The free pickup and drop-off add convenience, making it a hassle-free way to explore the island’s interior.
In short, if you want a memorable, peaceful ride, with enough thrills to keep it interesting, and value a personalized experience, this tour is worth considering.
FAQ
Do I need a motorcycle license to join?
No, a B1 car license is sufficient to drive the Can-Am Ryker on this tour.
How long does the tour last?
The tour is 3 hours long, with some flexibility depending on the day’s schedule and stops.
Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there will be opportunities to buy coffee or snacks during stops.
Where does the tour start?
You’ll be picked up from one of seven locations, including Maspalomas, Puerto Rico, and Puerto de Mogán.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, water, comfortable clothes, and a helmet (which is provided).
Is this suitable for families?
It’s best for older children or teenagers comfortable with mountain driving; the group size is small, which enhances safety and experience.
What happens if I don’t want to drive?
This experience is driving-oriented, so only those with a B1 license can participate in the driving part.
Is it a physically demanding tour?
No, the ride is comfortable, and stops are frequent. It’s more about enjoying the views and culture than physical exertion.
This tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and a dash of adventure, all wrapped up in a small-group setting. If you’re eager to explore Gran Canaria’s interior with a sense of freedom and fun, this could be a highlight of your trip.