Gran Canaria: Off-Road Buggy Adventure in the Canyons

A Spin Through Gran Canaria’s Canyons on Buggies: An Adventure Worth Considering

If you’re after a taste of Gran Canaria’s wild side, the Off-Road Buggy Adventure in the south might be just what you need. With a solid 4.7-star rating based on over 1,700 reviews, this tour offers a lively 2-hour journey into the island’s scenic canyons, mountains, and charming villages. It’s a great way to see parts of the island that might be hidden from the usual tourist paths, all from the seat of a rugged buggy.

What I really like about this experience is how it combines adventure with stunning scenery. The guides—who get rave reviews for their humor and safety orientation—seem to genuinely enjoy making sure everyone has a good time. Plus, the panoramic views from key points like the Pedro Gonzales viewpoint are hard to beat. Another plus: it’s well-organized, with hotel pickup included from popular resort areas.

That said, a word of caution: the adventure isn’t purely off-road. Most of the drive involves paved or unpaved mountain roads, with only roughly 15-20 minutes of actual off-road dirt track at the end. If you’re hoping for a full thrill in the dunes or dunes-style riding, this might fall a bit short. Also, the price for photos and videos, at around 35 euros, could be steep if you’re a solo traveler or on a budget. Still, considering the reviews, many feel the value is quite good.

Key points / Takeaways

• Guides Make the Difference: Enthusiastic, funny, and safety-conscious guides like Speedy, Eloy, and Lucian keep the tour lively and informative.
• Breathtaking Views: Expect incredible vistas of the Ayagaures Valley, reservoirs, and surrounding mountains, perfect for photos.
• A Mix of Road and Off-Road: Most driving is on scenic mountain roads, with a short, exhilarating off-road segment at the end.
• Great for Families and Groups: Children over 1.35 meters tall and adults with valid driving licenses can take turns driving the 2-seater buggies.
• Value and Convenience: Hotel pickup from areas like Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, and Meloneras is included, simplifying logistics.
• Photos and Videos: There’s a chance to purchase professionally taken photos and videos, though reviews suggest they’re a bit pricey.

If you’re looking for a fun, slightly rugged way to see the best of Gran Canaria’s southern landscapes, this buggy tour might just hit the spot. I love how it offers a perspective different from typical sightseeing buses or walks—by actually driving through the landscape yourself. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel, you’re part of something lively and well-coordinated. The check-in process is smooth, and the guides are notably engaging, making safety and fun go hand-in-hand.

What makes this experience really shine is the variety it offers. You’ll start with a drive to the Ayagaures Valley, a lush area with a reservoir and mountain scenery that scream “photo opportunity.” The viewpoint at Pedro Gonzales provides impressive panoramic shots of the valley below—definitely a highlight for anyone who appreciates spectacular scenery. The guides often stop at key points, giving insights and plenty of opportunities for photos, so bring your camera.

The majority of the tour involves driving on unpaved mountain roads, which are fun and offer a feeling of adventure. The off-road section near the end delivers a burst of excitement, with the guides encouraging safe but speedy driving on dusty tracks. Some reviews mention that the off-road segment is about 15-20 minutes, so if you’re craving an all-out dirt adventure, be aware that this is a relatively short burst compared to other activities.

A big plus for many travelers is how friendly and humorous the guides are. Names like Speedy, Eloy, and Lucian come up repeatedly, with guests praising their professionalism and humor. This personal touch really helps relax nervous drivers and makes the tour memorable. Plus, the included hotel pickup from San Agustín, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, Sonnenland, and Meloneras simplifies transportation logistics—no need to worry about renting your own vehicle or finding your way.

Price-wise, many say it’s a good deal considering the scenery, guides, and included transport. However, the extra €35 for photos and videos might feel steep if you’re traveling solo or on a budget. Still, numerous reviews mention that the photos and videos are worth the cost, especially since they’re professionally taken during the scenic stops and off-road moments.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your hotel, which is usually smooth and punctual, especially if you’re staying in the main resort areas. Once at the base, you’ll receive a safety briefing—don’t worry, it’s lively and informative, often with some humor thrown in to keep things light. After getting your helmet and goggles, you’ll switch between driving and riding as passengers, which is helpful because the guides rotate through to ensure everyone gets a turn behind the wheel.

The first major stop is Ayagaures Valley, home to a reservoir and mountain scenery that are postcard-perfect. From here, you’ll continue to the Pedro Gonzales viewpoint, where the views are stunning and perfect for snapping pictures. Traveling along the mountain roads, you’ll pass through small villages and see reservoirs and hidden canyons, offering a genuine taste of rural Gran Canaria.

The final part involves off-roading on dusty tracks, where you can really push the buggies to their limits—usually about 15 to 20 minutes of raw, dusty fun. Many guests find this to be the most exciting part, with some wishing it lasted longer. Afterward, you’ll head back to base, where photos and videos are available for purchase.

What To Expect During the Ride

Expect a mix of scenic paved roads, gravel mountain tracks, and a brief off-road section. The views are the main star—think rugged mountains, lush valleys, and small villages that look like they’re straight out of a postcard. The guides are skilled at balancing safety with fun, pushing no one beyond their comfort zone but encouraging enough speed for an adrenaline rush.

You’ll also experience a bit of the local culture via scenic stops and viewpoints. The guides are fluent in multiple languages (English, French, German, and Spanish), making it accessible for a diverse crowd. They’re also known for their humorous and friendly approach, which many reviews highlight as a real perk.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who enjoy driving, scenic landscapes, and a touch of adventure. Families with children over 1.35 meters can all take turns driving or riding, making it a fun group activity. It’s also perfect for couples or friends wanting a lively, memorable day out. But if you’re pregnant, have back problems, or are under 135cm tall, this tour isn’t suitable. Also, bring your driver’s license and closed shoes—flip-flops won’t cut it.

Is It Worth the Price?

Considering the reviews, many find this activity to be a great value. The inclusion of hotel pickup, a scenic route, and guiding service makes it more than just a thrill ride; it’s an easy way to see some of Gran Canaria’s best natural sights. The photos and videos, while an extra cost, are often considered a worthwhile souvenir of the experience.

Summary of Pros and Cons

Pros
– Enthusiastic, knowledgeable guides like Speedy, Eloy, and Lucian
– Spectacular views of valleys, reservoirs, and mountains
– Easy logistics with hotel pickup from popular resorts
– Short, manageable duration of about 2.5 hours
– Fun off-road segment with plenty of dust and speed

Cons
– Most driving is on paved or gravel roads, not full off-road dunes
– Photos and videos are an extra cost, which some may find expensive
– Not suitable for pregnant women or those with certain health issues
– The off-road segment is relatively short, about 15-20 minutes

If you love driving, are keen on scenic views, and want a fun, guided adventure, this buggy tour hits the spot. It’s especially good for families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a memorable day out that combines a bit of adrenaline with spectacular vistas. If you’re after a hardcore off-road experience, this might not be the best fit, but if you want a balanced adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and a lively guiding crew, it’s worth considering.

This experience offers a solid mix of scenic beauty, accessible adventure, and friendly guides, making it a favorite among many travelers who want to see Gran Canaria’s highlights without the hassle of self-driving or complicated logistics. It’s a lively, well-organized way to add some excitement to your holiday.

Do I need a driving license?
Yes, a valid car driving license is mandatory to operate the buggy. If your co-driver also has a license, you can take turns driving the two-seater.

What is the minimum age or height?
Children must be over 1.35 meters tall to participate. The tour is designed for adults and older children who meet this height requirement.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license and closed-toe shoes like trainers or sports shoes. Sandals or flip-flops are not allowed for safety reasons.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from specific areas such as San Agustín, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, Sonnenland, and Meloneras. Be sure to provide your hotel name during booking.

How long does the tour last?
The actual buggy driving time is about 2 hours, but total experience including pickup, briefing, and stops typically takes around 4 hours.

Can I buy photos and videos?
Yes, there’s an option to purchase professional photos and videos for around 35 euros. Many reviews say they’re a fun souvenir, though the cost might be seen as high.

Is this activity suitable for everyone?
Not for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those under 135cm in height. Ensure you’re comfortable with driving or riding on uneven terrain.

Overall, this buggy adventure offers a well-rounded dose of fun, scenery, and local flavor. It’s perfect for travelers eager to experience Gran Canaria’s natural beauty from a different perspective, with guides who keep things lively and safe. If you’re after a day of adventure that balances excitement with stunning views, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.