Cross Gran Canaria Coast to Coast
The Canary Trail is an unforgettable 4-day trek across Gran Canaria, from one coast to the other. You start in the iconic dunes of Maspalomas in the south and end a few days later in the charming harbor town of Agaete in the north.
Along the way, you cross the entire island, from rugged mountain landscapes and deep canyons to volcanic valleys and authentic villages. You'll walk past highlights such as Roque Nublo and Agaete Valley. Each night, you'll stay in picturesque mountain villages at unique locations. It's a one-of-a-kind experience for anyone wanting to discover the real Gran Canaria by foot.
There are countless hiking trails on Gran Canaria, but planning a multi-day trek can feel pretty overwhelming. With The Canary Trail, you don’t have to plan a thing. This 7-day itinerary takes you along the island’s finest trails, landscapes, and landmarks. Thanks to its carefully designed route and overnight stays in charming accommodation in mountain villages, you’ll discover the real Gran Canaria in just 4 full days of hiking.
Gran Canaria is known for its stunning nature and charming mountain villages. During The Canary Trail, you'll stay in carefully selected mountain huts and picturesque hotels that effortlessly combine comfort and authenticity. After a day of hiking, you can enjoy a relaxing night in a comfy bed, right in the tranquility of the mountains.
These unique accommodations offer modern amenities and the local charm you expect during a multi-day trek in Gran Canaria. Every morning, you’ll start with a hearty breakfast, ready to tackle the next part of your adventure with plenty of energy.
Here you'll find all the practical information about your trip.
Still have questions? Check out the frequently asked questions.
The spring edition runs from April 19 to May 4, 2027. You can find all the exact dates in the calendar at the bottom of the page.
This includes:
Every accommodation has been carefully selected. You’ll always stay right along the route, with a peaceful spot in nature to unwind without compromising on comfort.
Throughout the week, you’ll alternate between hotels and a cabin. In the hotels, you’ll stay in a twin room*. In the cabin, you’ll sleep in a shared room with other participants.
*If you're travelling solo, you'll share a twin room with another participant (separate beds). We do our best to room people of the same gender together, but this can't be guaranteed. If you're travelling in a group with an odd number of people, one person from your group will share a room with a solo traveller.
A shuttle will take you from Maspalomas to the starting point of the hike. It leaves at 8:30 a.m..
This trail is self-guided. That means you're completely free to hike at your own pace. The advantage? You can hike with peace of mind because everything is arranged for you: from accommodations to a stunning hiking route. Our on-site rangers are there to help whenever needed.
On the first day, you'll receive all the briefings, explanations, and materials from our rangers. In the carefully developed trail app, you can find the route and useful information. After that, you'll start the hike independently. The rangers are obviously available by phone to assist when needed.
Once you’ve booked, you’ll get access to the Travelbase app. It contains all the practical information you need before, during and after your trip, including tips, tricks and everything you’ll need along the way. The app is both your digital guide and your trip-planning tool. Install it before you leave so you always have all the information at your fingertips.
When you register, you can add the following options to your trail.
€55
€55
Enjoy until the last moment: this shuttle will take you comfortably from Agaete directly to Gran Canaria Airport on day 6.
€75
€75
Want to enjoy Gran Canaria a bit longer? Book this extra shuttle and effortlessly travel back to Maspalomas on day 6.
€120
€120
Give yourself the freedom to fully enjoy the surroundings. While you explore the trails with a light daypack, we'll take care of the heavy lifting. Your main luggage will be transported and will be waiting for you upon arrival at the next stage.
The difficulty level of a trail depends on many factors. By considering the following elements, you can assess whether this trail is right for you. If you've never done a multi-day backpacking hike before, extra preparation is important. A good base fitness level and some practice hikes in the weeks leading up to it can make a big difference.
For four days, you'll be hiking for several hours each day across the island. The stages are challenging and require good fitness. You should feel comfortable with the idea of ascending and descending significantly for several consecutive days while carrying a (day) backpack through a volcanic landscape.
Gran Canaria is a mountainous island, so you'll often be climbing or descending. The elevation changes feel like climbing several flights of stairs in a day and will require some energy from your legs. You start at the dunes and climb to over 1,800 meters to the highest peaks.
On some sections, you'll walk along the historic Caminos Reales. These are ancient stone-paved paths that connect the villages. It's practical and safe, but the hard surface can be more tiring on your joints than a flat forest path.
A few tips
On Gran Canaria, the sun reigns and temperatures can rise quite high, especially in the lower ravines, highly. The heat in these sheltered valleys can be deceptive because there's hardly any wind. That's why it's important to adjust your pace and drink enough water during your efforts.
Although the afternoons can be very warm, the evenings and nights at higher altitudes are cooler than at the coast. In the interior, temperatures can drop significantly after sunset, but during the day, you'll deal with an intense UV index and dry heat that consumes your energy faster than you're used to.
Sometimes, the trade winds on the north side create a humid atmosphere and mist, which provides a bit of relief. However, once the clouds lift, the sun's power returns in full force. Never underestimate the heat; proper hydration and protection should be your top priorities during this trail through the Canary nature.
A few tips
Canyons, pine forests, volcanic plateaus, and rocky coastal paths alternate, providing constant views of the deep calderas, the rugged rock formations, and the vast ocean that completely surrounds the island.
Some sections follow the central ridge of the island, with stone steps and steeper climbs, but always on officially marked paths. The terrain can vary from hard basalt to loose volcanic gravel, requiring concentration with every step.
The descent into the Agaete valley accounts for a significant portion of the negative elevation changes. You descend via technically challenging paths, crossing various volcanic zones between the central mountain peaks and the rugged northwest coast, along deep chasms.
A few tips
Ready for the incredible adventure of the Canary Trail?
Although official sales open on September 17 at 4:00 PM, you can preregister now and enjoy our exclusive benefits:
Click the button below to claim your early booking access!
We invite you to consult the FAQ below before sending us an email. The FAQ provides comprehensive answers to the most frequently asked questions!
Because a trail’s difficulty depends on several factors, we’ve put together a clear overview of those factors.
Anyone between 16 and 65 years old with good fitness and a sense of adventure can do this trail. The trip involves a lot of physical activity, so good health is a must. Also take very hot weather conditions into account..
Children are not allowed.
Want to try a multi day hike for the first time, but unsure about your fitness?
Ask yourself these questions:
If your answers give you full confidence to head out on an adventure, then this trail is definitely for you. One week after booking, you’ll receive a training plan to get you ready so you can complete the route comfortably.
Can I book this trip as a solo traveller?
Yes, absolutely. You can book this trip on your own. Depending on the departure date, there are often other solo travellers joining as well, so you’ll likely meet fellow hikers along the way if you’d like.
Still unsure and want to test yourself before you head out on trail?
Try one of our micro adventures, such as The Packraft Trail.
How is the trail organized and what can you expect?
The Canary Trail is a self-guided trail. This means you hike completely independently, but with everything you need taken care of. We handle the practical side for you, so you can simply walk and enjoy.
Before your trip starts, you’ll get access to our Travelbase App. There you’ll find all routes, highlights, and practical information. Each day includes clear descriptions, navigation, and tips so you’re well prepared, even when conditions change.
This is how your week works
You can book Canary Trail solo, as a duo, or in a group.
Please bear in mind that there is a maximum group size of 10 people for certain trails.
The minimum age for Canary Trail is 16, and travellers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Depending on availability, you can add or remove most options (except cancellation insurance) until a few weeks before departure. Generally, we follow a first-come, first-served principle, so early decision-makers are at an advantage.
