Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is one of the 17 autonomous regions of Spain.
In addition to the seven major Canary Islands, there are six smaller islands. It like the other Canary Islands, Gran Canaria is of volcanic origin.
The island's capital is Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, also known as Las Palmas. The island has an area of only 1,560 km². Just for your comparison: the province of Antwerp has an area of 2,867 km², so Gran Canaria easily fits into that.
It also has a population of 857,702 and has 21 municipalities. In total, there are about 160 beaches. In the north they are mostly stone beaches, in the south sandy beaches.
Barranco de Mogán
La Charca de Maspalomas
Jardín Canario
Fataga
Puerto de Mogán
Bandama Crater
Did you know:
- Gran Canaria is also called a mini continent? That's because of the great variety of landscapes. In Maspalomas there are dunes that look a lot like the Sahara Desert, but there are also green forests and beautiful beaches to be found on the island.
- There are an awful lot of dolphins life around Gran Canaria? And with a little luck, you may even spot a whale or sea turtle!
- Pico de las Nieves is the highest point on the island?
Public transportation
More than 60 bus lines, called the guagua, operate daily throughout the island. You can buy a ticket from a vending machine at bus stops or directly on the bus. The price depends on how many zones you cross and how many kilometers you travel.
Children under the age of 4 may travel for free, provided they do not occupy a seat: i.e., they must sit on your lap. People aged 70 or older can get 50% discounts. However, this must be arranged at a bus office. In some cases, they may even travel for free.
The Global website has all the information: www.guaguasglobal.com/en/.
Rental
There are several companies that rent cars. Below are some links of rental companies:
It is also worth exploring the island by bicycle or scooter. Even e-bikes can be rented. There are wonderful bike tours mapped out for you. The TripAdvisor website has a number of tips.
North and south
The island's high central mountains create temperature differences. The north tends to be cooler than the south. The climate can vary by up to ten degrees between north and south. In the south, year-round temperatures average 24°C. It rains here a maximum of five to seven days a year.
It doesn't get really cold in Gran Canaria: even in the winter months the temperature is pleasant. So the island is ideal for wintering.
