The North Coast Tour – Plantation, Rock Pool Snorkel, and Sunset

Gran Canaria’s North Coast Tour offers a captivating journey that seamlessly blends natural wonders and cultural heritage. Beginning with a visit to the Hacienda La Rekompensa banana plantation, participants enjoy the island’s agricultural history while savoring local produce. The adventure then shifts underwater, as expert-guided snorkeling in crystal-clear rock pools unveils a vibrant marine ecosystem. As the day draws to a close, a breathtaking sunset celebration provides the perfect backdrop to appreciate Gran Canaria’s stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems. With such a compelling itinerary, it’s no wonder this tour has become a must-do experience for those seeking to uncover the island’s hidden gems.

Key Points

• A full-day excursion exploring Gran Canaria’s natural and cultural wonders, including a banana plantation visit, snorkeling in rock pools, and sunset viewing.
• Includes professional guides, snorkeling instruction, hotel pickup/drop-off, and medical assistant insurance for a seamless experience.
• Participants can sample Canarian specialties, observe marine life, and learn about the region’s agricultural heritage during the tour.
• Suitable for ages 7 and above, with a maximum group size of 16 travelers, and not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
• Flexibility in booking and communication of dietary restrictions to the tour operator for a personalized experience.

Tour Overview

The North Coast Tour – Plantation, Rock Pool Snorkel, and Sunset is a full-day excursion that takes visitors on an immersive journey through Gran Canaria’s natural and cultural wonders.

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars by 23 reviewers, this tour offers a diverse range of activities, including a visit to a banana plantation, snorkeling in rock pools, and witnessing a stunning sunset.

The tour lasts between 9 to 11.5 hours, with the main activity lasting 6.5 hours and the round-trip transportation taking an additional 2.5 to 5 hours.

Participants will enjoy a small tasting of Canarian specialties, free hotel pickup and drop-off, and medical assistant insurance during the trip.

Inclusions

Amongst the inclusions of this North Coast Tour are an entrance ticket to the Hacienda La Rekompensa – Banana Plantation & Museum, costing €12 per participant. This ticket includes a small tasting of Canarian banana, marmalade, and liquors.

The tour also provides a professional guide and snorkeling instructor to lead the group.

Free hotel pickup and drop-off in specified areas, as well as medical assistant insurance during the trip, are additional perks.

Participants can also enjoy photos taken by the guide throughout the day.

Pickup Details

Pickup times for the North Coast Tour vary by season.

In winter (November to March), pickup times range from 10:00h to 14:00h. In summer (April to October), pickup times are from 12:15h to 14:00h across various locations in Gran Canaria, Spain.

The tour operator aims to accommodate participants by providing pickup from their hotels or other designated meeting points. While the pickup times are set, they may vary by up to 20 minutes due to factors like traffic conditions or other circumstances.

Guests are advised to be ready at their pickup location a few minutes early to ensure a smooth start to their full-day adventure exploring the northern coast of the island.

Participant Information

The North Coast Tour has a minimum age requirement of 7 years, with children under 18 needing to be accompanied by an adult.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back issues, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.

Tour groups have a maximum of 16 travelers, and participants are advised to wear comfortable attire such as sports clothes, swimsuits, towels, and water shoes.

These guidelines ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests on the tour.

It’s important for participants to consider their physical abilities and comfort level before booking the North Coast Tour, as the activities involved may not be suitable for everyone.

Adhering to the participant information helps create a positive experience for all.

Additional Information

Travelers who book the North Coast Tour will receive a confirmation at the time of booking. They’ll also have the flexibility to cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before the experience without any penalties. An online booking ticket is sent to participants via email, providing them with the necessary details for the tour. Should travelers have any dietary restrictions, they’re advised to inform the tour operator prior to the day of the excursion.

Key Information	Details
Confirmation	Received at time of booking
Cancellation Policy	Free cancellation up to 24 hours before experience
Ticket Delivery	Online booking ticket sent via email
Dietary Restrictions	Inform tour operator prior to the tour
Medical Insurance	Included during the trip

Exploring the Banana Plantation

Visitors begin their North Coast Tour with a visit to the Hacienda La Rekompensa – Banana Plantation & Museum, where they learn about the island’s rich agricultural heritage and the importance of the beloved Canarian banana.

They’ll explore the lush banana groves, discovering the unique cultivation methods and the history behind this iconic crop. The tour guide shares insights into the plantation’s operations, from harvesting to processing.

Guests can sample freshly-picked bananas, local marmalades, and traditional liquors, gaining a deeper appreciation for Gran Canaria’s gastronomic traditions.

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the island’s vibrant agricultural landscape and the cultural significance of the Canarian banana.

Snorkeling the Rock Pools

After exploring the banana plantation, participants next venture to the island’s dramatic north coast, where they don their snorkeling gear and plunge into the crystal-clear rock pools. Teeming with vibrant marine life, these natural aquariums offer a unique opportunity to observe the region’s stunning underwater biodiversity up close. Guided by an experienced instructor, they navigate the calm, sheltered pools, spotting schools of colorful fish, curious crustaceans, and other captivating creatures that thrive in this protected coastal environment.

Observed Wildlife	Quantity	Size Range
Parrotfish	15-20	6-12 inches
Sea Urchins	8-12	3-5 inches
Starfish	5-8	4-8 inches
Nudibranchs	10-15	1-3 inches
Shrimp	12-18	2-4 inches

Sunset Celebration

As the snorkeling adventure comes to a close, the tour then shifts its focus to the breathtaking finale – the North Coast’s iconic sunset. Participants head to a picturesque vantage point, eagerly anticipating the vibrant display of colors that paints the sky and reflects off the nearby ocean.

The guide provides insights into the region’s unique microclimate that contributes to these stunning sunsets. As the sun slowly dips below the horizon, the group quietly takes in the mesmerizing sight, snapping photos and sharing the experience with one another.

It’s a tranquil moment to reflect on the day’s adventures and appreciate the natural beauty of Gran Canaria’s North Coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

Yes, guests can bring their own snorkeling gear on the tour. However, equipment is provided by the tour operator, so using the provided gear may be more convenient. Guests should inform the tour company about bringing their own gear beforehand.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Tour?

There is no specified weight limit for this tour. However, participants should be reasonably fit and able to walk, swim, and navigate the rocky terrain. Those with mobility issues may want to check with the tour operator beforehand.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Meal?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or gluten-free meal for the tour. The tour operator requires you to inform them about any dietary restrictions prior to the tour so they can accommodate your needs accordingly.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required?

The tour does not have a minimum group size requirement. Solo travelers are welcome to book the experience, which has a maximum of 16 participants per tour, according to the provided information.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration for an Additional Fee?

Yes, participants can typically extend the tour duration for an additional fee. The tour operator may offer longer or customized tour options with more activities upon request, subject to availability and any applicable surcharges.

Recap

The North Coast Tour offers an unforgettable immersion in Gran Canaria’s natural and cultural wonders.

From exploring the historic Hacienda La Rekompensa banana plantation to snorkeling in crystal-clear rock pools and witnessing a breathtaking sunset, this tour provides a comprehensive experience that celebrates the island’s rich biodiversity and scenic beauty.

It’s an ideal way for visitors to discover the captivating essence of Gran Canaria’s northern coast.