This programme is for you if you are in excellent physical condition; if you can cover steep slopes and have no vertigo or health problems; if you regularly do long walks and consider yourself a good sportsman, love nature and are respectful of the environment.
Gáldar was the first capital of Gran Canaria after the unification of the Andamana and Gumidafe indigenous kingdoms. According to the chronicles, a building was blessed during the conquest of the island by the Spanish (1478 – 1483) and was the first church dedicated to St James the Apostle. The first mass was held there in 1482, before the end of the conquest of the island.
The church of Santiago de los Caballeros de Gáldar, with its three large naves and fifteen chapels, is one of the most monumental in the Canary Islands and preserves part of the apostle’s cultural heritage. The Jacobean Holy Year has been celebrated since 1965. Santiago has been present in the time and space of Gáldar for more than half a millennium, and the city has demonstrated this clear Jacobean vocation.
Pope Paul VI gave his blessing on 20 November 1975 and Pope John Paul II granted the Church of Santiago in Galdar the grace of the Holy Jacobean Year – in perpetuum – by rescript on 24 June 1992.
Today, the Camino crosses Gran Canaria from south to north, from the dunes of Maspalomas to the north of the island.
The Camino de Santiago starts in Maspalomas at the lighthouse and continues into the interior of the island. The route runs via San Bartolomé de Tirajana (Tunte) to the heights of Tejeda, passing the Sacred Mountains of Gran Canaria (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
From Cruz de Tejeda, the route continues to the church of St James the Apostle in Gáldar.
When the pilgrim arrives in Gáldar, they can obtain a certificate for the Camino de Santiago entre Volcanes. For this, the pilgrim’s identity card with the corresponding stamps (in the church of San Bartolomé and in the church of Santiago de Gáldar) must be presented.
FLEXIBLE PROGRAMME: you can rearrange the stages in order to fit days off in between them. We adapt it to your wishes.
ATTENTION: The route in stages along the Camino de Santiago requires good physical condition and walking safety and is only suitable for regular hikers.
Well-signposted trails
Transfers included (taxi and/or regular bus) to/from your accommodation
Order our telescopic poles for 14 € each.
taxi or bus transfers
luggage transfers from hotel to hotel at each stage and transfers of people, by taxi or regular buses.
accommodations
small charming hotels and unique accommodation in strategic locations, with breakfast included.
stages
5 stages of approx. 15 km each, to cross from north to south the Camino del Guanche in Gran Canaria.
Combine with other islands
Want to include other islands in your trip? You will save on ferry transfers or inter-island flights. We organise free of charge the connections between islands for you!
Characteristic corners and enclaves of Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is an island full of contrasts and with many characteristic places. Here are some of the most outstanding places on the island:
The Maspalomas Dunes: This is a golden sand dune system and a popular place to stroll and enjoy the sun and sea.
Roque Nublo: It is an iconic rock formation in the centre of the island and one of the most photographed places in Gran Canaria.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: This is the island’s capital and has a wealth of museums, art galleries and beautiful beaches.
Tejeda: A charming mountain village in the centre of the island with spectacular views and typical Canarian architecture.
Barranco de Guayadeque: An impressive gorge that is home to numerous archaeological and cultural sites, as well as several caves that have been converted into restaurants.
Puerto de Mogán: A beautiful fishing port with pastel-coloured buildings and freshwater canals that give it the nickname “Little Venice”.
Agaete: A picturesque village in the north of the island with natural hot springs and a port that connects to Tenerife.
These are just some of the most characteristic places in Gran Canaria, but there are many more charming corners and places on the island that are worth discovering, for example: Gáldar. This is a town in the north of Gran Canaria, in the Canary Islands. It was the pre-Hispanic capital of the island and today it is known for its historical and cultural heritage, as well as for its nearby beaches and beautiful landscapes.
You shouldn’t miss a visit to Teror either, together with Tejeda it is one of the most beautiful villages on the island, with traditional Canarian architecture and an important role in the religious history of Gran Canaria.
…And of course, Artenara. Located in the centre of the island, it enjoys spectacular views of the Roque Nublo and the Caldera de Tejeda, an impressive geological formation created by volcanic activity.
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…Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is the Camino de Santiago in Gran Canaria?
It is a historically recognised pilgrimage route that crosses the island from south to north, linking the Maspalomas Lighthouse with the Temple of Santiago in Gáldar, one of the three Jacobean temples in the world that grant indulgences.
What is the main route and how many kilometres is it?
The best-known route is the one that goes from Maspalomas to Tunte to Cruz de Tejeda to Gáldar, covering approximately 66–70 kilometres, depending on the route and sections.
How long does it take to complete the entire tour?
It usually takes two or three days to complete, although many pilgrims choose to do it in three or four stages so they can enjoy it at a leisurely pace.
What is the best time of year to do it?
The best seasons are autumn, winter, and spring, as the summer heat in southern areas can be intense. From November to May, temperatures are milder.
Do I need to be in good physical shape?
It is recommended that you be in average physical condition, as the route includes steep slopes, especially when ascending from sea level to the summit.
Is the route well signposted?
Yes. It is marked with yellow arrows, information panels and official posts, although in some rural sections it may be advisable to use GPS or hiking apps such as Wikiloc.
Can I obtain the ‘compostela’ or some other certificate upon completion?
You will not receive the traditional Compostela certificate, as this route is outside the peninsula, but you can request a certificate specific to the Camino de Santiago de Gran Canaria issued by the Diocese of the Canary Islands or local authorities.
Where does the Camino officially begin in Gran Canaria?
The most common starting point is the Maspalomas Lighthouse, where there is an information panel marking the beginning of the route.
Are there any specific hostels or accommodation for pilgrims?
There is no network of pilgrim hostels like there is in Galicia, but there are rural lodgings, hotels and traditional houses in Tunte, Cruz de Tejeda and other areas along the route.
Is it safe to walk this path alone?
Yes, it is considered safe. However, as with any mountain activity, it is advisable to:
▸inform someone of your itinerary,
▸take sufficient water with you, and check the weather forecast.
Do I need any special permission to visit it?
No. The route is freely accessible and does not require special permits.
Are there any refreshment points or areas where one can purchase food and water?
Yes, in populated areas such as Tunte, Ayacata, Cruz de Tejeda and Fontanales.
On long stretches between towns, it is essential to carry sufficient water.
How difficult is the trail?
It is of medium-high difficulty. The main reason is the climb from Maspalomas to the summit area, which is physically demanding.
Is there public transport near the start and end points?
Yes. Maspalomas and Gáldar have bus routes that connect with other parts of the island.
If NATOUR organises my trip, what information and facilities can I expect?
NATOUR’s organisation is based on three fundamental pillars so that you can walk with peace of mind and complete safety:
1.- All accommodation and luggage and passenger transfers for each stage.
2.- Detailed information via the Natour App, with points of interest and offline GPS navigation.
3.- 24/7 customer contact to resolve any eventuality.
The hotel is located just a few steeps from Maspalomas dunes. After leaving your luggage at the reception, you will start walking north until you find the first signs of the trail.
You walk northwards, up the avenue until you find the markings of the so-called "Camino de Santiago de Gran Canaria". This path enters through the Barranco de Vicentillos ravine and then continues along the Barranco de Fataga ravine until you reach Arteara.
Arteara was an aboriginal enclave. The Arteara Necropolis is located in its valley, as well as countless small plantations of tropical trees.
19,1 km | +651 m / -216 m
+ Masai Mara Resort (Arteara)
3
Day 3
2nd stage: Arteara - Tunte
Today your walk will start directly in Arteara, following the Camino de Santiago to Tunte, until San Bartolomé de Tirajana.
This is a fairly easy stage that will take you to the midlands of the beautiful interior of Gran Canaria.
The parish church of San Bartolomé dates from the 17th century and has a splendid Baroque façade and an interesting interior decorated with murals and religious sculptures.
9,7 km | +504 m / -62 m
+ Rural Suite Santiago de Tunte (Tunte)
4
Day 4
3rd stage: Tunte - Cruz de Tejeda
Today's stage takes you to the heart of Gran Canaria: Cruz de Tejeda, 1,560 metres above sea level. The trail climbs up to the summit area, skirting part of the Caldera de Tejeda before reaching the destination.
Cruz de Tejeda is an emblematic enclave in Gran Canaria. From here you have a spectacular panoramic view over a large part of the island, including Roque Nublo, one of the best known natural icons of Gran Canaria.
The Hotel El Refugio is a strategic accommodation for both hikers on the Camino de Santiago. Opposite is the Parador Cruz de Tejeda and an excellent viewpoint overlooking the western part of Gran Canaria.
15,4 km | +1.613 m / -436 m
+ Hotel El Refugio (Cruz de Tejeda)
5
Day 5
4th stage: Cruz de Tejeda - Gáldar
On our last hike, the path first leads us a little uphill to the Degollada de las Palomas. Then the Camino de Santiago continues northwards towards Gáldar on a long descent.
We walk through green and terraced fields and villages and enjoy the rural landscape.
From time to time, our route also runs alongside the road until we reach our destination.
We visit the church of Santiago de Gáldar, one of the most beautiful churches in the Canary Islands archipelago. We arrive at our accommodation for the last night. In Gáldar we receive our certificate after presenting our pilgrim's identity card with the corresponding stamps.
20,9 km | +371 m / -1.759 m
+ Hotel Emblemático Agaldar (Gáldar)
6
Day 6
Departure
Transfer on your own to the airport for departure.
TOUR LOCATION
Walking through the island of Gran Canaria is a genuine experience. You will enjoy a wide variety of landscapes and breathtaking views. Will allow you to connect with nature and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.
The Cordial Green Golf aparthotel is located in the heart of Maspalomas, very close to the beach and dunes in the south of Gran Canaria. It is a modern holiday complex with a swimming pool. The rooms are designed as flats. The proximity to the starting point makes it ideal for the first night of the Camino de Santiago in Gran Canaria.
Spacious rooms with balcony-terrace, kitchenette and other utensils for preparing picnics. Supermarkets and other services nearby, as well as a coastal walk to the lighthouse and the Maspalomas Dunes.
Breakfast included in the hotel cafeteria.
MASAI MARA RESORT
The first stage of the Camino de Santiago will take you to the village of Arteara, in the Barranco de Fataga, in an idyllic enclave nestled between mountains.
There you will find this small rural resort, ideal for recovering your strength, spending a night enjoying the tranquillity of the valley and contemplating the starry sky of Gran Canaria.
With outdoor spaces and simple but comfortable rooms, the Masai Mara Resort is a small oasis on the Guanche Trail in the arid landscape of the south of the island.
RURAL SUITE SANTIAGO DE TUNTE
Beautiful rural accommodation located in Tunte (San Bartolomé de Tirajana). The accommodation is located in the old town of Tunte, within a hive of winding streets. It is an old rural house exquisitely renovated.
Traditional Canarian style rooms. Warm and comfortable, decorated with peasant elements from the last century, following the customs of the time. The municipality of San Bartolomé is at an altitude of 850 metres above sea level.
Breakfast included in a local café.
HOTEL EL REFUGIO
After reaching Cruz de Tejeda, at an altitude of 1515 metres, we find the Hotel El Refugio. It is a rustic accommodation but with all the comforts to spend the night after the third stage. It has an excellent restaurant as well as a cafeteria and a small supermarket where you can stock up.
Simple, sober and clean rooms, with heating and full bathroom. Excellent views of the natural surroundings. It has all the basic comforts for an absolute rest favoured by a quiet place, with clean and pure air in the mountainous central area of Gran Canaria.
HOTEL EMBLEMÁTICO AGALDAR
Located in the historic centre of Villa de Gáldar, the hotel is housed in an old manor house that has been carefully restored.
Lovingly decorated rooms.
Right in front of the town square, in a pedestrianised area, with an excellent gastronomic offer and close to the north coast, where you will find small beaches and natural pools to relax after days of hiking.
Take advantage of the infinity pool on the hotel's rooftop terrace to enjoy a great atmosphere with exceptional views over the whole city.
Additional overnights
It is also possible to book some additional days, before or after the hiking week, or an additional week to relax.
Difficulty
To successfully achieve the 4 stages of the Camino de Santiago, it is necessary a good physical condition, steady walk and lack of vertigo. According to the year season, temperatures can be extreme (hot and/or cold). Therefore, it is necessary to have suitable warm clothes permanently, to be removed as layers if necessary. Some parts of this trail include passages with slippery loose stone. Although most of this trail is roomy enough, certain sections are quite aerial and require caution. Using hiking poles is highly recommended.
Trails
The Canary Islands has a well signposted network of trails. All sections where from our tours are perfectly marked. In addition to the detailed map of Gran Canaria, you will get from us precise indications of each route and assistance from the hotline on your walks.
We recommend
Appropriate hiking clothing and sturdy footwear. During the tours, it is necessary to have food and drink enough, as well as sun protection, a cap, wind jacket and, in the winter months, warm clothing.
Luggage transfer
We move your luggage from one accommodation to next, so on your hikes you should only carry a backpack with the essentials of the day. For the whole trip, it is recommendable to use a single suitcase, not bigger than 20 kg.
You can book at any date!
Flying to GRAN CANARIA allows you to enjoy an island full of contrasts. But it also opens up the possibility of taking advantage of the best low-cost flights to the Canary Islands.
.
...And from there, connect to any of the other islands in the Canary Islands with local flights from
BINTER
... or perhaps take advantage of the excellent ferry connections to visit the neighbouring island of Tenerife, from the Port of Agaete, in the north of Gran Canaria (a 1 hour and 20 minute crossing), even taking your hire car with you.
FRED OLSEN
Belén
Travel organisation
Do you have any questions? I am happy to help you. I will answer any questions you may have!
Get in advance !! ...a 6% discount for bookings made 90 daysbefore the arrival date.
Get in advance !! ...a 6% discount for bookings made 90 daysbefore the arrival date.
PRICES: until 31st October 2026
740 € ▸ 695€ per person in double/twin room (2 persons)
| Single Suplement (room for single use)
(...and 3rd person): + 235 €
Solo Traveller (1 person): 1380 € ▸ 1297 €
PRICES: from 01st November 2026
740 € ▸ 695€ per person in double/twin room (2 persons)
| Single Suplement (room for single use)
(...and 3rd person): + 255 €
Solo Traveller (1 person): 1380 € ▸ 1297 €
Any arrival date is possible - You decide your travel dates and when to start. However, we must first request availability to the accommodations.
Booking: With an initial payment of 150 € (per person), book now and guarantee your trip. We will confirm your reserve within 24 hours. But in the case of accommodations unavailability, we will refund the paid amount or propose alternative dates.
What does this programme include?
Accommodations - 5 nights stay in different charming accommodations, B&B basis.
Informations - personalised information by video-talk (if desired) on your arrival day
informative material - maps to be picked up at the hotel reception, upon arrival
Descriptions & GPX Tracks - to follow the walks on your mobile device
+ Private transfers - all necessary luggage & person transfers for each stage, except on departure day.
Support 24h - we keep permanently in touch with you throughout your stay to solve any problem or enquiry you may have
What is NOT included?
▸Flights to and from your home city to Gran Canaria are not included
▸Departure transfer
▸Lunches & Dinners
Cancellation Policy
▸ Up to 14 days before the date of arrival, 100% refund.
▸Between 13 and 7 days before the arrival date, 50% refund, or free of charge dates change.
▸ Between 6 and 3 days before the arrival date, 25% refund, no date changes permitted.
▸48 hours before the arrival date, 0% refund, no date changes permitted.
1st stage: Maspalomas - Arteara 
2nd stage: Arteara - Tunte
4th stage: Cruz de Tejeda - Gáldar
With outdoor spaces and simple but comfortable rooms, the Masai Mara Resort is a small oasis on the Guanche Trail in the arid landscape of the south of the island.
Simple, sober and clean rooms, with heating and full bathroom. Excellent views of the natural surroundings. It has all the basic comforts for an absolute rest favoured by a quiet place, with clean and pure air in the mountainous central area of Gran Canaria.
Any arrival date is possible - You decide your travel dates and when to start. However, we must first request availability to the accommodations. 
Booking: With an initial payment of 150 € (per person), book now and guarantee your trip. We will confirm your reserve within 24 hours. But in the case of accommodations unavailability, we will refund the paid amount or propose alternative dates.
Accommodations - 5 nights stay in different charming accommodations, B&B basis. 
Informations - personalised information by video-talk (if desired) on your arrival day 
informative material - maps to be picked up at the hotel reception, upon arrival 
Descriptions & GPX Tracks - to follow the walks on your mobile device 
+ 
Private transfers - all necessary luggage & person transfers for each stage, except on departure day.
Support 24h - we keep permanently in touch with you throughout your stay to solve any problem or enquiry you may have
