4.4
(18081)
83,910
hikers
16
hikes
Hiking in Pilancones Natural Park, located in the south of Gran Canaria, is defined by its rugged terrain and deep ravines, shaped by volcanic activity over 12 million years. The landscape features narrow plateaus, extensive pine forests, and prominent peaks like Morro de la Cruz Grande. Reservoirs and dams are integrated into the scenery, providing varied bus station hiking trails. This natural park offers a comprehensive network of trails for different skill levels.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
4.8
(15)
78
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(31)
72
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(18)
68
hikers
9.50km
03:29
550m
550m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(8)
26
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.0
(9)
18
hikers
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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The images don't just show Roque Nublo; for example, the image with the helicopter in the center depicts Bentayga. This rock formation has a completely different, important significance in the heart of Gran Canaria! However, the helicopter adds immense value to the image and also shows the vastness of the scene.
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Impressive place. Must do in Gran Canaria. Beautiful view of the Tenerife volcano looming above the clouds. No need to book entrance if you come via the surrounding hiking trails and not via the more touristy 1.5 km to the rock.
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The climb is definitely worth it - very few people make it here
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An impressive rock formation, the symbol of Gran Canaria. Visits are now limited, and you must book a time slot for the climb on the Gran Canaria website, otherwise you'll be turned away at the start of the hiking trail.
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Amazing views, a little scramble, and a beautiful trail 😍. If the weather is good, you can even see Roque Nublo from here.
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You now need a reservation to visit the rock. Hikers are crowding at the entrance to the path and are not allowed through. Only 60 people per hour are allowed in with a reservation. So groups of people are waiting here for their free slot (usually a 2-3 hour wait). In addition, the parking lot is not usable and is closed. Cars are parked all over the place on the side of the road. Very annoying.
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Pilancones Natural Park offers a wide range of hiking opportunities, with over 15 routes directly accessible from bus stations. These trails vary in difficulty, ensuring there's something for every hiker, from easy strolls to challenging ascents.
Yes, Pilancones Natural Park features several easy and moderate trails suitable for families, many of which are reachable by public transport. While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always explicit, routes with lower difficulty ratings and shorter distances are generally good options. For example, the region offers 2 easy and 10 moderate routes that could be suitable. Always check the route details for elevation and terrain to ensure it meets your family's needs.
Hikes accessible by bus in Pilancones offer stunning and varied landscapes. You'll encounter dramatic ravines, extensive pine forests, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the unique 'Grand Canyon-like' scenery. Many routes provide vistas of iconic landmarks like Roque Nublo and the white houses of Fataga. For a route with diverse views, consider the Pine forest – View of Roque Nublo loop from Degollada de Cruz Grande.
Yes, many of the bus-accessible trails in Pilancones are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same point, which is convenient when relying on public transport. An excellent example is the View of Presa de Cira – View of the Fataga Canyon loop from Degollada de Cruz Grande, offering diverse scenery.
Pilancones is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. Along the trails, you can discover impressive geological formations, lush pine forests, and picturesque reservoirs. Notable attractions include the Ayagaures Dam and Presa de La Gambuesa. The park also contains pre-Hispanic ruins, offering a glimpse into the island's past.
The best season for hiking in Pilancones is generally autumn through spring (October to May), when temperatures are milder and the landscape is often greener. Summers can be very hot, especially in the ravines, making early morning or late afternoon hikes preferable. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Pilancones Natural Park generally welcomes dogs on its trails, but they must be kept on a leash to protect the local wildlife and ensure the safety of other hikers. Always carry water for your dog, especially on longer routes, as natural water sources can be scarce. Please also remember to clean up after your pet.
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Pilancones, with an average score of 4.39 stars from over 17,000 ratings. Hikers often praise the breathtaking panoramic views, the dramatic 'Grand Canyon-like' scenery, and the well-maintained trails that offer a true escape into nature. The accessibility by public transport is also frequently highlighted as a major convenience.
Yes, Pilancones offers several challenging routes for experienced hikers that can be reached by bus. These trails often feature significant elevation changes and rugged terrain, rewarding you with spectacular views. An example of a more demanding route is the Great hike with awesome views – View of Roque Nublo loop from Degollada de Cruz Grande, which includes substantial ascents and descents.
While some popular viewpoints and trails can attract more visitors, Pilancones Natural Park is vast, and it's possible to find quieter routes, especially during off-peak hours or seasons. Exploring some of the moderate or difficult trails, such as the Shaded Rest Spot at Rock Formation – Wooden Shelter with Benches loop from Degollada de Cruz Grande, might offer a more serene experience away from the busiest spots.
Many bus routes in Gran Canaria connect to key points within or bordering Pilancones Natural Park, making several bus stops excellent starting points. Degollada de Cruz Grande is a prominent hub, offering access to multiple trails like the View of the Rock Wall – Ridge View loop. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and routes for the most up-to-date information on connections to specific trailheads.


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