Unveil the secrets of the Guanches, Gran Canaria's extinct aboriginal population, with an archaeologist on this National Geographic Day Tour. Begin your tour at La Fortaleza Museum, where you can learn about ancestral diets, uncovering the nourishment that fuelled generations past. You will also have access to the archive room, exclusive to National Geographic travellers. Inside, a pair of rare mummies will reveal stories about the lives and deaths of the island's original inhabitants. After, you'll enjoy some local delicacies such as olive oil, bread, Tenefé salt, and pastries made with gofio flour, almonds or figs.
Next, explore La Fortaleza archeological site, the most complete in all Gran Canaria. Protected by law, it is important both in terms of its historical significance and location. See habitation caves adorned with paintings, granaries, stone houses, funerary monuments, engravings, and the island's oldest sanctuary. Learn why the Guanches' referred to it as the ‘Axis of the World', the place where heaven and earth converged.
Witness the ancient way of life in La Fortaleza as you discover the tunnel that traverses the rock, offering panoramas of La Fortaleza de Abajo. This sprawling settlement of excavated houses is just a stone's throw away.
Round off this experience with a scenic drive along winding roads to the foot of the caldera. You'll head to Mirador Santa Lucia, where you'll indulge in a typical Canarian lunch of regional cuisine with a side order of impressive views. As you relish the rich flavors, soak up the surrounding landscape and reflect on the history you've uncovered during this journey.
Nat Geo Day Tour: Guanches Mysteries Unearthed with an Archaeologist
This experience meets the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria. By choosing this experience you can protect the places you love, care for the environment and support local communities.
- Unveil the mysteries of the Guanches on this fascinating National Geographic Day Tour led by an archaeologist.
- Enjoy exclusive access to a private archive room at La Fortaleza Museum and admire newly found relics.
- Discover some of Gran Canaria's most impressive aboriginal heritage at La Fortaleza archaeological site, accompanied by an archeologist.
- Explore the latest archaeological discoveries and distinct mummification techniques of the Guanches. Their uniqueness is so remarkable that a Guanche mummy graced the cover of National Geographic in 2021.
- Delight in savouring a delectable regional meal at a traditional Canarian restaurant, adding an unforgettable culinary experience to your adventure.
Transport
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Guide
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Lunch
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Drinks
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Local delicacy tasting
Transport
If you don't see the option to add a hotel for pickup, please provide the details at checkout.
- The photographer speaks Spanish but an official guide will be on hand to translate and assist throughout
- Approximate total time of walking or standing is about 2 hours 30mins
- Not suitable for wheelchairs
- Not suitable for those with reduced mobility
- Bring a hat
- English-speaking guide for all nationalities
- Bring suitable footwear
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