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
- 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
- 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
What people say about this experience
Based on 17 reviews from verified customers
Review categories
Service
5/5
Staff
5/5
Safety
5/5
Value for money
5/5
Martin und Ellen
From Germany - December 2024Travelled as a couple
55 - 64 years old
Excellent
Overall rated5/5
Dieser Ausflug ist zusammen mit diesem Guide, mit seinem Fachwissen, und den angebotenen Besichtigungen, sowie den ausgewählten Pausen, so wie geplant ...
Thor
From United States of America - December 2024Travelled with family
35 - 44 years old
Great
Overall rated4/5
De archeoloog wist veel te vertellen over het verleden. De uitleg over hoe erin het verleden werd geleefd in de grotten met in het museum een film hie ...
MH
From United States of America - November 2024Travelled as a couple
35 - 44 years old
Excellent
Overall rated5/5
Oerhört trevlig och kunnig guide. Kul att få kika lite bakom kulisserna hur en arkeolog kan jobba. Man lär sig mycket. Bra chaufför. Lite simpel mat. ...
Tobias
From Germany - November 202435 - 44 years old
Excellent
Overall rated5/5
Der Guide war ein Archäologe der an den Ausgrabungen in La Fortalezas selber teilgenommen hat. Er konnte sehr fundiert von den Funden in dem Gebiet er ...
Steve D
From United States of America - November 2024Travelled as a couple
45 - 54 years old
Excellent
Overall rated5/5
Fabulous visit, kept us well informed and interested. The opportunity to ask in depth questions allowed us to get so much out of the visit. Great bein ...
Hauffe
From United States of America - November 2024Travelled as a couple
35 - 44 years old
Excellent
Overall rated5/5
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