Nat Geo Day Tour: Guanches Mysteries Unearthed with an Archaeologist
History & Heritage

Nat Geo Day Tour: Guanches Mysteries Unearthed with an Archaeologist

4.8/5

Excellent
40 reviews
from
$129.00
Free cancellation
Language: English
Mobile voucher accepted
Duration: from 4 hours to 8 hours

Based on our commitment to sustainable tourism, all National Geographic Day Tours meet the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria, and a portion of the proceeds from these tours goes back to the National Geographic Society to fund research and sustainable programs around the world.

Why you’ll love this…
  • 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.
What to expect

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.

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What's included
  • check Transport
  • check Guide
  • check Lunch
  • check Drinks
  • check Local delicacy tasting
Where
Pickups are available from selected areas in the following resorts: San Agustín, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, Meloneras, Puerto Rico and Taurito.

If you don't see the option to add a hotel for pickup, please provide the details at checkout.
What to remember
  • 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
Read more
Provider
TUI España Turismo, S.L.U, with Tax Number B08089187 and Travel License Number GCMD-4
Booking fee
Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.
Cancellation policy
Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 1 day before the experience begins.

What people say about this experience

Excellent

4.8 /5

Based on 40 reviews from verified customers


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Sort by:

  • M

    Marilyn

    Verified booking

    5

    May 29, 2025

    Traveled as a couple


    Very informative and interesting, the guide was excellent

  • J

    Jocky

    Verified booking

    5

    May 23, 2025

    Traveled as a couple


    Although expensive,it was a great day. Sergio, the driver was very professional on testing roads and octavio, the guide, had tremendous knowledge of both the history of the canaries but also the archeological viewpoint. Very professional with a pleasant manner

  • M

    Mrs D

    Verified booking

    5

    April 22, 2025

    Traveled as a couple


    We loved the informative guide, the visit to the sites, the museum and the lunch.

  • C

    Caroline

    Verified booking

    5

    February 27, 2025

    Traveled with a group of friends


    We enjoyed the whole day. Our knowledgeable Guide provided an in depth understanding of these prehistoric people taking us to a number of sites. Museum visit interesting and good lunch. Pick up. Should make clients aware there might be delays. We waited over 20 minutes

  • S

    Skipper

    Verified booking

    5

    February 20, 2025

    Traveled as a couple


    Collection time was to much.

  • M

    Marian Sharp

    Verified booking

    5

    February 7, 2025

    Solo traveler


    Lucia, our guide, was fantastic. Her passion for archaeology and history was infectious. Her enthusiasm and knowledge came over really well. I learned loads about the Canary Islands. Not to forget our driver who drove so well, so carefully and was so courteous on the whole trip.

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