Roque Nublo
An iconic volcanic monolith offering breathtaking panoramic views of Gran Canaria and beyond. A must-visit natural wonder.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning photos
Roque Nublo
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic volcanic monolith offering breathtaking panoramic views of Gran Canaria and beyond. A must-visit natural wonder.
"Definitely one of the most fascinating sights on Gran Canaria!"
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail is uphill and can be uneven. Proper footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe hike.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the hike. There are limited facilities on the trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Roque Nublo Monolith
Central Gran Canaria
The iconic volcanic rock formation, a symbol of Gran Canaria, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Panoramic Island Views
Summit of Roque Nublo
Gaze upon the vastness of Gran Canaria, and on clear days, spot Tenerife and Mount Teide.
Sunset Spectacle
Roque Nublo viewpoint
Witness a magical sunset painting the sky with vibrant colors over the island's dramatic landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
+2Parking and Transportation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail is uphill and can be uneven. Proper footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe hike.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the hike. There are limited facilities on the trail.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The sun can be intense, even on cloudy days. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Weather can change quickly in the mountains. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and wind.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail is uphill and can be uneven. Proper footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe hike.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the hike. There are limited facilities on the trail.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The sun can be intense, even on cloudy days. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Weather can change quickly in the mountains. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and wind.
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera or phone to capture the incredible views and unique rock formations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Roque Nublo as a must-see on Gran Canaria, highlighting its stunning natural beauty and incredible panoramic views, especially during sunset. The hike is considered rewarding, though some find the parking and reservation system inconvenient.
"We booked our free slot tickets three days in advance for the 12:00 entry. Earlier times were already full. It was absolutely worth it. Once you’re up there, the landscape feels unreal, like something straight out of Dune or even Mars.
We parked at Aparcamiento Cruz de los Llanos, then started the hike, about 1.5–2 hours through a beautiful mix of pine forest, rocky sections, and the reservoir dam area. The entire route is stunning, and we genuinely enjoyed every part of it.
We reached the entrance gate to Roque Nublo about 15 minutes before our scheduled slot, but they still let us through. From there, it’s another 30 minutes of an unbelievably scenic final hike. Absolutely worth it.
We returned by bus, which runs every hour back to the parking area.
Highly recommended if you’re visiting Gran Canaria. One of the best experiences on the island."
Mihael Vitlov
"There is no parking available near start of trail. Closest possible which we found was at the camping park in forrest and then additional walk towards trail is approx. 30 min. There is option to take bus and stop is right at the start of trail. It is mandatory to book trails in advance in official homepage. It is free of charge. The idea is to avoid overcrowded trail I guess. But it works very well and it is possible to enjoy clear walking paths without crowds. This trail is very impressive and beautiful and is a must have in Gran Canaria. Take in consideration that this is quite high altitude and temperatures are significantly lower here."
Valts Iesalnieks
"Beautiful hike up in the mountains of Gran Canaria. Be aware that the parking is about 5km from entrance but there are buses every hour from one place to the other. Also, there is a free permit you need to get before you can enter the natural park.
Overall great with amazing views of Gran Canaria and Tenerife."
Isabel Cruz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to drive to Cruz de Los Llanos, the closest parking area. From there, a bus transfer (around €1.40 each way) takes you to the trailhead. The old parking lot directly at the start of the hike is closed.
No, direct driving to the trailhead is not permitted. You must park at Cruz de Los Llanos and use the bus service.
The closest official parking is at Cruz de Los Llanos. The old parking area near the trailhead is closed for renovations.
A bus service operates from Cruz de Los Llanos to the trailhead. It runs approximately once an hour, so coordinate your visit with the bus schedule.
The walk from the bus drop-off point to Roque Nublo takes about 20-30 minutes. The entire round trip, including time at the top, can take around 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a reservation is required to visit Roque Nublo between 9 AM and 5 PM for conservation purposes. You can book for free on the official website.
The entry reservation is free. The only cost is for the bus transfer from Cruz de Los Llanos, which is approximately €1.40 each way.
You cannot visit between 9 AM and 5 PM without a reservation. Outside these hours, access might be possible, but it's best to check the official guidelines.
While spaces don't always fill up quickly, it's advisable to book a few days in advance, especially for weekend visits, to ensure availability.
Access is regulated between 9 AM and 5 PM, requiring a reservation. Outside these hours, access may be permitted, but check official sources for current information.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike is considered moderate, with some uphill sections. It's about 20-30 minutes each way from the bus stop, and the path is well-maintained but can be rocky. +1
The hike is manageable for most families, but younger children might need assistance on steeper parts. The views are rewarding for all ages.
Late afternoon is popular for sunset views, offering beautiful light for photography. Weekdays generally have fewer visitors.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes, layers of clothing as the weather can change, and sun protection (hat, sunscreen).
Yes, on clear days, you can enjoy spectacular views of Tenerife and Mount Teide from the summit of Roque Nublo.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are restaurants in the nearby village of Tejeda, such as Restaurante Roque Nublo and Bar Roque Nublo, offering local cuisine with scenic views. +1
While there are no designated picnic areas, many visitors bring their own snacks and water to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery.
Expect traditional Canarian dishes, including local cheeses, grilled meats, and other regional specialties.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic monolith itself, the panoramic island views, and the dramatic sunsets are prime subjects. The surrounding volcanic landscape also offers great shots.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, provides the most dramatic lighting. Midday can be harsh, but the unique rock formations are still photogenic.
A smartphone camera is sufficient for most visitors, but a camera with a good zoom lens can help capture distant views of Tenerife. Drones are also popular for aerial shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and ensure everyone has sun protection. The bus transfer from Cruz de Los Llanos adds a bit of adventure, and the open spaces at the top allow for some exploration (with supervision, of course!). It's a great way to introduce children to the natural beauty of Gran Canaria.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Be prepared for varying weather conditions by dressing in layers and wearing sturdy footwear. The reservation system, while an extra step, helps ensure a less crowded and more peaceful hiking experience, allowing you to truly connect with the environment.
📸 Photographers and Sunset Chasers
+1Aim for late afternoon to capture the magical sunset light. The changing colors of the sky over the volcanic landscape create a truly unforgettable scene. Don't forget your camera and extra batteries!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Roque Nublo's Access Changes
+2Previously, direct parking was available, but this has been closed. Visitors now need to park at designated areas like Cruz de Los Llanos and utilize a bus transfer to reach the trailhead. This shift aims to reduce congestion and environmental impact on the sensitive area.
It's essential to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on booking procedures, bus schedules, and any temporary closures due to weather or maintenance. Planning ahead is key to a smooth visit.
The Hike to Roque Nublo: What to Expect
While the path is well-trodden, it can be rocky and uneven in places, making sturdy hiking shoes highly recommended. The trail offers some shade as it winds through sparse vegetation, but the summit area is more exposed. Remember to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, as the Canarian sun can be strong.
Many visitors find the effort well worth it for the breathtaking panoramic views. On clear days, the sight of Tenerife and the majestic Mount Teide in the distance adds another layer of wonder to the experience. The limited entry system also helps to keep the trails from becoming overly crowded, allowing for a more enjoyable and immersive nature experience.
Capturing Roque Nublo's Majesty: Photography Tips
+1The panoramic views from the summit are another must-capture. On clear days, the distant silhouette of Tenerife and Mount Teide provides a unique photographic opportunity. Experiment with different compositions, perhaps framing the monolith with the distant islands in the background.
For the best light, aim for the golden hours around sunrise or sunset. The warm, soft light enhances the textures of the rock and the colors of the landscape. Drones are also popular for capturing aerial perspectives, showcasing the vastness of the volcanic terrain.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit