Wherever you find yourself in the Canary Islands, you are bound to find an extensive offering of family activities to keep the little ones entertained. However, one of the best places for family fun is the island of Gran Canaria.
Whilst it still offers all of the stunning beach facilities found across the archipelago, what sets Gran Canaria apart is its catalogue of unique activities that can’t be done elsewhere. We’ve put together a list of the best attractions for young families travelling to Gran Canaria, guaranteed to have the children asking to come back for more.
Palmitos Park
Palmitos Park is the undisputed poster boy of Gran Canaria’s family tourism scene. Whatever you could possibly desire from a trip to the zoo, Palmitos offers it by the bucket load. Breathtaking vistas, an extensive catalogue of exotic flora, and opportunities to get up close and personal with your favourite creatures. The natural setting in which the zoo finds itself makes you really feel as if you’re exploring the animals’ natural habitats.
Despite these attractions, the crowning glory at Palmitos is undoubtedly the range of live shows on offer. Start off with a live performance from their exotic parrots, who will walk, talk and even cycle their way into your hearts. Once you’ve picked your jaw back up off the floor, head to the dolphin enclosure, where their five star performers will show off their intelligence and incredible strength.
Before heading to the exit, carve your initials or family name into the designated cacti found at the end of the walking trail.
Cocodrilo Park
Opened to the public in 1988, Cocodrilo Park has become a Gran Canarian institution, and is among the most popular attractions on the island. With around 300 crocodiles housed here, Cocodrilo is far and away the best place in the Canaries to get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures.
All profits made by the park are reinvested into the conservation and longevity of the centre and its animals, with many of its creatures suffering a background of cruelty and abuse.
The crocodiles aren’t the only attraction at Cocodrilo. Monkeys, tigers, tropical fish and even snakes all live within the confines of the centre, and if that wasn’t enough, the parrots will even put on a show for you. One of the main draws for parents is the fact that Cocodrilo is largely an educational experience, with staff offering interactive sessions to learn more about the animals.
Camel Safari in Maspalomas
Camel riding may not have been at the forefront of your mind when you were devising your dream holiday to the Canaries. But, what better way to explore the dunes of Maspalomas than on a camel? You will really feel like you’ve landed in a sprawling desert as you loop around the dunes on a guided tour. Guaranteed to be fun for all the family, and as an added bonus kids under three can ride for free alongside their parents.
The ride will last no longer than 30 minutes, so you don’t need to worry about setting aside an entire afternoon to enjoy this attraction. After your voyage through the sand, why not take in all that Maspalomas has to offer? It’s one of the most popular spots on the island, with plenty to see and do along the 17km sandy stretch. Take a trip to the old lighthouse at the end of the beach, before enjoying a well-earned dip in the Atlantic Ocean.
