Gran Canaria was formed by volcanic eruptions and, although there are no active volcanos any more, one can easily recognise the volcanic origin: Canyons, Cliffs, dark rock formations.

The north of the island is mainly enjoying the winds and currents coming from the north. As such the north of the island is mainly very green. Most of the agriculture and industry is therefore situated in the north of the island with Las Palmas being one of the most important Atlantic harbours for Europe and Africa.

The South of the island, protected from the winds by the island’s central mountains, is much warmer and is mainly focussing on tourism. Authentic fisher villages have maintained their original atmosphere whilst the surrounding mountain hills have been used for small and large scale holiday accommodations.

Sand art! Credit

Centrally on the island, on the east coast, everyone should visit the Dunes of Maspalomas: a large dune area stretching far into the sea with very nice white sand! 

All over the island you find dive sites. In the North you will find the more adventures dives as the sea and the waves are quite rough from character. Sites like Le Catedral and the Arona (just to name 2) are accessible to experienced dives whereas dives sites like Sardina are accessible to all levels of divers.

In the South, diving is much more relax.  Protected from the main wind and currents, most sites are accessible to all divers (except if doing very deep dives). Famous dive locations are Pasito Blanco Natural and Artificial Reef, Mogan Wrecks and Mogan Caves, Arguineguin Reef and the Blue Bird.

In the midle of the island (on the east coast) you find the El Cabron Marine Reserve. This protected area offers some great dive experience. Most divers perform multiple shore dives when visiting the reserve in order to enjoy the amazing underwater landscape and the great variety of marine life.

Diving all over the island can be done year round with 24° water temperature in summer and 19° in winter time. Quite some divers enjoy diving in these comfortable temperatures during the cold winter months in the northern part of Europe.

The Beach, Credit

Climate

Gran Canaria has a very mild climate, not too hot in summer, quite warm in winter. Temperatures vary from 30° in summer to 25° in winter. Having direct flights from most of the European airports, the island is very accessible with only a couple of hours flight (no jetlags). Being part of the European community, there are no special visa’s or permits required to enter the territory.

Marine Conservation

Gran Canaria has Local Shark Conservation programs & El Cabron Marine Reserve.

Other year round Marine life

Nudibranchs, Cuttlefish, Trumpet Fish, Octopus, Angel Shark, Torpedo Ray, Butterfly Ray, Barracuda, Snappers, Groupers.