10 things you should have seen during your internship on Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is often called a “mini continent” because of its incredible variety of landscapes. The island offers everything from golden beaches over sand dunes to green forests and dramatic mountains, making it a perfect place for exploration for our interns. If you’re lucky enough to do your internship on Gran Canaria, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to explore everything this unique island has to offer. 🌴🏖️
Make the most of your Gran Canaria internship with our interns’ top 10 must-see spots you can’t miss. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, these destinations will make your time on the island unforgettable! ☀️
1. Maspalomas Dunes: The ultimate must-see during your internship on Gran Canaria
Starting off with the ultimate must see, and the number one on our list, according to our interns, are the Maspalomas Dunes. The magical dunes of Maspalomas have been a nature reserve since 1987. One might wonder how the dunes were formed.
There are two theories:
One theory is that the dunes were created by erosion. Wind and waves broke the rocks down into sand, which was carried to the shore by the tides. Strong winds then blew the sand inland, where it built up on obstacles and formed dunes. The process supposedly took around 10,000 years to shape the landscape we see today.
Another theory, proposed by scientists of the university in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, says that the dunes were formed in 1755 due to a tsunami, which originated from the earthquakes in Portugal. This brought huge amounts of sand to the shore of Gran Canaria.
Until today we are not sure how the small desert of the Atlantic Ocean was formed. We do know that you must visit it when doing your internship on Gran Canaria like one if our interns on this photo!

The dunes are located between the beach “Playa de Ingles” and the lighthouse “Faro de Maspalomas”. We advise you to visit the dunes either in the morning or in the evening. The sand can get quite hot during the day.
You can go for a walk and enjoy the sand under your feet. Or you can relax on the back of a camel and take in all the beauty of this magical place. Afterwards you can sit down on the golden sand and wait until the sun sets to see one of the most beautiful sunsets ever. 😍
2. Puerto de Mogán: The Venice of the Canary Islands
Next is Puerto de Mogán, often called the ‘Venice of the Canary Islands.’ Once a humble fishing village, it has become a peaceful haven for those seeking to escape the island’s busier tourist areas.
Known for its relaxed atmosphere and charm, Puerto de Mogán lives up to its nickname, “Little Venice,” with its waterways and little bridges. These waterways were originally designed with a practical purpose in mind: to divert rainwater and prevent flooding.
The village’s Italian-inspired flair and its resemblance to Venice are the result of thoughtful planning and careful decoration with vibrant flowers and plants.
Puerto de Mogán offers a perfect setting for strolls through its alleys and colorful streets, relaxing in a café while people-watching, or taking a peaceful walk along the Mogán Marina.
Our hotel interns put this charming village at number two on the must-see list and say it’s absolutely worth a visit.
On Fridays, the local market brings the village to life, offering unique souvenirs for yourself or loved ones.

Imagine this: after finishing your workday at your internship on Gran Canaria, you take a walk through this charming village. You admire the little blue and white fishermen’s houses. Then you head towards the “Mirador de Puerto de Mogán” for a stunning view of the entire village. From there, you continue your walk along the marina, passing cozy cafes and restaurants. Eventually, you reach Playa Mogán, where you sit down to watch the sun end the day.
Sounds perfect, right? 🥰
3. Roque Nublo: Be on Top of the World
Next on your bucket list for your internship on Gran Canaria is a spot that makes you truly feel like you are on top of the world; Roque Nublo.
Rising 1,813 meters above sea level, this dramatic volcanic rock stands proudly in the center of the island. With its 80-meter-high formation, it ranks among the tallest free-standing monoliths in the world.
Don’t forget to check out the frog-shaped rock that sits right next to Roque Nublo!
The hike to these iconic landmarks begins at the La Goleta parking lot and takes around 45 minutes. If you’re up for a bit more adventure, you can take the circular hiking trail around the area, just like we did.
It’s approximately 5 kilometers long and usually much quieter than the main viewing platform at Roque Nublo. The perfect peaceful escape into nature.
When you reach the summit, you’ll be treated to one of the best panoramic views on the island.
Remember to wear proper shoes! 🥾

4. Pico de las Nieves
Our hotel interns rated Pico de las Nieves, the island’s second-highest mountain at 1,949 meters, as the fourth must-see attraction. Sitting above the clouds, it offers a truly breath-taking panoramic view.
This unique location deserves also a spot on your bucket list when doing your internship on Gran Canaria. The lookout point at Pico de las Nieves is accessible by car, bike, or on foot. There’s a parking lot available for those taking the easy route by car. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can hike up to the viewpoint. And for those who really want to break a sweat, cycling to the top is an option, though definitely not one we took! 🚴♀️🌋
Once at the lookout, we were rewarded with a stunning view over Gran Canaria. A small food truck at the top offers snacks, making it a perfect spot to take in the scenery. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the Mount Teide on Tenerife.
From this vantage point, we could also see the famous Roque Nublo, one of the island’s most iconic landmarks. If you’re up for a short walk, a footpath leads down to Roque Nublo itself.
Pico de las Nieves also serves as the starting point of the Ruta de Plata. It is also known as the Silver Route, a historic 9.6-kilometer-long trail once used for transporting large livestock. Today, it is a popular hiking route, offering breath taking landscapes along the way.
If Pico de las Nieves isn’t enough for you, take a short five-minute walk to Pico de los Pozos de la Nieve, which, at 1,956 meters, holds the title of Gran Canaria’s highest mountain. 🏔️
5. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has something for everyone. Whether you want to tan at the beach, walk through the city or dive into the culture, Las Palmas has you covered.
The beach “Playa de las Canteras” in Las Palmas is three kilometers long and has a spot for everybody. The beach offers a surfing area, a peaceful space to soak up the sun, and the perfect spot for snorkelling to explore the underwater world.
But Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is much more than just a beach destination.
The historic old town is a must-visit. Take a stroll down Calle Triana, a lively pedestrian street that connects the two districts Vegueta and Triana, lined with beautiful architecture from the 18th to the 20th centuries.
Be sure to explore the Mercado de Vegueta, where you can sample and buy fresh local food. On Thursdays, experience “La Noche de Tapas,” when restaurants in Vegueta serve delicious tapas for just 2-3€. 🥘
In Vegueta, you’ll also find the charming Plaza de Santa Ana, a palm-lined square perfect for relaxing.

Here, we visited the impressive Santa Ana Cathedral, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Las Palmas from its rooftop. The plaza is also home to eight bronze dog statues, a tribute to the island’s heritage and its association with the ‘Canis’ (Latin for dog), from which the name ‘Canary Islands’ is believed to originate.
Dive into the heart of Canarian culture
For those eager to step back in time, the Museo Canario is an essential stop. Founded in 1879, it showcases the fascinating history and culture of the island’s indigenous people. Inside, you’ll find remarkable artifacts, including jewelry, ceramics, mummies, and much more.
Another very interesting museum located in Las Palmas is the Casa de Colón (Columbus Museum), which explores Christopher Columbus’s voyages and his connection to the Canary Islands. It is claimed that Christopher Columbus stopped on Gran Canaria 1492. While they repaired his ship, he stayed in the house Casa de Colón. Over the years, renovations have transformed the house, so it doesn’t fit into one specific style. It blends Renaissance, Neoclassical, and traditional Canarian architecture. Inside, you can find Pre-Columbian artifacts, including ship models, a replica of a cabin from La Niña (one of Columbus’s ships), navigation tools, nautical maps, and many other items related to Columbus and the Canary Islands’ connection to America.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or relaxation, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has something special waiting for you. 💕
While doing your hotel internship on Gran Canaria, you can easily take a bus to the capital and enjoy a day off at the beach while exploring the local culture and traditions.
6. Jardín Canario: The beauty of the Canary Islands
For anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature, especially in its purest form, Jardín Canario is a must-see destination during your practical training on Gran Canaria.
Located just outside Las Palmas, this breathtakingly garden is a true celebration of the island’s unique flora and fauna. 🌵🌺
Founded in 1952 by Swedish botanist Erik Ragnar Svensson, the garden was born from his vision to create a space that showcases the full spectrum of the Canary Islands’ flora and fauna, ensuring each plant and flower has the ideal conditions to thrive.
After seven years of dedicated work, he was able to open the garden’s doors in 1959.
At 27 hectares, Jardín Canario is the largest botanical garden in Spain. The garden is a paradise for nature lovers, with winding paths that lead you through caves, waterfalls, and an incredible variety of plant species. It’s home to the Canary giant lizard (Gallotia Stehlini) and over 300 of the 575 endemic species native to the Canary Islands. 🦎

The vegetation zones of the Canary Islands:
There is a palm garden that features all the palm species native to the Canary Islands, as well as a laurel forest. A bit further on, you’ll find a large grassy area with flower clusters arranged by their island of origin; the “Garden of the Islands”.
The Jardín Canario also includes a special section dedicated to endangered plants and flowers from the Macaronesian Islands, called the “Macaronesian Garden.” Macaronesia consists of four main island groups in the North Atlantic Ocean: Cape Verde, the Canary Islands, Madeira, and the Azores. These islands are renowned for their unique flora and exceptional biodiversity.
Additionally, there is a small greenhouse known as the “Hidden Garden”, which houses plants with high moisture demands. The “Garden of the World” showcases representative flora from each continent, offering a global perspective on plant life. Lastly, the “Well of the Wise” pays tribute to the natural scientists who contributed to the exploration and understanding of the Canary Islands’ unique ecosystem.
We also visited the “Restaurante Jardín Canario” located within the garden. From here, we had a beautiful view of the entire garden while enjoying a delicious meal. It’s a perfect spot to relax and take in the peaceful surroundings.
7. Artenara: A very special place to visit for your practical training on Gran Canaria
Far from the beaches and towns of Gran Canaria, there’s a place where the mountains whisper stories and homes are carved into stone.
Welcome to Artenara; the island’s highest village and one of its most soulful destinations.
At first glance, Artenara appeared to be a quiet mountain village. But as we looked closer, we discovered something extraordinary: people live in caves here, and they have for centuries.
These aren’t damp, dark caverns, but real homes, carved into the volcanic rock and passed down through generations.
Some of these caves are open to visitors, showing how life once looked in the simplest, most honest way. Others have been turned into charming stays, meaning you can sleep inside history without sacrificing comfort.
But that’s not all
One of Artenara’s most breathtaking spots is the Mirador de La Atalaya. From this cliffside vantage point, we saw valleys, pine forests, and distant villages spread out below.

Just when you think Artenara can’t get more unique, you’ll find a Cultural Center built into a cave. It’s a small but powerful space, telling the story of the indigenous people who first lived here, and the deep spiritual connection they had with the land. The exhibits are thoughtful and real.
Above the cultural center rises La Cilla, a small mountain crowned by a statue you might not expect. El Sagrado Corazón de Jesús stands tall, with arms outstretched, on a globe supported by angels. Built by José Luis Marrero the statue draws clear inspiration from Rio’s Christ the Redeemer.
Before you we left, we took a walk through the village and stepped inside the Church of San Matías. With its classic Canarian design and peaceful surroundings, it’s the perfect place to end our visit on a quiet, reflective note.
Artenara isn’t just the highest village on Gran Canaria, it’s one of the most deeply rooted. In its caves, its cliffs, and its people, there’s a rhythm that hasn’t changed much over time. Come here not for thrill, but for something deeper: perspective, peace, and a new way to see the island. 🏝️
8. Barranco de las Vacas
Gran Canaria is full of surprises, but few are as unexpected as this: a canyon that feels like it belongs in the American Southwest, not on a Spanish island in the Atlantic.
Welcome to Barranco de las Vacas; a short but stunning gorge that has become one of the island’s most photogenic spots.
#barrancodelasvacas can be found all over social media.
Located on the island’s eastern side, this natural wonder is known for its narrow rock passageways and swirling walls of golden tones. The formations are so distinct that many compare it to Antelope Canyon in Arizona, though this is definitely the mini version.
Still, its charm is undeniable.
Locals sometimes refer to it as “Las Tobas de Colores,” which translates to “the colorful rock formations.” And it’s easy to see why. When the sunlight hits just right, the rocks glow with a golden warmth that makes the entire space feel almost otherworldly.
The canyon itself isn’t large. The walk through it only takes 5 to 10 minutes.

But timing matters: visit too early and the canyon may still be in shadow; too late and you might run into crowds all trying to capture the perfect photo. For the best experience, aim for mid-morning around 10 a.m., when sunlight pours in and highlights every curve and layer of the rock.Barranco de las Vacas is located near Agüimes, on the east side of the island. There’s no big sign or flashy entrance. In fact, finding it is part of the adventure. Look for a small tunnel and a short trail that leads down into the pass. Parking is limited, so it’s best to go early and avoid the midday rush.
If you’re exploring during your internship on Gran Canaria and want something truly unique, add this little canyon to your list. Just don’t forget your camera, you’ll want to remember this one. 🥰
An extra tip for your internship on Gran Canaria:
Since this visit will be relatively short, it’s a great idea to combine this stop with other nearby destinations. The charming villages of Santa Lucía and San Bartolomé are close by and offer traditional Canarian food, quiet streets, and a taste of local culture.
Barranco de las Vacas may not have the scale of America’s great canyons, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in character. It’s a reminder that some of the most beautiful places aren’t the biggest; they’re the ones that surprise you, tucked away in unexpected corners of the world.
9. Amadores Beach: More than just a beach
White sand, turquoise water, swaying palms, and endless sunshine, what more could you ask for?
Welcome to Playa de Amadores! Our interns love and consider this one of the most beautiful beaches on Gran Canaria. Although this beach is man-made, it’s nothing short of paradise. In fact, its careful design is part of what makes it so special.
Thanks to its crystal-clear water, well-maintained facilities, and commitment to sustainability, Playa de Amadores has earned the Blue Flag year after year; a mark of clean, safe, and eco-friendly beaches. 🌊
But Playa de Amadores offers more than just sunbathing. If you’re looking for a bit more action, you can rent pedal boats with slides or have fun on giant inflatable climbing towers and water slides, there’s something here for every kind of beach lover.
Looking for a more chilled-out vibe? Just steps from the sand, you’ll find mini-golf, a relaxing spa, and plenty of seaside cafés and bars to sip a drink while soaking up the view.

As the sun sets below the horizon, Playa de Amadores transforms into a nightlife hotspot. With beachfront bars, live DJs, and dance floors under the stars, it’s the perfect place to dance the night away with the ocean breeze at your back.Whether you’re chasing adventure or just want to unwind, Playa de Amadores is a must-visit during your internship on Gran Canaria. Trust us, one visit won’t be enough. 🥰
10. Puerto Rico
Our final stop on our trip through Gran Canaria is the popular town Puerto Rico. Our interns know this town as the sunniest on the island. Almost 12 months of sunshine and blue skies. Here you can find countless beaches, activities, shopping opportunities and much more. ☀️
We took a walk along the marina and admired the boats. Puerto Ricos modern dock has around 530 spots for boats and yachts from 6 to 60 meters.
From here you can take a ferry and explore the neighboring islands.
The 16 kilometer long coast hosts around 20 beaches with each offering multiple water activities. The coastal walk from Puerto Ricos center to the Paya de Amadores is another must do.
The beautiful walk is one kilometer long and took us along the coast to the popular Playa de Amadores that we already mentioned before in this blog. You will not be able to see the beach until you turn right at the last corner of the path.

There, you will be rewarded with the sight of the whole beach surrounded by palms and bright, white sand.
But there’s more to explore than just the sea and the beach. Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria also offers great hiking and cycling routes for our interns who want to discover the landscapes. Moreover, Puerto Rico’s shopping options are quite varied, with everything from malls to markets. 💕
We hope our Top 10 must-see destinations help make your internship on sunny Gran Canaria even more exciting. Enjoy every moment of your time on the island of eternal sunshine! ☀️🏄♂️🌊