Gran Canaria Walking Festival

It’s time to get ready for autumn trekking, among the surprising landscapes of a miniature continent.

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Walking is an ancient, simple, universal gesture. Yet, in some places, it can become a transformative experience. One of these is Gran Canaria, an Atlantic island in the Canary Islands that, for those who love trekking, is a continuous discovery. From 23 to 26 October 2025, the Gran Canaria Walking Festival returns: four days of guided excursions to discover the most authentic and spectacular landscapes of the island. An event dedicated to trekking as a practice of well-being, connection with nature and slow immersion in the territory, designed for those who love to explore by walking and be surprised by ever-changing scenarios.

Organised by Gran Canaria Natural & Active and sponsored by the Cabildo de Gran Canaria, with the support of Turismo de Gran Canaria, the festival reaches its 14th edition, confirming itself as one of the most anticipated outdoor events for the European autumn.

Camminare in un’isola che è molto più di un’isola

Often associated with beaches and resorts, Gran Canaria has a wild and varied soul that will leave even the most experienced hikers speechless. It is not by chance that it is called “continent in miniature”: in its relatively compact perimeter there is a surprising variety of ecosystems and landscapes and more than 40 different microclimates.

In just a few hours you can go from volcanic plateaus to Canarian pine forests, from steep ravines (the famous barrancos) to villages clinging to the mountain, up to cliffs overlooking the ocean and black beaches of lava sand or expanses of golden beaches and dunes. The Roque Nublo, a natural monument and symbol of the island, rises over 1,800 meters like a solitary sentinel, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

Areas such as Inagua, Tamabada, Fataga and the Bandama Caldera are just some of the unmissable stops for those who love walking immersed in primitive and vibrant nature.

Physical well-being, mental balance and connection with the territory

Trekking, as we know, is one of the most complete outdoor activities: it strengthens the cardiovascular system, tones the muscles, improves posture and helps reduce stress. But the Gran Canaria Walking Festival goes further. Here, walking also becomes an inner journey, a way to slow down and recover a more natural rhythm. The mental benefits of walking in nature are now documented: it lowers cortisol levels, improves mood, stimulates creativity and increases concentration.

During the festival, excursions are designed for all levels: from the gentlest panoramic routes, ideal for enjoying the landscape and the warm light of autumn, to the most challenging trails, with differences in altitude and technical sections that will satisfy even the most expert walkers.

A protected ecosystem to be lived with respect

Over 43% of Gran Canaria is made up of protected natural areas, and much of these are only accessible on foot. The island has been recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, for almost half of its territory and walking here means being part of a fragile and precious ecosystem, where every step must be conscious.

The festival promotes a sustainable and responsible approach to trekking. Each group is accompanied by expert local guides who not only ensure safety, but also share knowledge about the territory, flora and fauna endemic to the island. The excursions often end with eco-friendly picnics, based on local products, for an experience that nourishes all the senses.

An outdoor event that becomes an experiential journey

Taking part in the Gran Canaria Walking Festival is not just taking part in a series of excursions: it is getting in touch with the most authentic soul of the island. It is sharing steps and silences with other walkers from all over Europe, discovering rural villages where time has stopped, observing the starry sky that shines without light pollution, and exchanging stories around a plate of papas arrugadas or sharing a snack of almond sweets from Tejeda.

Backpack on your shoulders, hiking boots on your feet and off you go: Gran Canaria awaits you, trail after trail.
An island that doesn’t just make you walk… it changes your pace.