Sunset Off-Road Buggy Tour in the Ayagaures Canyons Gran Canaria

An off-road buggy adventure from Maspalomas

Just a few kilometres inland from the beaches of Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés, the south of Gran Canaria turns into a rugged landscape of bare mountains, dry ravines and dusty tracks. This buggy tour is 100% off-road: once you leave the base, you drive on dirt roads that are closed to normal traffic, climbing through the hills with views over the coast behind you.

Each buggy has two seats with a roll cage and seat belts. You drive yourself in a convoy behind the instructor, who sets the pace, chooses the route according to conditions and stops at the best viewpoints. You will get some dust on your face and clothes, which is part of the fun. If you are looking for a buggy tour in Gran Canaria with real off-road driving rather than tarmac, this is it.

The canyons and reservoirs of Ayagaures

Ayagaures is a small rural village in the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana, tucked into the mountains north of Maspalomas. The valley is known for its two reservoirs held back by stone dams, its palm trees and the steep slopes of reddish volcanic rock that surround it. It feels a world away from the busy resorts, though it is only a short drive from them.

The tracks around Ayagaures climb and twist through ravines and over ridges, giving wide views of the valleys and, in the distance, the sea. Your instructor stops at panoramic points so you can take photos and enjoy the silence of the mountains. The changing colours of the rock in the late-afternoon light make this stretch especially beautiful.

Towards the Fataga valley

From the hills above Maspalomas the route heads towards Fataga, a deep ravine known for its palm groves and its traditional white village. The Fataga valley is one of the most scenic landscapes in the south of the island, with layered cliffs and terraces carved into the mountainsides over centuries.

Driving towards it on dirt tracks gives you a perspective of the valley that few visitors see. Along the way you may spot lizards, birds of prey and the hardy plants that survive in this dry climate, such as cardón and tabaiba. The instructor keeps the group together and explains the route as you go, pausing where the view opens over the ravine so everyone can take photos.

Sunset timing, licences and practical tips

The tour starts at 16:00 with hotel pickup, and the whole experience lasts about two and a half hours including transfers, with about an hour and a half of driving. In the warmer months the ride ends in the golden light before sunset, and in winter the sun sets over the mountains as you return. The best time to do a sunset buggy tour in Maspalomas is any clear day of the year.

Every driver must bring a valid driving licence and have at least one year of driving experience. Children around 4 to 5 years old, from about one metre tall, are welcome as passengers. Goggles are provided, but dust masks are not, so you may want to bring a scarf or buff. Wear clothes you do not mind getting dusty, closed shoes and sunglasses. Bookings made less than 24 hours ahead may be given the nearest meeting point instead of hotel pickup.