Caldera de Bandama

One of the most geologically accessible volcanic hikes in the Canary Islands — the Caldera de Bandama is a spectacular 1 km-wide, 200-meter-deep volcanic crater located just 20 minutes from Las Palmas, created by a massive explosive eruption approximately 5,000 years ago. Two hiking options are available, both starting from the same area: the circular rim walk (3.2 km, approximately 1–1.5 hours) offers a breathtaking trail around the entire crater edge with views into the caldera's interior, across the northeastern coast of Gran Canaria to Las Palmas, and to the central mountains on clear days; the bottom walk descends steeply into the caldera (1.5 km round trip, approximately 1 hour) to explore the crater floor, where abandoned farm terraces, wild fig trees, and endemic succulents have reclaimed the volcanic bowl — a genuinely otherworldly micro-landscape. The descent is steep and uneven (200 m drop) — sturdy shoes essential, and the climb back up is demanding. The Pico de Bandama viewpoint, adjacent to the caldera, is a 574-meter peak with a historic watchtower, offering the best panorama of the crater and is accessible by car with a short walk from the parking area. The caldera is part of the Bandama Natural Monument, a protected volcanic landscape. The on-site Bodega del Monte winery (at the base of Pico de Bandama) offers wine tastings of volcanic-soil Gran Canaria D.O. wines — a perfect post-hike reward. Free access. Parking at the Pico de Bandama upper car park or at the Caldera de Bandama lower car park. A 25-minute drive from Las Palmas via the GC-110. Best months: October–May; the exposed crater rim can be very hot in summer. Combine with a visit to the historic quarter of Vegueta in Las Palmas or a drive to the nearby Santa Brígida market. The Bandama crater is a spectacular and easily accessible introduction to Canarian volcanism — a must-do short hike for geology enthusiasts and casual walkers alike.