Gran Canaria according to data from the Department of Tourism of the Government of the Canary Islands It continues to be one of the tourist heartlands of the Canary Islands, and within the island, the south shines brightly. In 2024, the Maspalomas Dunes topped the ranking of most visited places on the island, with 49% of tourists who visited the island including this natural site in their itinerary. This emblematic protected area, which combines desert beauty, native fauna, and a unique ecosystem, remains a must-see on the journey of millions of visitors. It's not just a visual attraction: it's a symbol of Gran Canaria's tourist identity and an enclave of high ecological value.
Also in the south, Puerto de Mogán ranks as the third most visited destination, with 41% of tourists. Known as the "Venice of the Canary Islands," this charming fishing port has consolidated its appeal thanks to its combination of traditional architecture, canals, beaches, and gastronomic offerings. Despite its small size, its impact is disproportionate: it welcomes thousands of visitors every day seeking the ideal picture of a tranquil and photogenic coastal paradise.
The island's capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, remains in second place with 47,9%, thanks to its cultural, commercial, and urban offerings. However, its appeal contrasts with the booming inland areas. The north and the peaks, with areas such as Roque Nublo (13,3%) and Barranco de Guayadeque (7,2%), are gaining ground among tourists who increasingly seek contact with nature, hiking, and rural authenticity.
Places with their own identity, such as Teror (14%) and Agaete (14,2%), have maintained a constant presence on visitors' itineraries, reflecting a greater interest in history, heritage, and mid-mountain landscapes. In these destinations, traditions, colonial architecture, and gastronomy intertwine to offer an alternative experience to sun and beach tourism. Thus, in 2024, Gran Canaria presents itself as a mosaic of tourist attractions, where the south remains a clear leader, but the interior and the north are gaining ground in a trend that reflects a growing demand for authenticity, sustainability, and diversity. The island is not just beaches and dunes: it is mountains, history, towns with soul, and landscapes that captivate beyond the first glance. And this balance is, perhaps, its true driving force for the future.