Barranco de Las Vacas

Barranco de Las Vacas is often called the "Grand Canyon of Gran Canaria." The comparison is generous. The barranco is significantly smaller than its American counterpart, but it has its own charm: narrow, water-carved walls of colorful tuff rock that are reminiscent of Antelope Canyon in the USA. That's why this section is also called "Tobas de Colores" ("colored tuffs"). Tuff forms from volcanic deposits that water has shaped over a long time. In sunlight, the walls glow in shades of yellow, red, and white.

Location

The gorge is located in the southeast of the island, in the valley between Agüimes and Temisas. From Las Palmas, you drive about 35 to 50 minutes by car, from Maspalomas about 40 minutes. Strictly speaking, the visited section belongs to Barranco de Barafonso. But it has become known as "Barranco de Las Vacas."

Getting There and Parking

Our experience: You can park directly on the road, at coordinates 27.9122, -15.4764. From there, you walk a short distance to the "Túnel Barranco de las Vacas." The tunnel under the road is the access to the barranco. According to travel guides, it's only about a five-minute walk from the main road.

Navigation tips:

• Navigation: If you enter "Barranco de Las Vacas," the GPS often leads to the wrong place. Better use the coordinates or search for "Tobas de Colores del Barranco de las Vacas."
• Parking: There are only a few spots at the roadside nearby. Expect limited spaces during high season.
  Security: There have been multiple reports of car break-ins. Don't leave anything valuable visible in your car.
• By bus: Getting there is possible, for example via Cruce de Arinaga and continuing with Global line 34. Check current schedules beforehand, as the route is complicated.

On Site

• Photo spot: If you're lucky and alone, you'll get great photos with the curved, colorful walls. But usually other visitors are there, and you'll almost always have someone in your shot. Plan for some patience.
• Best time: During the week, early in the morning or late afternoon, midday is often quieter too. On weekends and during holidays it's more crowded.
• Footwear: We recommend sturdy shoes. The ground is rocky and can be slippery in some places.
  Sun and water: There's no shade along the way. Bring enough water, sun protection, and a hat.
• Protect nature: Stay on the paths, don't climb on the fragile walls, and take your trash with you.
  

If You Have More Time

Also worth visiting nearby:

• Agüimes: A pretty town with an old quarter and good food.
  Cuevas de La Audiencia and the Cueva de los Mil Colores near Telde.
• Barranco de Guayadeque: A longer gorge with caves and traces of the indigenous people. The visitor center is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm, closed Mondays. You can also eat at cave restaurants there.

Our Verdict

A small, photogenic gorge that works well as a stopover, especially during the week and early in the day. Combine it with Guayadeque or Agüimes, and you'll have a well-rounded half-day trip.