Roque Nublo is the symbol of Gran Canaria’s interior. The rock is a tall basalt monolith, about sixty-eight metres high, standing on a ridge at 1,813 metres in the Nublo Rural Park, and it looks different from every angle as the cloud rolls around it, which is where its name, the cloudy rock, comes from. Visiting costs nothing, and the walk from the roadside parking takes about thirty minutes each way. The trail is steep in places, exposed and has little shade, so it suits people with a reasonable level of fitness. If you prefer to have a guide, a small-group hike with a local operator takes you through the pine forest and volcanic landscape, handles the logistics and adds the background on the island’s geology and legends. The hike we link to is a guided volcano hike to Roque Nublo, about five and a half hours in total.
How it works
The guided hike starts from a meeting point arranged with the operator and heads into the mountains. The walk itself follows the path up to the base of the rock, with time at the viewpoint for photos and a rest, and then returns the same way. The trip is described as a small-group hike through the forest and volcanic landscape, so check the details on the voucher for the meeting point, transport and what is included.
What to expect
The trail climbs steadily on stone steps and loose rock, so wear proper shoes and take poles if you like them. The weather in the mountains is quite different from the coast. It can be warm and sunny at sea level and cool, windy or misty at 1,800 metres, particularly in winter, and cloud can hide the rock completely.
Eagles and ravens are sometimes seen, and on very clear days Mount Teide on Tenerife shows on the horizon. The rock itself is a protected monument, and climbing it requires a specialist guide and is not part of the normal walk.
Making the most of it
Start early, because the parking area fills up and cloud often builds later in the day. Bring layers, a windproof jacket, water and snacks. A mountain visit combines well with a village lunch in Tejeda, one of the island’s prettiest hill towns. The roads are winding, so allow extra time if you drive yourself.
What to expect
The experience
A guided walk of about thirty minutes each way to the foot of a basalt pinnacle, with viewpoints and a stop in the pine forest.
Best time
A clear morning, before cloud builds around the rock, with a layer for the cooler air at altitude.
How long
The guided trip takes about five and a half hours; the walk alone takes one and a half to two hours with time at the top.
Tips
Wear sturdy shoes and layers, bring water, and check the cloud forecast before you set off.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active visitors who want the island’s best-known landscape and a break from beach days.
- Families
- Older children who like walking will enjoy it, but the path is steep and exposed in places, so it is not for toddlers.
- Couples
- Go early for the best light and finish with a village lunch in Tejeda.
- Pair with
- A lunch in Tejeda or a visit to the old towns of Teror and Arucas on another day.
- Time needed
- Half a day with transport, or about two hours for the walk if you drive yourself.
Good questions
How hard is the Roque Nublo hike?+
The path takes about thirty minutes each way from the roadside parking and is steep in places, with stone steps and little shade. It suits anyone with a reasonable level of fitness.
How high is Roque Nublo?+
The ridge on which it stands is at 1,813 metres, and the rock rises about sixty-eight metres above it. It is one of the island’s highest and best-known landmarks.
Is it free to visit Roque Nublo?+
Yes, there is no charge to walk to the rock. A guided hike adds transport, a guide and background on the landscape for a fee.
What should I wear for the Roque Nublo hike?+
Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring layers, a windproof jacket, a hat and water. It can be much cooler and windier at 1,800 metres than on the coast.
Can I see Mount Teide from Roque Nublo?+
On very clear days Teide on Tenerife is visible on the horizon. Cloud often hides it, so go early and check the forecast.
