Cenobio de Valerón
Explore ancient granary caves carved into volcanic rock, offering a glimpse into Guanche history and stunning island views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Cenobio de Valerón
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient granary caves carved into volcanic rock, offering a glimpse into Guanche history and stunning island views.
"Absolutely breathtaking. For me it was a must see, and it was absolutely worth it."
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Only about 7 parking spots available. Arrive early or be prepared to wait!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The site involves steps and uneven terrain. Slippers are okay, but avoid running.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Ancient Granary Caves
Carved into the volcanic tuff
Explore over 300 interconnected silos carved into the rock, once used to store vital grain supplies.

Panoramic Island Views
From the clifftop location
Soak in breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and the northern coast of Gran Canaria.

Guanche History Exhibits
Information points throughout the site
Learn about the ingenious storage methods and daily life of the island's pre-Hispanic inhabitants.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Ascent
A Glimpse into the Past
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Only about 7 parking spots available. Arrive early or be prepared to wait!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The site involves steps and uneven terrain. Slippers are okay, but avoid running.
💰 Affordable Entry
Tickets are reasonably priced at 3 EUR for adults and 2 EUR for children.
📸 Stunning Photo Ops
The unique rock formations and expansive views make for incredible photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Only about 7 parking spots available. Arrive early or be prepared to wait!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The site involves steps and uneven terrain. Slippers are okay, but avoid running.
💰 Affordable Entry
Tickets are reasonably priced at 3 EUR for adults and 2 EUR for children.
📸 Stunning Photo Ops
The unique rock formations and expansive views make for incredible photos.
⛰️ Steep Drive Ahead
The mountain road can be challenging. Drive carefully and enjoy the scenic route.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Cenobio de Valerón to be a historically significant and visually stunning site, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of the ancient Guanches. The breathtaking views and the fascinating cave structures are consistently praised, making it a worthwhile detour from typical tourist spots. However, the limited parking and steep mountain drive are noted challenges.
"Quite the uphill drive, but definitely worth it. The history of the place is well documented throughout the climb, and the views are stunning. The staff were really nice as well!
The parking spots are very few (around 7)."
Diana Boeșan
"Absolutely breathtaking. For me it was a must see, and it was absolutely worth it. The views are stunning and the ruin is just beautiful. There's lots of information about the guanches and how they lived. Staff was also friendly and it wasn't busy at all.
If you're tired of all the tourist trappy places on gran Canaria, I definitely recommend going here. You won't fill up an entire day here but it's 100% worth it to take a look."
Floris Cramer
"The area is very pretty and unique. Its also nice to learn a bit from the history of Gran Canaria and how it came to be.
The route is quite short and if you have a fear if heights it can be somewhat scary.
It was a bit sad to see how visitors damaged the dragon blood tree and other structures in the area.
Never the less, worth the visit!"
Pascal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cenobio de Valerón is located in the municipality of Santa María de Guía on Gran Canaria. The drive involves mountain roads which can be steep and winding. Many visitors recommend driving, as public transport options might be less direct. Be aware that parking is very limited, with only around 7 spots available.
The drive is described as a 'bit challenging' due to its mountain location, with steep and winding roads. However, the views along the way are often considered worth the effort.
Parking is extremely limited, with only about 7 spots. It's advisable to arrive early in the day to secure a space.
While specific routes can vary, public transport to Santa María de Guía is available, but you may need to arrange further transport or a walk to reach the site itself. Driving is generally recommended for easier access.
The site involves steps and uneven terrain, and is not wheelchair friendly. Visitors with mobility concerns should be aware of these limitations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is quite affordable, typically around 3 EUR per adult and 2 EUR per child (e.g., 11-year-old). Some sources mention an annual pass option for 3 EUR.
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally advisable to visit during daylight hours. Checking local listings or the official site before your visit is recommended. Many visitors find mornings or late afternoons to be ideal.
Advance booking is usually not required. Tickets can typically be purchased at a small hut upon arrival.
Yes, there is a reduced fee for children, often around 2 EUR for an 11-year-old.
The site is generally accessible year-round, though it's always a good idea to check for any seasonal closures or specific holiday hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Cenobio de Valerón is an archaeological site featuring over 300 interconnected caves carved into volcanic rock, historically used as a communal granary. You can explore these 'silos,' learn about the Guanche people, and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Most visitors find that Cenobio de Valerón is not a full-day attraction. A visit typically takes about an hour or so, making it a great stop for a few hours of exploration and photos.
While children can visit, it's important to supervise them closely. The site involves steps and can be a bit scary for those with a fear of heights. Running around is not advised.
This site is one of the largest aboriginal communal granaries in Gran Canaria, dating back over 800 years. It was crucial for storing cereals and other foodstuffs, protecting them from pirates and ensuring survival.
There is a small hut where you can purchase tickets and some small items. Restroom facilities might be limited, so plan accordingly.
📸 📸 Photography
The unique cave entrances, the interconnected silos, and the panoramic views of the mountains and coast offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The golden hour light can enhance the dramatic landscape.
While some drone footage exists, it's essential to check local regulations regarding drone usage in archaeological sites and protected areas before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the caves and the expansive views. A standard zoom lens will also be versatile. Consider bringing a polarizing filter to enhance the sky and reduce glare.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or the use of tripods in certain areas might require special permission. Always be respectful of the site.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, offers beautiful lighting for dramatic shots of the rock formations and landscapes. Mornings can also be good for softer light and fewer crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While not a playground, the exploration aspect of climbing through and around the ancient silos can be engaging for kids. The stunning views also provide a great backdrop for family photos. Consider bringing snacks and water, as amenities are minimal. The affordable entry fee makes it a budget-friendly outing for families looking for a cultural and scenic stop on Gran Canaria.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
The unique rock formations and the historical significance of the site add an extra layer of interest for nature lovers. The panoramic views are a major draw, providing a sense of the island's rugged beauty. It's a great spot to combine a bit of history with an appreciation for the natural environment of Gran Canaria.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ingenuity of the Guanches
The sheer scale and complexity of the site highlight a sophisticated social structure, where collective effort was paramount for the community's well-being. The location itself, perched on a strategic escarpment, offered both a commanding view and a defensible position. Exploring these ancient chambers provides a tangible connection to a past civilization, offering insights into their daily lives, agricultural practices, and their deep connection to the land.
While the name 'Cenobio' historically suggested a place of religious seclusion for priestesses (Harimaguadas), modern archaeological consensus points to its primary function as a vital collective storage facility. This reinterpretation underscores the practical and communal nature of Guanche society, where shared resources were essential for survival and prosperity on the island.
Experiencing Cenobio de Valerón: Tips from Visitors
Practical advice from fellow travelers includes arriving early due to the very limited parking (around 7 spots) and wearing comfortable, sturdy shoes as the site involves steps and uneven terrain. While slippers are deemed acceptable, running is discouraged, especially for young children. The entrance fee is considered very affordable, with tickets costing around 3 EUR for adults.
Some visitors note that the site is not a full-day excursion, suggesting it's ideal for a few hours of exploration and photography. There's a small hut for purchasing tickets and souvenirs. A few reviews mention the unfortunate sight of visitors damaging the natural elements, urging respect for the historical and ecological integrity of the site.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit