Maipes Archaeological Park in Gran Canaria is a volcanic lava plain that is home to an ancient burial ground. Here’s the info for visiting.
How To Get To Maipes Archaeological Park
The island of Gran Canaria is only about 30 miles across, so most places are quite accessible.
The Archaeological Park is located on the outskirts of the village of Agaete in the north west of the island.
By Car:
Your best option to get to the Archaeological Park and other attractions in Gran Canaria is to hire a car.
There are car hire companies at the airport and in the capital – Las Palmas.
It’s just over a 30 minute drive from the capital Las Palmas to Maipes Archaeological Park.
There is free parking at the park.
By Bus:
A cheap and easy way to get around the island is by bus. There are three different coloured public transport buses in Gran Canaria:
Teal – travel between towns.
Yellow – travel around Las Palmas.
Red – open top tourist buses that travel around Las Palmas
Blue (Global) – go from various towns of the island to Las Palmas. Some also go from one small town to another.
Global Las Palmas operates a bus from C.C. Las Arenas to Iglesia de Agaete hourly. Tickets cost €3 – €5 and the journey takes 52 min with a 12 minute walk when you arrive.
By Tour:
For those short on time, or that prefer everything to be organised for them, there are some awesome tours on Get Your Guide available to book in advance.
You could always book a Customizable Private Tour and also take in some of the other attractions of your choice in Gran Canaria.
Maipes Archaeological Park Entrance Fee
Adult €3
Child 10 – 14 years €2
Under 10 years free
Maipes Archaeological Park Opening Times
Open Tuesday to Sunday 10am – 5pm
Best Time To Visit Maipes Archaeological Park + Tips
The hottest months in Gran Canaria are usually July and August, so if you like it a little cooler to walk around, avoid this time.
Unlike some of the attractions, this doesn’t seem to get really crowded, although it will be busier with tourists during peak season.
You will sometimes have local schools on educational trips, going around the park if you go during term time.
Allow yourself up to an hour to walk around the site and take in all the information.
You could also visit the nearby Tamadaba Natural Park whilst in this area.
What To Pack
What To Expect At Maipes Archaeological Park
This impressive Archaeological Park is a volcanic lava plain that sits just behind the beautiful Tamadaba Natural Park and is surrounded by sea and mountains.
It is known for being home to one of the most spectacular ancient burial grounds in the whole of the Canaries.
On arrival you will find an informative Visitors Centre with friendly staff who explain the types of tombs as well as describe the lives of the ancient island dwellers.
You can then follow the easily accessible pathways around the site that has been designed to blend in with the surrounding environment.
In addition, there are exhibits and information boards (in several different languages) that make sure you don’t miss anything of interest.
Previously used by the indigenous people of the island to bury their dead, there are nearly 700 tombs here, some dating back 1300 years.
Made out of volcanic stones, the tombs are generally cone-shaped, with some reaching up 3m in height. You will see them scattered dramatically across this amazing volcanic landscape.
In 1974 the park was recognised as a Cultural Heritage Site, not only due to it obvious archaeological value but also for its impressive geological features and flora and fauna.
The small entrance fee is definitely worth paying to visit this very well presented and fascinating archaeological site.
A great thing to do in Gran Canaria if you’re into history and nature!
Where To Stay In Gran Canaria
Luxury – Radisson Blu Resort & Spa
This property is 10 minutes far from the beach. Featuring an on-site fitness centre and a spa, Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Mogan, Gran Canaria is located in Puerto de Mogan.
This resort offers 2 swimming pools with a hot tub, as well as 1 pool for children.
All spacious, air-conditioned rooms and suites at Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Gran Canaria Mogan have modern décor and large balconies or terraces.
There is a seating area with satellite TV and Apple TV, free WiFi and a bathroom with a bathrobe and slippers.
The spa features an indoor pool with water jets, a hot tub, sauna and a Turkish bath. Massages and a range of beauty treatments are also available.
Mid-Budget – Apartamentos Cordial Magec Taurito
A sustainable apartment in Taurito, Apartamentos Cordial Magec Taurito offers sun terrace, private parking and sports facilities.
Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and a lift, along with free WiFi throughout the property.
The apartment provides an outdoor swimming pool with a pool bar, as well as a fitness centre and a concierge service.
The apartment complex will provide guests with air-conditioned units with a wardrobe, a coffee machine, a microwave, a toaster, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a shower. At the apartment complex, every unit includes bed linen and towels.
Budget – Sercotel Playa Canteras
Sercotel Playa Canteras offers ocean views from its setting overlooking Las Canteras Beach, in the centre of Las Palmas. It features a spa and rooms with free internet access.
The hotel offers simple, bright décor and each of its air-conditioned rooms has a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Many rooms feature views of the bay.
The Canary Islands Congress Centre and Alfredo Kraus Auditorium are within 5 minutes’ walk of the Sercotel Playa Canteras. Free parking is available nearby.
For more places to stay in Gran Canaria, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com.
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