A panoramic view of a basketball court surrounded by trees and greenery under a bright blue sky.
Barranco de los Cernícalos


Welcome back to the Canary Vista ES blog!


While Gran Canaria is famous for its beaches and volcanic landscapes, my partner Martyna and I recently explored one of the island's greenest and most surprising secrets: the Barranco de los Cernícalos (Kestrels’ Ravine). Often described as an oasis, this ravine completely stands out against the typical dry landscapes of the island.

A series of natural rock formations and caves along a mountainside trail surrounded by green vegetation.
A scenic forest stream flows through dark mossy rocks in a mystical woodland setting.

The Green Secret: Year-Round Water Flow


Part of the Los Marteles Nature Reserve, the Barranco de los Cernícalos owes its lush character to a geological blessing: water flows here all year round. This continuous source creates beautiful cascades and small waterfalls that foster truly rich vegetation.

A scenic hiking trail winds through a dense forest of oak trees and green foliage on a sunny day.
A cascading waterfall flows down rocky cliffs surrounded by green vegetation in a natural canyon setting.
A rustic water channel flows through a wooded area with exposed tree roots and rocky terrain.
A scenic mountain landscape with rocky terrain and sparse vegetation stretches across multiple connected images.
Small cascading waterfall flows down dark rocky terrain surrounded by dense forest vegetation.
A series of connected photos showing a winding forest trail alongside a small cascading stream through rocky terrain.
A rocky stream cascades down mossy cliffs with white rushing water flowing through dark volcanic rocks and green ferns.
A panoramic view of rugged desert terrain with rocky outcrops and sparse vegetation under a bright sky.
A cascading waterfall flows down dark rocky cliffs surrounded by lush green foliage in a tropical forest setting.
Stone-lined water channel winds through a wooded trail with sunlight filtering through the trees.
A panoramic view of rugged desert mountains with saguaro cacti and scrub brush against a bright blue sky.
Dark forest path leads to a small waterfall cascading through dense vegetation and rocks in a tropical setting.
Close-up view of wooden logs with rough bark texture against a dark background showing natural wood patterns.
Misty mountain peaks rise above a forested landscape with dramatic cloudy skies in the distance.
A dark forest trail winds through dense vegetation with a small stream and waterfall visible in the distance.

Hiking & Logistics: Essential Trail Guide


The Barranco de los Cernícalos trail is a popular hiking route classified as easy to medium. Nevertheless, be sure to wear trekking or sports shoes. The path is naturally wet and slippery in places due to the continuous flow of water, and in some sections, you may need to use your hands for a small scramble.

A winding dirt trail curves along rocky cliffs surrounded by green shrubs and vegetation in a natural landscape.
A dark forest stream flows through mossy rocks and fallen logs in a shaded woodland setting.
A scenic mountain landscape with dense forest vegetation and rocky cliffs in natural lighting.
A dark and winding dirt trail meanders through a dense forest with overhanging branches and scattered rocks.

The Route:


The approximately 7 km (4.35 mile) out-and-back route is mostly flat, though it offers constant surprises in the form of narrow paths, plant tunnels, and stream crossings.

A winding dirt trail through a wooded area with mountains visible in the background on a sunny day.
Panoramic view of a rugged volcanic landscape with twisted tree branches against a cloudy sky.

Time Estimate:


The hiking time is estimated at 3–4 hours, although it certainly took us a bit longer because the light and beauty compelled us to stop and take photos constantly!

When to Go:


The ravine is very popular, especially among residents of Gran Canaria. To avoid crowds and ensure a peaceful experience, it is better not to plan a trip on weekends or public holidays.

Yellow birds perch on branches against a mountainous landscape backdrop in California.
A series of selfie photos taken near a rocky waterfall showing people enjoying nature outdoors.
A rocky desert trail winds through arid terrain with sparse vegetation and bushes under a bright blue sky.
Brown mushrooms growing on the bark of a tree trunk in a forest setting.
Tall flowering agave plants stand against a rocky hillside with desert brush and blue sky in the background.
A trail sign post with green and white markers indicating hiking rules and restrictions against a backdrop of rocky hills.
A dark forest path with dappled sunlight filtering through dense foliage and fallen leaves on the ground.
A series of seven forest path images showing a winding dirt trail through dense woodland vegetation and fallen leaves.
A panoramic view of fallen trees and debris scattered across dry soil in a wooded area under blue sky.
Scenic view of a desert landscape with rocky terrain and scattered desert vegetation under cloudy skies.
A dried brown plant stem with withered seed pods against a blurred green forest background.
A fallen redwood tree trunk lies twisted on the forest floor with reddish bark peeling away in layers.
Close-up view of dark rocky cliff face with scattered green vegetation growing between cracks and crevices.
A photographer wearing a knit hat photographs wildlife through dense jungle foliage.
Silhouetted gnarled tree branches create a moody atmospheric scene against a misty gray and orange sky.
Dramatic low-angle view of red sandstone rock formations with dark shadows and sparse vegetation against a moody sky.
A delicate purple-gray succulent plant growing from rocky soil with a moody dark background.

Crucial Advice for Your Visit



Parking & Navigation: The trail starts at a recreational area with tables and a designated car park. If you are using navigation, make sure you head to "Merenderos Barranco De Los Cernícalos" (the picnic area).



Setting your destination to just the ravine's name might lead you to an impassable road at the top of the canyon!


Supplies: Remember to bring water and provisions, as there are no shops or facilities available near the trailhead.

Classic black and white Converse sneakers with white socks on dirt ground.

 

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