Gran Canaria is the largest of Spain’s famous Canary Islands, which lie off the coast of northwestern Africa. The island is known for the accents of black lava that speckle its landscape as well as the gorgeous white beaches that line its coast.
The capital city of Gran Canaria is Las Palmas, which is a major destination for cruise ships and duty-free shopping. Don’t be mistaken, however, there is far more than shopping centers on the island. A third of the island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and is one of the most naturally beautiful places to see anywhere in the world. With so much to do in Gran Canaria, the best way to maximize your time on the island is to hire a motor scooter and explore at your own pace.
Here is everything you need to know about hiring a scooter in Gran Canaria. Most things here can also be applied if you are renting a motorcycle. This guide includes:
- What you should know about driving in Gran Canaria
- The price of scooter rental
- The best places to hire a scooter in Gran Canaria
- Whether you need an international driving permit to drive in the Canary Islands
- The best things to do in Gran Canaria with a hired scooter
What Should You Know about Driving a Rented Scooter in Gran Canaria?
First and foremost, before you hop on a hired scooter and start driving around Gran Canaria, there are a few rules of the road you should know first. In Spain, including the Canary Islands, they drive on the right side of the road.
When it comes to roundabouts on the island, very few drivers actually use the inside lanes. It’s better to stay in the outside lane and drive with the flow of traffic, or else it may be very difficult to get out of the roundabout.
Local drivers tend to use their horns quite a bit, whether it’s to greet someone they know or to urge on the vehicles ahead of them. You’re better off ignoring horns rather than letting them interrupt your focus.
Mountain roads in Gran Canaria typically have safety barriers, so driving in the mountains is pretty safe. However, it’s perfectly understandable if you don’t want to drive fast on windy mountain roads. If a local driver is driving very fast and is trying to pass you, it’s polite to pull off to the side of the road and let them pass.
If you’re caught driving any more than 10% over the speed limit, you may have to pay a fine. Canarian police are allowed to ask tourists to pay fines on the spot, so it’s good to carry cash with you while driving. The best plan of action is simply to not speed.
What Is the Price of Renting a Scooter in Gran Canaria?
It is typically fairly cheap to rent a scooter in Gran Canaria. On the low end, you can find a scooter like a 50cc Kymco People for around €24 per day.
If you want a more powerful scooter, you can probably find a 400cc maxi scooter for a little over €40 per day. There are plenty of motorcycles available to rent too, these start usually from €60 all the way to €150 for the more premium models.
Most scooter rental shops include helmet rental and insurance in the stated price, but it’s always best to check with your shop and make sure.
Where Can You Hire a Scooter in Gran Canaria?
If you plan on flying into Gran Canaria Airport, also known as Gando Airport, there are plenty of services that will deliver your hired scooter directly to your arrival terminal, so you can get off your flight and drive directly to your accommodation.
If you’re arriving by boat at the Port of Las Palmas, there are a bunch of scooter rental shops in the area surrounding the port, and you should have no problem finding a scooter to hire.
Outside of those two areas, your best bet for finding somewhere to hire a motor scooter are Maspalomas and Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, which are both located along the southern coast of the island.
Do You Need an International Driving Permit to Hire a Scooter in the Canary Islands?
While Spanish law requires foreign drivers to obtain an international driving permit to operate a motor vehicle in the Canary Islands, many tourists do not obey this law and have no problems whatsoever. Still, it’s probably better to be safe than sorry.
If you want to get an international driving permit, you can apply here. There is an application fee of $20, and the permit usually takes about two weeks to come in the mail. Once you have your permit, it is valid for one full year.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Gran Canaria with a Hired Scooter?
Now that you know everything you need to hire a scooter in Gran Canaria, here are some of the best places on the island to explore:
Vegueta
As you’ll probably be starting your journey through the island in Las Palmas, take a trip 10 minutes south to the town of Vegueta. Drive through the Plaza Santa Ana and admire the vast array of different architectural styles dating all the way back to the 15th century.
Some of the best landmarks in the town include the stunning Cathedral of Santa Ana, the Museum of Sacred Art, and the Casa de Colon, which is dedicated to the life of Christopher Columbus.
Roque Nublo
Next, drive about an hour to the southwest of Vegueta, pretty much to the dead center of the island, and visit Roque Nublo. This is the most popular area for hiking in Gran Canaria, and is probably the most famous natural landmark on the island.
The crown jewel of the area is a volcanic rock that was formed by an eruption around 2.5 million years ago and stands 262 feet tall. There is a parking area right at the trailhead, so you can leave your rental scooter behind and conquer the terrain on foot.
Maspalomas
Continue driving another hour south from Roque Nublo and you’ll find yourself at the second largest beach in Gran Canaria, Maspalomas. This beach is primarily known for the vast dunes that make it seem almost like a desert that borders the ocean.
Maspalomas is a fragile ecosystem, so it’s important to walk with care and follow the demarcated routes. This spot is absolutely worth visiting, however, as it’s undoubtedly one of the most unique beaches in the world.
Explore Gran Canaria by Scooter
Regardless of what parts of the island seem the most intriguing to you, the best way to experience Gran Canaria is by hiring a scooter and riding down the coastal roads with the wind flowing through your hair. You’ll be able to stop at beaches, explore historical landmarks, or just joyride, all on your own schedule.
Do you still have questions about scooter rentals in Gran Canaria? No worries, you can always contact us by phone, email, or our website's live chat.
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