Hiking in Waterfalls & Rainforest with local guides: Sky Rebels

REVIEW · GRAN CANARIA

Hiking in Waterfalls & Rainforest with local guides: Sky Rebels

  • 5.017 reviews
  • 5 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
  • From $98.52
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Traveller rating★ 5.0 (17)Duration5 hours 30 minutes (approx.)Price from$98.52Operated bySky RebelsBook viaViator

Waterfalls feel like a reward here. In Gran Canaria, Sky Rebels takes you into Barranco de Los Cernicalos with local guides Inés and Juanjo, turning a short ride into a jungle-style hike with stories about island nature and how people live here. I especially like the small group size (max 6) and the way you get help that makes the walk easier, including trekking poles if you need them.

One catch: this is an active day. The route is easy–medium, but it still covers about 8–9 km with real uneven ground, and the tour asks for proper hiking shoes plus you should carry at least 1.5 liters of water.

Sky Rebels Rainforest and Waterfall Hike: What You’ll Really Get

Hiking in Waterfalls & Rainforest with local guides: Sky Rebels - Sky Rebels Rainforest and Waterfall Hike: What You’ll Really Get
• A true Gran Canaria switch-up: You start near Maspalomas and end up in a tropical-feeling forest at Barranco de Los Cernicalos.

• Local guidance you can talk to: Inés and Juanjo lead the hike and share stories about the island, its inhabitants, and local nature.

• Easy–medium, not a stroll: Expect roughly 8–9 km and about 300 m of unevenness, with ~4 hours of walking time plus stops.

• Comfortable start and finish: You ride in an air-conditioned vehicle and return to the meeting point at the end.

• Food included for the hike length: Brunch sandwiches and fruit keep you fueled.

• Best for good weather days: The experience depends on weather; if it’s canceled for that reason, you’ll be offered another date or a refund.

Where Gran Canaria Turns Tropical: Barranco de Los Cernicalos

Hiking in Waterfalls & Rainforest with local guides: Sky Rebels - Where Gran Canaria Turns Tropical: Barranco de Los Cernicalos
If you’ve only seen Gran Canaria from the coast, this hike helps you understand how quickly the island changes. You’ll be starting from the resorts area (about 40 minutes away), and then the scenery shifts into a rainforest-like feel—cooler air, greener surroundings, and that “how is this here?” sense of place.

Barranco de Los Cernicalos is the main focus of the day. This isn’t just scenic walking; it’s a route that’s built around moving through a natural corridor and reaching a waterfall experience. The way the hike is timed also matters: you’ll spend enough time on the trail to feel like you actually did something, not just got a quick photo stop and left.

The biggest advantage of doing this with Sky Rebels is that you’re not just looking at plants and rocks. Inés and Juanjo guide you through what you’re seeing—local nature, how the island’s ecosystems work, and the human side of living on Gran Canaria. That’s the difference between a hike that’s pretty and a hike that sticks in your memory.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Gran Canaria.

The Morning Plan: 8:30 Departure and a Smooth Round Trip

The tour starts at 8:30 am and runs about 5 hours 30 minutes total, ending back at the meeting point. That “back where you started” detail is genuinely useful on vacation, because you don’t have to solve logistics after your hike.

You’ll also have an air-conditioned vehicle for the trip from and back. Even if you’re the type who loves public transport, this is the right kind of comfort: it saves your legs for the actual trail and keeps the day from feeling like an endurance test before it even begins.

The tour is also described as being near public transportation, which is helpful if you’re staying in the area and want flexibility. And since the tour has a small max group size of 6 people, the schedule stays more manageable than the big-bus chaos days.

How Hard Is It, Really? 8–9 km, 300 m Unevenness, Easy–Medium

Hiking in Waterfalls & Rainforest with local guides: Sky Rebels - How Hard Is It, Really? 8–9 km, 300 m Unevenness, Easy–Medium
Sky Rebels lists the difficulty as easy–medium, but here’s how I’d interpret it if you’re deciding whether it’s for you: this hike is ideal if you hike a few times a year and you’re comfortable walking for a stretch, but it’s not a casual flat walk.

You’ll be walking about 8–9 km total, with unevenness around 300 m. That unevenness matters because it usually means uneven footing and small changes in grade—nothing extreme, but enough that proper footwear makes a difference fast. The walking time is about 4 hours with stops, so plan on being active even though the difficulty level isn’t described as hard.

What this means for you:

  • Bring hiking shoes, not just sneakers.
  • If you’re someone who gets tired on uneven ground, consider using the trekking poles Sky Rebels provides if you need them.
  • Aim for a moderate fitness level, because the day is built around moving for hours.

Also note the practical reality of rainforest-style hikes: surfaces can be slick, and you’ll likely be dealing with dampness. Even if you’re lucky and the ground is fine, your best move is still to wear shoes with real grip.

Your Main Stop: The Waterfall Moment at Barranco de Los Cernicalos

Hiking in Waterfalls & Rainforest with local guides: Sky Rebels - Your Main Stop: The Waterfall Moment at Barranco de Los Cernicalos
The hike’s main stop is Barranco de Los Cernicalos, where you’ll spend about 4 hours on the walking portion (with stops). This is where the “waterfalls and rainforest” part comes alive.

The trail route is described as a jungle-like area leading you up to a waterfall, which is a great setup for your expectations. You’re not just walking in the rainforest—you’re moving toward a payoff. You also get multiple stops along the way, which can be a plus if you prefer to absorb a place rather than just march through it.

One more detail: because the hike is relatively long (8–9 km), those stops matter. They help you catch your breath, check in on how you’re feeling, and take in what the guides are pointing out. Inés and Juanjo’s storytelling is part of that rhythm—stories about island life and local nature make the pauses feel intentional, not just “waiting for the next turn.”

Drawback to keep in mind: this isn’t a short waterfall walk with an easy exit. If you’re looking for a quick, light outing, the time and distance may feel like more than you planned.

What You Eat on the Trail: Brunch Sandwiches and Fruit

Hiking in Waterfalls & Rainforest with local guides: Sky Rebels - What You Eat on the Trail: Brunch Sandwiches and Fruit
One thing I like about this tour is that they feed you. You’ll get brunch sandwiches and fruits included, which helps a lot because the hike lasts long enough that hunger can become an issue.

This matters for value and comfort. At many hiking tours, the “included food” is basically a cookie or a tiny snack. Here, you’re getting real meal-style items, so you’re not stuck scrambling for a late lunch after you finish.

If you’re the kind of person who likes to keep moving, fruit and sandwiches are good hiking fuel. And since bottled water isn’t included, you can use the included food without worrying about hydration costs—just remember to bring your own water (more on that next).

What to Bring (So the Day Feels Easy–Medium)

Hiking in Waterfalls & Rainforest with local guides: Sky Rebels - What to Bring (So the Day Feels Easy–Medium)
Sky Rebels is clear about what isn’t included, and you’ll be happier if you treat those items as part of the plan, not optional extras.

Plan to bring:

  • At least 1.5 liters of water (they specifically recommend this)
  • Proper hiking shoes
  • Hiking clothes
  • Sun protection

Why I’m firm on the water: even if the hike is described as easy–medium, you’re still walking for hours. In warm weather, dehydration sneaks up, especially when you’re concentrating on footing.

Sun protection also deserves a spot in your daypack even if you’re in a greener area, because trail shade varies. Toss in basic protection and you’ll feel better at the end, not just at the beginning.

If you’re not sure what to wear, think practical: breathable top layers, something that dries decently, and footwear that won’t punish you after 8–9 km.

Guides Inés and Juanjo: The Human Side of the Island

Hiking in Waterfalls & Rainforest with local guides: Sky Rebels - Guides Inés and Juanjo: The Human Side of the Island
The reviews emphasize that the experience is fun and informative, and the standout names are Inés and Juanjo. What you’re really buying here is more than a route. You’re getting a pair of local guides who clearly enjoy the island and know how to share it.

From what’s described, they’re not reciting facts for the sake of facts. They keep the hike entertaining with stories about:

  • local nature
  • island inhabitants
  • what you’re seeing along the trail

That’s why this hiking day doesn’t feel like you’re just following a line on a map. Instead, it feels like you’re walking with people who can explain why certain plants show up, what the local environment is like, and how daily life connects to the landscape around you.

The other quiet benefit of a small group (max 6) is that you’re more likely to ask questions and get answers that fit your interests, not a generic lecture.

Price and Value: Is $98.52 Worth It?

Hiking in Waterfalls & Rainforest with local guides: Sky Rebels - Price and Value: Is $98.52 Worth It?
At $98.52 per person, this isn’t a budget “just sign up and go” add-on. But you’re also not paying for only a trail.

You do get:

  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • All fees and taxes
  • Brunch sandwiches and fruit
  • Hiking poles if required
  • a ticket included
  • a guided hike with a max of 6 travelers
  • a walking distance and route plan that adds up to a real half-day

For me, the value comes down to the combination. Transport plus food plus guide plus a structured hike is a lot to assemble on your own, and it’s especially helpful when you’re visiting Gran Canaria and don’t want to spend time figuring out routes.

The best way to think about cost here: you’re paying for convenience and guidance. If you’re the type who enjoys self-guided exploration only, you might find this pricier than you want. If you like learning while moving and you’d rather spend the morning outdoors with people who know the island, it looks like a fair deal.

And yes, the satisfaction signals are strong: the activity holds a 5 out of 5 rating with 17 reviews, and everyone recommends it. That doesn’t automatically mean it’s perfect for every body type, but it does mean the odds are good that you’ll leave happy.

Who This Sky Rebels Hike Fits Best

This tour asks for moderate physical fitness and says it’s not recommended for children due to the duration. That alone tells you where it lands on the vacation spectrum.

You’ll probably love it if:

  • you enjoy hikes that take a few hours and aren’t just a quick walk
  • you want waterfall and rainforest scenery in one morning plan
  • you like guided storytelling and not just photo stops
  • you prefer small groups (max 6)

You might want to skip or switch if:

  • you’re hoping for something very gentle or stroller-friendly
  • you don’t want to walk 8–9 km
  • weather is a major concern for you (since it requires good weather)

In other words: this is for people who can handle a couple hours of walking with some unevenness, and who care about the experience being guided and explained.

Quick Day-of Tips That Make a Difference

These aren’t extras for the sake of it. They help you get the experience you paid for.

  • Wear trail-ready shoes from the start. Don’t “save them” for later.
  • Carry water in a bottle you’ll actually use. 1.5 liters can feel like a lot until you’re halfway through the day.
  • Bring sun protection even on a rainy-flavor hike. You’ll still catch sun when you’re in open patches.
  • Pack for comfort: hiking clothes, not just a light dress shirt.
  • If trekking poles are offered and you use them, it can help with uneven ground over time.

A small group tour like this runs smoother when everyone shows up prepared. You’ll feel the difference.

Should You Book This Sky Rebels Waterfall and Rainforest Hike?

If you want a half-day that’s active but not punishing, this is a strong booking. The sweet spot is: local guides (Inés and Juanjo), a rainforest-feeling setting, a planned route to a waterfall, and included food plus transport. For $98.52, you’re paying for guidance and convenience, not just scenery.

I’d book it if you’re comfortable with 8–9 km and you can follow the basics: hiking shoes, hydration, sun protection, and a good weather window. Skip it if you’re chasing a super-easy stroll or if the duration won’t work for your group—especially since children aren’t recommended for this one.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the Sky Rebels hiking tour?

The tour lasts about 5 hours 30 minutes.

Where does the hike take place?

The tour focuses on Barranco de Los Cernicalos in Gran Canaria, Spain.

What language is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

How many people are in the group?

The tour has a maximum of 6 travelers.

What’s included in the price?

Included items are the air-conditioned vehicle, all fees and taxes, brunch sandwiches and fruits, hiking poles if required, and an admission ticket. Walking distance is 8–9 km.

What should I bring with me?

You should bring at least 1.5 liters of water, proper hiking shoes, hiking clothes, and sun protection.

Is it suitable for children?

Due to the duration of the tour, it’s not recommended for children.

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