Why is Gran Canaria so warm?

Why is Gran Canaria so warm? The temperature in Gran Canaria is among the most consistent anywhere in Europe. The island lies on the same latitude as the Sahara Desert, which makes sure the sun is warm all year round.

Why is Gran Canaria so special?

Known as the continent in miniature, Gran Canaria enjoys a year-round temperate climate that's ideal for both summer breaks and winter sun. Its diverse landscape includes a dry, desert-like south complete with undulating sand dunes, a lush green north and a cool centre with coniferous forests.

Is Gran Canaria a tropical island?

Gran Canaria – Tropical, Mountains and Beaches Gran Canaria is the 3rd largest of the 8 Canary Islands after Tenerife and Fuerteventura. Sunshine is virtually guaranteed all year round because it's closer to West Africa than Europe.

What food is Gran Canaria famous for?

Is Gran Canaria the hottest Canary Island?

Lanzarote. Lanzarote tends to be the hottest and most arid of the Canaries, as it is closest to the Sahara desert and because it is one of the lowest lying islands. The Sahara can bring high temperatures and fine sand to Lanzarote, causing occasional heatwaves.

Where to avoid in Gran Canaria?

if you prefer a relaxing holiday in quiet resorts, some of the places to avoid in Gran Canaria include areas where mass tourism is prevalent, such as the resorts of Playa del Ingles and Maspalomas. The island offers so much more than this, with diverse landscapes to explore, and a myriad of activities to enjoy.

What is typical canarian food?

Traditional Canarian food can be described in two words: simple and delicious. With the emphasis on freshness, everyday Canarian dishes comprise grilled meats or fish (tuna, parrot fish, vieja, swordfish, sea bass), soups, stews and vegetables - many of which are surprisingly hearty.

Can you swim in the Canary Islands year round?

In the coastal part of the island (especially in the south) the water of the sea is warm enough for you to swim all year round and freely enjoy deep dives in the crystalline waters of Tenerife. In the winter season, there is a slight drop in temperatures.

Is Gran Canaria closer to Spain or Africa?

The Canary Archipelago is far closer to Africa than Spain. If you look at the Canary Islands travel info, you might be surprised by just how close the Canary Islands are to the African mainland. They sit on the African tectonic plate.

Why is Gran Canaria so windy?

Gran Canaria is not a particularly windy island, except for some areas such as Maspalomas or Agaete. However, its proximity to the Sahara desert means there may be some days of dust storms a year, but this phenomenon rarely hampers visitors from enjoying their vacation.

What ethnicity is Gran Canaria?

Ancestry. The native inhabitants of the Canary Islands hold a gene pool that is predominantly European and native Guanche. Guanche genetic markers have also been found recently in Puerto Rico and, at low frequencies, in peninsular Spain after later emigration from the Canary Islands.

Do people speak English in Gran Canaria?

As in the rest of Spain, in the Canary Islands the official language is Spanish. However, as in the majority of countries, there are many people who speak English, the second most spoken language, and many people also understand German.

Is the sun stronger in Gran Canaria?

Using sunscreen reduces the risk of skin cancer by half but it isn't a total solution. The sun in Gran Canaria between 11.00 and 14.00 during the summer is as strong as it gets anywhere in the world and even a high factor sunscreen doesn't keep it at bay.

Does Gran Canaria ever get cold?

Very mild winters mark out Gran Canaria as a popular destination for those looking for winter sun. There may be only six hours of sun per day between November and February, but average peak temperatures remain at a minimum of 21 °C even in the coolest months of January and February.

How touristy is Gran Canaria?

The number of visitors in Gran Canaria, Spain jumped to nearly 3.8 million in 2022, after having dropped below two million in the previous years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This Spanish island received more than four million tourists per year in the late 2010s.

Which is the least touristy Canary Island?

The smallest of the main Canary Islands, El Hierro is also the least touristy. If you want a chilled-out holiday in a small fishing village, with wild empty beaches that harbour some superb diving, then this is the place.

Is it warm enough to swim in Gran Canaria?

Sea temperatures around Gran Canaria vary between 18ºC and 25ºC depending on the season and the depth of the water. The ocean is at its warmest in September and October because the sea around the island is calm during the summer and is heated by the strong sunshine.

Can you swim in Canary Islands in December?

This also depends on which beach you choose, since beaches that are more sheltered will have a warmer sea temperature. We've been able to swim in December in the Canaries several times, as well as all the other winter months, although there can be significant differences from year to year.

What is the best climate in the world?

The Canary Islands climate is considered the best climate in the world, thanks to the year-round pleasant, mild temperatures. This is added to the facts that it rarely rains in the archipelago and that it is the region with the most hours of sunlight per day in Europe.