Prior to the tour, meet Marco Antonio Moreno Benítez, an expert archeologist and your National Geographic-trained guide, share information about the pre-Hispanic society of Gran Canaria.
Your tour begins with a guided, pre-opening hours visit of the Canarian Museum, whose permanent exhibit is dedicated to the aboriginal population of Gran Canaria, who lived on the island until the 15th century. You'll learn about their habits and customs, economic activities, funerary practices and beliefs.
Next, transfer to La Fortaleza Museum to learn about ancestor diets as you try local products, including olive oil, bread, salt from Tenefé Saltworks and pastries made with gogio, almonds or figs, which are some of the main-and ancestral-products of this island. Get a firsthand look at the archaeological materials Tibicena have in their storage, which range from ceramics, graffiti and idols, and even the remains of mummies. National Geographic travelers will also get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the archives room to see recent findings not yet on display to the general public.
Next, visit La Fortaleza archaeological site, the most complete in Gran Canaria. site contains a wide variety of archaeological evidence that includes habitat caves (some with paintings) and funerary caves, various granaries (the oldest in Gran Canaria is here), a large settlement of stone houses, stone funerary monuments, cave engravings, and the oldest sanctuary found on the island. The Guanches described this location as Axis of the World-the central place where heaven and earth meet.
Also at La Fortaleza, see a true natural wonder, such as the tunnel that crosses the rock, which showcases views of La Fortaleza de Abajo, or the large settlement of houses that have been excavated in recent years, just a short distance away.
The experience ends with a typical Canarian lunch at Mirador Santa Lucia, a local restaurant that offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes that you can take in as you bask in the island history you have just discovered.