Maspalomas Botanical Garden

Maspalomas Botanical Garden is a compact green oasis on the southern coast of Gran Canaria, laid out in 1993 by the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana as an educational space and a quiet counterpoint to the dense resort development of Maspalomas. Covering roughly 12 hectares, it focuses on plant life typical of the Canary Islands, complemented by species from other regions of the world.

What can you see in the garden?

The park's central theme is endemic Canarian flora. Near the entrance stands a mature dragon tree (Dracaena draco), a species symbolic of the archipelago, known for its long lifespan and distinctive umbrella-shaped crown. Another section of the garden features a terrace of cardones (Euphorbia canariensis), cactus-like succulents that are botanically unrelated to true cacti and typical of Gran Canaria's dry slopes. Canary Island date palms (Phoenix canariensis) — among the island's most recognizable trees — are also present throughout the grounds.

One of the more memorable spots along the route is a lily pond, where monarch butterflies are regularly seen gliding over the pads. The garden's paths are arranged as short, closed loops, which makes it easy to tailor a visit to the time available — from a brief twenty-minute walk to a longer, unhurried stroll in the shade.

How much does it cost and when is it open?

Admission to the garden is free. It operates on weekdays from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and remains closed on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. This is worth keeping in mind when planning a visit, since — unlike many other attractions in Maspalomas — access is limited to specific days of the week.

Who is this garden for?

Thanks to its modest size and free entry, Maspalomas Botanical Garden works well as a short stop while exploring the area, pairing naturally with a walk along the Maspalomas promenade or a visit to the nearby dunes. It is also a family-friendly option for travelers who want to get to know the archipelago's characteristic plant life at a relaxed pace, without needing tickets or reservations.

Frequently asked questions

Is admission to the garden free? Yes, entry is free of charge all year round.

What are the opening hours? Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The garden is closed on weekends and public holidays.

What plants dominate the garden? Mostly endemic Canary Island species, including the dragon tree, cardones and Canary Island date palms, alongside vegetation from other parts of the world.

How long does a visit take? The short looped paths let you cover the garden in about 20 minutes, though you can easily linger longer at a slower pace.

Is the garden suitable for children? Yes — its small size, lack of admission fees and gentle terrain make it a convenient spot for a family walk.