Parque de San Juan

Parque de San Juan is the main municipal park of Telde, the second-largest city on Gran Canaria. Spread across more than 130,000 square meters, it has served as the city's central green space since opening in 1999.

How do you get there?

The park sits at Calle Dr. Gumersindo Velázquez Santana 14, right in Telde, a short drive from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Arriving by car is the easiest option, with parking available nearby, and the central location makes it simple to pair a visit with the rest of Telde's sights. Gates are open daily from 6:00 to 22:30, so a walk fits into an early morning or evening schedule alike.

What can you see inside?

When it opened in 1999, the park was the largest town park in the entire Canary Islands, and it remains one of the biggest green spaces in the region today. Walking its paths, visitors come across sculptures by Canarian artist Plácido Fleitas scattered throughout the grounds — they give the park the feel of a small open-air gallery. An Olympic torch is also on display somewhere along the way, a small detail worth spotting.

The cultural heart of the park is a large amphitheater that hosts concerts and public events, including some of the main performances of Telde's Carnival, one of the best-known carnival celebrations on Gran Canaria. Another quiet spot worth noticing is an olive tree planted in spring 2016 in memory of the writer Sanmao (San Mao), a literary tribute tucked into the landscape.

Active visitors will find a wide range of sports facilities: a climbing wall, football and basketball courts, a skating track, a boules (petanque) court, a running track, a functional-training area, and cycling routes. This turns Parque de San Juan into more than a sightseeing stop — locals use it daily for sport and exercise.

Families traveling with children will find a well-equipped playground, while dog owners can head to a dedicated off-leash pet area.

When should you visit?

The park is worth visiting year-round, since Gran Canaria's mild climate makes walking comfortable in every season. Early morning or late afternoon tends to be most pleasant, with cooler temperatures and better light for photographing the sculptures and greenery. If your trip coincides with Telde's Carnival, check the amphitheater's event schedule — it's one of the best times to see the park at its liveliest.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to enter Parque de San Juan? Entry is free — it is a public municipal park open to everyone.

What are the opening hours? The park is open daily from 6:00 to 22:30.

Is the park suitable for visiting with children? Yes, there is a children's playground on site, and the wide paths and green areas make it easy for families to relax and walk together.

Can a visit be combined with other Telde attractions? Yes, the park is close to the city center, so it's easy to pair a walk here with a visit to Telde's historic quarter and other nearby sights.