Parque Doramas

Parque Doramas is one of the most cherished city parks in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, tucked into the leafy Ciudad Jardín district next to the Néstor Museum and the historic Hotel Santa Catalina. It combines the role of a green retreat close to the capital's centre with that of a living showcase of the island's traditions.

Who was Doramas, and why does the park bear his name?

The park takes its name from Doramas, a Guanche chieftain and warrior from Gran Canaria who led resistance against the Spanish conquest in the 15th century. His name remains a well-known reference point in local memory, associated with the island's indigenous identity before colonisation, which is why one of the city's principal parks was dedicated to him.

What is there to see among the greenery?

The park is laid out as a landscaped garden with tall palms, ficus trees, and dragon trees (drago), a species closely tied to the Canary Islands' natural heritage. Alongside this native vegetation grow plant species brought in from other parts of the world, turning a walk through the paths into a small botanical tour. Shaded benches line the walkways, offering a quiet spot to rest just minutes from downtown Las Palmas.

What is Pueblo Canario, and is it worth a stop?

At the heart of Parque Doramas sits Pueblo Canario, the "Canarian Village" — a complex designed in the 1930s by brothers Néstor and Miguel Martín-Fernández de la Torre. Their aim was to give locals and visitors alike a place where they could engage with the island's traditional architecture and customs. Walking through Pueblo Canario, you can admire houses built in a classic Canarian style, featuring the carved wooden balconies and small towers typical of the region's older buildings.

Twice a week, the main square of Pueblo Canario turns into an open-air stage where local folk groups perform traditional dances to Canarian music. It is one of the few spots on the island where this kind of living tradition can be seen in something close to its original setting, rather than as a staged tourist act.

Where can you try local Canarian food nearby?

Within Pueblo Canario stands the Bodegón Canario, a restaurant serving traditional dishes from Gran Canaria, including the well-known papas arrugadas served with mojo sauce. It makes an easy pairing with a park visit — arrive on one of the folk-dance days and combine the show with a proper Canarian meal.

How do you get to Parque Doramas?

The park sits in Ciudad Jardín, east of central Las Palmas, within easy reach of Las Canteras beach and the Gran Canaria stadium. The neighbourhood is known for its elegant villas and calm streets, making it a pleasant base from which to continue exploring the city on foot.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry to Parque Doramas free? Yes, it is an open public park and there is no admission charge.

Who was Doramas? A Guanche chieftain who led the resistance of Gran Canaria's indigenous people against the Spanish conquest in the 15th century.

What sets Pueblo Canario apart from the rest of the park? It is a dedicated section built as a reconstructed Canarian village, with traditional architecture, a square used for folk performances, and a restaurant serving local dishes.

How much time should you set aside? A walk through the park and Pueblo Canario takes about an hour; allow more time on days when folk dance performances take place.

What else is nearby? The Néstor Museum and the historic Hotel Santa Catalina both stand right next to the park, making it easy to combine a visit with other sights in Ciudad Jardín.