Located on the eastern side of Tenerife, the Pyramids of Güímar Ethnographic Park is one of the island’s most intriguing and unexpected cultural attractions. These stepped stone structures have inspired debate for decades, and a visit here offers a mix of archaeology, nature, astronomy, and sustainability, all in one place.
A Warm Welcome and Guided Introduction
As soon as we arrived, we were welcomed by our guide Michael and our guided tour began. Our first stop was a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the complex, giving us a stunning perspective of all six pyramids spread across the valley. From above, their layout becomes much clearer, revealing their geometric shape and alignment.
One of the most fascinating details we learned is that the pyramids appear to be positioned according to astronomical events. From one pyramid, you can observe the sunrise during the summer solstice, while another aligns with the sunset during the winter solstice, a feature that continues to fuel research and curiosity.
Eco Garden and Sustainable Learning
The park also includes an impressive Eco-Garden, which we explored next. This space showcases plants from different continents and climates, demonstrating how various cultures have relied on agriculture and adapted to their environments. Informational panels highlight topics such as sustainable farming, ecological balance, and conservation — making the visit educational as well as visually beautiful.
Inside the complex, there is also an eco-themed exhibition, focusing on environmental awareness and global sustainability challenges. The park regularly hosts workshops and educational activities, making it a valuable destination for schools, families, and anyone interested in learning more about ecological practices.
The visit also includes access to the park’s fascinating Poison Garden, home to more than 70 species of toxic and medicinal plants from around the world, with clear explanations about their historical uses and the delicate balance between healing and harm. Just a few steps away, the Polynesian Navigation Exhibition offers a completely different perspective, showcasing how ancient Pacific cultures crossed vast oceans using only natural elements like stars, winds, and currents.
Visitors can walk along the paths surrounding the pyramids, getting close enough to appreciate their structure and the volcanic landscape around them. The entire site is peaceful, full of native plants, and offers plenty of shaded spots to stop and take in the views. It’s a place that encourages slow exploration rather than rushing through.
Combine Yoga with Exploring El Médano
One of the highlights of the visit was a 15-minute documentary film, shown inside the exhibition building. The short movie provides historical context, travel footage, and theories about the origins of the pyramids, a great way to understand the mystery behind them.
There is also a photography exhibition featuring the work of a Scandinavian explorer Thora Heyerdahla, showcasing images from global expeditions. The combination of travel, culture, and natural landscapes adds an inspiring final touch to the experience.
Whether you’re interested in archaeology, astronomy, or simply looking for a different kind of activity on Tenerife, the Pyramids of Güímar offer a surprising and enriching day out. With its blend of nature, education, and mystery, it’s a destination that invites reflection and curiosity.
Canary Green’s tips to enjoying sustainable tourism in Canary Islands
Visiting Canary Islands on holiday doesn’t give you free rein to leave your values and principles at home. We encourage travellers to seek out sustainable options and keep up with environmental practices while travelling. Our top tips for a relaxed and wholesome stay include:
- Consider green transport options. Are you able to take a ferry to the island instead of flying? While you are here is a car necessary? Investigate public transport links or choose green options such as electric cars, green-hydrogen cars or e-bikes.
- Choose destinations that value sustainability and choose green alternatives such as solar power, recycling and energy-efficient architecture. This extends to places that value workers’ rights and the impact on the local community.
- Bring your own water bottle with you and refill it instead of buying single-use plastic bottles.
- Make use of the recycling when out and about and don’t just throw your rubbish in the nearest bin.
- Take advantage of local knowledge and immerse yourself in the culture through campaigns such as #Ilovecanarias and #meatfreemondaycanarias.
- Most of all, have fun and enjoy your time in the Canary Islands.
Thank you
Thank you to everyone involved in this Canary Green project where our aim is to help promote sustainable tourism in the Canary Islands.
Do you want us to find you more sustainable choices? Please support us and donate today!
- John Beckley; Founder of Canary Green non profit
- Canary Green non profit:
- Photographers & Videomakers:
Karolína Lišková, Barbora Kučerová, Nataliia Tataurova, Luca Buiatti
- Environmental chemist & Sustainable Tourism Consultant: Luca Buiatti
- Social Media Coordinator: Nataliia Tataurova
- Account Manager: Barbora Kučerová
- Project Manager: Karolína Lišková
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