The town of Agüimes is separated from Ingenio by the ravine of Barranco de Guayadeque. This small, but most appealing town has a picturesque, well-preserved old centre with medieval narrow streets and pretty, ochre- or terracotta-coloured houses, dominated by the two tall towers of the Parroquia de San Sebastián located in the Plaza del Rosario. This three-nave basilica, which was declared a Historic Cultural Monument, is one of the best examples of the Canary Islands’ neoclassical architecture. Featuring a vast dome with an oriental touch, it houses some statues of saints, works from José Luján Pérez.
In September, the Festival del Sur hits town. Subtitled Encuentro Internacional Tres Continentes, this is an international theatre festival with companies from South America, Africa and Europe performing. This cultural event has established itself as a highlight of the year for locals as well as visitors.
Doubtless the biggest attraction of this area, though, throughout the year remains Agüimes’ Parque de Cocodrilos Zoo, a small zoological park with shows of trained crocodiles and parrots.
Along the coastline of Ingenio and Agüimes, you’ll find the beaches Playa de Vargas, an ideal spot for windsurfing, and the Playa del Cabrón, one of the best diving locations on the island.
For more see our Water Sports page.
