Barranco de Guayadeque
The ever-green Barranco de Guayadeque is one of the most magnificent valleys of the island, where on steep slopes grow in abundance – in addition to more than 80 endemic species – cacti, agaves, poppies, palms, Canary pines and almond trees in spring. The neighbouring towns Ingenio and Agüimes get their water from a stream running through this ravine.
This valley, which in prehistoric times was the most populated on the island, is one of the most important prehistoric burial grounds, where the dead were buried in inaccessible caves. The Guanches later used these caves as dwelling or food storing places or as sites for fertility rituals. As in the 19th century locals started plundering the graves and selling much of their archaeological finds to the Canary Museum of Archaeology in Las Palmas, this area was declared National Monument to protect it from further devastation.
Also home to the biggest lizard species in the world, the Lagarto Canarión, this area is a paradise for serious walkers, where there is a lot to explore – in organized groups or alone. As the surfaced road continues still 9 km (5 miles) beyond the route of the Interpretation Centre, you can enjoy the magnificent sceneries of this valley even without having to make much physical effort. This road passes through two cave villages – where modern-day people settled to follow the footpaths of the Guanches – with tiny chapels, a bar and a basic restaurant, and ends at the ‘Tagoror’, the best-known cave restaurant, where a strong wine and local tapas specialities are served with the meals and folklore performances take place.
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