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The Guimar Pyramids, located in the municipality of Güímar on the island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, are a unique and fascinating archaeological site. Known for their mysterious stepped pyramid structures, these ancient ruins have captured the curiosity of historians, archaeologists, and visitors alike. The pyramids are part of the larger Güímar Cultural Park, a popular tourist destination that offers insights into the history and origins of these enigmatic structures.
Reaching the Guimar Pyramids is relatively easy, and they are located just 30 minutes away from the capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. If you're driving, you can take the TF-1 highway south, then turn onto the TF-28 road that leads directly to the pyramids. There is a large parking lot available for visitors at the entrance of the park, making it convenient for those traveling by car.
If you don't have a car, there are several public transport options. The local bus service, operated by TITSA, runs regular buses from Santa Cruz to Güímar. The bus ride takes around 45 minutes, and the stop is just a short walk from the entrance to the pyramids. Taxis are also a convenient option for those looking for a more direct route from nearby cities or resorts.
The weather in Tenerife is generally mild and pleasant throughout the year, making it a great destination for visiting the Guimar Pyramids. The climate in the southern part of the island, where the pyramids are located, tends to be warmer and sunnier compared to the northern regions.
During the summer months, temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while the winter months are milder, with temperatures typically between 15°C and 20°C (59°F to 68°F). The weather is generally dry, although some light rain may occur in the winter months, especially in the evening. It’s recommended to wear comfortable clothes, sunscreen, and a hat for protection during the warmer months, as the sun can be quite strong.
The Guimar Pyramids are open to the public daily, with the standard opening hours being from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Last entry is typically at 6:00 PM, so be sure to arrive in time to explore the site. These hours may vary depending on the season, so it's a good idea to check the official website for updated timings before planning your visit.
It’s best to visit early in the day or later in the afternoon, as the site can get crowded during peak hours, particularly in the summer months. If you're visiting during the off-peak season (fall or spring), you may find the site less busy and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
The Guimar Pyramids are famous for their unique stepped structures, which have intrigued visitors and scholars for many years. Unlike the famous pyramids of Egypt or Mexico, the Guimar Pyramids are not built in a typical pyramidal shape. Instead, they are made of terraces of stones that create a stepped structure. The pyramids’ origins and purpose remain a subject of debate, making them a fascinating historical mystery.
What makes these pyramids even more intriguing is their connection to Thor Heyerdahl, a famous Norwegian explorer and researcher. Heyerdahl, known for his controversial theories about ancient cultures, suggested that the pyramids in Guimar were built by ancient civilizations that may have traveled from the Americas or other parts of the world. His theory sparked international interest in the pyramids, and in 1998, the Guimar Pyramids were officially opened to the public as part of a cultural park dedicated to Heyerdahl’s work and research.
Visiting the Guimar Pyramids is an affordable experience, with entry fees for adults typically costing around €6.50, while children under the age of 12 can enter for free. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the park or in advance via the official website. The entry fee includes access to the pyramids as well as to the adjoining visitor center, which provides educational exhibits about the pyramids, their history, and Thor Heyerdahl’s research.
There are also family passes and discounts available for residents of the Canary Islands, making the attraction more accessible to locals. For those interested in guided tours, there are audio guides available in multiple languages, or you can choose a group tour to learn more about the history of the pyramids and the surrounding area.
The Guimar Pyramids are thought to date back to the 19th century, though there is some evidence to suggest that the structures may have been constructed much earlier. They are believed to have been built by local indigenous people, but their exact origins and purpose remain unclear. Some scholars argue that the pyramids were used for agricultural or ceremonial purposes, while others believe they may have been constructed for astronomical observations or other ritualistic practices.
The pyramids are built from local volcanic stone and are characterized by their terraced, stepped structure. Unlike the more well-known pyramids in Egypt or Mesoamerica, the Guimar Pyramids have a more modest appearance, but they are still impressive in their size and design. There are six pyramids in total, varying in size and shape, and they are arranged in a linear fashion along the slope of a hill.
Thor Heyerdahl’s interest in the pyramids led to extensive research and excavation of the site in the late 20th century. He theorized that the pyramids were part of an ancient transatlantic cultural connection, which contributed to his research on the migration of peoples between the Americas and Europe. His theories remain controversial, but they have undoubtedly brought worldwide attention to the site.
Aside from exploring the ancient pyramids, there are several activities and attractions to enjoy at the Guimar Pyramids site:
