Bandama Volcanic Caldera
The Caldera de Bandama is a volcanic caldera of large dimensions and steep walls, located in the northeast of the island of Gran Canaria
It is located together with the peak of Bandama forms the natural monument of Bandama, which in turn belongs to the protected landscape of Tafira.
It is located between the municipalities of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Santa Brígida and Telde. The Caldera de Bandama forms a circular area diversifying through the ravines of Las Goteras and Guiniguada, towards the coast.
Although of recent origin, it has a depth of 216 m and 1,100 m in diameter and a perimeter that exceeds 3 kilometers, this caldera invites you to skirt it or go down to its interior.
Origin and environment of the Caldera de Bandama
It originated by a volcanic process of explosive nature that could have begun between 4000 and 5000 years ago. The last eruption took place approximately 1970 years ago.
The name "Bandama" comes from Daniel Van Damme, who was a prominent Flemish merchant who was the first to explore the interior of the caldera, cultivating different types of vineyards.
Although it is very likely that before the conquest of the island, the ancient Canarians already cultivated in this place.
Protected Natural Area
The caldera of Bandama is a Protected Natural Area, the most spectacular example of recent volcanism in Gran Canaria.
A structure that was formed five billion years ago, next to the ancient volcano of Pico de Bandama.
Caused by a huge explosion of phreatomagmatic character (when lava comes into contact with groundwater), its geological values are incalculable, since its walls clearly show various stages of island volcanism.
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The vegetation that inhabits the caldera, of thermophilic character, together with the richness of species of flora and fauna, with the presence of birds of prey, such as the eagle or the kestrel, make this natural monument something unique in the Canary Islands.
How to get to Caldera de Bandama?
If you are coming from the capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, you can take the bus (bus) 311 of the Global company (which leaves from the central station of San Telmo) or take the road in the direction of Santa Brígida.
If you come by car, you must take exit GC - 802 (Bandama road), from the roundabout of Monte Lentistcal.
Mirador del Pico de Bandama: It is reached by a road that winds between the vineyards of Tafira Alta will take you to the Mirador del Pico de Bandama, from which you can see a panoramic view of the municipality of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the volcanic caldera of Bandama and much of the northeast area of the island of Gran Canaria.