Reserva Natural Integral de Inagua

Reserva Natural Integral de Inagua rises through Gran Canaria’s mountain interior, where open Canarian pine forests climb toward cliffs and jagged peaks. Yescas, Alsándara and Lina all exceed 1,400 metres, giving the slopes a stark, wind-shaped profile.

Declared an integral nature reserve in 1987, the protected area forms part of Nublo Rural Park. The pine forests of Inagua, Ojeda and Pajonales rank among the island’s best preserved, sheltering endemic plants such as jarilla de inagua and tumero peludo. Ravine headwaters including the Mulato and Mogán begin here, supporting groundwater recharge and protecting soil on steep volcanic terrain. As a Special Protection Area for birds, the reserve provides habitat for the blue chaffinch, woodpeckers and blue tits, among tabaibas, rockroses and broom.

Large fires have scarred parts of the ecosystem, yet new growth shows its slow recovery. Permission is required to enter, and marked paths, quiet surroundings, untouched plants and stones, and a complete absence of fires or waste help preserve the reserve. Pause beneath the pines and listen for bird calls rising from the ravines.