UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

Gran Canaria is considered to be a Continent in miniature due to its extremely rich biodiversity. This is why it was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2005, to help conserve nature and drive the social and economic development of the local populations

Despite its small size, Gran Canaria’s variety of ecological niches make it extremely rich in biodiversity. And thanks to its geographical isolation it is home to many species you won’t find elsewhere.

Of the 600 flora and fauna identified in the Gran Canaria Biosphere Reserve, 95 are endemic to Gran Canaria, 101 are endemic to the Canary Archipelago and 32 are endemic to Macaronesia. This high rate of endemism makes the area of vital importance for the conservation of biodiversity.

43% of the island is now protected from development.