Gran Canaria is the second most populous island of the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago. Located in the Atlantic Ocean,it was populated by the Canarii, who may have arrived as early as 500 BC. The Canarii called the island Tamarán or Land of the Brave.

The third largest island in the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria has the largest population. It's often described as a "continent in miniature" because it has so much variety to offer. In the north, capital city Las Palmas is a major stop for cruise ships and duty-free shopping. The island’s interior is rural and mountainous.