Max. 20 people
Spanish, Catalan / By appointment: English, French
Approx. 5 hours
We are committed to the environment and work towards sustainable tourism.
That is why we are taking measures in this direction. More information
Vive Geoparque Granada is an ecotourism and active tourism cooperative specializing in the Granada Geopark, our home region. We pour our heart and soul into our work to reveal the magnificent secrets hidden within the pages of the Granada Geopark—a vast open book through which to explore history and nature. All of this is made possible through our wide range of experiences; alongside our extensive selection of experiences and activities, we stand out for certain criteria we believe are unique, such as:
- We work alongside professionals specializing in biology and species recovery to ensure that our activities are based on scientific criteria and make a real contribution to the conservation of biodiversity in the Granada Geopark.
- We have launched a landscape regeneration project in the municipality of Fonelas, focused on the recovery and protection of endangered species, such as the Clypeola Eriocarpa and the Ganga Ortega bird.
- We have founded the Friends of the Geopark Association, an organization that promotes the conservation and restoration of ecosystems, the promotion of heritage, and the sustainable rural development of the Granada Geopark.
- We organize waste collection days, accompanied by raffles to encourage participation and promote environmental awareness among residents and visitors.
- We offer the opportunity to connect with the essence of our environment through unique experiences that awaken the senses, foster respect for nature, and create unforgettable memories.
Open map Fonelas (Granada), España
A Journey into Prehistory: Science, Archaeology, and Landscape
The Granada Geopark is not just a spectacular landscape; it is also a key area for understanding human history. Its ravines and plateaus are home to some of the most important archaeological and paleontological sites in southern Europe.
The “In the Footsteps of the First Settlers” experience invites you to travel back thousands of years to discover how the first inhabitants of this region lived.
The route begins in Guadix, from where a 4x4 vehicle takes you to the area around Fonelas, traversing landscapes that have been inhabited by human communities since prehistoric times.
The route leads to the Torre de Guajar, an ancient watchtower that served defensive and lookout functions during the Muslim period, from which a short walk begins toward Solana del Zamborino, one of the Geopark’s most significant sites. At this site, evidence crucial to understanding human evolution has been found, including one of the oldest documented fireplaces and remains of stone tools that demonstrate how prehistoric communities began to develop new ways of life, transitioning from living in shelters within natural rock formations to occupying open spaces that facilitated hunting and access to materials for toolmaking.
The area also contains numerous archaeological and paleontological sites, which attest to the scientific richness of this region. These sites within the Granada Geopark are among the best scientific sources in all of Europe for understanding the history of the Earth and human evolution, such as certain fossil species discovered in Fonelas or Orce, which have gained significant prominence in international research, reinforcing the scientific value of the Geopark
The experience concludes with a hands-on workshop in experimental archaeology, where participants learn ancient fire-making techniques and stone-carving methods used by our ancestors. A unique way to understand, through hands-on practice, how technology and knowledge enabled early humans to adapt to their environment.
An experience that combines science, history, and nature to discover the Geopark as a true open-air laboratory where humanity’s past is still being researched today.
Prices
Standard rates:
- Adult (13+): €55/person
- Child (up to 13 years old): €35/person
- Senior (65+): €50/person
- Others: Minimum of 2 participants
Group rates:
- Adults (10 or more people): €50/person
- Adults (15+ people): €50/person
- Others: Please inquire for larger groups
The price includes
- Guided tour combining hiking and 4x4 driving
- Hands-on stone carving workshop
- Demonstration of prehistoric fire-making techniques.
- Liability and accident insurance
- Picnic featuring locally sourced products
- Maps and interpretive materials
- Replicas of archaeological artifacts
- Gift and digital photo and video report.
- Water during the activity
- Binoculars
Timetable
All year round (recommended in spring and fall: Every day
Morning hours: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM (flexible)
Activity details
- Location: Fonelas
- Approximate duration: About 5 hours
- Maximum number of people per time slot/group: Maximum 20 people
- Accessible activity
- Type of accessibility: Cognitive and social
- Recommended for families with children
- Minimum age to participate: 6 years
- Pets allowed
Do not forget
- Wear sunscreen and a hat in the summer.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
- Bring warm clothes during the winter months.
- Water
Relevance
We recommend bringing:
- Your own binoculars
- A field guide
- Snacks and drinks
- Camera
- Cash
Groups
Max. 20 people
Available languages guide
Spanish, Catalan / By appointment: English, French
Approximate duration
Approx. 5 hours