Gran Canaria is one of world’s top LGBTQ destinations. Every year this freedom-loving, tolerant location welcomes hundreds of thousands of tourists who come here for the good weather and lots more besides.
In the south of the island is Maspalomas, the LGBTQ hub of the Canary Islands. This tourist spot has a great range of activities, accommodation and leisure options. Its big draw card is the Yumbo Centre, the world’s only LGBTQ shopping centre - a space created for and by the LGBTQ sector.
The Yumbo, as it’s popularly known, opened its doors in October 1982. Over time it’s become one of Gran Canaria’s largest commercial and leisure centres and a magnet for tourists looking for fun.
What makes the Yumbo Shopping Centre so special?
The answer lies in its two totally different faces. During the day it’s quiet, with more of a family atmosphere, but by night it does an about face with shows, music and fun. Home to more than 200 commercial premises on four floors, it’s just one km from Playa del Inglés, one of Gran Canaria’s best beaches.
Whether you’ve already booked your holidays or are about to click, keep reading to find out what’s at the Yumbo for you.
Shops
For a more peaceful experience, you can enjoy the big variety of stores throughout the shopping centre. To keep up with your personal care on holiday, you’ll find gyms, massage centres, chemists, hairdressers... If you fancy splashing out, the Yumbo includes fashion, jewellery and electronics stores.
Restaurants
The dining options are as diverse as the LGBTQ sector itself: Italian, Indian, Chinese, Turkish and Spanish food, tapas and char grill restaurants, cafés, ice cream parlours… Whatever you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it. And most places are open nearly all day!
Bars, pubs and discos
With 19 bars and outdoor terrace bars, the Yumbo gives you the chance to enjoy the best music over a drink or a cocktail in a relaxed atmosphere. If you’re into drag queen shows, don’t forget these three names: Cheyenne’s, Chez Funny Boys and Sparkles Show Bar. Quirky, innovative and fun shows (some with karaoke) that you can even take part in. The fun’s guaranteed!
If dancing’s your thing, at Tubos or Mykonos, among other places, you can enjoy the best pop and reggaeton seven days a week.
But that’s not all! On the fourth floor you’ll find Mantrix, one of Gran Canaria’s best known gay discos. To the rhythm of house music from the resident DJs, Mantrix is the place to be from 2:00 am to 6:00 am every day of the year. Yep, just what you read. Every day of the year.
Events
World class LGBTQ events such as Maspalomas Pride (May) and Winter Pride (November) are held around the Yumbo Centre. Thanks to the great weather on Gran Canaria, you can enjoy outdoor parties all year.
Maspalomas is the hub of the LGBTQ scene, and you can see from the Yumbo’s range of events that everyone’s welcome. The shopping centre has all the essentials to deliver an unforgettable holiday for the thousands of tourists who visit Playa del Inglés.
Maybe you’ve already been there. But if you’re visiting for the first time, we’re looking forward to welcoming you to Gran Canaria, an island where the fun’s guaranteed and diversity is celebrated.
