Thanksgiving on the Canary Islands

Escape to the Canary Islands, Europe's Version of Hawaii.

Create a new Thanksgiving family tradition on the sun-drenched shores of Gran Canaria. Our comprehensive "No Hassles" package is your ticket to paradise, bundling your flight and airport transportation from your choice of Pulaski or Smith Barracks into one seamless travel experience. Thanksgiving in the Canary Islands means enjoying 70 degree weather while staying at a fantastic 4-star resort, and an all-inclusive plan means all your needs are all taken care of.

This trip balances guided discovery with total freedom. An included "Hidden Treasures" tour will take you away from the coast to experience the island’s dramatic volcanic interior, authentic villages, and unique culture. Beyond the tour, your days are yours to command. Explore the legendary golden dunes of Maspalomas, dive into the vibrant energy of Playa del Inglés, challenge the slides at world-class waterparks, or simply relax and enjoy the warm November sea. From thrilling water sports to tranquil mountain vistas, you can design your perfect getaway on the Canary Islands.

Airlines have early deadlines and strict limits on group ticketing; only the first 24 seats are available at our Early Bird price. Gran Canaria is a brand-new destination and an amazing travel opportunity in winter, so you know those seats won't last long. Don't miss your chance to trade the November in Germany for a healthy dose of natural Vitamin D. Reserve your place with Army Outdoor Recreation today!

Early Bird Price, Seats 1-24

• Double Occupancy: $1899 per person
• Single Occupancy: $2299

Standard Price, Seats 25-39

• Double Occupancy: $2099 per person
• Single Occupancy: $2499

Reservations made on or after Thursday, August 20 - or after the 39th seat is sold - may be subject to airline fare increases based on the current individual ticket rate.

• Up to 2 children aged 2-10 in standard or family room with 2 paid adults: $1549
• 1 child under 2 on existing bedding: $379

Trip Includes:

• Round trip air transportation to Gran Canaria
• Airport shuttle from your choice of Pulaski or Smith Barracks to Frankfurt Airport
• Free on-post parking
• Local airport shuttle
• 4 nights lodging at Grupotel Orquidea**** or equivalent
  • All-Inclusive Hotel Package
• Gran Canaria's Hidden Treasures Tour
   
• Pay in US Dollars
• Support your local Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs

Support 

What to Bring:

• Comfortable; weather appropriate shoes & clothing
• Credit/Debit card and Euro
• Military ID and Passport
   
• Any required paper or electronic travel documentation is the personal responsibility of each individual traveler. 

Departure: 

• 5 a.m. from Wagon Wheel Theater, Smith Barracks
• 6 a.m. from Kaiserslautern Outdoor Recreation, Pulaski Barracks, bldg. 2905

Return: Late Sunday evening

Estimated Itinerary

Wednesday: Welcome to the "Hawaii of the Atlantic"

When you travel with Army Outdoor Recreation, we handle all the logistics for you. Your Thanksgiving escape begins the moment you step onto our dedicated airport shuttle at Pulaski or Smith Barracks and includes your airfare so you wont have to worry about surge pricing or flight availability. How do you say "Aloha!" in Spanish? You'll find out when your flight touches down in Gran Canaria in the early afternoon. Trade in your parka for sunglasses and flip-flops and get ready to enjoy all the amenities of your four-star all-inclusive beachside resort. With four outdoor pools, a waterslide, direct beach access, and multiple restaurants and bars, the resort has everything you need for a perfect family getaway. Settle in, grab a drink, and get ready to forget all about the German winter you just left behind.

Thursday: Gran Canaria's Hidden Treasures Tour

Today, you will discover why Gran Canaria is known as a "continent in miniature." If you choose to join our included "Hidden Treasures" tour, you’ll journey inland to experience the island’s authentic culture and stunning landscapes. The day includes breathtaking views over the dramatic Fataga Valley, a visit to a local aloe vera farm, and a stop in the village of Artenara to explore a fascinating museum inside a traditional cave house. You will also visit Teror, a charming town famous for its historic Canarian balconies and the beautiful Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino. After returning to the resort, enjoy dinner and entertainment, or take a short bus or taxi ride to explore the vibrant nightlife of nearby Playa del Inglés.

Friday: A Day on the Sand

This is your day to experience the iconic south coast of Gran Canaria and beyond. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Playa del Inglés, where the famous beachfront promenade is a bustling hub of activity. Lined with an endless array of shops, lively beach bars, and international restaurants, it's the perfect place to people-watch, shop, and soak in the lively atmosphere. Where the promenade ends, the incredible, golden, Sahara-like sand dunes of Maspalomas begin, stretching dramatically to the sea. For a different kind of thrill, take a short ride to challenge the slides and rides at the massive Aqualand Maspalomas waterpark. Alternatively, for a change of pace, a quick taxi or bus ride will take you to Las Palmas, the bustling capital of the island. Here, you can explore the historic Vegueta quarter, discover its impressive cathedral, wander through charming colonial streets, or enjoy world-class shopping.

Saturday: A Day on the Water

The deep blue Atlantic is calling, and thanks to Gran Canaria's amazing climate, a perfect beach day is always on the menu, even in late November. You won't need to go far; with four pools, a waterslide, and the beach just steps away, you can spend the entire day soaking up the sun without ever leaving the resort property. For a taste of local action, step out of the resort and onto the shores of Bahía Feliz. This area is famous for its reliable winds, making it a prime spot to watch the thrilling spectacle of windsurfers and kitesurfers gliding across the waves. For even more energy, you only need to go as far as the bustling beaches of Playa del Inglés, where you'll find a playground for water sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for everything from high-speed jet ski rentals to parasailing high above the coastline. With average sea temperatures hovering around a pleasant 71°F, you'll have no problem diving right in.

Sunday: Return to Germany

Your flight doesn't depart until this afternoon, allowing you to pack up and check out of the hotel at your own pace. You wont be rushed while you enjoy a leisurely breakfast or take one last dip in the pool. Around noon, you will transfer to the airport for your flight back to Frankfurt, where our shuttle will be waiting to return you to your starting point. Get ready to be the envy of the office on Monday morning when you walk in with a Thanksgiving tan.