Lanzarote Travel Guide

Discover the beautiful island of Lanzarote with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring top attractions, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Lanzarote

Lanzarote is an island located in the Canary Islands, Spain. It is famous for its lunar-like volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and warm climate. The island is a popular destination for tourists looking for sun, sand, and relaxation, but it also offers plenty of cultural and natural attractions for those who want to explore more deeply.

List of Places to Visit in Lanzarote

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Cueva de los Verdes: A network of caves formed by volcanic eruptions that were once used as a hiding place for locals during pirate raids. Today, they are open for guided tours, showcasing stunning natural formations and an underground concert hall.
  2. Fundación César Manrique: A museum and art gallery dedicated to the work of Lanzarote’s famous artist and architect, César Manrique.
  3. Jameos del Agua: A unique entertainment complex built around a lava tube. It features a restaurant, bar, and concert hall, as well as a pool inhabited by blind albino crabs that are unique to Lanzarote.

Natural Attractions of Lanzarote: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Timanfaya National Park: A park covering a quarter of the island, featuring impressive volcanic landscapes and geothermal activity.
  2. Los Hervideros: A series of cliffs and caves formed by the fusion of lava and sea water, creating a stunning contrast of colors and textures.
  3. Mirador del Rio: A viewpoint located on the top of a cliff, offering breathtaking views of the neighboring island of La Graciosa.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lanzarote

Lanzarote is a paradise for adventure seekers, offering numerous hiking and biking routes that showcase the island’s natural beauty and landscapes. Some popular routes include:

  1. Timanfaya Route: A challenging 4-hour hike through Timanfaya National Park, featuring panoramic views of the volcanic landscapes and geysers.
  2. Famara Cliffs Route: A 7-km hike along the scenic Famara Cliffs, featuring stunning sea views and a chance to see the island’s unique flora and fauna.
  3. La Geria Wine Route: A 13-km bike ride through the vineyards of La Geria, where the unique volcanic soil produces a famous wine with a distinct taste.

Best Things to Do in Lanzarote: Activities and Tours

  1. Go surfing or windsurfing in Famara Beach, a top destination for water sports enthusiasts.
  2. Take a private catamaran tour around the island, exploring secluded beaches and coves, and swimming in crystal clear waters.
  3. Visit the Timanfaya Geothermal Station, where you can see how the island’s geothermal energy is harnessed to produce electricity.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lanzarote

Day 1: Explore the Cueva de los Verdes and the Jameos del Agua Day 2: Visit the Fundación César Manrique, followed by a scenic drive through the island’s stunning landscapes. Day 3: Hike through Timanfaya National Park, followed by a visit to the Timanfaya Geothermal Station. Day 4: Take a private catamaran tour around the island. Day 5: Bicycle through the La Geria Wine Route, followed by a wine tasting session. Day 6: Visit the Mirador del Rio, followed by a relaxing day at the beach. Day 7: Explore the Los Hervideros, followed by a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Food and Drink Scene of Lanzarote

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Papas arrugadas: A traditional dish of boiled potatoes with a salty crust, served with mojo sauces.
  2. Gofio: A staple food made from roasted grains, which can be added to soups or served as a dessert with honey.
  3. Sancocho: A fish stew made with local fish and potatoes, served with bread.

Local Beverages

  1. Malvasia wine: A white wine made from grapes grown in volcanic soil, which gives it a unique taste.
  2. Ron miel: A honey rum, popular as a digestive or to drink with dessert.
  3. Cactus juice: A refreshing drink made from the juice of prickly pear cactus.

Where to Stay in Lanzarote: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Five-star: Arrecife Gran Hotel & Spa
  2. Four-star: Hotel Casa del Embajador
  3. Budget-friendly: Hostal La Era

What to Buy in Lanzarote: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Aloe vera products: Lanzarote is famous for its aloe vera plantations, which produce high-quality skin creams, lotions, and scrubs.
  2. Local crafts: Handmade ceramics, jewelry, and leather goods are popular souvenirs.
  3. Wine: Bring back a bottle of Malvasia wine, available in many local supermarkets and wineries.

Local Culture and Customs of Lanzarote

Lanzaroteans are known for their friendly and laid-back attitude towards life. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local environment and to be mindful of their behavior in public places, especially in religious sites. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in restaurants and bars.

Best Time to Visit Lanzarote

Lanzarote enjoys a moderate climate all year round, with temperatures ranging from 21°C in the winter to 29°C in the summer. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lanzarote

Do:

  1. Try the local cuisine, including traditional dishes and Malvasia wine.
  2. Explore the island’s unique natural landscapes and attractions.
  3. Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  1. Wear revealing clothing in public places.
  2. Litter or damage the environment.
  3. Be disruptive in religious sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lanzarote

Lanzarote is a safe destination for tourists, with low levels of serious crime. However, visitors should be cautious of pickpockets and theft in crowded areas, especially during the tourist season.

Health in Lanzarote

Lanzarote has a good healthcare system, with both private and public hospitals available. Visitors from the EU can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access free or reduced-cost healthcare. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, especially for non-EU visitors.

Getting to Lanzarote: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lanzarote

Lanzarote has one main airport: Arrecife Airport. It has connections to many European cities, including London, Madrid, and Berlin.

Bus Stations Near Lanzarote

There are many bus routes connecting the main towns and resorts in Lanzarote. The main bus station is located in Arrecife, with services to other locations throughout the island.

Other Options

Taxis and rental cars are also available for visitors who prefer more flexibility in their transportation.

How to Get Around in Lanzarote

The island is well connected with buses, taxis, and rental cars. Visitors can also explore the island by bike or on foot, with numerous hiking and biking routes available.

Where to Go Next from Lanzarote: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Fuerteventura: Take a ferry to the nearby island of Fuerteventura, known for its stunning beaches and sand dunes.
  2. La Graciosa: Visit the small island of La Graciosa, located north of Lanzarote, known for its unspoiled natural landscapes and charming villages.
  3. Tenerife: Take a short flight to the island of Tenerife, the largest island in the Canary Islands, known for its volcanic landscapes, beaches, and lively nightlife.

Conclusion

Lanzarote is a unique destination that offers something for every type of traveler, from adventure seekers to beach lovers to culture enthusiasts. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich history and culture, and warm climate, Lanzarote is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a memorable vacation experience.

Map of Lanzarote showing key towns and sites of interest. Map of Lanzarote showing key towns and sites of interest. Some of the plants that grow easily on Lanzarote, at the Jardín de Cactus in Guatiza Some of the plants that grow easily on Lanzarote, at the Jardín de Cactus in Guatiza Tidal pool (Charco Verde, Charco de los Clicos) in the El Golfo crater Tidal pool (Charco Verde, Charco de los Clicos) in the El Golfo crater Cueva de los Verdes, with the ceiling reflected in the water on the floor of the lava tube Cueva de los Verdes, with the ceiling reflected in the water on the floor of the lava tube One entrance of Cuevas De Maquez One entrance of Cuevas De Maquez Los Hervideros Los Hervideros La Gería La Gería Salinas de Janubio Salinas de Janubio Lagomar Lagomar La Geria vineyard La Geria vineyard Aloe Vera Aloe Vera Papagayo beach Papagayo beach


    Costa Teguise
    Playa Blanca
    Puerto del Carmen