What to see in Lanzarote?

Lanzarote is one of the most attractive tourist destinations of the Canary Islands. It is characterised by its pleasant warm weather throughout the year, good gastronomy, with a multitude of beaches and an astonishing volcanic landscape.

The island is located off the western African coast and it has an approximate population of 150,000 residents and an area of 800 square kilometres, which makes it the third most populated island of the Canaries and the fourth largest in area.

Regardless the amount of days you have to visit the island, you will have enough time to leave with a good impression thanks to the great variety of tourist activities you will find.

Here we give you a small selection of our little natural paradise. If you still don’t know what to visit in Lanzarote, you can start from here!

Main tourist attractions in Lanzarote

The main tourist attraction in Lanzarote compared to other islands is its recent volcanic activity, which created a natural landscape unique in the world. Because of such astonishing landscape the island was declared Biosphere Reserve by the UNESCO in 1993.

Timanfaya National Park

This is the crown jewel, a protected area resulting from the volcanic eruptions occurred between 1730 and 1736 and then again in 1824.  This national park, known as the Fire Mountains, stretches out between the municipalities of  Yaiza and Tinajo.

The tour starts with the Route of the Volcanoes, which is, without a doubt, the best way to see and enjoy the natural wonders hidden in this unique lunar landscape.  It’s a 14 km-route by guagua (the Canarian word for coach), passing through astonishing views and landscapes that you will never forget. There is a commentator explaining the history and curiosities of the eruptions and the island of Lanzarote.

Jameos del Agua

This magical place is located in the north of Lanzarote. It’s a small salt-lake produced by filtration of sea water, inside a volcanic tunnel.

It’s the perfect fusion of nature and artistic creation. It was the first Centre of Art, Culture and Tourism created by César Manrique, a local architect and artist.

Tuesdays (Wednesdays in summer) and Saturdays, Jameos del Agua also opens its doors for a lovely evening, with an attractive culinary experience, a timple guitar concert and ambient music.

Cueva de los Verdes

Situated in the municipality of Haría, going underground in the lava tunnel called Cueva de los Verdes will be quite an experience. This site runs along one of the longest volcanic tubes in the world, with about 6 kilometres of tunnel, formed with the eruption of the Volcán de la Corona.

Currently, visitors can take a guided and adapted walk along a 2 km section, to contemplate this true marvel of nature. Inside, you will discover jameos (volcanic tubes), cliffs and one of the best kept secrets of Lanzarote.

Mirador del Río

Located 400 m. high on the Risco de Famara, in the municipality of Haría, the Mirador del Río is another creation of the artist César Manrique. This is a view-point with a stunning architecture and design, created with great care and detail.

This spot offers unique and spectacular views of the island of La Graciosa.

César Manrique Fundation

The foundation is located in one of the houses owned by the artist on the island. This composition, which occupies 3,000 m², is situated in a unique and singular place of Tahíche, in the municipality of Teguise.

You will get to know first-hand where César Manrique lived for 20 years, from 1968 to 1988. But, the most astonishing fact is that the house is situated within what was one day a sea of volcanic lava.

The artist knew how to take advantage of the natural elements created by the volcanic eruptions and combined with the typical architecture of the island.

Casa-Museo del Campesino

Located in the municipality of San Bartolomé, in the centre of the island, this house museum is the tribute left by César Manrique to the farmers of the island.

Here you will find a fantastic place where, through his creations, you will be able to feel the traditional crafts and agriculture.

After the visit, you can take a walk through the local market and enjoy purchasing local artisan products.  You can also order a few tapas in its cosy bar area or even have a good meal in their fabulous underground restaurant.

Los Hervideros

In the municipality of Yaiza, between the Salinas de Janubio and El Golfo, you will find Los Hervideros.

This is a stretch of Lanzarote coastline created by solidified lava, with multitude of balconies built into the rock face, sharp black rocks and unique corners from where you will feel fascinated by the immense power of the waves crashing into the rocky cliffs.