In this article we take a closer look at the top attractions and things to do in Lanzarote. There is far more to explore here than the famous beaches and resorts. This island is one of the most diverse of the Canaries Archipelago with many unique experiences waiting.
There is so much natural beauty on offer here to go with the regular tourist attractions one expects. From the volcanic landscapes of Timanfaya park to the lava tunnel of Cueva de los Verdes. This island boasts many must see attractions.
In no particular order, below are some of the very best things to do in Lanzarote during your visit.
Timanfaya National Park
Timanfaya National Park is number one of the many things to do in Lanzarote during your visit.The volcanic landscape here covers an area of 51 km’s. The park takes it’s name from the Timanfaya volcano. This is the only active volcano here. The Mars-like landscape is a result of the volcanic eruptions between 1730 – 1736.
You will need to book a tour of Timanfaya to enjoy one of the two main routes. Camel trips across the landscape are also available for a set fee. Wearing suitable footwear is mandatory so no high heels Ladies. The official website offers coach trips and provides plenty of useful information.
Timanfaya National Park Routes
The Tremesana Route is one of the available tours in English. You will come in close contact with the volcano and learn of mans efforts to survive here. Water is cast into the volcano which results is a geyser of steam. This tour is for 3 hours and will involve 3 km’s of walking. Again, wearing suitable footwear is mandatory. The guide will likely refuse to take you if you do not comply.
The coastal route from El Golfo takes you along the only coastal path in the park. Most of the route appears as it does today as a result of hot lava reaching the sea. Your guide will provide information about the destruction of the area. You will also learn how life began to blossom again after the eruptions.
Lanzarote Airport and Climate
Lanzarote is serviced by Arrecife Airport which lies on the eastern coast of the island. The tropical climate make this island one of the best of the Canaries to visit for warm weather. The temperature can reach as high as 40 Celsius in the hotter months. In winter the temperature will not drop much below 17 Celsius. There is little rainfall during summer. There has never been any recorded during July. During the winter months you are unlikely to see many more than 3 days of rain in the month.
Super Resorts
Lanzarote has many fantastic busy resorts which are the envy of the Canaries. Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise are the pick for plenty of beach action. For stunning beauty we recommend Puerto del Carmen or Haria in the north.
Super Beaches
Like most of the Canary Islands, Lanzarote is volcanic in origin. Much of the coastline is rocky but there are also around 10 km of beautiful sandy beaches to enjoy. Lanzarote has many great beaches to choose from. These beaches range from golden sand to volcanic black sandy beaches.
The top beaches include Playa de Papagayo, Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen. There are over 100 beaches along the coastline in total. Famara and the beaches of Costa Teguise are also worth checking out. Playa Francesa and Playa Flamingo are a few more you may not hear of often.
When to go? – April
Spring is a popular time to check out the beautiful beaches here. If you enjoy a swim then the weather in April is usually nice and warm and so is the sea temperature at 20 Celsius.
The Cactus Garden
The beautiful Cactus Garden in Lanzarote was the last project by César Manrique. The famous painter and architect passed away two years after the opening in 1990. Many of the top attractions of this island are works by the same master craftsmen. Please check here for more information about César Manrique.
The Cactus Garden houses around 700 different species. Among them are some of the rarest species in the world. There are over 4000 plants here to see during your visit. There is also a restaurant where you can eat the special, the Cactus burger. Tickets are 5 € for adults and 2,50 € for children.
When to go? – October
Autumn is a good time to see the Cactus Garden in all it’s glory. The climate is excellent here in October especially as the temperature begins to cool.
Cueva de los Verdes
Another of the top things to do in Lanzarote is La Cuerva de los Verdes which extends for over 6 km above sea level. This incredible cave system lies in northeastern Lanzarote and is well worth a visit. The cave is a lava tube that came to be after the eruption of Volcán de la Corona.
Many that visit here combine their day with a trip to Jameos del Agua which is 5 minutes away. Both attractions had a heavy influence from César Manrique. The original cave saw a lot of work during the 1960’s to adapt it to how it appears today.
A clever lighting system highlights the shadows in a unique way. You can see evidence of the lava flow as you inspect the lit walls. The ceilings here are quite low and the ground a little uneven so you should wear suitable footwear.
It’s a good idea to take a camera along to record the experience. You should be able to take pictures of everything but be sure to listen to the guide as some areas may be off limits
Cuerva de los Verdes often hosts musical events. The underground acoustics of the cave amplifies the concert music. Currently the fee for adults is 9,50 € and 4,75 € for children.
The cave is open every day from 10 am until 6 pm. This timetable extends until 7 pm during the summer months. Each visit will usually last for 50 minutes inside the cave.
More Super Things To Do In Lanzarote
Castle of San José
The castle of San Jose lies in the capital city of Arrecife. This city is close to the airport on the eastern coast. This castle is an old fortification which doubles as an art museum. The construction of this interesting castle dates back to 1776 – 1779. This was a protective measure against invading pirates from north Africa.
Inside the ancient fortress is the museum of contemporary art. The interior design is more handy work by César Manrique in the 1970’s. Most of the exhibits inside are from Spanish artists. Their pieces range from modern sculptures to interesting abstract art.
Museo Atlántico – Underwater Museum
The underwater museum is one of the newest and coolest things to do in Lanzarote. Set in 12 metres of water off the southern coast, the artifacts are cement sculptures. The project aims to create a giant reef to help preserve and protect marine life and environment.
The underwater museum is the first of it’s kind in Europe. There are some incredible sculptures that depict various things. Some of the top pieces are Crossing The Rubicon, The Portal and Hybrid Garden. The Human Gyre is the latest piece in the collection.