Lanzarote is the most volcanic of the Canary Islands, a landscape of black lava fields, red craters, white villages and golden beaches. The artist César Manrique shaped much of the island's look, and strict building rules keep it low-rise and uncluttered.
It is warm all year, dry and often windy. It suits visitors who like landscapes, beaches and an easy pace over big nightlife.
How many days: 5
Five days gives you time to see the volcanic sights, a few beaches and a vineyard or two. A long weekend works if you stay near the coast.
The island is small, so most places are within an hour of each other. A hire car makes it simple.
What to do in Lanzarote
- Visit Timanfaya National Park
- A vast landscape of volcanic cones and lava fields. Guided bus tours cross the park, and demonstrations show the heat under the ground.
- See the Manrique sites
- César Manrique designed a series of sites that blend with the landscape, including a house built in lava tubes. They are worth a visit for the architecture.
- Walk through La Geria
- A wine region where vines grow in pits in the black ash, protected by small stone walls. Wineries offer tastings.
- Swim at Papagayo beaches
- A group of sheltered golden-sand beaches in the south. A short drive down a dirt road.
- Visit the Jameos del Agua
- A series of lava caves with a lagoon and an auditorium. A very unusual place.
- Take a ferry to La Graciosa
- A small, car-free island off the north coast with quiet beaches. A relaxed day trip.
- Walk in the Famara cliffs
- A long beach below high cliffs, popular with surfers and walkers. A dramatic coastline.
- Visit the Cactus Garden
- A garden in an old quarry, designed by César Manrique, with thousands of cactus plants. A quick stop on a drive across the island.
- Walk the Montaña Roja area
- A short walk up a red volcanic crater near the coast. A good view over the south of the island.
- Walk to the Los Hervideros lava caves
- Wave-carved lava formations on the west coast, where the sea crashes through tunnels. Care is needed near the edges.
What to eat and drink
- Papas arrugadas with mojo
- Small wrinkled potatoes cooked in salty water and served with a spicy sauce. A classic Canarian dish.
- Fresh fish
- Grilled fish is served at harbour restaurants. Look for places with a local clientele.
- Local wine
- Volcanic wines, particularly the white Malvasía, are distinctive. Try a tasting in La Geria.
- Goat cheese
- The island makes smoked and fresh goat cheese. Good with local honey.
- Sancocho
- A salted fish stew, a traditional dish of the island. Served with potatoes and mojo.
- Local honey and aloe vera
- Aloe vera is grown on the island and used in cosmetics and drinks. Shops sell honey, aloe and salt for gifts.
- Fresh octopus and local seafood
- Small fishing villages serve octopus and fish on simple terraces by the sea.
Getting around
A hire car is the easiest way to see the island. Roads are good and traffic is light.
Buses link the main towns and resorts, but they can be infrequent. Taxis are available.
Ferries connect Lanzarote with Fuerteventura and the neighbouring islands.
Good to know
- The island is windy, particularly in summer. Check the forecast for the beach.
- Lanzarote is a protected biosphere reserve, and strict rules apply to the landscape. Stay on marked paths.
- Many attractions have fixed visiting times and need booking. Check the official sites.
- The sun is strong all year. Bring sun protection.
- Spain uses the euro. Cards are widely accepted.
- The island is arid, and water is a scarce resource. Local hotels and restaurants may ask guests to use it with care.
- Take care on volcanic ground, which can be sharp and hot in places. Stay on marked trails.