Lanzarote forms the northeasternmost outpost of the Canarian archipelago. Only about 11 km to the south of Lanzarote is the Canary Island of Fuerteventura. To the north lie the small islands of the Chinijo Archipelago: La Craciosa, Montanña Clara, Alegranza, Roque del Oeste, and Roque del Este.
All of these belong to Lanzarote and are, with the exception of La Graciosa, uninhabited. Up until very recently, La Graciosa could not even obtain the status of an island.
Lanzarote has over 213 km of coastline, of which 10 km are sandy and 16 km are rocky beaches. The island’s natural bounty is incomparable, and was recognized by UNESCO when it designated Lanzarote, the first island of its kind, a biosphere reserve in 1993.
Nature & Outdoor
The Timanfaya national park is the must-see on Lanzarote. The world’s largest lava field covers 170 km². The park itself is about 50 km² big and resembles a moonscape. As far as the eye can see, there are enormous craters, rocky precipices, and angular lava formations in the most diverse forms and colors. The colors of this volcanic landscape change with the time of day, from grey-brown to black or shimmering red.
The island’s north is home to the "Cueva de los Verdes", a lava cave full of twists and turns with a tunnel system about 7 km long. It is the world’s longest network of volcanic trails! This gigantic cavern was created during an eruption of the “Montaña Corona” over 3.000 years ago. The surface of the lava stream solidified relatively quickly, while the underlying lava continued to flow, forming, as the lava stream ran dry, these impressive caves. The water caverns of "Jameos del Agua" are also found within this tunnel system. These were later reimagined by the artist Cesar Manrique and have become one of the island’s most popular destinations. The caves are home to a saltwater lagoon, a restaurant, an auditorium, and a museum of the island’s volcanic history.
The island’s south is where you’ll find the "Playa de Papagayo" and its picture-perfect panoramas! This beach enchants visitors with white sand and crystal-clear water.
Another spot that’s worth a visit: the Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park, a theme park offering an experiential mix of attractions, like the chance to observe animals close-up or attend one of the many shows.
Cities & Nightlife
We highly recommend a walk along the bustling "Marina Rubicón" - it’s the place to find exclusive shops and exquisite restaurants. The terraces, gardens, and bridges are marked by typical island architecture.
Lanzarote’s nightlife has a lot to offer. On the southern coast, in Puerto del Carmen, you’ll find countless lounges, cocktail bars and nightclubs. An absolute hot spot is the "Avenida de las Playas", one that night owls should absolutely hit up. The "Marina Rubicón" is home to Lanzarote’s more exclusive nightlife, with clubs and bars of an elevated class.
Lanzarote’s largest festival is Karneval! It takes place every 5 years and is celebrated throughout the island. If your vacation happens to take place during this time, we absolutely recommend that you mix with this colorful, boisterous parade!
Culture & Sports
About 2 km from the town of Tahiche is the "Fudación Cesar Manrique", the former domicile of Cesar Manrique, the island’s most famous son. Today, the museum houses many impressive works.
The impressive formations on the ocean floor and the diverse sea flora and fauna make Lanzarote a highlight for divers. And those who don’t dare venture too deep can snorkel on the surface and get a glimpse of Lanzarote’s underwater world.
It’s not for nothing that the Canaries are known as Europe’s Hawaii. Surfing enthusiasts will be in their element on Lanzarote’s coast. Winter (November-March) is best time for this sport, since that’s when the waves reach their maximum of up to 4 meters. The preferred beach is Famara.
