Lanzarote Grand Tour

Explore Lanzarote’s iconic volcanic landscapes without the hassle of self-driving on the Lanzarote Grand Tour, offered by First Minute Travel for $87.08 per person. This full-day experience lasts 8 to 9 hours, with pickups available from select locations, making it accessible and convenient. The tour is perfect for travelers pressed for time who want to see multiple highlights in one day, with a focus on natural wonders, unique geological features, and local flavors. It includes entrance fees and transfers, although lunch is at your own expense.

While the tour packs several key sights into a single day, the pacing can sometimes be uneven, and the experience depends heavily on the guide’s approach. Nonetheless, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 from over 102 reviews, this tour offers a balanced mix of impressive scenery, cultural stops, and ease of logistics. Its group size is capped at 99 travelers, maintaining a comfortable atmosphere despite the busy schedule.

Key Points

• All-in-one Lanzarote tour covering volcanic landscapes, caves, lagoons, and wine tasting.
• Includes entrance fees and transfers, simplifying logistics.
• Duration of 8 to 9 hours, suitable for a full day of sightseeing.
• Pickup from select hotels makes meeting easy and stress-free.
• Guided by certified professionals, with knowledgeable commentary.
• Some stops, like the wine tasting and camel ride, are free or optional, with additional costs for certain activities.

What to Expect from the Lanzarote Grand Tour

Starting Point and Group Size

The tour begins in Puerto del Carmen, with pickup options from select hotels. The group size is limited to 99 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable atmosphere. The tour ends back at the initial meeting point, making arrival and departure straightforward. The mobile ticket and pickup service are designed for convenience and ease of participation.

Exploring the Green Lagoon at El Golfo

The first stop is the El Lago Verde (Charco de los Clicos) in El Golfo, where you’ll see one of Lanzarote’s most striking natural sights. The bright green crater lake sits within a volcanic crater, creating a vivid contrast with the surrounding black lava fields. This spot offers great photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Lanzarote’s volcanic beauty. The stop lasts about 20 minutes and includes free admission.

Optional Camel Ride at Echadero de Los Camellos

Next, travelers have the option to experience a camel ride around the area, lasting 30 minutes. This activity is not included in the price, so it requires an additional fee and is purely optional. The camel ride provides a fun way to see the landscape from a different perspective, but those with limited time may prefer to skip it.

Discovering Timanfaya National Park

The highlight for many is the Timanfaya National Park, where the tour spends about 1 hour. The adventure on the volcano slopes allows visitors to see volcanic ash and feel the heat from the geothermal activity. This area is famous for its geysers and volcanic features, and the guided commentary helps explain Lanzarote’s volcanic history. Entry to the park is included, and it remains a core attraction of the tour.

Tasting Volcanic Wine at La Geria

A 20-minute stop at La Geria introduces visitors to Lanzarote’s volcanic soil wine production. Here, free wine tasting allows participants to sample local wines, renowned for their unique flavors developed in the volcanic terrain. It’s an opportunity to enjoy Lanzarote’s wine culture without additional cost, though the tasting lasts only a brief window.

Exploring the Lava Caves at Jameos del Agua

The tour’s final major stop is Jameos del Agua, a lava cave transformed into a cultural space by artist César Manrique. The 1-hour visit includes exploring the lava tunnel and viewing the famous crater lake inside. This site combines natural geology with artistic architecture, making it a visual highlight. The entrance fee is included, and the site tends to be busy, so plan for some crowds.

Optional Lunch and Additional Activities

Lunch is not included, giving flexibility for personal preferences and budgets. Some reviewers note that shorter time at stops like the Green Lagoon and La Geria might be tight, suggesting a need to prioritize certain sites. The tour does not include the camel ride or additional activities, which are optional extras to consider.

Logistics and Group Experience

Ease of Transfers and Meeting Points

The tour offers round-trip transfers from Puerto del Carmen and other select locations, removing stress around transportation. The meeting point is clearly organized, and the pickup is designed to be straightforward, though punctuality can vary, as some reviews mention delays in pick-up times. The bus is air-conditioned and designed to handle the group comfortably, with some travelers noting the vehicle can be quite full.

Guide and Driver Quality

Reviews consistently praise the professional guides, with mentions of knowledgeable commentary, humor, and friendly service. Guides like David, Michael, and Roland receive high marks for their informative and engaging storytelling. Some reviews highlight that guide attitude can influence the overall experience, with a few noting less attentive or less professional behavior from certain guides.

Pacing and Time Management

Pacing can be variable; some reviews point out longer-than-expected waiting times and rushed stops, especially at the wine tasting and lava caves. Time management depends heavily on the guide’s efficiency, and punctuality is crucial to maximize the experience. Expect some brief stops and potential wait times during the day.

Comfort and Accessibility

The air-conditioned bus makes traveling comfortable, and the group size helps avoid feeling crowded. However, some stops involve walking or exploring uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The size of the group can make it challenging for those with mobility issues to fully enjoy every site, but overall accessibility is manageable.

Highlights of the Tour Experience

Timanfaya National Park’s Geothermal Wonders

The volcanic activity exhibit at Timanfaya offers a spectacular display of geothermal heat and volcanic geology. Visitors get an up-close look at the volcano slopes and geothermal features that shaped Lanzarote. The guided explanation enhances understanding of the island’s volcanic origins.

The Stunning Green Lagoon at El Golfo

The bright green crater lake at El Lago Verde is a visual masterpiece, offering a unique natural spectacle. The contrast of colors between black lava fields and the vivid green water makes it a must-see stop. The short visit allows plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the scenery.

Jameos del Agua’s Artistic Lava Caves

The lava tunnel at Jameos del Agua is a geological marvel, with the added artistic touch of César Manrique’s design. The crater lake inside the cave is a striking feature, and the space itself combines natural beauty with cultural expression, making it a favorite among visitors.

Volcanic Wine Tasting at La Geria

The free wine tasting at La Geria offers a delightful glimpse into Lanzarote’s wine culture, crafted in volcanic soil. The brief stop provides a chance to sample local wines and appreciate the island’s unique agricultural environment.

The Lava Caves at Jameos del Agua

The lava caves are a geological highlight, with their natural tunnels and crater lakes. The site’s architectural transformation by César Manrique adds an artistic layer to the natural wonder, making it an engaging visit for fans of geology and art alike.

Limitations and Considerations

Timing and Pacing

Several reviews mention tight schedules and short stops, especially at the Green Lagoon and La Geria. The duration of stops varies, and some visitors find more time needed at certain sites to fully explore or take photos. The long wait times in some cases can affect the overall experience.

Guide Variability

While many guides are praised for their knowledge and humor, a few mention less attentive guides, with experiences including poor seat management or rudeness. The attitude and professionalism of the guide can significantly influence the day’s enjoyment.

Limited Food and Beverage Options

The lunch is not included, requiring travelers to plan ahead. Some reviews note that lunch stops can be brief, and the quality of included food varies. It’s advisable to bring water and snacks, especially since some stops are brief.

Optional Activities and Additional Costs

The camel ride is not included and adds extra expense if desired. The wine tasting is free but brief, and additional activities are not part of the standard package. Travelers wanting a more immersive experience should budget extra time and money for these.

Best suited for the Lanzarote Grand Tour

This full-day guided tour works best for those who want to see Lanzarote’s key sites with minimal hassle. It suits travelers interested in geology, volcanic landscapes, and cultural highlights, especially if they value professional guides and organized logistics. It’s ideal for families, groups, or solo travelers comfortable with long bus rides and brief stops.

The tour offers good value considering it includes entrance fees, transfers, and guided commentary, making it a convenient way to explore Lanzarote’s main attractions in one day. However, those seeking an in-depth experience or ample free time may find it somewhat rushed, especially during busy peak seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the Lanzarote Grand Tour?
Yes, round-trip transfers are included, with pickup from select hotels in Puerto del Carmen and other locations, ending back at the starting point.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 8 to 9 hours, including all stops, entrance fees, and transportation.

What are the main sights visited?
Stops include El Lago Verde (Charco de los Clicos), Timanfaya National Park, La Geria wine region, and Jameos del Agua lava caves.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is at your own expense, providing flexibility for personal preferences.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
The tour uses a comfortable bus, but some stops involve walking on uneven terrain. Accessibility might be limited depending on individual needs.

Are activities like the camel ride included?
No, the camel ride is optional and costs extra, not included in the base price.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all main entrance fees—to Timanfaya, Jameos del Agua, and Green Lagoon—are included.

What is the guide’s role during the tour?
The guide provides informative commentary, explaining each site, with many reviews praising the knowledgeable and engaging nature of the guides.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and possibly extra snacks or drinks for the day.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, families with children can enjoy the stops; however, consider the duration and walking involved. The shorter stops mean some flexibility is needed for younger children.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour start. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refundable.