Timanfaya & Lanzarote Volcano Experience

The Timanfaya & Lanzarote Volcano Experience offers an engaging way to explore some of Lanzarote’s most iconic volcanic landscapes in just about 5 hours. Priced at $150.61 per person, this tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive look at the island’s geothermal marvels without the hassle of arranging transportation. Starting with hotel pickup, the trip includes timed entrance tickets to Timanfaya National Park, so you skip long queues and dive straight into the sights. The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, comfortable Wi-Fi-equipped minibus, and a variety of stops that showcase Lanzarote’s unique geology, scenery, and local flavors.

While the tour offers a packed itinerary, it’s flexible enough for those interested in optional activities like a camel ride or wine tasting. The tour generally attracts positive reviews, with a 5.0/5 rating from 275 reviews, emphasizing the expertise of the guides and the breathtaking landscapes. It’s especially suitable for visitors eager to see Lanzarote’s volcanic terrain in a manageable timeframe. However, be aware that some stops, like the camel ride, are paid separately, and amenities such as on-board restrooms or lunch are not included.

Key Points

• Includes entrance tickets to Timanfaya National Park, saving time and avoiding lines
• Comfortable minibus with Wi-Fi, making the journey pleasant and connected
• Stops at La Geria wine region, Los Hervideros, and El Golfo for scenic views and photo opportunities
• Optional camel ride available for an extra fee
• Small group size (up to 25 travelers) for a more personal experience
• Tour departs daily at 8:00 am and lasts approximately 5 hours

Timanfaya National Park: Geothermal Demonstrations and Views

The tour begins at Timanfaya National Park, where the guides demonstrate the intense geothermal activity still present today. Three demonstrations showcase the high temperatures found at shallow depths, allowing for volcanic heat to be used in cooking, such as at the El Diablo Restaurant designed by César Manrique. Guests receive included admission tickets that allow quick entry, so they avoid waiting in lines.

This stop also provides free time to enjoy the views, take photos, or relax with a coffee. The landscape here is striking, featuring volcanic craters and steaming vents that highlight Lanzarote’s volcanic origins. The guides’ explanations make the experience informative, emphasizing how the earth’s heat still shapes the area.

The Route of the Volcanoes: Panoramic Views of Lanzarote’s Lava Fields

The Route of the Volcanoes takes visitors on a 30-minute panoramic tour inside the protected section of the park. The minibus travels through areas inaccessible to cars, with stops for photos from inside the vehicle. The scenery includes spectacular volcanic formations and black lava flows, providing a vivid sense of Lanzarote’s volcanic activity.

This part of the tour underscores the island’s volcanic landscape, giving travelers a sense of the scale and power of eruptions that formed the terrain. The stops are short but impactful, allowing for plenty of photo opportunities to capture the rugged, fiery landscape.

Camel Ride at Castor of Camels: Optional Adventure

A key highlight for many is the camel ride, which lasts about 30 minutes. It’s an optional activity with an additional payment, but reviews suggest it’s well worth trying for the fun and unique experience it offers. The camel ride takes place in an area close to Timanfaya Park and provides a different perspective of the volcanic landscape, with gentle walks over the terrain.

Guides advise about the availability and cost of this activity on-site. The ride offers a memorable way to engage physically with the landscape, especially for those who enjoy animal experiences or prefer a more relaxed, scenic activity amid the volcanic scenery.

El Golfo and Lago Verde: Stunning Coastal Landscapes

Next, the tour moves to the El Golfo volcano, where the Charco de los Clicos (Lago Verde) impresses with its vivid turquoise waters formed by sea filtration. The lagoon’s dramatic setting, carved out by volcanic erosion, resembles a Roman theater, offering excellent photo opportunities.

The visit lasts around 20 minutes, allowing time to enjoy the views and explore the nearby small town with its peaceful, slow-paced atmosphere. The lagoon is probably the most colorful sight on the island, with its vibrant greenish-blue waters contrasting sharply against the dark volcanic rocks.

Coastal Panoramas: Salinas and Janubio Beach

A panoramic drive along Lanzarote’s coast reveals Salinas de Janubio and Janubio Beach, showcasing the island’s salt flats and rugged shoreline. These scenic viewpoints are perfect for appreciating the island’s diverse volcanic coastlines, with opportunities to snap photos of the contrasting black, white, and greenish hues of the landscape.

Though brief, this stretch provides a comprehensive visual of Lanzarote’s coastal geology, emphasizing the natural beauty created by volcanic activity combined with the sea.

La Geria: Unique Wine Region and Tasting

A stop at La Geria presents a 20-minute visit to Lanzarote’s renowned wine region. Here, vines are planted in holes dug into volcanic ash, a method that protects the roots from wind and maintains soil moisture. The guide explains this innovative technique, which has been used for generations.

Guests have the chance to taste Malvasía wine, a local specialty. The tasting is free, and the guide’s insights deepen understanding of how the volcanic landscape influences the island’s wine production. This stop offers a relaxing break and an authentic taste of Lanzarote’s agricultural resilience.

Los Hervideros: Dramatic Cliffs and Ocean Views

The Los Hervideros cliffs are another highlight, where the ocean crashes forcefully against volcanic rock formations, creating a dramatic and scenic display. Visitors can walk along designated paths for about 20 minutes, enjoying the sound of the surf and taking photos of the rugged coastline.

The site is perfect for appreciating Lanzarote’s geological power and sheer beauty. The constant motion of the sea against volcanic cliffs offers a sensory experience that feels both peaceful and awe-inspiring.

Tour Logistics: Comfort, Guides, and Group Size

This tour features transport in a Wi-Fi-equipped minibus, making the journey comfortable and convenient. The small group size (up to 25 people) allows for a more personalized experience, with guides who are certified and authorized by the Canary Islands government. Reviewers praise guides Angela and Cristina for their local knowledge, friendliness, and ability to communicate fluently in both English and Spanish.

Hotel pickup is included, which simplifies logistics, and the tour departs daily at 8:00 am. The drop-off is at the same location as the pickup, making arrangements straightforward.

Optional Activities and Extras

While the main itinerary covers the major sights, the camel ride is an optional activity that requires additional payment. It’s regarded as a fun, memorable part of the adventure, giving travelers a chance to see the volcanic landscape from a different perspective.

Lunch and restroom facilities on board are not included, so travelers may want to plan accordingly. The tour is designed as a half-day experience, making it feasible even for visitors with busy schedules.

What Makes This Tour Outstanding

The combination of quick access to Timanfaya’s geothermal demonstrations, the scenic Route of the Volcanoes, and diverse stops like Lago Verde, La Geria, and Los Hervideros makes this tour stand out. The expert guides and small group setting are frequently praised, making the experience feel personal and engaging.

The flexibility of optional activities like the camel ride and wine tasting enhances the overall value. On top of that, the well-paced itinerary ensures travelers see the island’s most striking volcanic and coastal landscapes within a manageable timeframe.

Final Thoughts on the Timanfaya & Lanzarote Volcano Experience

This tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Lanzarote’s volcanic terrain and coastal beauty. Its value lies in the included entrance tickets, comfortable transport, and knowledgeable guides who bring Lanzarote’s geology to life. Most reviews are highly positive, emphasizing the quality of the experience and the friendliness of the guides.

It’s especially suited for visitors who want to avoid logistical hassles, see key sights in a short time, and enjoy a more intimate group experience. However, those seeking extensive free exploration or a longer day might find the schedule slightly tight, and activities like the camel ride are optional but not included.

The Timanfaya & Lanzarote Volcano Experience stands as a reliable and enjoyable way to discover Lanzarote’s volcanic heart, leaving travelers with stunning memories and plenty of photo opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup is included, making it easy to start your day without extra planning.

Are the entrance tickets to Timanfaya National Park included?
Yes, the tour provides pre-paid tickets, allowing quick access and avoiding queues.

Is the camel ride part of the standard price?
No, the camel ride is optional and requires a separate payment on-site.

What should I bring for this tour?
It’s advisable to bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a bottle of water, although water isn’t included.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking and standing, particularly at sights like Los Hervideros and Lago Verde, so those with mobility concerns should consider this.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak both English and Spanish fluently, providing engaging commentary throughout the tour.