Discover 13 places in Lanzarote that you cannot miss

Lanzarote, known as “the island of volcanoes and paradisiacal waters”, is a wonderful destination for your next vacation. This island, part of the Canary Islands, offers a variety of experiences for travelers. From volcanic landscapes to crystalline beaches and majestic mountains, Lanzarote has a lot to offer.

In this article, we will take you on a tour of the essential places that you cannot miss in your itinerary. Get ready to discover the beauty of this unique island.

1. Timanfaya National Park

This park, which emerged from legendary volcanic eruptions, is one of the most beautiful and visited by tourists from Spain and from around the world. Here you will find rocky and arid landscapes that bear witness to the complete transformation of the region after an eruption in 1730.

The Timanfaya National Park is a nature reserve located in a volcanic mountain range. This impressive place will make you feel like you are on another planet, with landscapes covered in lava and fumaroles. You can tour the park on one of the tour buses included in your ticket and enjoy a meal cooked in the volcanic heat at El Diablo restaurant.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this impressive park.

2. Jameos Del Agua

The Jameos del Agua, located near the coast, are a unique place in the world that combines tourism, culture and art. These paths are holes that are formed by the collapse of the roof of a volcanic tube. Here you will find the Jameo Chico, the Jameo Grande and the Jameo de la Cazuela, forming an ecological paradise that is worth visiting.

Jameos del Agua was the first tourist destination created by the famous artist César Manrique in Lanzarote. This place combines art, design and nature. Descend a staircase that follows the slope of the lava tunnels until you reach a pool inhabited by the blind crab, a local endemic species. The gardens and outdoor areas are designed to highlight the natural beauty of the place. Enjoy this unique oasis and see a natural attraction formed almost without human intervention.

3. Teguise And The Castle Of Santa Bárbara

Teguise is the oldest Spanish settlement in the Canary Islands and was the capital of Lanzarote for 450 years. Explore this charming town and head to the Castillo de Santa Bárbara, the oldest castle on the island. From the top of this castle, you’ll be able to enjoy breathtaking views and learn about the colorful history of the area.

4. Cave Of The Greens

This volcanic cave, located in the municipality of Haría, was part of an old refuge used by the inhabitants of the island to protect themselves from pirates. The cave has been modified with artificial lighting since 1964 to allow visitors to appreciate its inner beauty in detail. Explore this original and fascinating place.

5. Viewpoint Of The River

Located at an altitude of 400 meters on the Risco de Famara, this spectacular viewpoint was created by the artist César Manrique in collaboration with the architect Eduardo Cáceres and the artist Jesús Soto.

This iconic building, almost camouflaged in the face of a cliff, offers spectacular panoramic views. You will be able to contemplate the beauty of La Graciosa, the “eighth island” of the Canary Islands, and the islets that make up the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park.

The glass windows of the bay window give you a unique experience while you enjoy a coffee with a view. Explore the interior of the building and head up to the rooftop terrace for even more impressive views.

Don’t miss this impressive sight, especially during the summer months.

6. Punta Mujeres

Punta Mujeres is a picturesque fishing village known for its natural seawater pools. The town’s name, which means “point of the women,” refers to the women who waited there for their husbands to return from fishing. This place offers an authentic and relaxed atmosphere, perfect to enjoy the tranquility and experience the authentic life in Lanzarote.

7. Lanzarote Cactus Garden

In Guatiza, in an old quarry for the extraction of volcanic sand, is this unique cactus garden of its kind. With 4,500 specimens of 450 different species of cacti from the five continents, this garden offers a fascinating geographical contrast. You will be able to admire the flora while the mountains of ash characteristic of the island surround you.

The Cactus Garden is another incredible place designed by César Manrique. This garden houses an impressive collection of cacti of different shapes and sizes. The design of the garden and its location in an ancient volcanic crater make it a fascinating visit. Let yourself be amazed by the variety of cacti and enjoy the tranquility of this special place.

8. Cesar Manrique Foundation

Throughout this tour, we have repeatedly mentioned César Manrique, a local artist whose creativity and ingenuity have left an indelible mark on the island. In his honor, a private cultural foundation was created with the objective of preserving and disseminating his works. Located in the municipality of Teguise, the foundation is located in the house that Manrique built to turn it into a symbolic museum.

The César Manrique Foundation is an unmissable place to learn more about the life and work of this famous artist. After his death in 1992, his house was opened to the public, becoming a museum showcasing his legacy and his influence on the island. Learn about his fight for sustainable tourism development and discover why Lanzarote stands out for its architecture and preservation of the natural environment.

Discover the legacy of this artist in this incredible place.

9. Papagayo Point

Like any good island, Lanzarote is also known for its beautiful beaches, and Punta de Papagayo is one of the best. This virgin beach emerges from a desert area with crystal clear waters and golden sands in the Los Ajaches Natural Park. Enjoy this oasis in the middle of the volcanic landscape.

10. Flamingo Beach

Another of the paradisiacal beaches that visitors fall in love with is Playa Flamingo. With crystal clear and calm waters, it is perfect to enjoy with the family and with children. Located in the south of the island, its coastline stretches for 200 meters and has services for tourists, such as restaurants, showers and accommodation.

11. The Swarms

This place is especially recommended to visit when the sea is rough, since that is when the waves crash against the caves creating an impressive spectacle. However, keep in mind that this place has certain levels of danger and is not suitable for everyone. Even so, you will feel the adrenaline as the water hits the rocks and creates a cloud of water, the main attraction of this place.

12. The Gulf

El Golfo is a charming coastal town located near the Timanfaya National Park. Here you will find a beautiful black sand beach and the famous Green Lake, known for its deep green color due to volcanic minerals. Explore this picturesque place and marvel at the dramatic contrast between the sea, the waves and the volcanic rocks.

13. Peasant Museum

Our last place is the Museo del Campesino, located in San Bartolomé. This work by César Manrique pays homage to the effort of the island’s peasants, who have faced unusual situations to maintain the vegetation and life in Lanzarote. The museum offers an exhibition that covers architecture, agriculture, crafts and gastronomy typical of the peasants. Immerse yourself in the history and cultural heritage of the island in this fascinating place.

Lanzarote is a truly magical island, full of amazing places to explore. From the volcanic landscapes to the beautiful beaches, this island offers a unique combination of nature, culture and art. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover these essential places on your visit to Lanzarote!