Lanzarote combines striking volcanic formations with agriculture that makes deliberate use of this landscape. The island is part of the Lanzarote Biosphere Reserve; the Lanzarote and Chinijo Islands UNESCO Global Geopark covers the entire island. For planning your trip, this means more than a single nature-related theme: geology, cultural history and winegrowing offer different perspectives on Lanzarote.

Volcanic landscapes and how they formed

The Biosphere Reserve includes extensive lava fields known as malpaís, as well as numerous craters in Timanfaya National Park. The reserve’s described landscapes also include shallow seabeds with great biological diversity. Timanfaya is also a geosite in the UNESCO Global Geopark, with numerous volcanic formations. One of the world’s largest historic lava fields formed there during a volcanic eruption between 1730 and 1736.

Another way to explore the island’s geology is the La Corona lava tube: it is 7.6 kilometres long, with its final 1.6-kilometre section flooded. These specific measurements give the landscape a sense of time and space, while recognising that not all volcanic sites are alike. The Cueva de los Verdes is also part of the volcanic tunnel formed during the eruption of La Corona volcano.

Visitor routes and a changing landscape

The official visitor routes in Timanfaya National Park include the Ruta de los Volcanes, the Ruta de Termesana and the Ruta por el Litoral. The Ruta de Termesana is a guided walk of about two kilometres with a minimal level of difficulty. It passes through areas with features of recent volcanism. As booking conditions may change, it is advisable to check the latest information before your trip.

El Jable is a different natural environment: a sensitive ecosystem for species adapted to wind and drought. These include the houbara bustard and the cream-coloured courser. Traditional agriculture there also demonstrates a distinct adaptation to dry conditions: sand is used to retain moisture for growing potatoes, sweet potatoes, melons and watermelons. Nature watching and agriculture come together here as different aspects of the same landscape.

Architecture, art and history

At Mirador del Río, architecture can be appreciated in direct relation to its surroundings. The building, designed by César Manrique, is carved into the terrain and clad in volcanic stone. Arched windows frame El Río and the Chinijo Archipelago. The viewpoint is located on the Risco de Famara, opposite El Río, the sea channel between Lanzarote and La Graciosa.

The galleries of the Cueva de los Verdes tell the story of another use of the volcanic underground: in the 16th and 17th centuries, they provided the local population with refuge from pirate raids from North Africa. Castillo de San José, meanwhile, was built as a defensive fortress in the 18th century and has housed the MIAC – Museo Internacional de Arte Contemporáneo since 1976. Its collection includes works by Canarian, national and international artists.

The Jardín de Cactus also brings together design and landscape. Thousands of cacti from five continents are arranged on terraces that preserve the shape of the former quarry. Paths, volcanic-stone walls and terraces follow the contours of the land; basalt monoliths left behind after quarrying have been incorporated as sculptures. The Plaza de los Artesanos, part of the Casa Museo del Campesino, is a place associated with Lanzarote’s traditional crafts.

Winegrowing and other experiences

La Geria is an agricultural landscape and is also part of the La Geria Protected Landscape. There, grapevines and other fruit are grown in hollows dug into lapilli. Lanzarote’s Malvasía Volcánica is considered a grape variety unique in the world. Wines from Lanzarote with Denominación de Origen status can be tasted at local wineries; check the current tasting options in advance.

Other experiences offer different highlights: Lanzarote has natural pools formed behind lava flows that entered the sea after volcanic eruptions. The Montañas del Fuego can be explored on a guided bus tour through a landscape of volcanic cones and lava fields; check the operational details before your trip. Near the entrance to the national park, the Echadero de Camellos offers a camel ride through the volcanoes. Here too, it is advisable to confirm current operations in advance.

Jameos del Agua brings together natural and cultural features: a globally unique species of albino crab lives in a natural cave lake. The site also includes a volcano museum with interactive activities and an auditorium in a volcanic cave where concerts and events are held. If you are interested in an event, check the current programme.

A trip beyond Lanzarote can also be planned with specific details: a ferry from the port of Órzola in northern Lanzarote reaches Caleta de Sebo on La Graciosa in about 25 minutes. Check departure options before your trip. When choosing your holiday apartment, you can start by deciding what interests you most: volcanic landscapes, art and history, or agriculture and wine.

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