In Mancha Blanca, there is plenty to explore, from volcanism and hiking to religious tradition. A walk, a guided tour and festival dates each require different planning. The lava flows and historic sites tell the story of the eruptions between 1730 and 1736; walking trails and the visitor centre offer further insights into the landscape.
Volcanic Landscapes and Walking Trails
The centre of Mancha Blanca has a raised walkway that allows visitors to take a circuit over lava flows. During the eruptions of 1730 to 1736, these flows reached agricultural land. The Ruta Termesana focuses on more recent volcanic formations. The guided tour explains their dynamics and geomorphology; the colonisation of the area by lichens and traditional farming in the surrounding area are also among the topics covered.
The Ruta Termesana is a walk of about 2 km, with a very low level of difficulty and a duration of approximately three hours. The short distance and the time required describe different aspects of the tour: despite the distance, allow a separate time slot for it. Advance booking is required, either in person or by phone; also check booking requirements and operating days before your trip. Several walking trails start in Mancha Blanca.
The permanent exhibition at the Centro de Visitantes e InterpretaciĂłn de Mancha Blanca covers the volcanism of the Canary Islands and Timanfaya, as well as the local flora, fauna and coastline. Audiovisual displays, models and additional activities present the natural and cultural values of the area; the educational programme is aimed at school groups. The centre has been adapted for visitors with limited mobility or impaired vision. If these adaptations are essential for your visit, check the arrangements in advance.
The Chapel and Protected Heritage
The Ermita de Los Dolores was built in connection with the eruptions of 1730 to 1736: the people of Tinajo built it as a collective vow to the Virgin Mary. Volcanic stone from the surrounding area was used for the portal, oculus and side buttresses. The ermita and its cistern are protected by Decree 82/2003 as a Bien de Interés Cultural in the Monument category.
The site where the lava from the eruptions of 1730 to 1736 came to a halt is also protected as a Historic Site. A teak cross marks it. Thus, a religious building with its cistern and a historic site marked by a cross are protected under different categories.
RomerĂa, Holidays and Crafts
The RomerĂa de los Dolores starts in Tinajo and ends at the Ermita de los Dolores in Mancha Blanca. People from all over Lanzarote and the rest of the archipelago take part in traditional dress. Local snacks and music played on timples, guitars and chácaras are part of the procession. 31 July, when the eruptions of 1824 began, is known as DĂa del Volcán. Nuestra Señora de Los Dolores is celebrated on 15 September.
The Feria Insular de ArtesanĂa de Mancha Blanca is also part of the celebrations for Nuestra Señora de los Volcanes. It brings together craftspeople from across the archipelago. If you are travelling for a festival or the romerĂa, check the specific dates in advance.
Plan Your Stay Around What Matters Most
If you are looking for hotels in Mancha Blanca, first decide what you want your stay to focus on: the volcanic landscape, a guided walk, the exhibition or a cultural event. A tour lasting approximately three hours and requiring advance booking calls for a different schedule than a visit planned around the romerĂa or a festival day. Plan around the experience you want and, if you are travelling for an event, take the relevant dates into account.
Discover more destinations: La Vegueta, La Santa, El Cuchillo.
Back to the main travel guide: Tinajo.
