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Climate & Seasons

Climate & Seasons

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Planning Your Visit

Climate patterns bring average daily temperatures of 18°C (64°F) in winter and 25°C (77°F) in summer. Night temperatures are typically 5 to 7°C lower. Rain is minimal, usually between October and March. Summers are almost entirely dry.

Humidity levels stay moderate, around 70-75% year-round. Trade winds regularly provide a cooling effect, specifically during summer.

Seasonal Highlights

  • High Season (July-Aug, Christmas/New Year): Warmest weather, lively atmosphere, ideal for beaches. Higher prices for flights and lodging, more crowded.
  • Shoulder Season (Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct): Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds than high season. Lower prices for flights and lodging. Good for hiking and exploring.
  • Low Season (Nov-mid Dec, mid-Jan-Mar): Mild, comfortable temperatures for exploration. Fewest crowds, lowest prices. Occasional cloud cover or light rain.
  • Outdoor Activities: Warmest sea temperatures from July to September. Swimming remains comfortable from May to October. Cooler, more comfortable temperatures for hiking and cycling characterize October to May.

Entry Information

Lanzarote is part of Spain, which is in the Schengen Area. Passport validity: at least three months beyond planned departure, issued within 10 years.

Many nationalities (US, Canadian, UK, Australian, New Zealand) require no visa for tourism up to 90 days. Others may need a Schengen visa, applied at the Spanish embassy or consulate. For visa services, consider IVisa or VisaHQ.

Budget Accommodation

€35-€60 per night

Pros

Basic apartments or guesthouses often with self-catering options.

Cons

Fewer amenities and services compared to higher-tier options.

Mid-Range Hotels

€70-€180 per night

Pros

Offers a balance of comfort and amenities, often 3-4 star hotels or villas.

Cons

Moderate pricing which can increase during peak travel periods.

Luxury Resorts

€200-€500+ per night

Pros

Premium accommodations, 5-star resorts, and private villas with extensive services.

Cons

Highest prices, especially for exclusive experiences and peak season.

Saving Money

Dining & Transport

Self-catering at apartments with kitchens presents a way to save. Supermarkets offer fresh local produce. Using local buses is reliable and cost-effective for island travel. Playa Blanca is flat and easy to walk, especially along the promenade.

Excursions & Deals

Direct booking for excursions is frequently more economical than through hotel representatives. Look for "Menu del Día" (menu of the day) at lunchtime for multi-course meals, often at a reduced price.

Smart Choices

  • Cook Meals

    Many apartments have kitchens to prepare your own food.

  • Use Public Transport

    Buses are a cost-effective way to get around the island.

  • Walk Locally

    Playa Blanca's promenade is pleasant for walking.

  • Direct Bookings

    Booking tours and activities directly can reduce costs.

  • Attractions Pass

    A combined ticket for major sites like Timanfaya might yield savings.

Health Concerns

  • Sunburn & Heatstroke: High UV index. Apply high-SPF Sunscreen, wear a hat and Sunglasses. Maintain hydration by consuming ample Bottled water regularly.
  • Volcanic dust/allergies: Some individuals might experience respiratory irritation from volcanic dust, especially during calima events.
  • Natural Disaster Risks: Lanzarote is a volcanic island; however, monitoring systems are in place, and risks are very low. Heatwaves can occur, specifically July-September.

Safety Advice

Playa Blanca has low crime rates. Petty crime, like pickpocketing or bag snatching, can occur in crowded tourist areas like markets or bus stations. Always stay aware of your belongings. Serious crime is rare. No specific neighborhoods in Playa Blanca pose a high risk.

Getting Around

Lanzarote offers efficient transportation options to explore the island.

Airport Details

Lanzarote Airport (ACE), also known as Arrecife Airport, is the main entry point. Its location is near Arrecife.

Airline Routes & Connections

  • Numerous European airlines offer direct flights from major European cities (Ryanair, Jet2.com, easyJet, TUI, British Airways).
  • No direct flights from North America or Asia. Connections typically route through mainland Europe, like Madrid, London, or Dublin.
  • Flight frequency increases during peak seasons, including summer and school holidays. Prices generally rise during these periods.
  • For flight deals, check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Transfers to Playa Blanca

From Lanzarote Airport (ACE) to Playa Blanca, several transfer options exist:

Options & Costs

  • Taxi: Approximately €45-€55, 30-40 minutes. Taxis wait outside arrivals.
  • Pre-booked Shuttle Services: Several companies offer shared or private transfers. Prices vary, with shared shuttles around €8-€15 per person. Journey times are longer due to multiple stops.
  • Public Bus (Intercity Bus Lanzarote, Line 161): Approximately €3.30, journey about 50 minutes. Buses run hourly during the day.
  • Car Rental: Available at the airport; explore options via DiscoverCars.com.

Ferry Services

Routes & Providers

  • Playa Blanca operates as the main ferry port for connections to Fuerteventura.
  • Route: Ferries travel between Playa Blanca (Lanzarote) and Corralejo (Fuerteventura).
  • Operators: Naviera Armas and Fred Olsen Express run services.
  • Frequency: Multiple daily departures, approximately every 30-60 minutes during peak times.

Duration & Fares

  • Duration: The fast ferry (Fred Olsen Express) takes about 15 minutes. The slower ferry (Naviera Armas) takes about 25-35 minutes.
  • Cost: Return fares typically range from €30-€60 per person for pedestrians. Fares are higher for vehicles.
  • Immigration Procedures: Standard immigration procedures apply for international arrivals, though most ferry passengers travel within the Canary Islands or Schengen Area.
  • Exit Fees: No specific exit fees or taxes for tourists departing Lanzarote.

Public Bus System

  • Intercity Bus Lanzarote, operated by Arrecife Bus, offers the main public bus service.
  • Route Maps: Line 60 (Playa Blanca to Arrecife), Line 66 (Playa Blanca to Puerto del Carmen), Line 161 (Playa Blanca to Lanzarote Airport).
  • Ticketing: Purchase tickets directly from the driver using cash. Fares are based on distance (€1.40-€3.60).
  • Hours: Buses operate from early morning (6:00-7:00) until late evening (22:00-23:00). Major routes run every 30-60 minutes.

Rental Options

Major international companies (Avis, Hertz, Europcar) and prominent local companies (Cicar, Pluscar, Payless) have offices at the airport and in Playa Blanca.

Car Rental

  • You need a valid driving license (IDP for non-EU/EEA) and a credit card.
  • A minimum age, usually 21 or 23, applies, with surcharges for drivers under 25.
  • Economy cars start from €25-€50 per day (not including fuel/insurance).
  • Roads are well-maintained. Parking is generally easy in Playa Blanca and at attractions.

Other Rentals

  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are available. Helmets are mandatory.
  • Numerous shops offer bicycle rentals, including mountain bikes, road bikes, and electric bikes. Prices range from €10-€30 per day.
  • Quad bikes or buggy tours are available as guided excursions.
  • Dedicated cycle lanes exist along parts of the promenade and some main roads.

Travel Tips

Check bus timetables online at Arrecife Bus before your journey. This aids in planning your island travel. Use licensed taxis from designated ranks or those clearly marked. Consider car rental for independent island exploration.
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