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Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Island Highlights

Explore the diverse wonders of Lanzarote, from volcanic landscapes to stunning coastal views and unique cultural sites.

Each destination from Puerto del Carmen is easily reached, setting the scene for memorable outings.

Popular Nearby Destinations

  • Timanfaya National Park (15-20 min drive)
  • Jameos del Agua / Cueva de los Verdes (30-40 min drive)
  • Mirador del Río (45-50 min drive)
  • La Geria (15-20 min drive inland)

Getting Around the Island

Explore Lanzarote by rental car, organized tour, or public bus. Each option offers different advantages for your journey.

Organized Tours

Many tour companies based in Puerto del Carmen have full-day or half-day excursions.

Benefits

  • Hassle-free transport
  • Includes entry fees for attractions
  • Guided commentary adds context

Independent Travel

A Rental car offers the most flexible way to explore the island at your own pace.

Benefits

  • Full flexibility to set your own pace
  • Explore off-the-beaten-path spots
  • Convenience for carrying gear

Suggested Itineraries

North Island Tour 1 full day

  • Combine Jameos del Agua, Cueva de los Verdes.
  • Visit Mirador del Río and Jardín de Cactus.
  • Focus on César Manrique's iconic creations.
  • Stunning northern landscapes.

South Island Tour 1 full day

  • Explore Timanfaya National Park, El Golfo.
  • See Los Hervideros and enjoy a wine tasting in La Geria.
  • Features the island's dramatic volcanic geology.
  • Unique agricultural practices are on display.

Differences

  • Organized Tour:Structured schedule
  • Organized Tour:Less flexible stops
  • Organized Tour:Guided commentary
  • Organized Tour:Includes entry fees
  • Independent Travel:Flexible pace
  • Independent Travel:Explore hidden spots
  • Independent Travel:Self-guided discovery
  • Independent Travel:Separate entry fees

Tip for Exploring

Public buses connect major towns, offering a budget-friendly way to travel, though some attractions may require transfers.

Natural Escapes

Lanzarote's natural landscape offers opportunities for quiet retreats and active exploration.

Parque Natural de Los Volcanes

Adjacent to Timanfaya, this park offers marked hiking trails through lava fields.

Playa de Famara

A wild, vast beach on the north-west coast, great for walks and photography. Strong currents are present.

Papagayo Beaches

Stunning, sheltered golden coves with clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Volcanic Walks

Explore the unique volcanic landscape on foot, away from the guided bus tours.

Benefits

  • Immersive walk
  • Marked trails
  • Volcanic scenery

La Geria Vineyards

Visit this unique wine region where vines grow in volcanic ash hollows.

Experiences

  • Local wine tastings
  • Surreal landscapes
  • Distinct atmosphere

Coastal Charms

El Golfo:Green lagoon & black sand beach
Playa Blanca:Southern resort, ferry point
Arrecife:Island capital, urban attractions
Teguise:Historic former capital
Puerto Calero:Upscale marina, excursions
La Graciosa:Unspoiled northern island

Explore Further

  • Consider a hike in the Parque Natural de Los Volcanes for an immersive volcanic experience.
  • For stunning views and photography, visit Playa de Famara's wild northern coast.
  • Taste local wines and experience the unique landscape of La Geria.
  • Papagayo Beaches await with clear waters for swimming and snorkeling.
  • Accessible by dirt road or boat trips from Puerto del Carmen.

Cultural Excursions

Step back in time and experience Lanzarote's rich history and traditional village life.

Teguise Historic Village

Explore the charming cobbled streets, historic buildings, and artisan shops of Lanzarote's former capital.

Visit Insights

  • Historic former capital
  • Artisan shops
  • Quieter outside Sunday market

Haría Valley of a Thousand Palms

A picturesque northern village nestled in a lush valley with abundant palm trees.

Highlights

  • Lush valley landscape
  • César Manrique's house-museum
  • Traditional architecture

Arrecife Capital

Explore the city center, including the beautiful Charco de San Ginés.

City Attractions

  • Charco de San Ginés
  • Castillo de San Gabriel
  • Calle Real for shopping

Cultural Insights

These locations showcase Lanzarote's heritage beyond its natural wonders.

More Experiences

  • Casa-Museo del Campesino
  • Traditional village life
  • Art and architecture

Beyond the Usual

Discover unique aspects of Lanzarote's culture in these less explored spots.

La Casa Amarilla

A cultural space in Arrecife, often with exhibitions.

Monumento al Campesino

A Manrique tribute to rural life, worth a quick stop.

Fundación César Manrique

His former home, an unique art space and museum.

Multi-Day Extensions

Consider extending your trip to explore more of the Canary Islands.

Additional Islands

FV

Fuerteventura

A short ferry ride away, Fuerteventura has vast sand dunes and excellent conditions for windsurfing.

LG

La Graciosa

An unspoiled island north of Lanzarote, offering tranquil escapes and pristine beaches.

GC

Gran Canaria or Tenerife

Longer journeys for distinct landscapes and attractions, like dramatic parks or impressive rock formations.

Travel Between Islands

  • Ferry services: Fred Olsen Express and Naviera Armas operate regular services.
  • Ferry routes connect Lanzarote with Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, and Tenerife.
  • Flights: Binter Canarias and Canaryfly offer short inter-island flights.
  • Flights are a quick way to hop between islands if time is limited.
  • Book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Inter-island flights from Lanzarote Airport (ACE) offer convenience.

Multi-Island Itinerary Ideas

  • Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and Gran Canaria are a popular combination.
  • These islands have distinct landscapes and attractions.
  • Good ferry and flight connections tie them together.
  • A diverse experience of the Canary Islands' varied beauty.
  • Plan your route to minimize travel time.
  • Maximize your exploration of each unique island.

Planning Your Extended Trip

Fuerteventura Day Trip

Take a 20-30 minute ferry from Playa Blanca to Corralejo. Visit for a day or an overnight stay.

La Graciosa Excursion

Ferry from Órzola (north Lanzarote). A unique, tranquil escape with pristine beaches.

Other Islands

Longer ferry journeys or short inter-island flights to Gran Canaria or Tenerife.

Considerations for Multi-Island Travel

Inter-island transport options make multi-island adventures a great possibility. Book ahead during peak times.