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Day Trips from Arrecife

Day Trips from Arrecife

Arrecife Canary Islands, Spain Travel Guide

Timanfaya National Park

This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve demonstrates stunning volcanic landscapes and geothermal phenomena. The bus tour through the "Ruta of the (masculine Volcanes" is an unique experience.

Allow half a day (3-4 hours) for the park itself. Combine your visit with the La Geria wine region or the coastal hamlet of El Golfo.

Visitor Details

  • Distance/Time: Approximately 20-30 minute drive to the southwest of Arrecife.
  • Transportation: Renting a car is a flexible option. Organized bus tours often include transport and entry. The area's bus service has limited access to the visitor center; from there, you use the park's own bus.
  • Tours: Organized tours simplify logistics with transport and entry. Independent travel with having a rental car allows for more flexibility for timing. The "Ruta of the (masculine Volcanes" inside the park is only accessible via the park's own bus. Find day trips here.
  • More Info: Consider a guided tour for deeper insights into the park's geology.

Natural Escapes from Arrecife

Lanzarote's natural wonders, shaped by its volcanic history, invite exploration.

Los Hervideros

Dramatic coastal cliffs where volcanic lava met the sea. This interaction created impressive caves, blowholes, and arches.

Highlights

  • Location: Southwest coast, near El Golfo.
  • Activities: Scenic viewpoints and short walks along designated paths. Observe powerful waves crashing.
  • Photography: Excellent photo opportunities of the distinctive geology.

El Golfo Charco de los Clicos

A half-submerged volcanic crater with an unique green lagoon, Charco Verde. The lagoon's color comes from algae, a vivid contrast with black sands.

Highlights

  • Location: Southwest coast, near Los Hervideros.
  • Activities: A viewpoint to admire the green lagoon and coastal landscape. Enjoy a coastal walk.
  • Dining: Fresh seafood at restaurants in the adjacent village.

Manrique's Natural Art

Jardín de Cactus Cactus Garden

  • A unique botanical garden designed by César Manrique.
  • Over 1,000 species of cacti, arranged in an amphitheater-like setting.
  • Guatiza, approximately 20-25 minute drive north of Arrecife.
  • Explore the diverse collection and visit the cafe.

Mirador del Río

  • A stunning viewpoint designed by César Manrique.
  • Perched on cliffs overlooking the Chinijo Archipelago and La Graciosa.
  • Northern tip of Lanzarote, about 40 minutes from Arrecife.
  • Enjoy panoramic views, visit the café and gift shop.

Other Cultural Gems

  • Teguise (Historic Town):Former capital, charming streets, Sunday market.
  • Distance/Time:15-20 -minute car ride northwest of Arrecife.
  • Transportation:Car rental or public bus (Line 1 or 10).
  • Itinerary:2-3 hours for exploring; Sunday for the market.
  • Haría (Valley of a Thousand Palms):Picturesque village, lush palm groves, Manrique's home.
  • Activities:Visit Manrique's House-Museum, stroll the village.
  • Access:Often included in north island excursions.
  • Views:Panoramic valley views.

Traveler's Tip

Combine Los Hervideros and El Golfo on a single trip to the southwest coast. They feature dramatic coastal scenery and geological formations.

Cultural Excursions from Arrecife

Discover Lanzarote’s history and traditional culture in surrounding villages and places.

Teguise La Villa de Teguise

Lanzarote's former capital, a charming historic town with cobbled streets and a famous Sunday market.

Haría Valley of a Thousand Palms

A picturesque village in the north, known for lush palm groves and traditional white houses. Manrique's former home is here.

Mirador del Río

A stunning viewpoint by César Manrique, perched on cliffs overlooking the Chinijo Archipelago and La Graciosa.

Teguise Exploration

Explore the historic center, including churches and noble houses. Enjoy the bustling Sunday market.

Details

  • Located 15-20 minutes northwest of Arrecife.
  • Car rental for flexibility. Public bus services available.
  • Allow 2-3 hours for exploration. Visit on Sunday for the market.

Harían Exploration

Visit Manrique's House-Museum to see his life and work. Stroll through the tranquil village and panoramic views.

Details

  • César Manrique's former home located here.
  • Known for its lush palm groves.
  • A picturesque setting for a relaxed visit.

Manrique's Northern Wonders

Jameos del Agua:Cave system with a blind albino crab lake.
Cueva de los Verdes:Fascinating lava tube tunnel.
Mirador del Río:Stunning cliffside viewpoint.
Distance/Time:30-40 min drive north of Arrecife for Jameos/Cueva.
Combine:Both cave attractions for a half-day.
Manrique Connection:All designed by César Manrique.

Local Insight

  • For a historical and lively market experience, visit Teguise on a Sunday morning.
  • The town transforms into a hub with artisan stalls.
  • Arrive early to avoid the busiest times.
  • Plenty of local cafes for breakfast.
  • Parking can be busy, consider public transport.

Multi-Day Extensions

Extend your Canary Islands adventure beyond Lanzarote, exploring nearby islands for diverse experiences.

Nearby Island Gems

F

Fuerteventura

Known for vast sandy beaches and excellent conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

G

Gran Canaria

Features a lush interior, dramatic mountains, and popular southern resorts with sandy hills. Mix of the city life, nature, and beaches.

T

Tenerife

The largest island, home to Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak. Good for hiking and diverse scenery.

Fuerteventura Travel

  • Recommendations: Closest neighboring island, for beach relaxation and water sports.
  • Transportation: Regular and frequent ferry services from Playa Blanca (Lanzarote) to Corralejo (Fuerteventura). Crossing is 25-30 minutes. Less services that run often from Arrecife directly to Puerto del Rosario.
  • Suggested Route: Combine 2-3 days in Fuerteventura after exploring Lanzarote.
  • Experience: A different kind of relaxation and water sports focus.
  • Access: Very easy connection from Lanzarote.
  • Activities: Windsurfing, kitesurfing, extensive beaches.

Gran Canaria & Beyond

  • Gran Canaria Transport: Ferries from Arrecife to Las Palmas city (5-7 hours). Inter-island flights from Lanzarote Airport (ACE) to Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) take about ABOUT forty minutes.
  • A Paradise in the atlantic Route: Add 3-4 days to explore city life, mountain landscapes, and lively resorts.
  • Different Islands: La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro ("green islands") for hiking and nature lovers.
  • Access to Others: Inter-island flights or ferries from larger islands.
  • Tenerife Access: Prevalent inter-island flights from Lanzarote.
  • Focus: These western islands are for those seeking nature and outdoor adventures.

Inter-Island Planning

Ferry Services

Numerous ferry connections link Lanzarote to Fuerteventura for short excursions or island hopping.

Flights Between Islands

Inter-island flights from Lanzarote Airport (ACE) offer swift travel to other major Canary Islands like Gran Canaria and Tenerife.

Planning an Itinerary

A multi-island itinerary allows for exploration of different landscapes and cultures across the archipelago.

Traveler's Tip

Planning an island-hopping itinerary within the Canary Islands is straightforward. Inter-island flights make for fast connections for exploring different landscapes and cultures.
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