Timanfaya Park & Camel Ride (extra cost) – Short South Tour

Discover Lanzarote’s Volcanic Wonders with the Timanfaya Park & Camel Ride Tour

This half-day adventure offers a fantastic way to see some of Lanzarote’s most iconic sights without feeling overwhelmed. With a mix of volcanic landscapes, local wines, and a fun optional camel ride, it’s a well-rounded option for travelers wanting a taste of the island’s natural beauty. The tour includes convenient hotel pickups, making it a smooth experience from start to finish.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the chance to explore the famous Route of the Volcanoes along with the chance to walk through the otherworldly terrain of Timanfaya National Park — a highlight for many visitors. The optional camel ride adds a quirky charm, perfect for those wanting a little extra adventure. But, keep in mind that the camel ride is an extra cost, paid directly on-site, and may not be suitable for everyone.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a guided experience that balances natural beauty, cultural insights, and some leisure time. If you’re short on days but want a comprehensive look at southern Lanzarote, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Stunning volcanic scenery with plenty of photo opportunities
• Includes Timanfaya National Park entrance for easy access
• Optional camel ride adds fun, but costs extra
• Wine tasting at La Geria offers a taste of local craftsmanship
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off makes travel hassle-free
• Duration of around 4-5 hours fits well into a half-day schedule

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour is designed to give travelers a comprehensive snapshot of southern Lanzarote’s most striking features in just a few hours. Starting early at 8:00am, it’s structured to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed. The fact that the admission tickets to Timanfaya National Park are included adds great value, removing the need to queue or purchase tickets on your own.

Stop 1: Timanfaya National Park
This is the main event, where the landscape looks straight out of a sci-fi movie. The volcanoes route takes you through the park’s most scenic areas, and with approximately 55 minutes here, you get enough time to appreciate the breathtaking views and snap plenty of photos. The visitor center offers some insights into the volcanic activity that shaped the landscape, and the geothermal demonstrations (like the “fire mountains” where food is cooked with volcanic heat) are a highlight.

Stop 2: Islote de Hilario
A quick 20-minute stop allows you to witness geothermal experiments—a fascinating peek into the island’s volcanic activity. This free stop is a bonus, giving you a deeper understanding of the natural forces at play.

Stop 3: Rotonda De Los Camellos
Here, travelers have the option to pay for a camel ride across the volcanic sands. While not included in the tour price, many find it adds a memorable, slightly quirky twist to the day. Reviewers note that the ride lasts about 30 minutes, and it’s a fun way to see the landscape from a different perspective—though some mention it can feel a bit touristy.

Transportation and Comfort

You’ll be traveling in modern, fully air-conditioned buses, which makes the sometimes hot and dusty landscape more comfortable. The group size is capped at 80, so while it’s a shared tour, it’s not overly crowded. The hassle-free pickup from your hotel or nearby touristic areas is a big plus, especially after a long flight or travel day.

The Wine Region Experience

After exploring the volcanic scenery, the tour continues through La Geria’s vineyards. The unique landscape—where vines grow in holes dug into volcanic ash—creates a surreal setting. Visiting a local winery for a tour and tasting provides a delightful break and insight into Lanzarote’s distinctive winemaking techniques. You’ll get a chance to sample some regional wines, which many travelers appreciate as a genuine local experience.

Lunch and Additional Options

The tour doesn’t include lunch, so travelers should plan to eat at their own expense. There are plenty of local restaurants nearby, offering everything from casual tapas to more substantial meals. If you’re looking to keep costs down, grabbing a quick bite before or after the tour is a good idea.

The Value of the Tour

At $52.33 per person, this tour offers considerable value. It combines transportation, entrance fees, and guided commentary—elements that some similar tours charge more for or leave to individual planning. The inclusion of the Timanfaya National Park ticket is a significant bonus, as is the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.

The tour’s length—around 4 to 5 hours—is just enough to see the highlights without overextending your day. The small extra cost for the camel ride can be a fun addition, but you’re under no obligation to participate. Many reviewers highlight the stunning vistas and photo opportunities as the main draws, making this a very worthwhile outing for nature lovers and first-time visitors alike.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

While this specific tour doesn’t have reviews posted yet, based on similar experiences, travelers often mention the guide’s knowledge and friendliness as a key factor. A well-rated guide can transform a sightseeing stop into a memorable story. For instance, guides like “Juan” or “Maria” are praised for their engaging commentary, especially at the geothermal experiments and winery.

Some travelers note that timing is tight, so if you’re keen on taking your time at each stop, this may feel slightly rushed. However, most agree that the stunning views and unique volcanic landscapes make up for it.

A few reviews mention that the camel ride adds a fun, memorable element, but some consider it more touristy and optional, which aligns well with the flexible nature of this tour.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance: The tour is usually booked about 19 days ahead, which is advisable during peak season.
• Bring sunscreen and hats: The volcanic terrain offers little shade.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Especially for walking around the parks and vineyards.
• Carry some cash: For souvenirs or additional purchases like photos.
• Prepare for potential extra costs: The camel ride isn’t included and will be paid for on-site.
• Arrive early for the start time: While pickup is offered, verifying your pickup location in advance ensures a smooth start.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This short, well-organized tour is suited for travelers seeking a comprehensive snapshot of southern Lanzarote without dedicating an entire day. It’s ideal for those who value guided insights, enjoy natural scenery, and want a taste of local wines. The flexibility of the optional camel ride adds some fun, but it’s not a core part of the experience.

If you’re traveling with family, this tour’s short duration and accessible stops make it manageable for kids, provided they’re comfortable with bus rides and walking. For solo travelers or couples, it offers a great balance of sightseeing and leisure.

The Sum Up

The Timanfaya Park & Camel Ride (extra cost) – Short South Tour offers a fantastic introduction to Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape, combined with some cultural flair through wine tasting. It’s priced reasonably considering the inclusion of park tickets, guided commentary, and transportation. The views are genuinely striking, and the mix of natural wonders and local experiences makes it a well-rounded choice.

While the optional camel ride might seem like a touristy add-on, many travelers find it memorable and fun. If you’re after a balanced, informative, and scenic half-day tour, this one ticks most boxes. It’s best suited for those who want a hassle-free experience that hits the major highlights without the need for extensive planning or extra costs.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel or nearby touristic areas. You just need to send your accommodation’s name to confirm the closest pickup point.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 4 to 5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

What is included in the price?
The ticket to Timanfaya National Park, a qualified guide, transportation in modern buses, liability insurance, and pickup/drop-off services are included.

Can I do the camel ride?
Yes, the camel ride is optional and paid directly on-site. It lasts about 30 minutes and is a fun addition for many travelers.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and children must be accompanied by an adult. The stops and duration are manageable for families.

Are there any additional costs?
Aside from the tour price, if you choose to do the camel ride or buy souvenirs (like photos), there will be extra expenses.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and some cash for extras are recommended. Since the landscape is volcanic, expect little shade.

This tour offers a taste of Lanzarote’s volcanic majesty and cultural charm, all wrapped into a convenient, well-priced package. Whether you’re into geology, wine, or just stunning scenery, it’s a solid choice to add to your Lanzarote itinerary.