3-Hour Walking Tour in Los Volcanes Nature Reserve

Lanzarote’s landscape is a captivating mosaic of volcanic craters, lava tunnels, and surreal terrain that looks almost otherworldly. The 3-hour walking tour in Los Volcanes Nature Reserve offers a well-balanced combination of scenic views, expert commentary, and manageable hiking that appeals to a wide range of travelers.

One of the standout aspects of this tour is the knowledgeable guides—hosts like Laurent, Marcel, and Giacomo are consistently praised for their depth of insight into the area’s geology and history. Plus, the landscape itself is simply breathtaking, with lava flows and crater vistas that make for unforgettable photos.

However, a few reviews hint at the importance of proper footwear and good weather, especially since the terrain can be rough and windy. This experience is best suited for those comfortable with moderate walking and eager to learn about Lanzarote’s volcanic past in an authentic, small-group setting.

Key Points

• Well-informed Guides: Expect expert guides who share fascinating facts about Lanzarote’s volcanic geology.
• Spectacular Scenery: The landscape features lava fields, craters, and volcanic cones that look like scenes from another planet.
• Manageable Trek: The 7 km route is considered low difficulty, suitable for most people with moderate fitness.
• Hassle-Free Experience: Includes hotel pickup/drop-off from key resorts and snacks for energy.
• Small Group: Limited to 15 travelers for a more personalized and engaging experience.
• Weather Considerations: Be prepared for windy conditions and wear sturdy shoes for walking over uneven volcanic rocks.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Setting Out and Meeting Point

The tour kicks off at Montaña Testeina in San Bartolomé at 9:00 am, with an option for pickup from Lanzarote’s popular resorts such as Costa Teguise, Arrecife, Puerto del Carmen, and Puerto Calero. The meeting point is easy to find, with directions supplied via a Google Maps link, and guides tend to be punctual, as many reviewers confirm smooth pickups and organized start times.

Most guests are picked up between 8:55 and 9:00 am, ensuring a timely start. The tour’s duration, about 3 hours, allows for plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The journey begins in the Los Volcanes Natural Park, an area shaped by eruptions from the 18th and 19th centuries. This part of Lanzarote reveals the raw, rugged beauty of volcanic activity, with lava flows, craters, and tunnels that are remarkably well-preserved thanks to the island’s dry climate.

The guided walk covers approximately 4.5 miles (7 km), traversing lava fields and volcanic cones. The terrain is uneven but manageable—most reviewers describe the hike as “easy” or “moderate,” with some mentioning the importance of sturdy, laced shoes, especially on rough volcanic rocks.

Highlights of the Tour

• Crater and Lava Lake Views: Walking up to volcanic cones offers stunning sights of crater lakes and lava tunnels, which are often highlighted as “spectacular” by travelers.
• Lava Field Exploration: Walking through lava flows that remain largely untouched provides a tangible sense of Lanzarote’s fiery past.
• Informative Commentary: Guides like Laurent and Marcel share rich stories about the eruptions, local geology, and how the landscape has evolved—many reviews emphasize how much they learned along the way.
• Photo Opportunities: The landscape’s stark contrasts and unusual formations make for memorable photos, especially at the volcanic craters and tunnels.

The Small Group Advantage

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour feels intimate. Guests frequently mention how this fosters a friendly, engaging atmosphere—perfect for asking questions and gaining personalized insights. The guides are fluent in multiple languages, making the experience accessible and educational for international visitors.

Practical Details and Value

For $60.43 per person, the tour offers good value considering the inclusion of transfer from key resorts, an expert guide, a trekking pole for support, and snacks—namely a cereal bar and a piece of fruit. Many reviewers stress the importance of bringing your own bottle of water, as hydration is key, especially if it’s windy or warm.

The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, with some reviews mentioning wind and terrain as challenges. Still, most found the walk enjoyable, with many describing it as “not overly strenuous,” and some calling it “a relaxed walk” with numerous interesting stops.

The Real Experience: Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many guests praised the guides for their knowledge and friendliness. For example, one reviewer noted that Laurent’s “knowledge of the local geology was exceptional,” while others appreciated the stories about the island’s volcanic history and how these eruptions shaped Lanzarote’s landscape.

Some travelers mentioned minor organizational hiccups—such as late or unclear meeting instructions—highlighting the importance of arriving on time and following provided directions. The reviews suggest that the guides’ expertise and the breathtaking scenery outweigh these minor issues.

Why This Tour Works

This experience is particularly valuable for travelers who want to see Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape up close without undertaking a strenuous hike. The easy route and small group size make it accessible for most, especially those with a moderate level of fitness and an interest in geology, nature, or photography.

The expert guides bring the landscape to life with stories and explanations that turn a simple walk into an educational journey. The inclusion of snacks, hotel pickup, and a manageable duration adds to its convenience, making it a hassle-free way to explore the island’s volcanic heart.

Who Would Love This Tour

This tour appeals to those seeking a balanced outdoor experience—not too challenging but still immersive. Nature lovers, geology enthusiasts, and curious travelers will find the guided commentary especially enriching. It’s also ideal for visitors who prefer small groups for a more personal feel.

Families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed yet meaningful activity will enjoy this outing. However, those with mobility issues or who dislike uneven terrain might want to consider their comfort level before booking.

The Sum Up

In essence, this 3-hour walking tour in Los Volcanes Nature Reserve offers a compelling mix of stunning scenery, expert insights, and a relaxed pace. It stands out for its knowledgeable guides, who make the geological features come alive, and for the breathtaking volcanic landscapes that showcase Lanzarote’s fiery origins.

While some minor organizational issues have been noted, the overall experience delivers excellent value for money. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a taste of Lanzarote’s volcanic past in a manageable and engaging way.

If you’re looking for a low-impact hike with high visual and educational payoff, this tour should be on your Lanzarote list. Just remember to wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and prepare for wind—then enjoy one of the island’s most authentic, scenic adventures.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour offers transfer from areas like Costa Teguise, Arrecife, Puerto del Carmen, and Puerto Calero, making it convenient to get to the start point.

What should I wear on this tour?
Bring sturdy, laced shoes like trainers or hiking boots, as the terrain is rough volcanic rock. Weather can be windy, so layered clothing and sunscreen are recommended.

How long is the hike?
The route covers about 7 kilometers (4.5 miles), which takes roughly 3 hours, including stops for explanations and photos.

Is the walk suitable for everyone?
Most people with moderate fitness levels will find it manageable. However, it involves walking over uneven volcanic surfaces, so good shoes and some stamina are advised.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes an expert guide, trekking pole, snacks (cereal bar and fruit), and transfer from selected resort areas. Bottled water is not included.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations or changes are not permitted.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak multiple languages fluently, making the experience accessible for international travelers.

What is the best time of day to go?
The tour starts at 9:00 am, which usually provides pleasant conditions and good lighting for photos, plus being cooler than midday.

In all, this small-group guided walk offers a balanced mix of adventure, education, and incredible scenery—perfect for those eager to see Lanzarote’s volcanic side without overexerting. Just pack your walking shoes, bring water, and get ready for a memorable exploration.