Lanzarote Grand Tour

Taking a full-day tour of Lanzarote offers a fantastic way to see the island’s most iconic sights without the hassle of self-driving. This Lanzarote Grand Tour from First Minute Travel packs in the highlights, from volcanic landscapes to cultural stops, making it a practical and immersive experience for travelers with limited time.

What we especially appreciate about this trip is the organized nature of the itinerary—entrance fees, transfers, and guided commentary are included, making it fuss-free. The tour operates with a professional, certified guide, which elevates the experience by providing context, stories, and answering all your burning questions about the island’s volcanic past and vibrant culture.

However, with a longer day and some stops that might feel a bit rushed, it’s worth considering if you’re someone who prefers slower-paced exploration. This tour is best suited for those eager to tick off many top sights in one day, especially if you value convenience and group-friendly activities.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Covers volcanic landscapes, caves, and wine tasting in one day.
• Guided convenience: Led by a certified guide who shares insightful commentary.
• Comfortable transfers: Round-trip transport from select hotels with pickup included.
• Value for money: Entrance fees and tastings are included, making for a cost-effective day.
• Flexible for travelers: Suitable for most, with options like a camel ride (not included).
• Some time constraints: A longer day, with some stops feeling slightly rushed based on reviews.

Exploring Lanzarote’s Natural Marvels

This tour is a broad but detailed snapshot of Lanzarote’s most striking features, with each stop offering a different flavor of the island’s unique volcanic environment.

El Lago Verde / Charco de los Clicos

The journey kicks off at El Lago Verde, a vivid green crater lake located in El Golfo. This spot genuinely looks like something out of a dream—an emerald pond set against black volcanic ash, with the Atlantic shimmering nearby.

Travelers have raved about the scenery here, with one reviewer mentioning it as a highlight, describing the lake as “stunning” and “breathtaking.” We loved how accessible and well-positioned this stop is, giving ample time for photos and soaking in the surreal landscape.

Timanfaya National Park: Volcanoes and Geothermal Wonders

Next, the tour takes you through Timanfaya National Park, a highlight for anyone interested in volcanic activity. The park’s volcanic terrain is otherworldly, with rugged lava fields and craters that look like they belong on a different planet.

Here, admission is included, and the experience is often described as “breathtaking” by travelers. The guided tour on the slopes of the volcano offers a closer look at the volcanic ash and geological features, with some even witnessing demonstrations of geothermal heat, like food being cooked on volcanic surfaces—an fascinating and educational touch.

La Geria and Volcanic Wine Tasting

Lanzarote’s volcanic soil isn’t just a geological feature; it’s also the secret behind the island’s distinctive wines. The stop at La Geria allows visitors to taste local volcanic wines.

While the tasting is brief (about 20 minutes), many reviews note the quality and uniqueness of the wines, with one traveler describing it as “a chance to discover the rich flavors of wine grown in volcanic soil.” For wine lovers, this is a special moment to appreciate Lanzarote’s agricultural resilience and innovation amid stark landscapes.

Jameos del Agua Lava Caves

A trip to Lanzarote wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Jameos del Agua lava tunnels and caves. Designed by famous artist César Manrique, this site blends natural geology with artistic architecture, creating a space that’s both awe-inspiring and tranquil.

Travelers find the caves fascinating, especially the lava lake inside and the natural light filtering through. One review described the lava tunnel as “stunning,” though noted it can be bustling with travelers. Still, the experience of walking through a volcanic cave is unforgettable.

Additional Stops and Optional Activities

Camel Ride at Echadero de Los Camellos

An optional camel ride is available during the tour, lasting about 30 minutes. While the ride itself isn’t included in the price, it’s a fun way to experience the landscape from a different perspective. A few reviews mention this as a memorable addition, especially for families or those looking for a bit of adventure.

Other Noteworthy Stops

Some reviews mention other minor stops or time adjustments, such as a visit to a local vineyard or additional scenic viewpoints, depending on the day’s logistics. While these are not always guaranteed, they add variety to the day.

The Experience: What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour is designed to be comprehensive, with entrance fees to the national park and caves included, so there are no surprises at the ticket booths. The round-trip transfers are a significant benefit, especially if you’re staying in places like Puerto del Carmen or Las Palmas.

The group size is capped at 99 travelers, which means it’s large but still manageable. Many reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides and drivers, with several mentioning the guide’s knowledge—particularly praising those who shared humor and interesting facts, making long drives more enjoyable.

On the downside, some travelers did find the schedule a bit tight. For example, one review pointed out that the Green Lagoon stop was only 30 minutes, which might not be enough to fully appreciate it. Likewise, the wine tasting stop was noted as somewhat rushed and lacking in detailed information about the vineyard.

Lunch is not included, so bringing snacks or a picnic is advisable if you want to avoid extra stops. One reviewer recommended bringing a bottle of water, especially since some stops can be hot and exposed.

Transportation & Comfort

The coaches are generally comfortable, with some reviews mentioning the air conditioning working well, which is crucial given Lanzarote’s warm climate. However, a few travelers experienced issues like a leaking air conditioning, so it’s worth being prepared for minor glitches.

Timing and Pacing

Most travelers find the day long but worth it, with many describing it as a “really good value” considering the number of sights covered. The total duration is approximately 8 to 9 hours, making it suitable for those comfortable with a full-day outing.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

Several reviewers praised the knowledgeable guides, with some highlighting their humor and friendly approach. One said, “Michael the tour guide was hilarious and very informative,” while others appreciated the ease of the transportation and the well-organized stops.

Conversely, a few mentions were made about some guides being less attentive or rushing, which can affect the overall experience. For example, a reviewer described a guide as “rude and rushing around,” and mentioned that some stops felt unnecessarily long, impacting the tour’s flow.

The quality of the lunch buffet was noted as surprisingly good by some, providing a nice break during the long day. The included wine tasting was also a highlight for many—adding a flavor of local culture.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Bring water and sunscreen: Some stops are outdoors and can get quite hot, especially in the volcanic landscape.
• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking in lava caves, rocky terrains, and sometimes uneven paths.
• Prepare for a full day: The tour lasts around 8-9 hours, so plan accordingly with snacks or extra drinks.
• Consider your camera: The scenery at El Lago Verde, Timanfaya, and Jameos del Agua is incredible—don’t forget to bring your camera or phone fully charged.
• Optional camel ride: If you’re interested, book early or ask your guide about availability, as this adds a fun touch to the trip.
• Be mindful of timing: To maximize your experience, listen carefully at each stop, especially if some places have limited time.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This Grand Tour of Lanzarote is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of the island’s volcanic and cultural highlights in one day. If you prefer not to drive, value expert commentary, and enjoy meeting new people in a group setting, this is a solid choice.

It also suits families, first-time visitors, or those with limited time who want to see the essential sights without planning every detail themselves. However, if you dislike long bus rides or have mobility issues, some stops might feel rushed or challenging.

Final Thoughts

The Lanzarote Grand Tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and convenience, all at a reasonable price. While some reviews mention slight schedule tightness or guide variances, the majority agree it delivers a memorable experience with stunning views, friendly guides, and good value.

Whether you’re keen to explore volcanic caves, see the green lagoon, or taste volcanic wine, this tour packs it all into one satisfying day. It’s a fantastic way to get a broad sense of Lanzarote’s wild, colorful landscape—perfect for travelers who want a thorough yet manageable introduction to this volcanic island.

If you’re after a hassle-free, well-organized day that covers most of Lanzarote’s highlights, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is there pickup included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transfers are offered from select hotels, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the tour?
Expect the tour to last approximately 8 to 9 hours, covering multiple stops and sights across the island.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for Timanfaya National Park and Jameos del Agua are included in the price.

Can I do the camel ride?
The camel ride is optional and lasts about 30 minutes, but it’s not included in the tour price. It’s available at the Echadero de Los Camellos.

Is lunch provided?
No, lunch isn’t included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something during your free time.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a camera. Prepare for some outdoor exposure and possibly some walking in lava caves.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable, especially with optional activities like the camel ride. However, consider your child’s comfort with long bus rides and walking.

To sum it up, the Lanzarote Grand Tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed way to see the island’s most striking sights. It caters well to those who want a guided, organized experience with knowledgeable guides and a good mix of natural and cultural stops. Just be prepared for a long day, and you’ll come away with fantastic memories and plenty of photo opportunities.