Lanzarote Short South Tour with Timanfaya Volcano Entrance

Lanzarote Short South Tour with Timanfaya Volcano Entrance

If you’re visiting Lanzarote and want to see some of the island’s most dramatic volcanic scenery without committing to a full-day adventure, this Lanzarote Short South Tour is a solid choice. It packs a visit to Timanfaya National Park—home to 300 volcanic craters—and the chance to ride camels around the fiery landscape, all wrapped into 4 to 5 hours. What we love about this tour is how it balances convenience with authenticity — you get a comfortable, air-conditioned bus pickup, plus a guide who’s ready to share fascinating insights.

One thing worth noting is that the group sizes can be quite large, which might affect the intimacy of your experience. Also, the camel ride is an optional extra, and some reviews mention the wait times for pickup and drop-off can be a bit lengthy, especially during busy periods. Still, if you’re pressed for time but want a memorable taste of Lanzarote’s volcanic majesty, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s best suited for travelers looking for value, easy logistics, and plenty of photo-worthy scenery.

Key Points

• Excellent value for money with included park admission and guide
• Comfortable transportation and door-to-door pickup make logistics simple
• Expert guides like Michael and Roberto offer engaging, informative commentary
• The volcano landscapes are breathtaking and worth seeing firsthand
• Optional camel ride adds a fun, memorable element
• Group sizes may be large, which could affect the personal feel of the tour

An Honest Introduction to the Tour Experience

We’ll start by highlighting that this half-day Lanzarote tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s volcanic heart. It’s perfect if your schedule doesn’t allow for a full-day trip but you still want to see the highlights. The tour’s main draw is the chance to visit Timanfaya National Park, a surreal landscape of cracked lava fields and fiery craters, along with the chance to add a camel ride for that extra bit of fun.

One thing we really appreciate is the included park admission ticket and guide, which streamlines your experience and cuts down on extra costs or long lines. Plus, the door-to-door pickup from your hotel, with air-conditioned transport, means you won’t have to worry about navigating public transport or taxis. The tour starts promptly at 9:00 am, getting you out into the scenery early enough to avoid the busiest crowds and still leave plenty of time for the rest of your day.

That said, a potential consideration for travelers is the size of the group. Reviews note that this tour often involves a large double-decker bus with over 50 people, which can sometimes make the experience feel a little less intimate. Plus, some guests mention that the pickup process can take longer than expected, especially if your hotel is not close to the main meeting point, which may eat into your sightseeing time.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a snapshot of Lanzarote’s volcanic beauty without spending a full day out. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy guided excursions with knowledgeable guides and are comfortable in larger groups.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Echadero de Los Camellos – Optional Camel Ride

Your adventure begins with a stop at Echadero de Los Camellos, where you can choose to hop onto a camel ride around the base of the Fire Mountains. The ride lasts around 35 minutes and offers a fun, slightly quirky way to experience the landscape. Reviewers describe it as “a myst” and “fun,” making it a highlight for many, especially those wanting a unique photo opportunity.

Keep in mind, the camel ride is an extra, costing about €11 per person, and the admission ticket is not included in this part of the tour. If you’re not keen on riding camels, there’s a small café and a mini museum nearby where you can relax and soak in the views.

Stop 2: Timanfaya National Park – The Lava Fields

Next up is the big event: Timanfaya National Park. The entry is skip-the-line, thanks to your pre-purchased ticket, meaning you bypass the long queues that can form for entry. You’ll spend approximately 50 minutes exploring the park, and your guide, like Michael, will provide insights into the park’s formation, including details about the 300 volcanic craters and the geological history that shaped this extraordinary landscape.

Travelers consistently mention how breathtaking the scenery is — vast, cracked lava fields stretching as far as the eye can see, with some photos showing the stark contrast between blackened ground and the vivid blue sky. Our reviews praise guides like Michael for their knowledgeable, engaging commentary, which adds depth to the visual spectacle.

You may also hear about the geothermal demonstrations at the park—such as food being cooked with volcanic heat—and how the volcanic activity is still very much part of the island’s life.

Optional Extras and Practicalities

Most reviews highlight the camel ride as a memorable addition, with many saying it’s worth the €11 extra. However, it’s worth noting that not everyone chooses to do the ride, and there is no obligation. If you skip it, you can spend more time at the park or relax at the café.

The total tour duration is approximately 4 to 5 hours, giving you just enough time to see the highlights without feeling rushed. The bus condition is generally praised as being in great shape, with reviewers mentioning courteous, safe driving—sometimes with impressive skill, especially when navigating the volcano roads.

End of the Tour: Return and Drop-off

The trip concludes with a drop-off at your hotel, though some guests note that it can take extra time if you’re among the last dropped off. Most travelers find this acceptable given the overall value, but it’s good to be prepared for a longer journey back if you’re staying at a more distant location.

Why You’ll Love This Tour

This tour ticks a lot of boxes for travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and value. The guide’s expertise, like Michael’s, makes the experience more engaging, filling the landscape with stories and facts that bring the lava fields to life. The scenery at Timanfaya is genuinely striking—vast, raw, and unlike anything else you’ve seen.

The option to add a camel ride makes the experience feel more interactive and fun, especially for families or those wanting a quirky highlight. The included park entry means no waiting in line, and the door-to-door pickup simplifies logistics, especially if you’re unfamiliar with public transport.

Many reviews mention that the tour is well-paced and runs smoothly, with guides and drivers like Michael and Roberto earning praise for their professionalism and friendliness.

What Could Be Better?

Some travelers note that the group size can be large, which might mean less personalized attention. If you prefer smaller, more intimate tours, this could be a consideration. Others mention that pickup and drop-off times can be lengthy, which might be frustrating if you’re tired after a long journey or have other plans.

While the camel ride is a highlight for many, it’s an extra cost, and some guests wish it was included in the tour price. Also, the waiting times at certain points can vary, depending on the day and the size of the crowd.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This Lanzarote Short South Tour offers a great value, combining key sights with convenient logistics. It’s perfect for travelers on a tight schedule who still want a meaningful experience of Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape. If you love guides who can entertain and educate, this tour will satisfy your curiosity with engaging commentary.

It’s also ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy scenic landscapes and fun extras like camel rides. Its cost-effectiveness, combined with stunning views and a knowledgeable guide, makes it a smart choice for those wanting an authentic yet accessible adventure.

However, if you prefer small group experiences or more personalized tours, you might find the group size less ideal. And if timing concerns or cost of extras matter, consider whether the optional camel ride fits your budget and schedule.

This tour delivers a memorable slice of Lanzarote’s volcanic beauty at a reasonable price, making it an experience worth considering for most visitors.

FAQ

Is the park admission ticket included in the tour?
Yes, the Timanfaya National Park entry is included in the tour price, which helps skip long queues and saves time.

Can I skip the camel ride?
Absolutely. The camel ride is optional, costing around €11, and you can choose not to participate if you prefer.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and optional activities.

Is pickup available from my hotel?
Yes, the tour offers door-to-door pickup from most hotels in Lanzarote, with a start time of 9:00 am. Be aware that pickup times may vary if your hotel is distant.

How big are the groups?
The tours typically involve large double-decker buses with up to 99 travelers, which might affect the intimacy but helps keep costs down.

Are guides like Michael and Roberto multilingual?
Yes, the tours are often operated by multi-lingual guides, ensuring everyone can enjoy the commentary.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothes suitable for warm weather and sturdy footwear are recommended. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay hydrated.

To sum it up, the Lanzarote Short South Tour with Timanfaya Volcano Entrance offers an accessible, well-organized, and value-packed way to see some of Lanzarote’s most iconic landscapes. Whether you’re eager to stand amidst fiery craters, photograph striking lava fields, or enjoy a fun camel ride, this tour provides a memorable snapshot of the island’s volcanic soul. It’s perfect for travelers seeking easy logistics and engaging guides who bring the landscape to life.