South Route Natural pools, Las Salinas and La Geria

Experience the South Route of Lanzarote: Natural Pools, Salt Flats, and Wine Fields

If you’re seeking a relaxed yet fascinating way to discover Lanzarote’s diverse landscapes, the South Route tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and authentic local flavors. This private, guided excursion, limited to just 8 travelers, promises a personalized touch, engaging storytelling, and plenty of photo-worthy moments—all for around $126 per person.

One aspect that truly stands out is the knowledgeable guide, Lola, who has a knack for making the trip fun and informative. Reviewers consistently praise her personable and enthusiastic approach—she’s the secret ingredient that elevates this tour from good to memorable.

However, as with any guided experience focused on multiple stops, the schedule can feel a bit packed for those wanting more time at each site. Still, if you prefer a comprehensive sampler of Lanzarote’s highlights without the hassle of planning, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suited for travelers who love small groups, authentic local touches, and stunning natural scenery.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Authentic Canarian brunch and local wines add genuine flavor to the experience.
• Diverse stops showcase Lanzarote’s volcanic landscapes, salt flats, beaches, and wine regions.
• Expert guidance from Lola, who’s known for her enthusiasm and storytelling.
• Free wine tastings in La Geria provide a delicious introduction to the island’s wine culture.
• Well-paced itinerary balances sightseeing, tasting, and relaxation—ideal for most travelers.

A Complete Breakdown of the Tour Experience

This tour is designed to give you a well-rounded taste of Lanzarote’s southern landscape, layered with authentic local culture. It’s about soaking in natural beauty and understanding the island’s unique volcanic origins, all delivered with Lola’s personable guidance.

Starting Point: Los Charcones – Calm Natural Pools

The day kicks off with a visit to Los Charcones, a hidden gem of natural pools formed by volcanic lava and calm waters. With little to no surf, these pools are perfect for a gentle dip or just a peaceful moment by the sea. The calmness of these waters provides a stark contrast to the often wild Atlantic coast, making it a wonderful spot for photos and relaxing.

This stop is free, and you’ll spend roughly 2 hours 30 minutes here—just enough to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Enthusiastic reviewers like Lynn praise the beauty, calling Lanzarote “the most unique island in the world,” and appreciate how Lola’s storytelling makes even simple sights special.

Salinas de Janubio – Salt Flats with Cultural Significance

Next, we head to Estatua de Los Salineros and the Salinas de Janubio near the Mirador. These salt flats are the largest in the Canary Islands and have played a vital role in the island’s economy until recent decades. From the viewpoint, you’ll get sweeping views of white salt lagoons fringed by volcanic black sands and the sea—an incredible contrast of colors.

Lola’s insights about the salt production process, still ongoing today, deepen the appreciation of this landscape. You’ll have the chance to walk closer to the lagoons, where the black volcanic sand and tiny black rocks accentuate the white salt. Visitors often enjoy browsing the local store to pick up some natural Janubio salts, which make for authentic souvenirs.

The visit lasts about 40 minutes and is free, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in how volcanic activity shapes local industry and culture.

Playa del Janubio – Black Beach Treasures

A short drive takes us to Playa del Janubio, a striking black sand beach dotted with large lava rocks. Here, you’ll encounter Olivina, a vibrant green mineral formed from crystallized lava. Some rocks sparkle with this mineral, adding a splash of color to the dark sands—a favorite among rock collectors and Instagram lovers alike.

The reviewer Gary notes the surprise of discovering green stones called Olivina, and describes the experience as “relaxing and great for finding treasures.” Expect to spend around 40 minutes walking along the shore, soaking in the views, and maybe collecting a small souvenir.

Culinary Pause at Yaiza Tapas Bar

Lola keeps the experience engaging with a well-placed tapas stop at Yaiza Tapas Bar, where you can indulge in recipes dating back to 1890. The bar’s Malvasia Volcanica wines are a local highlight, often praised by visitors for their rich, volcanic character.

This stop lasts about an hour, providing a chance to recharge and enjoy authentic Canarian flavors. Reviewers like Tina mention how this break helps balance the day, making it not just sightseeing but also a culinary delight. Lola’s enthusiasm and knowledge make this moment feel special, turning a simple meal into an educational experience.

La Geria Wine Region – Unique Volcano-Influenced Vineyards

The tour culminates at La Geria, Lanzarote’s iconic wine-growing area. What makes La Geria so special is the ingenious method local farmers developed to grow vines in a volcanic landscape. They dig small holes in the ash-covered soil and build semi-circular walls to protect the plants from strong winds and retain moisture—an innovative response to the island’s harsh volcanic conditions.

You’ll visit a couple of wineries here, with free tastings included. While the tasting isn’t part of the tour price, the reviews highlight how valuable and delicious these local wines are—especially the Malvasia variety. Visiting La Geria is as much about appreciating the landscape as it is about tasting the fruits of local labor.

The Value of This Tour

At $126.10 per person, this experience offers a lot of value, especially considering it’s a private tour with a small group. The inclusion of a Canarian brunch, a knowledgeable guide, and multiple scenic stops makes it a comprehensive introduction to Lanzarote. The free wine tastings and salt store visit add to the sense of authenticity, giving you a genuine taste of local life and traditions.

The tour’s moderate length—around 6 hours—strikes a good balance between seeing enough sights and avoiding exhaustion. The small group size (max 8) means you get personalized attention, and Lola’s storytelling makes each stop engaging rather than just a quick photo opportunity.

Practical Aspects

Transport is typically included, with pickup offered from your accommodation, reducing the hassle of logistics. The tour runs year-round, with departure times from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM, allowing flexibility depending on your plans.

Most travelers find this experience suitable, including those with limited mobility, as all stops are accessible and not overly strenuous. It’s an excellent choice for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a curated, authentic experience.

Considerations

While the itinerary is rich, some may find the schedule a bit tight—each stop is around 40 minutes to an hour. If you prefer more time at fewer locations, you might want to consider a more focused tour. Also, the wine tasting is not included in the price, so if you’re a wine enthusiast, budget accordingly.

Authentic Experiences That Shine

Reviewers consistently highlight the expertise and warmth of guide Lola, who’s known for her storytelling and genuine enthusiasm for her island home. Her detailed explanations make the landscapes more meaningful, transforming simple sightseeing into a learning experience.

The stunning scenery, from volcanic pools to salt flats and greenish lava rocks, captures Lanzarote’s volcanic origins beautifully. The local food and wine add depth to the trip, allowing you to taste the flavors that have shaped the island for centuries.

Many travelers note how these authentic, off-the-beaten-path stops give a true sense of Lanzarote’s character—far from crowded tourist spots and commercialized attractions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to those who appreciate small-group intimacy and authentic local experiences. It’s perfect if you enjoy learning about local culture, tasting regional wines, and exploring diverse landscapes without the stress of planning each detail. The variety of stops makes it suitable for travelers with varied interests—beach lovers, culture enthusiasts, and foodies alike.

If you’re after a relaxed yet rundown of Lanzarote’s highlights, with plenty of opportunities for original photos and meaningful interactions, this tour ticks all boxes.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, including families and older visitors. The stops are accessible, and the itinerary is not overly strenuous.

Is lunch included in the tour?
Not exactly—there is a Canarian brunch included, offering local dishes and drinks, but not a full meal. The tapas stop later provides additional culinary tasting.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 6 hours, including sightseeing, tasting, and breaks.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour for a maximum of 8 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are wine tastings free?
Yes, the tastings at the wineries in La Geria are included in the tour price, but the wines are not included in the cost—so if you want more, you’ll pay extra.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

To sum it up, this South Route tour from Lanzarote offers a thoughtfully curated glimpse into the island’s volcanic and cultural gems. With the guidance of Lola’s engaging storytelling, you’ll explore natural pools, salt flats, striking black beaches, and lush wine fields—all in one satisfying day.

It’s ideal for travelers who value authentic experiences, personalized attention, and the chance to taste local flavors in a relaxed setting. If you want a well-rounded, scenic, and genuinely local introduction to Lanzarote, this tour is a fantastic choice that balances adventure with comfort and educational fun.