Full Day Tour to Timanfaya, Green Lagoon and La Geria

Exploring Lanzarote in a Day: A Balanced Look at the Full Day Tour to Timanfaya, Green Lagoon, and La Geria

Taking a full-day trip around Lanzarote offers a fantastic way to absorb the island’s volcanic landscape, coastal beauty, and distinctive wine culture. This tour, priced at around $66 per person, has been consistently booked well in advance—about 15 days—signaling its popularity. With a duration of roughly 7 hours, it promises a packed yet manageable day of sightseeing, perfect for travelers eager to see multiple highlights without feeling overwhelmed.

One of the standout features we liked is the tour’s comprehensive itinerary—covering volcanic landscapes, the Green Lagoon, and a winery visit—all in one day. The inclusion of professional guides and air-conditioned transportation makes for a comfortable experience, especially given Lanzarote’s sometimes intense sun and variable terrain. That said, some travelers have noted the timing can be a bit tight, with a few areas feeling rushed, particularly with long bus rides and a slightly hurried vineyard visit. This tour suits those who want an efficient overview rather than an in-depth, leisurely exploration.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, value-packed day that touches on Lanzarote’s natural and cultural highlights, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s ideal for first-timers, families, or anyone wanting to tick off key sights without the hassle of planning multiple trips. Just keep in mind that if you prefer a relaxed pace or a more immersive experience, some stops might feel a little rushed.

Key Points

• Diverse experience: Combines volcanic scenery, coastal views, and wine tasting in one day.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Paul and Antonio significantly enhance the trip with interesting insights.
• Comfortable transport: Air-conditioned buses and hotel pickup make logistics easier.
• Time management: Some reviews mention that stops can feel rushed, especially at the vineyard.
• Authentic views: Expect to see stunning landscapes like the lunar-like Timanfaya and the emerald-green lagoon.
• Good value: At $66, the tour offers a lot of sights and experiences for the price.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at 9:30 am with pickups from hotels in Arrecife, Puerto del Carmen, and Playa Blanca. The fact that pickups are included is a plus, removing the stress of navigating public transport or finding meeting points. Once on board, you’ll enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned bus ride, which is especially appreciated given Lanzarote’s warm climate.

While most reviews mention smooth pickups, a few note that early mornings can mean lengthy wait times—some travelers report being picked up as early as 8:45 am, with the last pickup around 10:26 am. If you’re staying farther from the main hubs, this could eat into your sightseeing time, so plan accordingly.

Timanfaya National Park

This is the tour’s centerpiece—a vast volcanic landscape that looks otherworldly. The guide will take you through the park, pointing out volcanoes, craters, and lava formations. Entry is included, and most visitors agree that the scenery here is truly astonishing, with some comparing it to a lunar surface.

One reviewer, Denise, called it a “great overview of Lanzarote and the volcanic history,” praising guide Paul’s depth of knowledge. The guide’s enthusiasm and ability to answer questions seem to be a highlight—reviewers consistently mention how engaging guides like Paul and Antonio are, making the experience educational as well as scenic.

El Lago Verde / Charco de los Clicos

Next, the tour stops at the famous Green Lagoon in El Golfo. This vibrant, emerald-colored lake set against black volcanic sands is a must-see photo opportunity. The 40-minute stop includes some time to admire the landscape, with many noting the surreal, postcard-worthy views.

Reviewers appreciated the site’s natural beauty, with one mentioning that the green lagoon is “beautiful,” and the coastline offers a “jewel-like” tone of color. Be prepared for some crowds, as this spot remains popular with travelers, but it’s easy to see why.

Free Time in Yaiza

After the lagoon, the group heads to the charming whitewashed village of Yaiza for about 40 minutes of free time. Here, you can grab a quick lunch or explore the village’s quaint streets. Some reviews mention that this is a good opportunity to take a breather after the morning’s activities, and others appreciate the flexibility to choose their own meal.

However, a few note that the overall pace is a bit rushed, with the time at this stop being just enough for a quick snack. It’s worth considering if you want a sit-down meal or simply a stretch before the next stop.

La Geria and Wine Tasting

The visit to La Geria is a highlight for many—though some reviewers express disappointment about the wine tasting itself being a brief “shot” of wine rather than a full tasting experience. The stop includes a visit to a local winery, where you can learn about Lanzarote’s unique viticulture—vines grow in volcanic ash, protected by small stones to trap moisture.

The landscape here is striking, with vines growing in semi-circular pits on volcanic slopes. It’s fascinating to see how the island’s distinct climate and soil conditions influence wine production. Expect some informative commentary from guides like Yvette, who are praised for their storytelling.

The Camel Ride (Optional)

While not included in the tour price, some travelers opt for the famous camel ride at Timanfaya. While this is an optional add-on, reviews mention it as a fun, memorable experience—though at an extra cost. If you’re interested, booking ahead is advised because this activity tends to sell out quickly.

Final Remarks and Overall Value

Throughout the day, the guide’s passion and knowledge shine through. Reviewers like Paul and Antonio are praised for their friendliness and ability to keep everyone engaged, making the journey enjoyable even on long bus rides. The scenery is genuinely breathtaking—lava fields, coastal lagoons, and lush vineyard terraces—and the included stops are worth the price.

However, some travelers feel the day is a little rushed, especially at the vineyard and in transit times. The long bus rides—sometimes almost an hour—mean less time at each stop, which could be a downside for those wanting a more relaxed pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a concise, well-organized overview of Lanzarote’s highlights, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, families, or anyone who wants to experience the most iconic sights in a single day. The inclusion of expert guides, comfortable transport, and a variety of attractions makes it a good value option.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate nature, geology, and local culture—and don’t mind a busy schedule. If you love stunning scenery, tasty local wines, and learning about volcanic landscapes, this tour is likely to satisfy.

The Sum Up

This full-day Lanzarote tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and fun experiences. While it does lean towards a somewhat fast-paced itinerary, the value for money is clear when you consider the number of sights covered and the quality of guides like Paul and Antonio. Expect unforgettable views of lava fields, the Green Lagoon, and vibrant vineyards, all within a manageable day.

It’s best for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free overview of Lanzarote’s top attractions, especially if you’re keen to tick off the key sights without the stress of planning multiple excursions.

If you’re content with a structured schedule and engaging guides, this tour should be high on your list. Just keep in mind that some stops might feel rushed—so if you prefer a slow, more in-depth experience, consider whether this itinerary matches your travel style.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from hotels in Arrecife, Puerto del Carmen, and Playa Blanca, making it convenient and saving you travel time.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full-day experience lasts about 7 hours, starting around 9:30 am with pickups and concluding in the late afternoon or early evening.

Are the entrance fees included?
Yes, the admission ticket to Timanfaya National Park and the Green Lagoon are included in the price.

Can I do the camel ride?
The camel ride is an optional activity and is not included in the base price. It can be booked separately and tends to fill up quickly.

Is there time for lunch?
There is a 40-minute stop in Yaiza, where you can find local eateries or grab a quick bite on your own. The tour doesn’t include lunch, so bring snacks or plan to eat in Yaiza.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 3 years, and reviews suggest it’s engaging enough for both kids and adults. However, the long bus rides and quick stops might require patience from younger travelers.

How is the guide’s knowledge?
Many reviews praise guides like Paul, Antonio, and Yvette for their friendliness, humor, and extensive knowledge—making the day both educational and entertaining.

In summary, this Lanzarote tour offers excellent value, a well-rounded look at the island’s volcanic marvels, scenic coastlines, and unique vineyards. If you’re ready for a busy but rewarding day exploring one of Spain’s most distinctive islands, this trip makes a compelling choice.