Lanzarote: Volcanos of Timanfaya and Caves Tour with Lunch

If you’re visiting Lanzarote and eager to see its fiery landscape up close, this full-day guided bus tour offers a comprehensive taste of the island’s most iconic sights. From bubbling volcanoes and surreal lava fields to vibrant green lagoons and award-winning wines, this trip packs quite a punch. With transport, guided commentary, and lunch included, it promises a smooth, enriching experience that caters to travelers looking for adventure, stunning scenery, and cultural highlights—all in one day.

One thing we particularly appreciate about this tour is the balance between structured sightseeing and enough time to soak in each location at a relaxed pace. The fact that it’s suitable for a wide range of travelers—though not for wheelchair users—means it’s accessible enough for most, provided you’re okay with a full day on the move.

However, a potential consideration is the lunch, which some may find somewhat average, and the fact that the lava fields are experienced mainly from the coach rather than on foot. But for those who love guided tours with knowledgeable guides and scenic vistas, this trip hits many marks, especially if you’re new to the island or short on time.

Key Points:

• Comprehensive full-day itinerary covering volcanoes, caves, lagoons, and wine tasting.
• Expert guides like Victor and Ines are praised for their knowledge and attentiveness.
• Includes timeless sights like Timanfaya National Park, Los Jameos del Agua, and La Geria wineries.
• The value for money stands out, with transport, entry tickets, lunch, and wine tastings included.
• May feel rushed for those who prefer to explore sites on their own but offers a well-organized overview.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users or pet owners.

The Complete Itinerary Breakdown

Starting with the South: Volcanoes and Lava Fields

Your day begins early with a pickup (exact time varies depending on your hotel location). The journey heads south, offering panoramic views of Las Salinas de Janubio and Los Hervideros—a rugged coastline where volcanic activity has shaped dramatic natural formations. These sights are not just pretty; they tell the story of Lanzarote’s volcanic temperament, with some reviewers noting the spectacular views and the narrow, winding roads that the driver handles expertly.

El Golfo: The Green Lagoon and Film Set Backdrop

Next, you’ll stop at El Golfo, a tiny fishing village famous for its green lagoon—a surreal, vivid water body nestled against volcanic cliffs. The lagoon’s striking color, caused by algae and mineral deposits, has made it a popular backdrop for films, and many reviewers mention how photo opportunities abound here. The atmosphere is laid-back, and the scenery truly feels otherworldly. Smarter guides will share interesting tidbits, such as the lagoon’s volcanic origins and its role in local culture.

Volcanoes and Craters: Timanfaya National Park

The highlight for many is the visit to Timanfaya National Park, where the landscape looks like it’s been plucked from a sci-fi movie. The guide takes you on a route through the volcanoes and craters, offering spectacular views from the coach. Some reviews note that while the coach-only viewing might seem limiting, it’s still a fantastic way to appreciate the vastness and intensity of the volcanic terrain.

The Volcanoes Route is where you’ll feel the island’s fiery essence most intensely—many travelers mention feeling the heat radiating from the earth, especially near the geothermal demonstrations. Although you don’t climb the volcanoes (no hikes included), the guided commentary makes it clear how recent volcanic activity has shaped Lanzarote’s landscape.

Lunch in Yaiza: Rest and Recharge

After a morning packed with sights, the tour pulls over for lunch in Yaiza, a charming village with traditional Canary architecture. The included meal is generally described as decent, with some reviews mentioning that it’s a simple but satisfying meal—probably enough to keep you going for the rest of the day. Some travelers express a wish for a more authentic or varied meal, but the convenience and included option make this a practical stop.

La Geria: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Visits

Post-lunch, you’ll head to La Geria, Lanzarote’s renowned wine region. Here, you’ll taste award-winning wines, with many reviews noting the quality of the local vintages. The unique volcanic soil and climate produce wines with distinctive character, and guides often encourage tasting several varieties. One reviewer mentioned only white wine was offered, which was a minor disappointment for red wine lovers. Still, the overall experience is appreciated as a chance to enjoy Lanzarote’s wine culture in an authentic setting.

Los Jameos del Agua: Natural Caves and Artistic Touches

The trip culminates at Los Jameos del Agua, a spectacular volcanic cave complex transformed into an artistic venue by César Manrique. Visitors can wander through the caverns, marvel at the natural rock formations, and enjoy the integrated art installations. Many reviewers praise the beautiful caves and the way they blend natural beauty with human creativity, making it a memorable end to a busy day.

Transportation and Guides: Making the Experience Smooth

The tour features comfortable bus transport with a driver skilled at navigating the island’s narrow and winding roads—an aspect many reviewers highlight positively. The size of the group is generally manageable, allowing for interactions with the guide and personalized attention.

The guides, like Victor and Ines, are frequently praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. Melina Jane notes that Ines looked after the group well, keeping everyone ahead of other tours and making sure no one felt rushed. Reviewer Ziana appreciated Victor’s pleasant and informative commentary, especially helpful for first-time visitors.

The Tour Duration and Flexibility

The 9-hour duration offers a complete day out, but it’s worth noting that the schedule can feel quite packed if you prefer lingering at sites. The tour starts at a time you should check in advance, as availability varies. For those concerned about timing, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing some flexibility.

Cost and Value

At $106 per person, this tour packs in a lot—transport, entry tickets, lunch, and wine tasting—making it a solid value for a full-day guided experience. Compared to arranging individual visits or rental car costs, it’s a convenient way to see the highlights without stress. Many reviews comment on the good value for money, especially considering the quality of guides and included activities.

What’s Not Included

The tour does not include a camel ride, which some might find disappointing. If that’s a must-do for you, you may want to seek additional options. Also, the experience is not suitable for wheelchair users, as the bus and sites aren’t adapted for mobility aids.

Authentic Experiences Drawn from Reviews

Many travelers rave about the expert guides. Melina Jane, for example, appreciated Ines’s thorough knowledge and attentiveness, which enhanced her experience. Ziana called Victor “very knowledgeable and pleasant,” making the trip especially enjoyable for first-timers.

The scenery at El Golfo and Los Jameos del Agua gets frequent praise, with reviews emphasizing the stunning visuals and surreal landscapes. Jack mentions that the views around the volcanoes are “absolutely stunning,” and many agree that these sights are truly photogenic and memorable.

The wine tasting at La Geria garners particular praise, with visitors enjoying the unique flavors and local atmosphere. However, some note that only white wine was offered, which could be a minor disappointment for red wine enthusiasts.

The lunch is generally considered adequate, though not extraordinary. Some reviews suggest that a more authentic or diverse meal might have enhanced the experience, but for most, it’s a practical stop that keeps the day flowing smoothly.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re after a rundown of Lanzarote’s volcanic landscapes, with professional guides and convenient logistics, this tour is a great choice. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a guided, stress-free day with sights that are hard to see on your own without extensive planning.

The inclusion of lunch and wine tasting adds value, making it a well-rounded cultural and natural experience. Although it doesn’t involve hiking or in-depth exploration of each site, the combination of coach views and stops gives a balanced snapshot of the island’s highlights.

For those seeking a luxury or private experience, this might feel a bit structured, but for most visitors, the value, safety, and educational aspect make it worthwhile. It’s especially ideal for first-time visitors or those on a tight schedule who want to cover a lot of ground in one day.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transport, an official guide, tickets to Timanfaya, lunch, wine tasting, and travel insurance for the tour duration.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, with specific start times depending on your pickup.

Is there any vegetarian or special dietary option?
Yes, dietary options are available, but it’s best to specify this when booking.

Can I do the camel ride?
No, the tour does not include a camel ride; it is not part of the itinerary.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most children should enjoy the sights, but check with the provider if you have very young kids or specific needs.

Are the sites accessible for wheelchairs?
Unfortunately, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as buses are not adapted for mobility aids.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a sun hat are recommended due to the outdoor nature of the stops.

Will I have free time at each site?
The tour is structured to maximize sightseeing, so free time may be limited, especially at the lava fields and caves.

How is the weather likely to affect the tour?
Expect warm and sunny conditions; bring sun protection and hydrate well.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.

In summary, this Lanzarote tour offers an engaging way to explore the island’s volcanic heart, complemented by expert guides, scenic stops, and included tastings. It’s best suited for those who love natural beauty, cultural experiences, and don’t mind a full, well-organized day on the move. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, it provides a solid snapshot of Lanzarote’s fiery landscape and vibrant culture.