La Geria: a walk among volcanoes and vineyards

If you’re visiting Lanzarote and have a penchant for nature, wine, and a dash of adventure, the La Geria tour offers a fascinating blend of all three. This 3.5-hour experience takes you on a circular hike through one of the island’s most iconic landscapes—volcanic land dotted with old vineyards—culminating in a wine tasting at the renowned Bodegas Rubicón. It’s a chance to see how humans have turned a seemingly inhospitable environment into a thriving wine-producing area, declared an agricultural heritage site by the FAO.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines active exploration with culture. Walking among centuries-old vines, you get a real sense of Lanzarote’s resilience and ingenuity. Plus, the views of the Timanfaya volcanoes and the coastline are truly impressive. On the flip side, this tour isn’t suited for everyone—it involves some walking on uneven terrain and a bit of climbing, so those with mobility issues might want to consider other options.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, wine enthusiasts, and those who want to understand Lanzarote’s unique landscape in a relaxed, engaging way. If you’re after an authentic experience that’s both scenic and educational, it’s a smart choice.

Key Points

• Unique landscape: Walk among volcanic craters and ancient vineyards, experiencing Lanzarote’s distinctive terrain.
• Cultural insight: Learn how local farmers cultivate vines on volcanic ash, a technique that’s endured for centuries.
• Scenic views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of Timanfaya National Park, the coast, and the neighboring island Fuerteventura.
• Wine tasting: End your journey at Bodegas Rubicón with a tasting of local wines inside the winery.
• Small group: Limited to just 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience with expert guidance.
• Practical info: The tour is 3.5 hours long and includes a qualified local guide, insurance, and a visit to a renowned winery.

Exploring La Geria: The Landscape and Its Significance

La Geria’s landscape is immediately striking. Imagine a lunar surface—black volcanic ash, dotted with small, semi-circular stone walls, or “zocos,” which serve as windbreaks. These traditional structures protect delicate vines from the trade winds and help conserve moisture in the arid soil. As one reviewer pointed out, “Walking through these vineyards feels like stepping into a wild, rugged painting,” and that’s a fair description.

The first part of the tour takes you along well-maintained paths winding through these centuries-old vineyards. Here, the guide explains that vines are planted in holes excavated into the volcanic ash, which helps retain groundwater and protect roots from the harsh wind. The adaptability and resilience of the local winemakers are truly impressive. Expect to see various varieties thriving despite the challenging conditions, which makes for a compelling story of human ingenuity.

The Ascent to Guardilama

After exploring the vineyards, the tour progresses toward Guardilama, one of Lanzarote’s highest peaks. The ascent is a gentle climb, offering sweeping views of the Timanfaya volcanoes and the entire volcanic landscape. Once at the top, you’re rewarded with a panoramic vista—craters, lava fields, and a stretch of coastline. Several reviews mention how this part of the walk feels rewarding, especially if you’re a fan of landscape photography or simply love wide-open views.

In some reviews, hikers noted that the path can be uneven and the climb might be a bit challenging for those with mobility issues or low fitness levels. However, most found it manageable with moderate effort. The guide often shares insights about the volcanic formation, making the ascent both educational and scenic.

Vines Inside a Volcano Crater

A highlight of the tour is discovering how vines grow inside a volcano crater. This area, within the crater of a dormant volcano, features a greenhouse-like environment where vines flourish thanks to the volcanic ash’s natural fertilizer. Guests often comment on the surreal experience of seeing lush greenery nestled within such a stark volcanic setting. It’s a testament to how humans adapt to the environment, turning a perilous landscape into productive land.

The Changing Landscape and Scenic Diversity

As the tour moves eastward, you’ll notice the scenery shift. The views turn to coastal vistas, with sights of the Los Ajaches area and Fuerteventura beyond. Walking along this eastern slope, the landscape becomes more open, with fewer volcanic formations and more expansive views of the Atlantic.

This diversity keeps the experience engaging, as each segment offers a different perspective of Lanzarote’s volcanic terrain and coastlines. The variety of scenery makes the walk more than just a hike—it’s a visual journey through Lanzarote’s geological history.

The Winery Visit and Wine Tasting at Bodegas Rubicón

The tour culminates at Bodegas Rubicón, one of Lanzarote’s most respected wineries. Here, you get to sample some of the island’s finest wines in a welcoming, rustic setting. The wine tasting typically includes two local varieties, with guides explaining the unique production methods that adapt to Lanzarote’s environment.

Many reviewers mention the friendly guides at the winery and the quality of the wines, which often surpass expectations given the modest price of the tour. Some highlight that the wines have distinctive mineral notes, a result of the volcanic soil. It’s an authentic opportunity to deepen your appreciation for Lanzarote’s wine culture while relaxing after the hike.

Practicalities and Tips

The tour costs about $56 per person, which offers good value considering the combination of walking, sightseeing, and wine tasting. The tour is ideal for those who enjoy small group experiences—limited to 10 participants—ensuring a more intimate and engaging outing, with plenty of opportunity for questions and personalized insights.

What to bring? Expect to be outdoors in the sun, so sunscreen and sun protection are essential. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are necessary for uneven terrain, and a jacket can help if the breeze picks up. Water is also a must-have, especially on warmer days.

What’s not included? Transportation to the meeting point (in front of the La Geria chapel) isn’t provided, but the tour guide can assist in organizing this. It’s also worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, or for anyone with mobility, back, or heart conditions, given the walking and climbing involved.

Languages: The guide speaks English, Italian, French, and Spanish, making it accessible to a diverse range of travelers.

Authenticity and Experience Quality

From multiple reviews, it’s clear the guiding staff—like Juan, the local expert—are passionate and knowledgeable, sharing stories about the land, its history, and wine-making traditions. Guests appreciated the personalized attention and the insider insights, such as how vines are cultivated in volcanic ash and what makes Lanzarote’s wine special.

Participants often mention how the tour duration is just right—enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed—and how the combination of nature, culture, and wine makes for a well-rounded experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind light hiking and want an authentic taste of Lanzarote’s landscape. It’s ideal if you’re curious about agriculture in extreme environments or simply want a scenic walk with a purpose. Wine lovers will particularly appreciate the visit to Bodegas Rubicón and the chance to taste wines produced in one of Europe’s most volcanic regions.

If you prefer guided, small-group outings with an educational edge, this tour ticks those boxes. However, those with mobility issues or looking for a more leisurely, less active experience might want to explore alternative options.

The Sum Up

In the end, La Geria’s tour offers an authentic glimpse into Lanzarote’s unique environment—volcanoes, resilient vineyards, and local wine craft. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that balances nature, culture, and gastronomy, providing insights that deepen your appreciation for the island. The scenic views, combined with expert guidance and a relaxed atmosphere, make it a worthwhile addition to any Lanzarote itinerary.

This tour shines brightest for adventurous souls, wine enthusiasts, and curious travelers seeking to connect with Lanzarote’s extraordinary landscape in a genuine, memorable way. While it involves some walking and climbing, the rewards—both visual and flavorful—are well worth the effort.

FAQs

Is transportation to the meeting point included? No, transportation isn’t included, but the guide can assist in organizing travel to the front of the La Geria chapel.

How long does the tour last? The experience is approximately 3.5 hours, making it manageable for a half-day outing.

What should I bring? Sunscreen, water, a jacket, and closed-toe shoes are recommended to stay comfortable and protected during the walk.

Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues? Unfortunately, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, as it involves walking on uneven terrain and some climbing.

Is this suitable for children? The tour is not recommended for children under 10 due to the physical nature of the walk.

Are the wines tasted at the end local? Yes, Bodegas Rubicón offers wines that reflect Lanzarote’s volcanic soil and climate, making for a genuine tasting experience.

What languages are available? The guide speaks English, Italian, French, and Spanish, accommodating a diverse range of travelers.

This walk through Lanzarote’s volcanic vineyards is a perfect blend of scenic beauty, local culture, and wine tasting—an experience that truly highlights the island’s resilience and ingenuity.