Lanzarote: 5-Hour Timanfaya National Park Southern Tour

Lanzarote: 5-Hour Timanfaya National Park Southern Tour Review

Exploring Lanzarote with a guided tour of the southern highlights offers a fantastic way to see the island’s dramatic volcanic scenery, lush vineyards, and unique landmarks—all in a manageable half-day. This specific tour, priced at $49 per person, is highly rated (4.4 out of 5 from over 100 reviews) and provides a well-organized, accessible introduction to Lanzarote’s most iconic sights.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines nature, culture, and local charm—all with the convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off. It’s a no-fuss way to see the highlights without worrying about transportation or navigation, especially if your time on the island is limited. That said, some travelers might find the schedule a bit tight, as there’s a lot to cover in just five hours. Still, for those eager to tick off the must-see attractions with a knowledgeable guide, this tour hits the right notes.

Ideal for first-timers or those wanting a quick yet rundown of Lanzarote’s south, this experience offers value and authenticity. You’ll love the insights from friendly guides, the breathtaking views, and the chance to learn about volcanic activity, local wine-making, and the island’s geology. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to spend extra time at specific sites, this tour might feel a bit rushed. Otherwise, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a snapshot of Lanzarote’s volcanic charm.

Key Points

• Comprehensive South Lanzarote Experience: Covers Timanfaya National Park, vineyards, and the Green Lagoon.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Friendly, professional guides with insights into volcanic activity and local traditions.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Entrance tickets, transportation, and pick-up/drop-off included.
• Value for Money: At $49, it offers a well-organized, informative half-day tour.
• Variety of Stops: Mix of nature, culture, and scenic viewpoints, including optional camel rides.
• Limited Time at Each Site: Some reviews note a bit of a rushed feel, so expect a packed schedule.

A Deep Dive into the Lanzarote Southern Tour

Starting Point: Easy Hotel Pick-up & Scenic Drive

One of the great conveniences of this tour is the pick-up service. Guests are collected from hotels in Arrecife, Costa Teguise, and Puerto del Carmen, making it a seamless way to start the day without worrying about logistics. The drive south takes you through traditional farming villages like Tao, Tiagua, and Mancha Blanca, where you can glimpse a more laid-back, local side of Lanzarote. During this part of the trip, the landscape begins to change noticeably, gradually revealing the stark beauty of volcanic terrain.

Timanfaya National Park: The Heart of Volcanoes

The star of the tour is undoubtedly Timanfaya National Park. Famous for its “Fire Mountains” and massive lava fields, this area is a testament to Lanzarote’s volcanic past. The eruption activity from the 18th and 19th centuries carved out a landscape that looks almost surreal—think blackened, jagged craters and sprawling, cracked earth.

Guests typically enjoy the guided entrance, which includes a ticket for the park. Our reviews highlight guides like Miguel and Rosa, who are praised for their friendly approach and rich explanations about geothermal energy and volcanic processes. One reviewer noted how Miguel made the science behind geothermal heat accessible and interesting, which enhances the experience beyond just taking photos.

Optional Camel Rides: For an extra €6, you can hop onto a camel for a 20-minute ride. Several guests, like one reviewer, mentioned how fun and authentic this feels—though it’s entirely optional, so you can skip it if you prefer.

The Green Lagoon and Scenic Viewpoints

After exploring the volcanic interior, the tour heads west toward the coast, where a quick walk to a viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the Green Lagoon—a striking, algae-rich pond contrasting with the black volcanic surroundings. Reviewers have raved about the spectacular scenery here, noting how the vibrant color pops against the black lava.

La Geria Vineyards: Unique Vineyard Cultivation

Next, the tour visits the La Geria region, renowned for its dry-stone wall vineyards and innovative grape-growing methods. With over 100,000 craters and 80,000 dry-stone walls, this landscape might look harsh, but it’s an exceptional example of adaptation. Visitors learn how locals cultivate vines in the volcanic soil, creating a distinctive wine region. Several reviews mention the value of seeing this unique agricultural technique and the opportunity to sample local wines if you choose to purchase.

Tour Extras and Practicalities

While the tour includes a detailed commentary from guides in both English and Spanish, some reviews express a desire for longer stops to soak up the scenery. One traveler commented that they only wished they had more time to truly appreciate each site and spend more in souvenir shops. The schedule is indeed packed, but it offers solid value for those wanting a broad overview.

Transportation and Group Size: The air-conditioned bus is comfortable, and the group sizes tend to be manageable, allowing for better interaction with guides. Travel insurance is included, giving peace of mind.

Price and Value: At $49, this tour is quite affordable considering the number of sites visited, entrance fees covered, and the expertise of guides. The reviews mention that it’s a great value and an efficient way to cover multiple highlights in a short period.

What You Should Know Before Booking

Timing: The tour lasts about five hours, with available start times. It’s best to check current availability as schedules could vary.

What to Bring: Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking around viewpoints and the lava fields.

Limitations: The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments due to uneven terrain and walking sites.

Flexibility: Booking allows you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, which adds flexibility if your plans change. You can also reserve now and pay later.

Additional Costs: The camel ride (€6) and lunch are extras. If you want to sample local wines, you’ll need to purchase them; they are not included in the price.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Multiple reviewers praised the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, specifically mentioning how guides like Rosa made the geology interesting and accessible. One traveler highlighted the well-organized nature of the tour, noting that everything ran smoothly and on time. Others appreciated the scenic stops and the opportunity to see key sights in a short time.

However, some travelers wished they had more time at certain sites. For example, one noted that they felt a bit rushed through the volcanic park, wishing for a chance to spend more time appreciating the landscape. This suggests that if you’re a photography enthusiast or prefer slow sightseeing, you might want to supplement this tour with additional visits.

The Sum Up

This Lanzarote southern tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed experience for visitors eager to see the island’s volcanic landscapes, learn about local viticulture, and enjoy stunning viewpoints—all within five hours. The inclusion of knowledgeable guides, smooth transportation, and a variety of stops make it an ideal choice for first-time visitors or those with limited time.

While it’s a fairly full schedule, most travelers find that the highlights outweigh the rushed feel, especially if you prioritize seeing the most iconic sights in a single trip. The optional camel ride adds a charming touch, and the chance to learn about Lanzarote’s geothermal energy and dry-stone vineyards really enriches the experience.

If you’re looking for a practical, engaging tour that balances scenery, culture, and geology, this trip hits all the right notes. It’s especially suited for those who want a guided, stress-free way to explore Lanzarote’s south without sacrificing the authentic flavor of the island.

FAQs

Is hotel pick-up included?
Yes, pick-up is available at hotels in Arrecife, Costa Teguise, and Puerto del Carmen, making it easy to start your day.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, including transportation and sightseeing.

Are guides available in different languages?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations for diverse travelers.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers entrance tickets for Timanfaya, transportation in an air-conditioned bus, a guided tour, and travel insurance.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking options also allow you to reserve now and pay later.

Is there an option for a camel ride?
Yes, for €6 per person, you can take a 20-minute camel ride. It’s optional and not included in the base price.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended as there’s some walking involved, especially at viewpoints and volcanic sites.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to uneven terrain and walking sites.

Will I have enough time at each site?
Most reviews note that the schedule is quite full, so you might feel a bit rushed if you want in-depth exploration.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You may want to bring snacks or plan to purchase refreshments during the stops.

This tour offers a practical, engaging way to see Lanzarote’s southern highlights, blending natural wonders with local culture—perfect for travelers eager to maximize their time with a guided, memorable experience.