Tour to Timanfaya, La Geria and La Laguna Verde

Exploring Lanzarote’s Volcanic Wonders: A Deep Dive into the Timanfaya, La Geria, and La Laguna Verde Tour

If you’re after a day packed with breathtaking scenery, intriguing geology, and authentic local flavor, this Lanzarote tour offers a solid option. It’s a well-rounded experience that hits some of the island’s most iconic sights without the hassle of long lines or overcrowded spots. From volcanic landscapes to vineyards, and even a splash of wildlife, this tour covers multiple highlights in about five hours.

What really draws us in is the combination of expert guidance and diverse scenery. The guides seem genuinely knowledgeable, sharing stories about the island’s volcanic eruptions and local wine traditions, making it more than just sightseeing. Plus, the convenience of pickup and the inclusion of Timanfaya’s geothermal demonstrations add value, making it easier to relax and enjoy the day.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour runs for around five hours, so it’s quite a packed schedule. If you’re not a fan of quick stops or prefer more time at each location, it might feel a little rushed. Also, with no pickup available in Playa Blanca, travelers staying outside Arrecife might want to plan transportation accordingly.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape and cultural highlights. It’s especially suitable if you’re interested in geology, local wines, or simply want a taste of the island’s most famous sights in a single outing.

Key Points

• Diverse highlights: The tour includes volcanic landscapes, vineyards, camel rides, and a green crater lake.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Vanessa, make the experience informative and engaging.
• Convenience: Pickup options and a mobile ticket make logistics easier.
• Value for money: At $50.44, the tour provides access to key sites, some with included entrance fees.
• Limited time at each stop: Expect quick visits rather than in-depth explorations.
• No Playa Blanca pickup: Consider transportation if staying further out.

A detailed look at what you’ll experience

Starting Point: Monumento al Campesino

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Monumento al Campesino, situated in the heart of Lanzarote. This site is more than just a photo op; it’s a tribute by César Manrique to the island’s farmers, constructed from old boat tanks, iron, and concrete, creating an avant-garde sculpture that’s become an island icon. We loved the way this spot cleverly combines art and cultural homage.

From here, you’ll get a quick overview of Lanzarote’s rural roots before heading to the first real highlight: La Geria.

La Geria: Unique Vineyards Amid Volcanic Terrain

About 30 minutes from the monument, La Geria introduces you to a landscape that looks almost lunar. Here, vineyards are cultivated on volcanic ash and arid soil, thanks to the ingenious “zapping” technique—small holes dug in the ground to protect young vines from the wind and to retain moisture.

We particularly appreciated the stop at a local winery, where you’ll get to sample a shot of Lanzarote wine. As one reviewer pointed out, the wines from this terrain are surprisingly good despite the harsh environment. It’s a chance to taste something genuinely local, with the knowledgeable guide explaining the unique winemaking process.

While 20 minutes might seem brief, it’s enough to appreciate the landscape and sample the wine, especially if you’re into regional food and drink. For those who love exploring how humans adapt to extreme environments, this stop offers a lovely slice of the island’s resilience.

Echadero de Los Camellos: A Chance to Ride or Learn

Next, the tour stops at the camel farm, where you can opt for a short 20-minute camel ride or explore a small museum about the history of camels on Lanzarote. The rides are about 20 minutes long, which is just enough for a fun, memorable experience without feeling like you’re on a long trek.

A reviewer named Lelia loved the “connection with the natural world” through the camel handlers, and many find this both a fun and authentic activity. If riding isn’t your thing, the museum offers insightful context about the role camels played historically on the island, adding a bit of educational flavor.

Timanfaya National Park: The Fire Mountains

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly Timanfaya, with its Montañas del Fuego—a lunar-like landscape born from volcanic eruptions between 1730 and 1736. The sheer scale of the craters, lava flows, and colors is striking. It’s a place where you realize how powerful nature can be, and the geothermal demonstrations turn the landscape into a living science lesson.

The tour includes an included entrance ticket and a guided visit, with the guide explaining the volcanic activity and the region’s history. We loved the way the geothermal demonstrations showcased just how intense these volcanic forces are, with the guide perhaps knowing how to make the science both accessible and fascinating.

Laguna Verde (Charco de los Clicos): The Green Crater Lake

Just 20 minutes from Timanfaya, you’ll stop at the Laguna Verde, a vibrant green lake inside a volcanic crater. The striking color of this crater lake is enough to wow anyone, especially against the black volcanic rock. It’s a perfect photo stop and a reminder of the island’s volcanic origins.

According to reviews, this spot is one of Lanzarote’s most photogenic locations, and it’s free to visit. You’ll get about 25 minutes here to soak in the views and take photos, making it an ideal short break before the tour wraps up.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation and Comfort

The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a blessing given Lanzarote’s warm climate. The bus is generally described as clean and comfortable, with many reviewers noting the courteous and experienced drivers—important when navigating Lanzarote’s sometimes rugged roads.

Timing and Group Size

The tour starts at 12:30 pm and lasts about five hours, which means you’ll want to be ready for a full afternoon. The maximum group size is around 55 travelers, balancing social atmosphere with a manageable group.

Cost and Value

At just over $50 per person, this tour offers good value considering the included entrance fees, wine tasting, and geothermal demonstrations. The fact that it combines multiple highlights in one afternoon makes it a convenient way to see the island without any hassle.

Additional Considerations

• No pickup in Playa Blanca: If you’re staying in the southern resort area, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.
• Camel ride costs extra: If you want to ride the camels, expect to pay about €11.
• Booking in advance: The tour is often booked about 35 days ahead, so plan early if you want a spot.

Authentic Experiences and Review Highlights

Many travelers mention the knowledgeable guides as a standout feature. Vanessa, in particular, receives praise for her engaging explanations. One reviewer noted her “super” guidance, making the experience all the more memorable.

The scenery at Timanfaya continues to impress, with visitors describing the lunar landscape as “breathtaking.” Several reviews mention the geothermal demonstrations as a fascinating, almost science-fiction experience.

The wine tasting at La Geria was consistently appreciated; many found the wines surprisingly good given the challenging volcanic terrain. And the camel ride, while short, is frequently described as a fun, authentic activity connecting visitors with Lanzarote’s natural environment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a guided, all-in-one overview of Lanzarote’s most notable sights. It suits those interested in geology, volcanic landscapes, and local wines. The inclusion of cultural sites like the Monumento al Campesino and the camel farm adds an authentic touch.

It’s perfect for visitors who prefer a structured, worry-free day that covers a lot of ground without the need to plan each stop independently. However, if you’re looking for a more leisurely experience or wish to spend more time at each location, you might find this tour a bit rushed.

The Sum Up

This Lanzarote tour offers a comprehensive look at the island’s volcanic heart and rural charm in just a few hours. The combination of stunning landscapes, expert guides, and unique activities like wine tasting and camel rides provides excellent value for the price.

The stops are thoughtfully chosen, allowing you to see the most iconic sights without feeling overwhelmed. While the schedule is tight, the quality of the experience, especially the geothermal demonstrations at Timanfaya and the authentic wine tasting, makes it worthwhile.

If you’re after a well-organized, educational, and scenic tour that brings you face-to-face with Lanzarote’s volcanic and cultural identity, this might just be the perfect choice. It’s especially suited for those who value knowledgeable guides and authentic local experiences over a slow, in-depth exploration.

FAQ

Does this tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup is offered, with a meeting point at the Monumento al Campesino after a brief transfer from your hotel. However, there is no pickup from Playa Blanca, so plan accordingly.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 12:30 pm.

Is the tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
It can be, but some reviews note limited pickup options in Arricefe. If you’re on a cruise, check arrangements or consider your time carefully to avoid missing the tour.

What does the tour include?
Your ticket covers visits to Timanfaya with geothermal demonstrations, a shot of Lanzarote wine, and access to all the listed stops. The camel ride costs extra, about €11.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat before or after the tour.

Can I ride the camels?
Yes, the camel ride is optional and costs about €11 per person. The ride lasts around 20 minutes.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, sunscreen, and good walking shoes are recommended.

Is there free time at each stop?
No, the stops are short (ranging from 20 to 30 minutes), enough for photos and quick exploration but not for full in-depth exploration.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of volcanic landscapes, wine tasting, and cultural insights, all guided by knowledgeable locals who share stories and facts that truly enhance the experience.

This Lanzarote tour balances stunning scenery, cultural insights, and fun activities, making it an excellent pick for travelers wanting a memorable, hassle-free day on the island.