Timanfaya Twizy Tour in Lanzarote

If you’re considering a unique way to explore Lanzarote’s famous volcanic scenery, the Timanfaya Twizy Tour might just catch your eye. This experience combines a self-guided electric car adventure with the raw beauty of Timanfaya National Park, giving you a chance to see the island’s volcanic landscapes from a fresh perspective.

Two things we really like about this tour are the environmentally friendly electric Twizy cars, which make the drive both quiet and fun, and the stunning vistas you’ll encounter along the way. However, it’s worth noting that the timing can be a bit tight, especially if you’re hoping for a completely autonomous experience or more time driving yourself.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy driving, are interested in eco-friendly options, and want a flexible way to see some of Lanzarote’s most iconic sights. If you’re looking for a more traditional tour with a bus or guided commentary in your language, this might feel a little limiting. But if you crave independence and scenic drives, this could be perfect.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly driving in a battery-powered Twizy makes for a quiet, fun experience.
• Stunning volcanic landscapes provide fantastic photo opportunities.
• Self-guided itinerary gives you flexibility and control over your visit.
• Multiple stops include the Timanfaya Visitor Center, El Cuervo crater, and the camel park.
• Additional costs include the entrance fee to Timanfaya National Park, payable separately.
• Limited driving time in the Twizy (about an hour) compared to the total tour time.
• Group size is small, with a maximum of 2 travelers per vehicle, creating a personalized experience.
• Good value considering the unique drive and sightseeing, though some reviews mention unexpected extra charges.

What to Expect from the Tour: An In-Depth Look

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off early at 8:30 am from a meeting point in Tías, Lanzarote. The convenience of being near public transportation makes it accessible, but you’ll want to arrive about 30 minutes early to settle in and get instructions. The tour lasts approximately five hours, but you’ll find that most of your time is spent at various stops and the drive itself.

The Twizy Electric Cars: A Fun, Eco-Friendly Ride

The highlight of this experience is the Twizy electric car — a small, two-seater vehicle that runs on batteries, making it both quiet and environmentally sound. We’ve read many reviews praising the fun of driving these zippy little cars, especially since they are pre-programmed with a recommended route.

One traveler mentioned, “Driving the Twizy was fun, and the landscape is fascinating.” Another added that it’s a “brilliant” way to move around the park while enjoying the scenery without the noise or fumes of traditional vehicles. You’ll be in control, but within a set itinerary, which means no worries about navigation or getting lost.

The cars do have some limitations, notably the limited driving time — about an hour in total during the five-hour tour. This means you’ll spend a good chunk of time walking, sightseeing, and exploring stops, rather than just cruising in the Twizy the entire time.

The Itinerary and Key Stops

1. Timanfaya National Park

Your journey begins here, arguably the highlight of the tour. The park itself is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and boasts otherworldly volcanic landscapes that are surreal to behold. The hot temperature demonstrations, like the famous geothermal cooking, are not included in this tour, but you’ll get a good overview of the landscape from both the bus and your own drive.

One review noted, “The landscape is fascinating”, and many appreciate the opportunity to see the volcanic terrain up close — but only from designated areas or the bus. Since the Twizy isn’t driven in the park itself but along the park’s perimeter, you’ll get a sense of the scale and drama of the volcanic fields.

2. El Cuervo Crater

Next, the tour takes you to El Cuervo crater, a walkable volcanic cone, providing a chance for photos and a stretch of the legs. Several travelers described this as “amazing” and “well worth the walk”. It’s an unmissable snapshot of Lanzarote’s volcanic activity and a highlight for those wanting a closer look at the geological features.

3. Timanfaya Visitor Center

This is the educational stop, where you can learn more about the volcanoes and the area’s geological history. The center offers insights into the park’s formation, and although the tour doesn’t include the park’s official entrance fee (which is paid separately), many found the exhibits and information valuable.

4. Camel Park and Additional Stops

Some tours include visits to the camel park or local wineries, but these are not universally included in every booking. A few reviews mention optional wine tastings or visits to other sites, adding a pleasant local flavor to the day.

The Driving Experience and Group Dynamics

The small group size, capped at two people per Twizy, creates an intimate setting. Many travelers enjoyed the personalized feel, with comments like, “We felt looked after so well,” and highlighting their guide’s attentiveness.

However, some reviews pointed out that the guides often speak primarily in German, with English translation only upon request, which might be a downside if you’re looking for detailed commentary in your language.

Driving the Twizy is generally described as “fun” and “a real adventure”. But it’s important to keep in mind the restrictions — you need a valid driver’s license, and alcohol or drugs are strictly prohibited before driving.

Additional Costs and Practicalities

The price per person is around $71.65, which covers the Twizy rental, insurance, and the route. However, the Timanfaya entrance fee of €28 per person isn’t included, and you’ll need to pay that cash at the main entrance. Some reviews pointed out that these extra charges can add up, especially if you’re traveling with children or planning to do wine tastings or other optional activities.

Notably, one reviewer shared that the tour started nearly an hour late, so punctuality might vary, and you should be prepared for possible delays.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• The electric Twizy cars offer a unique, eco-friendly way to explore the park.
• The scenic stops and photo opportunities are second to none.
• Small group sizes make for a personalized, relaxed experience.
• Many travelers praised the knowledgeable guides and the fun factor of driving yourself.

Cons:

• The driving time in the Twizy is limited, so don’t expect to spend hours behind the wheel.
• The guides tend to speak mainly German, with English translations provided on request.
• Additional costs like park entrance fees can increase the overall expense.
• The tour may not be fully autonomous; some parts are conducted with guides and buses, which might affect expectations.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy driving and want a more independent exploration of Lanzarote’s volcanic landscapes. If eco-consciousness is important to you, the electric cars are a definite plus.

It’s also a good fit if you’re interested in a small-group, personalized tour rather than large coach trips. For families or groups with multiple drivers, it can be a memorable outing, though children will need a valid driver’s license to participate.

Those looking for a completely guided, narrated tour might find it limited, especially if language barriers are a concern. But if you’re comfortable with a bit of independence and like the idea of zipping around volcanic scenery in a zippy little electric car, this could be one of the most fun ways to see Lanzarote’s iconic landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included from my hotel?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll meet at the designated starting point in Tías, so plan to arrive on time.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, you must have a valid driver’s license to drive the Twizy. Make sure to arrive 30 minutes early for instructions.

How long do I get to drive the Twizy?
Expect about 1 hour of driving time in total during the 5-hour tour. The rest of the time is spent at stops and sightseeing.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, the Timanfaya entrance fee of €28 per person must be paid separately at the main entrance, cash only.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothes, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat — Lanzarote’s sun can be intense. Bring water and a camera for the incredible views.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s mainly designed for adults with a driver’s license. Families with older children who can drive or ride as passengers might enjoy it, but it’s not explicitly family-focused.

Are the guides informative?
Most reviews mention knowledgeable guides, though language might be primarily German, with English translations on request.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Timanfaya Twizy Tour offers a great way to see Lanzarote’s volcanic landscapes in a format that’s both fun and environmentally conscious. While it’s not a fully autonomous experience and involves some extra costs, many find the personal drive and stunning scenery make it well worth the price.

It’s ideal for those who enjoy driving, want a more intimate experience, and are fine with some guided elements. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic adventure with a bit of a thrill behind the wheel, this tour could be a highlight of your Lanzarote trip.

For travelers seeking a more traditional, guided bus tour or in-depth commentary in their language, you might want to explore other options. But if a hands-on, eco-friendly volcanic adventure sounds appealing, this experience will not disappoint.