Guided tour: Timanfaya National Park and La Geria with pick-up

A Practical Look at the Timanfaya National Park and La Geria Tour

Thinking about visiting Lanzarote and wondering how best to see its unique landscapes? This guided half-day tour is a popular choice, offering a window into two of the island’s most captivating sights: the timeless volcanic scenery of Timanfaya and the distinctive vineyards of La Geria. While it’s not a full-day experience, it packs enough into around five hours to give you a real taste of Lanzarote’s natural beauty and local charm.

What we really like about this tour is the convenience of pickup — it saves the hassle of navigating on your own — and the opportunity to get up close with a camel on the volcanic slopes. Plus, the visit to a traditional winery at La Geria is a lovely way to cap off the day, sampling some of Lanzarote’s unique wines. That said, it’s worth noting that the pick-up process can take some time, which has been a common frustration among travelers.

This tour is best suited for those who want a balanced overview of Lanzarote’s highlights without wasting time on planning, especially if you’re keen on seeing the volcanoes and tasting local wines but don’t want a lengthy or overly strenuous excursion. It’s not ideal if you’re looking for a very in-depth exploration or traveling with mobility issues, but for most visitors, it offers good value.

Key Points

• Convenient pick-up makes planning easier, especially if you’re short on time or prefer to avoid navigating public transport.
• The camel ride in Timanfaya offers a fun, memorable experience that appeals to families and curious travelers alike.
• The scenery along the Volcanoes Route and within the National Park is genuinely striking — expect dramatic volcanic landscapes and geothermal demonstrations.
• The wine tasting in La Geria introduces you to Lanzarote’s volcanic viticulture, giving a taste of the local Malvasia wines.
• The guide’s knowledge and humor are consistently praised, making the journey both informative and lively.
• The price (around $55.82) offers good value, considering the included stops, guide, and admission tickets.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Timanfaya National Park: A Land of Fire and Volcanoes

Your day kicks off early with a pickup at 9:00 am. Once you’re on board, the first major stop is Timanfaya National Park, famed for its otherworldly volcanic landscape. The park’s raw, rugged terrain was shaped by eruptions in the 18th century, and you can still feel the power of nature here.

A highlight is the geothermal demonstrations at the Islet of Hilario, which showcase how heat from the volcanoes is still accessible — imagine cooking with the earth’s own heat. It’s a fascinating sight, especially if you’re into geology or just love seeing nature’s raw forces at work. The Volcanoes Route follows, offering sweeping views of craters, lava fields, and the often surreal terrain that has become iconic of Lanzarote.

Many reviews mention the quality of the guide, describing them as knowledgeable and engaging, with one noting, “Michael was an excellent guide, very funny, and full of stories about how volcanoes have shaped life on the island.” We think this kind of commentary makes a difference in how much you’ll enjoy the experience.

The Camel Ride: A Fun and Traditional Touch

Next up, you have the option to take a camel ride at Echadero de Camellos. It’s an experience that, while short, leaves a lasting impression. Several travelers have described it as “true fun for the whole family” or “worth it for the experience,” even if the ride is brief and incurs an extra cost. It’s a playful way to get closer to the volcanic landscape, and something you probably won’t forget.

One reviewer noted, “Riding the camels was a highlight, and the guide’s commentary made it even better.” If you’re traveling with kids or want that classic safari-photo moment, it’s a good choice.

La Geria: The Volcanic Wine Country

After the volcanoes, the tour heads to La Geria, a unique wine-growing region where vineyards are cultivated in volcanic craters. The landscape here is quite unlike most wine regions, with vines planted in tiny craters, protected from the wind by small stone walls. It’s a testament to how resourceful local farmers are — turning adversity into opportunity.

You’ll visit a traditional winery, where you can sample some of Lanzarote’s renowned wines, especially the Malvasia variety. Many reviews praise the wine tasting, calling it “delicious” and “a great way to end the tour.” In fact, one reviewer mentioned that the wine tasting was a highlight that complemented the stunning scenery.

The visit lasts about 40 minutes, making it a concise but memorable stop. The admission to the winery is included, which adds value, especially considering the opportunity to try local wines directly from the source.

Practical Considerations for the Tour

Duration and Timing

The total duration is approximately five hours, starting at 9:00 am. This means you’ll get to see the highlights without a full day commitment. The schedule allows for a relaxed pace, though some reviews mention that the pick-up process can be lengthy, sometimes taking more time than expected. It’s advisable to be patient and prepared for some waiting at pickup points.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable bus that can carry up to 50 travelers, ensuring it’s not overly crowded. The driver’s expertise is frequently praised, especially on the sometimes steep and winding routes through the volcanic terrain.

Cost and Value

At around $55.82 per person, the tour is competitively priced, considering the admission tickets included and the guide’s insights. It’s a good value for those who prefer guided tours to planning their own day, especially if you want to skip the hassle of trying to see these sights independently.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour is not suitable for people with reduced mobility, mainly due to the terrain and walking involved at some stops. Also, the camel ride is optional and incurs extra costs, so if that’s a priority, budget accordingly.

Language and Guides

Most reviews note excellent guides who are knowledgeable and friendly. However, there have been instances where travelers received tours in English despite booking in Spanish, so double-check your language preferences when booking.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

One reviewer said, “A great half-day tour to see the rugged beauty of the island. Very well paced,” highlighting the overall quality. Others appreciated the informative commentary and scenery, mentioning that the tour “explains the origins of the island and how the volcanoes have shaped life,” which is a good sign that the guide adds educational value.

Conversely, a few travelers found the pick-up to be slow or expressed frustration over the duration of the bus drive, which can be up to three hours in total, including waiting. If you’re sensitive to long bus rides or prefer more time exploring each site, this might be worth considering.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Lanzarote’s volcanic landscapes and wine culture without committing to a full day. It’s perfect if you prefer guided comfort, want to avoid driving, and enjoy learning from engaging guides. Families with children might find it fun, especially with the camel ride option, but those with mobility issues should be aware of the terrain.

If you’re a nature lover, a wine enthusiast, or simply curious about volcanic landscapes, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction. It’s also a strong choice if you’re on a tight schedule but want to make the most of your half-day in Lanzarote.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes a pick-up service, which helps streamline your day. Just be aware that the pick-up process may take some time.

What’s the approximate duration?
The entire experience lasts about five hours, starting at around 9:00 am with pick-up.

Are tickets for the camel ride included?
No, the camel ride costs extra and is optional. If you want to ride, you’ll need to purchase the ticket separately.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it enjoyable, especially with the camel ride option. However, the tour isn’t designed for those with reduced mobility, and some walking might be involved.

Can I choose to skip certain parts?
The itinerary is fixed, but you can opt not to take the camel ride if you prefer. The main stops, like Timanfaya and La Geria, are integral to the experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended — it can be sunny and rocky at the volcano park. Bring water and a camera to capture the scenery.

Are the guides bilingual?
Most reviews praise guides for their knowledge and humor, but occasionally, there’s mention of tours in English even if booked in another language. Confirm your preferred language when booking.

How good is the value for money?
Given the included admission tickets, guide, and diverse stops, most travelers feel it’s a good deal. Some say it’s “extremely good value,” especially considering the scenic and cultural highlights.

What are the main downsides?
Long wait times for pick-up, the bus ride can be lengthy, and the short duration of some activities like the camel ride may leave some wanting more. Also, ensure your expectations match the tour’s scope.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour of Timanfaya National Park and La Geria offers a practical and enjoyable way to see Lanzarote’s most iconic sites without the hassle of planning each step yourself. The knowledgeable guides, stunning landscapes, and local wine tasting make it a well-rounded experience that appeals to a broad range of travelers.

If you value comfort, efficiency, and insight, and are happy with a half-day commitment, this tour is likely to satisfy. Keep in mind the duration of transportation and potential wait times, and you’ll find this a rewarding introduction to one of the Canary Islands’ most fascinating places.

For those interested in volcanic landscapes, local wines, or unique experiences like camel riding, this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy guided excursions and want a taste of Lanzarote’s fiery terrain and charming wine culture.

Remember, booking in advance is recommended, as this tour is often booked about 16 days ahead. And always check the latest details from the provider to ensure it fits your travel plans.