If you’re considering a way to see Lanzarote without the hassle of renting a car, this full-day bus tour might just hit the spot. It’s designed to give visitors a solid overview of the island’s most iconic sights, from volcanic landscapes to charming towns and unique geological features. We’ve looked into it to help you decide if this guided journey could be your perfect day out.
What we particularly like about this tour is how efficiently it packs in several key spots, giving you a broad taste of Lanzarote’s varied scenery and culture. Plus, the expert guide and driver receive high praise, which makes a big difference when you’re trying to absorb new information and navigate challenging roads. That said, it’s not perfect — a couple of reviews mention some long waits, and the stop for a wine tasting might feel a bit rushed. Still, for most travelers, this tour offers solid value.
This experience suits those who want to maximize their time in Lanzarote, especially if you prefer exploring with a group rather than arranging your own transport. It’s also handy for cruise passengers or visitors with limited time who want a snapshot of the island’s highlights without the stress of self-driving.
Key Points
- Comprehensive overview of Lanzarote’s main sights in a single day
- Expert-guided experience with knowledgeable guides and skilled drivers
- Includes popular attractions like Timanfaya National Park, Jameos del Agua, and La Geria wine region
- Hassle-free transportation eliminates the need for renting a car
- Well-reviewed for organization and pacing, though some mention waits for optional activities
- Value for money considering the inclusions like park entrances and wine tasting
An Honest Look at the Lanzarote Full-Day Tour
When considering a guided tour of Lanzarote, it’s important to understand what’s involved and what you can realistically expect. From the moment you embark at 9:30 am, this tour is about covering as much ground as possible in roughly eight hours. The bus is comfortable, and the group size caps at 45 travelers, helping keep things intimate enough to ask questions and stay engaged.
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The Itinerary Breakdown
El Golfo and the Green Lagoon
Your first stop is at El Golfo, a small fishing village famous for its striking Green Lagoon. It’s a lovely, quick photo op—just about 25 minutes, so don’t expect to linger long. The lagoon’s vivid color is a result of algae and mineral deposits, making it a surreal sight. Visitors generally find this stop a charming introduction to the island’s volcanic landscape.
Timanfaya National Park
Next up is Lanzarote’s most famous attraction: Timanfaya National Park. Known for its volcanic terrain and geothermal activity, it’s like stepping onto another planet. The tour includes a visit to see the geothermal experiments, which are pretty fascinating—though the actual demonstration is outside, meaning you won’t see fire or steam firsthand, but the descriptions are vivid. You get about 15 minutes of free time here, enough to walk around or grab photos. Several reviews mention the bus drive through the park as a highlight, with one traveler noting it “was like being on another planet.” The park itself is quite stark, with volcanic craters and lava fields stretching as far as the eye can see.
Jameos del Agua
This UNESCO-listed site is a real treat—an underground volcanic cave turned into an art and entertainment complex by artist Cesar Manrique. You’ll spend about an hour here, exploring the caves, the auditorium, and the lush gardens. Many visitors find Jameos del Agua a highlight, citing its unique blend of natural beauty and artistic flair. Entrance is included, which adds good value to the experience.
Transit and Photo Stops
Throughout the day, there are opportunities for quick photos and transit, giving you chances to stretch and take in the scenery. These brief stops help break up the day, especially on the sometimes winding roads.
La Geria Wine Region
Your last stop is at La Geria, Lanzarote’s acclaimed wine region. Here, you’ll enjoy about 20 minutes of wine tasting, sampling local wines in a traditional setting. The reviews indicate that this part can be a bit rushed—one traveler mentioned a “short stop” that felt more like a quick glance rather than a full tasting experience. While it’s a nice addition, if you’re a wine lover, you might wish for a longer visit.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The fee covers entrance to major sites, including Timanfaya and Jameos del Agua, and a wine tasting session. Plus, you get a professional, informative guide and a pick-up service (depending on location). The tour is well-organized overall, which means you won’t waste time figuring out logistics.
However, note that lunch isn’t included—most visitors grab something in Mancha Blanca or pack their own snacks. Also, the tour explicitly states that camel rides are not included, and some reviews express disappointment about the optional camel ride, which can cause lengthy waits if you choose to do it.
The Realities of the Experience
Most reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the guide and driver—a huge plus when you’re navigating a busy island. Several travelers mention their guide’s ability to keep the group informed, making the long bus rides educational and entertaining. The driver’s skill is also appreciated, especially as the roads can be narrow and challenging.
That said, a few reviews point out some logistical frustrations. A common theme is the wait for the camel ride or other optional stops, which can extend the day and slightly disrupt the schedule. For example, one reviewer mentioned waiting an hour for riders to finish, which might make some feel the day is too rushed or overly scheduled.
Price and Value
At just under $93 per person, this tour offers a good bundle of sights and experiences—including park entries, a professional guide, and wine tasting. Considering that individual site tickets can be pricey, the cost is reasonable for what you get. Plus, the convenience of transportation and expert commentary makes it a hassle-free way to explore Lanzarote.
Who Would Love This Tour?
If you’re someone who wants a broad overview of Lanzarote’s highlights without the stress of planning, this tour fits well. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate guided commentary, don’t mind a long day on the bus, and want to see the major sights without renting a car. It’s also a good pick for cruise passengers or those with limited time on the island.
Wrapping It Up
This Lanzarote full-day tour offers a well-organized and engaging way to see the island’s top attractions. With highlights like Timanfaya’s volcanic landscapes, the artistic flair of Jameos del Agua, and the scenic wine region, it provides a balanced mix of natural beauty and cultural insight. The guide’s knowledge and the included entrance fees enhance the value, making it a solid choice for first-time visitors.
That said, it’s not for those who prefer a more leisurely, unstructured day or want more time at specific stops like wine tasting or camel riding. The schedule can feel a bit tight, and some might find the optional activities a little rushed.
In the end, if you want a comprehensive, guided day that covers the island’s essential sights with minimal fuss, this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially good if you enjoy learning about the places you visit from a friendly, informed guide and don’t mind spending most of the day on a bus.
Lanzarote Island Tour (Full-day)
“It was a very well organized and informative tour giving a perfect overview of the island in one day. The island has breathtakingly beautiful spots…”
FAQs
Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation is provided with a comfortable bus, and pick-up services are available depending on your location.
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am, with scheduled stops at major sights.
Are the entrance fees included?
Yes, the price covers entrance to Timanfaya National Park and Jameos del Agua, as well as a wine tasting.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellation is free if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. This makes it flexible if your plans change.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You can purchase food at your discretion, typically in Mancha Blanca.
What about optional activities like camel rides?
Camel rides are available but are not included in the tour price. They can cause delays if many people participate.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While no specific age restrictions are mentioned, it’s a full-day bus tour with some long stops, so consider your children’s comfort level with a day on the bus.
What language is the guide?
Most reviews mention guides who are knowledgeable and friendly, often speaking multiple languages, including English, French, and Spanish.
If you’re after a fast, informative overview of Lanzarote with good value and memorable sights, this tour could be just the ticket. Just remember, it’s a busy day filled with highlights—so pack comfortable shoes, prepare for a full schedule, and bring your curiosity.
