Lanzarote: Jameos del Agua & North Island for Cruise Guests

Discover Lanzarote’s North Side: A Practical Look at the Jameos del Agua & North Island Tour

If you’re cruising through the Canary Islands and looking for a way to see some of Lanzarote’s highlights without spending your entire day on a tour bus, this Jameos del Agua & North Island experience might be just right. It’s designed for cruise guests who want a focused, guided glimpse of the island’s northern charm, with the convenience of transportation included.

What makes this tour appealing? First, you get entry to Jameos del Agua, one of Lanzarote’s most captivating attractions — a natural cave turned artistic wonder by the famous artist César Manrique. Second, the panoramic views from Famara Cliff are genuinely stunning, giving you a visual feast of the surrounding archipelago.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the short duration — at just around 3 hours, this isn’t a deep dive into the island’s every corner. Some travelers, based on reviews, felt that the visit to Jameos del Agua could be a bit rushed, which is worth considering if you’re eager to linger longer at each site.

This tour is best suited for cruise passengers or travelers with limited time who want an efficient, guided overview of Lanzarote’s northern scenery and natural wonders. If that sounds like your kind of experience, read on for a detailed, honest breakdown.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Focused Experience: Highlights Jameos del Agua and Famara Cliff in a concise 3-hour window.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned bus with direct pickup at the harbor.
• Expert Guidance: Guides speak Spanish, English, and German to cater to diverse travelers.
• Value for Price: At $42, it includes entry tickets and travel insurance, offering good value for a quick tour.
• Timing Matters: Starts early, at 8:45 AM, making it ideal for cruise schedules, but punctuality may vary.
• Limited Free Time: Some reviews mention the short stay at Jameos del Agua can feel rushed.

The Tour Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Timing

The adventure kicks off bright and early at 8:45 AM, with a pickup right at the port’s police control area. This is a plus because there’s no fuss about meeting elsewhere — just hop on the bus, sit back, and relax. The tour lasts approximately three hours, so you’ll be back by 11:30 AM, which is perfect if you have other plans for the day.

Exploring the Northern Landscape

The first leg of the journey takes you through Lanzarote’s northern landscape in the morning light, an aspect we really appreciate because the softer sunlight makes the scenery more picturesque. The guide will point out the volcanic terrain, typical whitewashed villages, and lush green patches if you’re lucky, offering context about the island’s geological past.

You’ll head to Los Valles, known as the Valley of a Thousand Palm Trees, which earns its name. It’s a peaceful spot, ideal for photos and taking in the lush foliage contrasting with the volcanic soil. Next, a short drive takes you to Haría, a charming town with traditional Canary architecture, where you might get a glimpse of local life.

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The Volcano: Corona

One of the more unique points of interest is the 5,000-year-old volcano Corona, situated near Haría. The guide will give a quick overview of this volcanic feature, adding depth to your understanding of Lanzarote’s volcanic activity. It’s a nice, tangible reminder of the island’s fiery origins.

The View from Famara Cliff

The highlight for many is the view from Famara Cliff, perched at about 500 meters elevation. Here, you’ll catch a sweeping vista over the archipelago Chinijo, a protected natural park teeming with tiny islets. The scenery is dramatic, with rugged cliffs dropping into the sea and a sense of remoteness that’s truly captivating. It’s a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the natural beauty.

Jameos del Agua

The main attraction, Jameos del Agua, is an underground cave system where the sea has created a natural lagoon. The fact that this is a natural oasis framed by lush vegetation makes it a fascinating visit. The combination of natural geology and artistic intervention by César Manrique makes it a unique spot — equally good for photography and appreciating nature’s artistry.

During the visit, you can pass through the underground tunnels, see the lagoon, and enjoy the chamber’s peaceful ambiance. Because your time here might be limited — some reviews mention feeling the stay was too short — it’s best to approach it as a quick snapshot rather than an exhaustive exploration.

Villages on the Return

On the way back to the port, you’ll pass through charming villages: Arrieta, Guatiza, and Teguise. These stops give a glimpse of local life, traditional architecture, and the rural side of Lanzarote.

What’s Included and Practicalities

The tour includes entrance tickets to Jameos del Agua, which is a definite plus. The air-conditioned bus makes the journey comfortable, especially in warmer weather, and the guides speak Spanish, English, and German, so language won’t be a barrier.

Travel insurance is also included, adding peace of mind. You only need to bring comfortable shoes — as most of the tour involves walking — and a little curiosity.

Considerations Based on Reviews

While many travelers find the tour worthwhile, some reviews point out the bus arriving late and the short stay at Jameos del Agua. For example, one reviewer mentioned a 0.5-hour delay and felt the visit was too brief — which might leave you wanting more time to explore.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour

This experience is ideal if you’re a cruise passenger or a traveler with limited time who still wants a taste of Lanzarote’s northern highlights. It suits those who prefer guided visits to optimize sightseeing without much hassle.

If you love scenic viewpoints, volcanic landscapes, and unique geological sites like Jameos del Agua, you’ll find this tour offers a solid, if brief, overview. It’s not for those wishing for a leisurely, in-depth exploration or to spend hours at each site.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Lanzarote’s northern beauty. You’ll love the convenience of the pickup and the chance to see key sights in just a few hours. The price point — $42 — is reasonable considering it includes entrance fees and insurance.

However, be prepared for a fast-paced experience that might feel a bit rushed, especially at Jameos del Agua. If you’re looking for a quick, guided taste of the island’s highlights, it’s a good option. But if you crave a slower, more immersive experience, you might want to consider other longer tours.

Overall, for anyone on a cruise or short on time, this tour strikes a practical balance between sightseeing and convenience, making it a worthwhile addition to your Lanzarote visit.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned bus pickup at the harbor, making it very easy to join without extra arrangements.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 8:45 AM, so plan to be ready at the port for the pickup. Check availability for the specific start times as they may vary.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you a quick but comprehensive look at some of Lanzarote’s northern highlights.

Are entrance tickets to Jameos del Agua included?
Yes, the ticket is part of the package, which streamlines your visit and saves you time.

Is the tour suitable for those who want to explore more?
If you prefer a quick overview, yes. For those wanting to linger and explore in depth, this might feel a bit rushed.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Spanish, English, and German, catering to a diverse group of travelers.

Are there any age restrictions?
The provided information doesn’t specify age limits, but comfortable shoes are recommended for walking. Families with children should consider the short, scenic stops.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is there any additional cost beyond the tour price?
No, the tour price covers the bus, guide, entrance ticket, and insurance. Personal purchases or meals are not included.

If you’re looking for a quick, guided peek at Lanzarote’s northern charm with a focus on natural beauty and scenic views, this tour fits the bill. Just keep in mind the brief stops and the importance of managing your expectations if you prefer prolonged explorations.

You can check availability for your dates here: