Lanzarote: Timanfaya National Park Tour

Exploring Lanzarote’s Timanfaya National Park: A Practical Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Lanzarote, a visit to Timanfaya National Park is often high on the wish list. Known for its otherworldly volcanic scenery and geothermal activity, the park offers a unique landscape that feels like stepping onto the moon. While I haven’t personally taken this specific tour, I’ve looked into what it offers and what travelers seem to love — and what they don’t — so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your Lanzarote adventure.

One reason many people rave about this experience is the guides’ knowledge — they seem to have a real passion for the landscape and can share plenty of interesting tidbits that make the scenery come alive. Another highlight is the diverse activities, especially the optional camel ride, which adds a fun, memorable touch to the day. On the flip side, some might find the waiting times and group sizes a bit on the longer side, especially with pickup and drop-off, but that’s often part of coach tours.

This tour is especially well-suited for those who want a compact, well-organized way to see Lanzarote’s volcanic heart without renting a car or spending a full day on the road. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate guided commentary, value good value for money, and enjoy a mix of sightseeing and hands-on activities. If you’re looking for a relaxed half-day that combines learning, fun, and stunning scenery, this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides bring the landscape to life with stories and explanations.
• Unique Landscapes: Marvel at volcanic craters, geothermal demonstrations, and the lunar-like terrain.
• Optional Camel Ride: Adds a fun, memorable element, with a small extra cost.
• Value for Money: At $51 per person, it covers transportation, entry fees, and expert guiding.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics hassle-free.
• Queuing and Group Size: Expect some waiting times, especially for the bus drive through Timanfaya.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Timanfaya Tour

When considering a trip to any national park, especially one as distinctive as Timanfaya, it’s important to understand what the experience involves. This tour lasts around six hours, which means you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed, but it also makes for a full half-day outing. The price, just over fifty dollars, seems to include most of what will make the trip memorable: transportation, an entry ticket, and a live guide, with optional extras like the camel ride.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The tour begins with hotel pickup, which is a real convenience, especially on an island where parking and navigating can be tricky. Once you’re on the coach, you’ll head straight into the park, a vast area filled with volcanic soil, craters, and geysers. The bus drive through the park offers views that are simply unlike anything else. Many reviews highlight how the driver expertly maneuvers through narrow, winding roads, often avoiding long queues of cars — a big plus if you value smoother travel.

The geothermal demonstrations are a major highlight. Visitors often find themselves surprised at how the demonstrations work: food cooked by the heat of the earth or water boiling in seconds. It’s a fascinating, tangible way to understand the volcanic activity that shaped Lanzarote. One review mentioned that “you learn a lot and the live demonstrations alone are worth seeing,” which feels pretty accurate.

The Volcano Route and Crater Views

Following the guide, you’ll stop at key points along the famous volcano route — a designated area packed with craters and lava fields. The scenery is stark, rugged, and truly feels like you’re on another planet. Many visitors comment on how photogenic and surreal the landscape is, especially under the bright sun.

The Camel Ride: A Fun Bonus

A popular optional activity is the camel ride on the volcanic slopes. It’s not included in the main ticket price, but most people find it well worth the extra cash — around €11-15, based on reviews. The camels are well looked after, and the experience is often described as both fun and a bit quirky. As one reviewer put it, “the camel ride was everything worth every single penny.” If you’re easygoing and want a bit of a memorable adventure, this is a good addition.

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The Final Stops: Souvenirs and Wine Tasting

Some tours include a stop at a place where you can sample local wines or buy souvenirs, but reviews suggest that the wine tasting isn’t a core part of the experience — more of a bonus if you’re interested. It’s probably not worth planning your day around, but it adds a bit of local flavor if you have time.

The Experience From the Reviews

The majority of travelers seem thrilled with the tour. Many mention the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guides, especially individuals named Michael and Paul, who are praised for their engaging explanations. One review even noted that the guide “explained everything brilliantly,” making the landscape much more meaningful.

People also love the scenery and geothermal activity — describing the landscape as “incredible,” “beautiful,” and “like nothing you’ve seen before.” Multiple reviews mentioned the drive-through lava fields, which you can’t access by car, making the tour feel like an exclusive peek into the island’s volcanic core.

What Could Be Better?

While the tour generally receives high praise, some critiques are worth noting. A common concern is the waiting times — especially during the bus drive — with some reviewers saying it felt a little long, especially during the group’s pick-up and drop-off. The bus can also be a bit cramped, and the last stop (often a commercial stop) might seem unnecessary to some.

Another point is the cost of the camel ride, which is an added expense. Although many say it’s worth it, it’s a separate fee you should budget for. Also, a few travelers with mobility issues mentioned that the steep exit steps could be a challenge, though guides were accommodating.

Transport, Timing, and Practicalities

The tour’s main advantage is ease of logistics. Hotel pickup means you don’t have to worry about parking or navigating the park on your own. The duration of about six hours offers a good balance — enough time to see everything without it dragging on.

Starting times vary, so be sure to check availability when booking. In terms of group size, it’s likely a sizable bus tour, which helps keep costs down but can lead to longer wait times during peak hours. The language options include English and Spanish**, and guides are generally well-rated for their communication skills and friendliness.

Pricing and Value

At around $51 per person, this tour offers decent value, especially considering the included entry and guide. The reviews consistently mention how much they learn and see for the price. For anyone interested in geology, volcanoes, or simply seeing a landscape unlike any other, this is a reasonably priced experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a guided, informative glimpse of Lanzarote’s volcanic heart without the hassle of self-driving. If you’re into geology, volcanic landscapes, or just want to enjoy an engaging half-day tour, it hits the right notes. It’s also great for those who enjoy a bit of fun, like the camel ride, combined with educational stops.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who love adventure and interesting scenery, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. However, if you dislike waiting around or need everything to be super quick and efficient, you might find the long queues and group dynamics less appealing.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about six hours, including pickup, sightseeing, and drop-off, making for a relaxed half-day experience.

Is the camel ride included?
No, the camel ride costs around €11-15 and is an optional activity. Many reviews say it’s well worth the extra money, especially for the fun factor.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is generally suitable for most ages, but the camel ride involves some walking and sitting on the animals. If you have mobility issues, check with the operator about accessibility.

Do I need to prepare cash for anything?
Yes, if you plan to do the camel ride or buy souvenirs, it’s advisable to carry cash in the region of 11-15 euros.

Does the tour include a guide?
Yes, a live guide is included and is praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, the activities like the bus tour and camel ride are generally suitable for children, but always check with the provider if you have young kids.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. The tour involves some walking and exposure to the sun.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Guides are accommodating, but the steep steps at some stops may pose a challenge; it’s best to inquire beforehand.

What’s the main reason to choose this tour?
The combination of stunning scenery, expert guides, and the ease of organized transportation make it a practical, engaging choice for exploring Lanzarote’s volcanic side.

Final thoughts: If you’re after an experience that combines stunning landscapes, engaging storytelling, and a touch of fun, this Timanfaya National Park tour offers quite a bit for a reasonable price. It’s especially suited for those who love learning about geology and want a hassle-free way to see Lanzarote’s volcanic core. Just be prepared for some queuing and longer travel times, and consider the optional extras if they appeal to you.

Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget your camera and curiosity.

You can check availability for your dates here: