South Tour: Timanfaya National Park

Exploring Lanzarote’s South: A Deep Dive into the Timanfaya National Park Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Lanzarote and considering the popular South Tour that covers Timanfaya National Park, you’re in the right place. This tour offers a chance to see some of the island’s most iconic volcanic landscapes, along with charming coastal villages and a taste of local wines. While it’s a well-loved experience, it’s worth knowing what to expect before you book.

Two things we really like about this tour are the chance to walk through the surreal volcanic scenery of Timanfaya and the opportunity to sample the award-winning wines of La Geria. Both add a flavor of Lanzarote’s natural beauty and local culture that’s hard to find elsewhere. The tour’s comprehensive itinerary means you get a good overview of the southern part of the island in one day.

However, a potential downside is that some stops are quite brief, and the overall tone of the experience can feel somewhat “commercial,” as some reviews point out. If you’re after a more in-depth, leisurely exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for those wanting a practical overview and some highlights with guided commentary, it’s a solid option. This tour is particularly suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of natural scenery, cultural stops, and a taste of local flavors—especially if you’re limited on time but want a taste of Lanzarote’s diverse landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Efficient way to see major sights in one day.
• Highlights include Timanfaya’s volcanic landscapes, El Golfo’s Green Lagoon, and La Geria’s vineyards.
• Some stops are brief and may feel rushed.
• The tour includes lunch, a guide, and park tickets, offering good value for a full-day experience.
• Camel rides are not included, so plan accordingly if that’s something you want.
• Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Let’s walk through what you can expect from this 8-hour adventure around southern Lanzarote. The experience begins with pick-up from one of four designated locations—Costa Teguise, Playa Blanca, Arrecife, or Puerto del Carmen. After a roughly 75-minute bus ride, you’re on your way to explore some of the island’s most striking scenery.

The Journey Begins: Transport & Group Size

The tour is conducted on an air-conditioned bus, which is a plus given Lanzarote’s warm climate. The guide, speaking in Spanish, English, or German, leads you through the day, sharing insights and answering questions along the way. The size of the group can vary, but generally, it’s designed to be manageable, making it easier to stay engaged and ask questions.

First Stop: El Golfo and the Green Lagoon

Your first highlight is a quick visit to El Golfo, a tiny fishing village famous for its spectacular Green Lagoon. This natural phenomenon results from volcanic activity, giving the water a vivid hue that’s quite a sight. You’ll have about 20 minutes here to snap photos and soak in the views. It’s a favorite for many, and the comments from travelers often mention how photogenic and unique this spot is.

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Coastal Wonders: Los Hervideros and Salinas de Janubio

Next, you’ll pass by Los Hervideros, where the rugged coastline showcases impressive volcanic formations meeting the Atlantic. It’s a dramatic scene, and you’ll see waves crashing against the volcanic rock—great for dramatic photos.

A short stop at Salinas de Janubio, the salt flats, gives a different kind of landscape—flats shimmering in the sun, shaped by centuries of salt harvesting. It’s a quiet spot that offers insight into the island’s traditional industry, though the visit here is brief.

Timanfaya National Park: The Main Event

The highlight of the tour is the guided visit to Timanfaya, for about 70 minutes. You’ll see the famous volcanoes and volcanic terrain that almost feel otherworldly. The guide will explain the eruptions that occurred in the 18th century, leaving a landscape full of cones, lava fields, and striking colors.

You’ll also get to see the geothermal demonstrations, where heat from the volcanoes is used in practical ways—like cooking. This part of the tour is the most memorable and unique. Keep in mind, camel rides are not included—and some might find the option tempting, but you’ll need to pay extra if you want to get on a camel.

La Geria: The Wine Region

A brief drive takes you to La Geria, Lanzarote’s famous wine region. Here, you can learn about the unique way they harvest grapes in volcanic soil—small, semi-circular stone walls protect the vines from the wind and help retain moisture. You’ll have about 20 minutes here to walk around and, importantly, sample some of the local wines. The wines are highly praised, and this aspect of the tour tends to be a highlight, especially for wine lovers.

Wrapping Up: Return & Drop-offs

After a full day, the bus heads back, with drop-offs at the initial pickup points. The entire schedule is about 8 hours, including travel, stops, and sightseeing.

Practical Considerations: What You Need to Know

The tour’s price of around $82 per person offers quite a bit—tickets to the park, guided commentary, transportation, and lunch. The included lunch typically features local staples, which is a good way to taste authentic flavors without extra fuss.

What’s not included? The camel ride, which some travelers might be keen on, is an optional activity that costs extra. If that’s a priority, be prepared to pay separately.

Travel Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes—especially because you’ll be walking around volcanic terrain and uneven surfaces.
• Bring sunglasses and a camera—the scenery is stunning, and you’ll want to capture the surreal landscapes.
• The tour is not suited for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.
• The duration and schedule mean you’ll spend a good part of the day on the bus, so rest up beforehand.

What the Reviews Say

While many praise the beautiful scenery and knowledgeable guides, some mention that stops are quite short—particularly El Golfo and La Geria—making it feel a bit rushed. For instance, one traveler described the stops as “too short and very commercial,” which might bother those seeking a quieter, more in-depth experience.

Others appreciated the guide’s performance, though a comment noted that the multilingual commentary can sometimes reduce clarity if you’re only listening in one language.

The highlight for most is the Timanfaya visit—a truly spectacular natural park that feels like stepping onto another planet. The wine tasting is also repeatedly praised, which makes this tour stand out for those interested in local flavors.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is great for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of Lanzarote’s natural beauty and culture in one day. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy guided experiences, as it takes care of transportation and logistics. However, if you’re someone who prefers more time at each stop or has specific mobility concerns, you might find it a bit rushed.

If you’re interested in tasting local wine and exploring volcanic landscapes, this will be a memorable experience. But if you’re craving a slow, contemplative pace, or want to include camel rides, consider whether the optional extras are worth the extra cost.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the South Tour: Timanfaya National Park offers a practical and engaging way to see some of Lanzarote’s most iconic sights. You’ll get a taste of the island’s volcanic origins, colorful coastlines, and local wine culture—all within a manageable schedule. The experience’s value comes from its combination of guided commentary, diverse stops, and inclusions like lunch and park entries.

It’s a tour that caters well to those who want a solid overview without stretching out over multiple days. It’s not perfect—some stops feel brief, and it’s quite busy—but it hits many of the highlights and offers good value for the price.

If you’re curious about Lanzarote’s volcanic side, enjoy a good glass of wine, and don’t mind a packed schedule, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned bus with pickup from several locations on the island.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, including travel, stops, and sightseeing.

Are lunch and park tickets included?
Yes, you get lunch and the ticket to Timanfaya National Park included in the price.

Can I ride a camel?
No, the camel ride is not included—and you’ll need to pay extra if you want to try it.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the scenery.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally not recommended for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, but children who can walk and enjoy the scenery will get a lot out of it.

Are there multilingual guides?
Yes, guides speak in Spanish, English, and German.

What if I want a more relaxed experience?
You might find the brief stops and busy schedule a bit rushed—if that’s a concern, consider whether this tour matches your travel style.

This timed, well-structured tour offers a good way to see Lanzarote’s highlights if you’re looking for convenience and variety. Just be prepared for a full day on the move, and you’ll likely come away with great memories of the island’s volcanic beauty and vibrant culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: