Timanfaya Park & Camel Ride (extra cost) – Short South Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Lanzarote and want to see some of the island’s most striking scenery without spending a full day on it, the Timanfaya Park & Camel Ride (extra cost) half-day tour might be just what you’re after. It offers a compact yet engaging glimpse of the volcanic landscapes, local wines, and a touch of adventure with the optional camel ride. We’re here to help you decide if it fits your style and expectations.

What draws us to this tour is how it combines the iconic volcanic scenery of Timanfaya National Park with the chance to sip on local wines in La Geria. Plus, the hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your hotel make it a practical choice. We also appreciate the inclusion of the Timanfaya Park ticket, which usually adds value by skipping the line or at least making the entry smoother. On the flip side, the camel ride, which many find fun, does cost extra, so you’ll want to weigh if that’s a must-do for you. Overall, it’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy nature, scenic drives, and a bit of local flavor, all in a manageable four to five hours.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Efficient half-day experience covering the highlights of southern Lanzarote.
• Includes Timanfaya National Park entrance, ensuring no surprises at the gate.
• Optional camel ride for a bit of fun and adventure, payable on the spot.
• Wine tasting at a local winery adds a relaxed, cultural touch.
• Hassle-free pickup and drop-off make logistics easier.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers but involves some walking and standing.

Discovering Lanzarote’s South: What You Can Expect

This tour is designed to give you a snapshot of Lanzarote’s volcanic heart and its charming rural scenes. It’s a good choice if you’re after a balanced mix of natural beauty, local culture, and a touch of excitement, all without committing your entire day.

The Itinerary in Detail

First stop: Timanfaya National Park
This is the main event. The park is famous for its spectacular volcanic landscapes, with rolling black lava fields and fiery craters. The tour includes a 55-minute visit, with an admission ticket already covered. We loved the way the guide explained the geothermal phenomena – like how the park demonstrates the heat beneath the surface with experiments that make you realize how active this volcanic zone still is. The park’s terrain is otherworldly, and the views are fantastic for photos.

Second stop: Islote de Hilario
A quick 20-minute visit here allows for some practical geothermal experiments. It’s a brief stop but interesting because it shows the volcanic activity firsthand, with the added bonus of being a free part of the tour. This helps break up the time and gives you some extra insight into the island’s geological activity.

Third stop: Rotonda De Los Camellos
Here’s where the optional camel ride comes into play. It’s a classic Lanzarote experience, usually taking around 30 minutes. You pay for this directly at the site if you decide to hop on. Based on reviews, many travelers find it fun and memorable, though some mention the ride can be quick or somewhat touristy. It’s a short addition but can add a fun, unusual element to your day.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses modern, air-conditioned buses, which makes the journey comfortable, especially in warm weather. With a maximum group size of 80 travelers, it’s a reasonably social experience but not overly crowded. The pickup service in touristic areas means you won’t have to worry about getting to a meeting point, which is a real plus.

The Wine Region Experience

After the volcanic landscapes, the tour continues through the La Geria wine region, known for its unique black ash soil and vine-growing techniques. A visit to a local winery offers a chance to sample some of Lanzarote’s wines, which are crafted in the volcanic soil that gives them a distinct flavor. It’s a relaxed stop that allows for some tasting and learning about the island’s wine culture.

Lunch and Extra Costs

While the tour includes many highlights, lunch is on your own. You might find local restaurants offering traditional dishes or quick bites, but this is not included in the ticket price. It’s worth budgeting some extra time and money for a meal to round out your half-day adventure.

How the Experience Feels in Practice

The timing of the tour generally works well, starting at 8:00 am, which is perfect if you’re an early riser or want to maximize your day. The duration of 4 to 5 hours fits neatly into most travel plans, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Many reviews highlight the stunning views that make this tour worth it. One review states, “We loved the way the volcanic landscape stretched out as far as the eye could see, especially from Islote de Hilario.” Such scenery is why many travelers choose Lanzarote, and this tour packs in the best spots for photos and appreciation.

The Timanfaya Park itself is often described as surreal—like stepping onto another planet. However, some travelers note that the camel ride, while enjoyable for many, can be somewhat short or touristy. The extra cost of around €10-€15 per person might be worth it if you’re after the novelty, but it’s not a full-on adventure.

Authenticity and Tips

While the tour is designed to be straightforward, it’s a good idea to bring your own water, sun protection, and comfortable footwear. The guide’s commentary is generally informative, but if you’re a geology or nature buff, you might wish for a bit more depth.

One traveler mentioned that the la Geria winery stop felt more like a quick taste rather than a full-on tour, but it’s enough to get a sense of the local wine scene. If wine isn’t your thing, it’s still a nice scenic drive through vineyards with fantastic photo ops.

Value for Money

At $52.33 per person, this tour provides an efficient way to see some of Lanzarote’s top sights with the convenience of pickup and a guide. When you consider the park ticket, the transportation, and the wine tasting, it offers relatively good value—especially if you prefer a structured experience over self-guided exploration.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys scenic drives, volcanic landscapes, and local wines, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s particularly suited for travelers with limited time who want a curated half-day experience. The optional camel ride adds a fun twist but isn’t essential, so you can skip it if you prefer to focus on sightseeing and wine tasting. It also works well for those who appreciate comfort, thanks to the air-conditioned buses and organized pickup.

This tour isn’t ideal if you’re after a deep dive into Lanzarote’s geology or local culture — for that, you might want to look for more specialized options. But if what you want is a well-rounded, scenic, and hassle-free overview of southern Lanzarote, it’s a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

This short south tour of Lanzarote offers a practical way to experience some of the island’s most impressive sights without feeling overwhelmed. The combination of volcanic landscapes, wine tasting, and optional camel rides delivers a varied taste of Lanzarote’s natural and cultural charm.

The experience’s strengths lie in its spectacular views and convenient logistics. While some may find the camel ride a bit touristy or the winery stop somewhat quick, these are minor considerations compared to the overall value and enjoyment.

If you’re looking for a manageable, scenic, and engaging tour that covers the island’s highlights, this could fit the bill. Just be prepared for some walking at each stop, and remember that the camel ride is an extra expense. With its mix of nature, culture, and comfort, it’s likely to leave you with memorable sights and stories to tell.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves some walking and standing, so keep that in mind.

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 4 to 5 hours, starting at 8:00 am, making it a good half-day option.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off at touristic areas, a qualified guide, transportation in a modern bus, liability insurance, and a Timanfaya National Park ticket.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Is the camel ride included?
No, the camel ride is optional and paid for directly at the site, usually around €10-€15 per person.

Are lunch and drinks included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring some money if you want to eat after the tour or visit a local restaurant.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and perhaps a camera for the fantastic views.

How do I know where to meet or get picked up?
The tour offers pickup in touristic areas; just send your accommodation name so they can arrange the closest pickup point.