Overview
Lanzarote is a volcanic island in the Canary Islands, 130 km west of North Africa and 1,000 km southwest of mainland Spain. It has been a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1993 and offers stark, otherworldly landscapes created by the 1730-1736 eruptions, combined with resort towns and golden beaches.
Architecture · Beach · Budget Travel · Day Trips · Family Travel
Before you go
Accommodation
Resort hotels in Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca, and Costa Teguise. Budget travelers should look for hostels in Arrecife or San Bartolomé.
Connectivity
5G available from MasMovil, Movistar, Orange; 4G from Vodafone and Telefónica. WiFi widely available in tourist areas.
Food
Try papas arrugadas with mojo sauce, gofio dishes, and local aloe vera products. Supermarkets like Lidl and HiperDino offer best value.
Language
Spanish (Canary Islands dialect) is spoken. English and German are widely understood in tourist areas. Menus typically in three languages.
Money
Lanzarote uses the Euro (€). ATMs are available in all towns, and most merchants accept card payments. Budget approximately €80-120 per day for mid-range travel.
Safety
112 is the European emergency number. Theft from vehicles in Timanfaya National Park has been reported. Take standard precautions with valuables.
Transport
Public buses and taxis serve the island, but renting a car provides flexibility for visiting dispersed attractions. Ferries to Fuerteventura depart from Playa Blanca; ferries to La Graciosa depart from Órzola.
Weather
Year-round mild climate with summer averages of 29°C and winter averages of 15°C. Almost no rainfall, especially April-September. Always use sun protection.