Things to Do in Lanzarote: Volcanoes, Vineyards & Manrique Magic 🌋

Lanzarote isn’t just a pretty face, it’s a lava-sculpted wonderland with surreal landscapes, artistic treasures, and bucket-list views. One minute you’re walking through volcanic craters, the next you’re sipping wine grown in ash-covered vineyards. It’s wild (in the best way).

I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger – and with easy flights to the Canary Islands from the UK, I typically visit the Canary Islands once a year. My favourite part of Lanzarote is its Timanfaya volcano (and the volcanic wine tasting!)

A lot of the magic in Lanzarote is thanks to César Manrique – Lanzarote’s beloved artist-architect-eco-warrior. You’ll spot his genius all over the island (here’s my full guide to Manrique’s work if you’re into arty stuff).

Here are 14 amazing things to do in Lanzarote – from craters to cacti and everything in between.

1. Enter the Fire Mountains at Timanfaya National Park 🔥

It’s not every day you get to visit an active volcano. Timanfaya feels like you’ve landed on Mars – jagged craters, black lava fields, and no sign of life for miles. It’s Lanzarote’s number one attraction for a reason.

Hop on a guided coach tour (you can’t explore solo – it’s protected) and witness geysers, scorched rock, and even a volcano-powered BBQ at El Diablo Restaurant, where chefs cook your lunch over a natural geothermal grill.

You can also ride camels or take a guided crater hike to get up close to the otherworldly terrain.

🎟️ Book a camel ride [here] or a volcano walking tour [here].

2. Discover the Dreamy Jameos del Agua ✨

Imagine a chic bar, concert hall and lagoon… inside a lava tube. Welcome to Jameos del Agua, César Manrique’s magical makeover of a volcanic tunnel.

It’s part natural wonder, part art installation, and completely stunning. There are three connected lava bubbles, one with a turquoise pool that’s so photogenic it looks like a film set.

Watch for the tiny white blind crabs in the lagoon – they’re unique to this spot and symbolise the park’s fragile biodiversity.

🎟️ Interested in Manrique? This art tour covers both Jameos and Cueva de los Verdes.

3. Wander Through Cueva de los Verdes 🕳️

Another volcanic tunnel? Yes. But this one feels like a secret underground cathedral. Walk through eerie caverns and tunnels shaped by molten lava, with dramatic lighting to match.

The cave stretches over 6km, and the walkable section is a magical maze of echoing chambers and lava-sculpted galleries.

There’s even a surprise optical illusion at the end of the tour (no spoilers!). And for bonus points: it shares the same lava tube system as Jameos del Agua.

4. Gasp at the Views from Mirador del Río 🌊

Perched high on a cliff, Mirador del Río gives you postcard-perfect views over the island of La Graciosa island and the shimmering blue sea between. It’s another Manrique masterpiece, carved into the rock with giant glass windows that blend into the surroundings.

It has a futuristic 70s vibe, with spiral staircases, curved glass, and a cafe where you can sip coffee while soaking in the view. On a clear day, you can see across the whole Chinijo Archipelago.

5. Marvel at the Green Lagoon in El Golfo 🟢

El Golfo looks like Mother Nature went wild with her paintbrush: emerald lagoon, black sand beach, and rusty red cliffs. The colour clash is unreal.

This crescent-shaped crater lake is filled with phytoplankton, giving it that surreal green glow. It’s just a 5-minute walk from the car park and a fantastic place for photos, especially at golden hour. Stick around for seafood in the nearby village, where the grilled octopus is chef’s kiss.

6. Feel the Power at Los Hervideros 🌊💥

When the Atlantic crashes into volcanic cliffs, Los Hervideros puts on a dramatic show. The name literally means “the boiling pots” – and you’ll see why. As waves slam into lava tubes, water explodes upward in foamy bursts.

Walk the cliffside paths to explore blowholes and sea caves carved by centuries of ocean fury. It’s especially impressive on windy days when the swell is strong. Free to visit, and utterly captivating.

7. Stroll Charco de San Ginés in Arrecife 🌊💥

In the heart of the capital, Charco de San Ginés is a peaceful lagoon with bobbing boats, palm trees and whitewashed cottages. It’s like the Venice of Lanzarote (with more tapas and sunshine).

There’s a lovely promenade lined with cafes and boutiques, and every Saturday there’s a bustling market where you can browse local crafts and Canarian treats. A great spot for a lazy morning or romantic evening stroll.

8. Sip Wine in Volcanic Vineyards at La Geria 🍷

Volcanic wine? Yes please. The La Geria wine region is surreal – like a lunar landscape dotted with stone circles that protect the vines from wind.

One of my favourite things to do in Lanzarote is to stop at a few bodegas to taste crisp local Malvasia wines. Bodega La Geria and El Grifo (the oldest winery in the Canaries) are great places to start.

You can pair your tasting with tapas and soak in the dreamy views of volcanoes and vine-covered valleys.

🚗 You can drive the LZ30 wine route yourself (hire your car from Discover Cars), or book a wine tasting tour.

9. Explore César Manrique’s Volcanic Home 🎨

The César Manrique Foundation in Taro de Tahiche is more than a museum – it’s an artwork in itself. Built into lava bubbles, the home is a groovy blend of nature, 70s design, and art.

You’ll wander through underground lava chambers, see original furniture, and check out his funky studio filled with bold paintings. It’s an intimate look at the artist who helped shape Lanzarote into the visual gem it is today.

🎟️ Book a tour of the foundation here.

10. Hike Montana Corona 🥾

This ancient volcano isn’t on every tourist trail, but it should be. A hike around Montana Corona brings epic views and fewer crowds.

The crater is enormous, and the surrounding valley is dotted with vineyards and tiny villages. If you’re into geology or photography, this place is heaven.

It’s also the volcano responsible for creating both Cueva de los Verdes and Jameos del Agua.

🎟️ Book a Corona volcano hike with a local guide here.

11. Escape to Playa del Risco 🏖️

If you like your beaches wild and empty, this one’s for you. Playa del Risco is tucked below the cliffs of Famara and only accessible by boat or a hike down Camino de los Gracioseros.

It’s quiet, unspoiled, and perfect for a peaceful swim or a picnic with a view. The hike down takes about 45 minutes and is well worth the effort.

Bring water, snacks, and a hat – there are no facilities here.

12. Chill at Caletón Blanco ⬜

On the north coast, Caletón Blanco is pure chill. Think white sand, shallow turquoise pools, and lava rocks that block the wind.

Great for kids, snorkellers or anyone who wants to float in peace. Even in peak season, there’s plenty of room to stretch out. Just be aware the breeze can get feisty, so rock shelters are a popular sunbathing spot.

13. Visit Castillo de San José 🏰

History and art collide at this old fortress in Arrecife. Built in the 18th century to defend against pirates, Castillo de San José now houses the Museum of Contemporary Art (MICA).

Manrique helped turn the space into an art hub – and the views from the glass-walled restaurant are top tier. Inside, you’ll find works from Spanish and Canarian artists plus international exhibitions.

14. Go Prickly at Jardin de Cactus 🌵

One of Manrique’s final masterpieces, the Cactus Garden in Guatiza is a spiky wonderland of over 4,500 cacti from five continents.

Set in an old quarry, the garden is like a living sculpture park, with pathways winding between towering cacti, volcanic rocks, and a charming restored windmill. It’s both zen and dramatic – and ideal for a quirky photo shoot.

Getting Around Lanzarote 🚗

You’ll want wheels. Public transport exists, but to hit all the epic spots (and some hidden gems), renting a car is your best bet. I use Discover Cars to find cheap deals with free cancellation.

Quick Tips for Lanzarote 📝

☀️ Pack sunscreen, a sunhat, and layers – it can be windy even when it’s hot!
🎟️ Book tickets in advance for popular spots like Timanfaya and Jameos.
💧 Bring a reusable water bottle – Lanzarote’s sun is no joke, and staying hydrated is key.
👟 Wear sturdy shoes if you’re planning to hike any volcano trails – the lava terrain can be sharp and uneven.

FAQs About Visiting Lanzarote 💡

Got questions? You’re not alone! Whether it’s your first time visiting or your fifth, these are the things people most often ask about exploring Lanzarote. Here’s the lowdown on what to expect, what to pack, and how to make the most of your volcanic adventure.

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Lanzarote is lava, light, and local charm – all rolled into one. Whether you’re here for the art, the nature, or just the beaches and wine, it’s an island that surprises you in the best way.