You can’t talk about Lanzarote without mentioning the Timanfaya National Park – an incomparable destination and a must-see on the island. The park encompasses a volcanic landscape that is the clearest proof of the island’s origins. Read on to find out what awaits you during your visit and get tips on how to make the most of it.
What is Timanfaya National Park?
Timanfaya National Park is Lanzarote’s most iconic tourist destination and ranks among the natural wonders of Lanzarote. It’s a vast volcanic landscape covering almost a quarter of the island (5,107 hectares).
The name Timanfaya comes from the volcanic mountains that form the heart of the park, and the landscape looks like it’s from another planet.
Location
Timanfaya National Park is located in southern Lanzarote, specifically between the municipalities of Yaiza and Tinajo. To the west it borders the El Golfo coast.
The Volcanic Eruptions 1730–1736: How the Park Was Formed
This area is home to most of the volcanoes that formed during the island’s largest eruption, which lasted from 1730 to 1736. During this period, over 100 volcanoes were active, burying entire villages under lava and destroying a third of the island’s farmland.
Another eruption occurred in 1824, the last one recorded on the island.
Why It’s Spain’s Only Geological National Park
Declared a National Park in 1974, it’s the only national park in the Spanish network classified primarily for its geological value rather than biological value.
Timanfaya is part of Lanzarote’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (1993). Its geological importance is international – it was even used by NASA as an analogue for Mars-like terrain.
It’s strictly protected; you cannot walk there without a guide, only bus tours are permitted, and it’s forbidden to collect stones or other materials.
What You Can See at Timanfaya National Park
During your visit to the island, Timanfaya is a must-see stop. The park is a geological treasure where you’ll enjoy volcanoes and other volcanic wonders like geysers. You cannot walk freely; access is controlled to protect the park.
Mountains of Fire
The immense geological importance of the park becomes evident the moment you arrive. Among the main attractions are the Mountains of Fire, a series of volcanic peaks that dominate the landscape. Some of these mountains reach heights of up to 600 metres.
Among the most recognizable peaks are Montaña de Timanfaya, Montaña Rajada and Volcán Nuevo del Fuego. You can see them from the bus tour if you take the Route of the Volcanoes – a 14 km circular route.
Hilario Islet and Geothermal Demonstrations
This is the only area where tourists can get off the bus. On Hilario Island, tour guides demonstrate the power of the volcanoes’ underground heat.
The temperature below the surface is approximately 400°C. Volcanic activity continues beneath the park’s surface. For example, some areas of the terrain reach very high temperatures. Visitors can experience this through geyser demonstrations in the park.
Another must-do experience is dining at El Diablo Restaurant, designed by César Manrique. This unique restaurant uses geothermal heat from the volcano to cook its food – food is cooked entirely with geothermal energy from the earth.
The Volcanic Landscape: Craters, Lava Fields and Colours
Get ready to be amazed by your first impression of Timanfaya. The vastness of the park combined with a lunar appearance offers a unique experience.
The surface of the park is a mosaic of black basalt, red volcanic ash and fine picón – the dark granular material that covers much of the terrain. Frozen lava flows in motion, sunken tubes and rough ravines make the landscape look as if the eruptions happened last week.
Fauna and Flora – More Life Than Expected
During your visit, you won’t just admire the volcanoes but also experience nature’s resilience after eruptions. This is evident in the variety of plants you’ll find along the way. There are over 200 species of lichens that have colonized this area.
You’ll see endemic species such as tabaiba and cardón, which have evolved to thrive in dry soils and high temperatures. The presence of these and other species highlights nature’s ability to regenerate.
The park also hosts a fascinating diversity of fauna. For example, several endemic bird species have adapted to the volcanic environment and enrich the park’s biodiversity. The park was designated as a Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA) in 1994.
How to Get to Timanfaya National Park
As mentioned earlier, the park is located between the municipalities of Yaiza and Tinajo. To get there, you need to take the LZ-67 road.
Access is straightforward from anywhere on the island. While driving is an option, public transport and guided tours in Lanzarote also make the trip to the park comfortable.
Is There Public Bus Service to Timanfaya?
There is no public bus service that takes you directly to Timanfaya National Park. Regular bus lines (line 16 or 6) only reach nearby municipalities such as Yaiza or Tinajo, so you’ll need to combine the trip with a taxi or book a tour to cover the final stage.
How to Visit Timanfaya: All Options Explained
Perhaps you’re wondering what’s the best way to explore the park. There are guided tours and free tours.
In addition to visiting the park, the experience also includes a visit to El Diablo Restaurant, as well as the visitor centre and exhibitions.
Guided Tours and Routes
There are several tour options to explore Timanfaya. You can drive to various park entrances and park your car in the car park.
The main routes are:
- Tremesana Route: This is a mandatory 3-hour guided hiking tour covering 3.5 km through the park. You must book at least 25 days in advance. The meeting point is in the town of Yaiza. Groups are small and the tour is free.
- Short Coastal Route: This is also a guided route, 2 km long and lasts approximately two and a half hours. You’ll see the island’s coastal landscape. You must book at least 25 days in advance and it’s free. It starts from El Golfo.
- Long Coastal Route: This is a 5-hour hiking tour covering almost 10 km. You’ll see the entire volcanic coast, created by the 18th-century eruptions. You can do it independently from Madera Beach in Tinajo.
- Route of the Volcanoes: This is perhaps the most popular option for tourists. It’s a guided 12 km bus tour lasting approximately 45 minutes. The tour starts at Hilario Island. You must buy your ticket at the Mountains of Fire Tourist Centre; this includes the tour and access to the Mountains of Fire Art, Culture and Tourism Museum.
Visitor Centres and Educational Exhibitions
The park has a visitor centre that provides information about the geological history, flora, fauna and conservation measures of the region. It’s an ideal starting point to familiarize yourself with Timanfaya National Park.
Camel Rides at Timanfaya
Another option is a camel ride, which offers a unique perspective of the landscape. The route is 250 metres long and the ride lasts 20 minutes.
No advance reservation is required. You can take a camel ride on the south side of Timanfaya mountain from 9:30 to 15:30.
Tips for Planning Your Visit to Timanfaya National Park
- Wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear.
- Use sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat or cap.
- Book tours in advance, especially during peak season.
- Consider using a transfer service in Lanzarote for safe and reliable transport.
- Keep in mind that during the Route of the Volcanoes tour you cannot get off the bus; however, it will stop at certain points for landscape photos.
Environmental Conservation Measures
Several protection measures have been implemented to preserve this natural environment. For example, restricted access areas help conserve sensitive habitats.
Additionally, ecosystem health is monitored and environmental education is a priority.
Sustainable Tourism Practices
Some sustainable practices include:
- Limiting the number of daily visitors.
- Walking on designated trails to enjoy nature without affecting it.
- Integrating local gastronomy to support the local economy.
Rules and Restrictions in the Park
- Drones are not permitted in the area.
- It is forbidden to collect stones or volcanic material.
- Use only authorized roads and trails.
Nearby Attractions
Beyond visiting Timanfaya National Park, there’s much more to explore on the island. Don’t miss the Fundación César Manrique or La Geria.
Beyond the volcanic landscapes, you can also enjoy the coastlines. Lanzarote boasts golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Popular activities include surfing, diving, and whale watching.
Visit Timanfaya National Park and enjoy this natural jewel of Lanzarote. It offers stunning landscapes and a unique experience.
Resources
- https://www.reservasparquesnacionales.es/real/ParquesNac/usu/html/listado-actividades-oapn.aspx?cen=6
- https://www.gobiernodecanarias.org/parquesnacionales/timanfaya/
Abdel Samouh is a tourism professional specialising in the Canary Islands, with a solid track record in visitor experience management on Lanzarote. His career has centred on promoting the island's landmark attractions and enhancing transfer and excursion services across this volcanic destination.
