You can’t talk about Lanzarote without mentioning the Timanfaya National Park – an unparalleled and essential destination on the island. The park stands out for its volcanic landscape that clearly proves the island’s origins. Keep reading to discover what awaits you on your visit and get tips to make the most of it.
What is Timanfaya National Park?
Timanfaya National Park is the most emblematic destination in Lanzarote and ranks among the island’s natural wonders. It’s a vast volcanic landscape spanning 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 resembles that of another planet.
Location
Timanfaya National Park is located in the south of Lanzarote, right between the towns of Yaiza and Tinajo. To the west, it’s bordered by the coast of El Golfo.
The Volcanic Eruptions 1730–1736: How the Park Was Born
This region is home to most of the volcanoes that formed during the island’s greatest eruption, which lasted from 1730 to 1736. During this time, over 100 volcanoes erupted, burying entire villages under lava and destroying a third of the island’s agricultural land.
Another eruption followed in 1824, the last one ever recorded on the island.
Why It’s Spain’s Only Geological National Park
Declared a national park in 1974, it’s the only park in Spain’s national network classified primarily for its geological value rather than biological value.
Timanfaya is part of the Lanzarote UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (1993). Its geological significance is international – it was even used by NASA as an analog for Mars-like terrain.
It’s strictly protected; you cannot hike without a guide – only guided bus tours are allowed inside, and collecting stones or other materials is forbidden.
What You Can See in Timanfaya National Park
During your visit to the island, Timanfaya is a must-see. The park is a geological treasure where you’ll admire volcanoes and other volcanic wonders like geysers. You cannot move freely; access is controlled to protect the park.
Montañas del Fuego (Fire Mountains)
The park’s immense geological significance becomes clear upon your arrival. The main attractions include the Montañas del Fuego (Fire Mountains), a series of volcanic peaks that dominate the landscape. Some of these mountains reach heights of up to 600 meters.
The most recognizable peaks are Montaña de Timanfaya, Montaña Rajada, and Volcán Nuevo del Fuego. You can see these on the bus tour along the Ruta de los Volcanes – a 14 km round trip.
Islote de Hilario and the Geothermal Demonstrations
This is the only place where tourists can get off the bus. On Hilario Island, guides demonstrate the power of the underground volcanic heat.
The temperature beneath the surface reaches about 400°C. Volcanic activity continues below the park’s surface. For example, some ground areas reach very high temperatures. Visitors can experience this through geyser demonstrations in the park.
Another essential experience is dining at El Diablo restaurant, designed by César Manrique. This unique restaurant uses the volcano’s geothermal heat to cook its food – all meals are prepared entirely using geothermal energy from the earth.
The Volcanic Landscape: Craters, Lava Fields, and Colors
Prepare to be mesmerized by your first impression of Timanfaya. The park’s vastness combined with a moon-like appearance offers a unique experience.
The park’s surface is a patchwork of black basalt, red volcanic ash, and fine picón gravel – the dark granular material covering large sections of the terrain. Frozen lava flows in motion, collapsed lava tubes, and jagged canyons give the landscape the impression that eruptions happened last week.
Fauna and Flora – More Life Than Expected
On your visit, you’ll not only admire the volcanoes but also experience nature’s resilience after the eruptions. This is evident in the diversity of plants you’ll encounter along the way. There are over 200 species of lichen that have colonized this space.
You’ll see endemic species like Tabaiba and Cardón, which have adapted to thrive in dry soils and high temperatures. The presence of these and other species underscores nature’s ability to regenerate.
The park also hosts a fascinating array of fauna. For example, several endemic bird species have adapted to the volcanic environment and enrich the park’s biodiversity. The park was designated a Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA) in 1994.
How to Get to Timanfaya National Park
As mentioned, the park is located between the towns of Yaiza and Tinajo. To get there, you need to take the LZ-67 road.
Getting there from anywhere on the island is easy. While driving is an option, public transport and guided tours in Lanzarote also make getting to the park comfortable.
Is There a Public Bus to Timanfaya?
There is no public bus service that takes you directly into Timanfaya National Park. Regular bus lines (Line 16 or 6) only go to nearby towns like Yaiza or Tinajo, so you’ll need to combine the trip with a taxi or book a tour to cover the last leg.
How to Visit Timanfaya: All Options Explained
You might wonder how best to explore the park. There are guided tours and free options.
Beyond visiting the park, the experience also includes a visit to El Diablo restaurant as well as the visitor center and exhibitions.
Guided Tours and Routes
There are several options for exploring Timanfaya. You can drive to the various park entrances and park your car in the parking lot.
The main routes are:
- Ruta Tremesana: This 3-hour guided hiking tour through the park covers 3.5 km and is mandatory. 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.
- Ruta Costera Corta: This is also a guided route, 2 km long and takes about 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.
- Ruta Costera Larga: 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 start independently from Playa de Madera in Tinajo.
- Ruta del Volcán: This is perhaps the most popular option for tourists. It’s a guided bus tour covering 12 km in about 45 minutes. The tour starts on Hilario Island. You must buy your ticket at the Montañas del Fuego Visitor Center; this includes the tour and access to the Museum of Art, Culture, and Tourism Montañas del Fuego.
Information Centers and Educational Exhibitions
The park has an information center providing details about the region’s geological history, flora, fauna, and conservation measures. It’s an ideal starting point to familiarize yourself with Timanfaya National Park.
Camel Rides in Timanfaya
Another option is a camel ride, which offers a unique perspective on the landscape. The route is 250 meters long and the excursion lasts 20 minutes.
No prior booking required. You can take a camel ride from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on the south side of Timanfaya mountain.
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 high season.
- Consider using a Lanzarote Transfer service for safe and reliable transportation.
- Note that you cannot get off the bus during the Ruta de los Volcanes tour; however, it stops at certain points for landscape photography.
Environmental Conservation Measures
Several conservation measures have been implemented to preserve this natural environment. For example, restricted access areas help protect sensitive habitats.
Additionally, the ecosystem’s health is monitored and environmental education is prioritized.
Sustainable Tourism Practices
Some sustainable practices include:
- Limiting daily visitor numbers.
- Hiking on designated trails to enjoy nature without impacting it.
- Integrating local gastronomy to support the local economy.
Park Rules and Restrictions
- Drones are not allowed in the zone.
- Collecting stones or volcanic material is forbidden.
Nearby Attractions
Besides visiting Timanfaya National Park, there are many other attractions to discover on the island. Be sure to visit the Fundación César Manrique or La Geria.
Beyond the volcanic landscapes, you can also enjoy the coastlines. Lanzarote has golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Popular activities include surfing, diving and whale watching.
Visit Timanfaya National Park and experience this natural jewel of Lanzarote. It offers breathtaking 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.
