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 stands as the clearest proof of the island’s origins. Keep reading to discover 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 the most iconic tourist destination on Lanzarote 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 sits in the south of Lanzarote, specifically between the municipalities of Yaiza and Tinajo. To the west, it borders the El Golfo coast.
The Volcanic Eruptions of 1730–1736: How the Park Was Born
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 ever recorded on the island.
Why Is It Spain’s Only Geological National Park?
Declared a National Park in 1974, it’s the only park in the Spanish national park network classified primarily for its geological value rather than its 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 analogue for Mars-like terrain.
It’s strictly protected; you cannot hike freely there – only guided bus tours are permitted, and collecting stones or other materials is forbidden.
What You Can See in Timanfaya National Park
During your island visit, Timanfaya is a must-see stop. The park is a geological treasure where you’ll enjoy the volcanoes and other volcanic wonders like geysers. You cannot roam freely; access is controlled to protect the park.
Montañas del Fuego (Fire Mountains)
The park’s enormous geological significance becomes clear the moment you arrive. The main attractions are the Fire Mountains, a series of volcanic cones that dominate the landscape. Some of these mountains reach heights of up to 600 metres.
Among the most recognisable peaks are Montaña de Timanfaya, Montaña Rajada, and Volcán Nuevo del Fuego. You can see them from the bus tour when you take the Ruta de los Volcanes – a 14 km circular route.
Islote de Hilario and the Geothermal Demonstrations
This is the only area where tourists can get out of the bus. On Hilario Island, tour guides demonstrate the power of the volcanoes’ underground heat.
The temperature beneath the surface is about 400°C. Beneath the park’s surface, volcanic activity continues. For example, some areas of the terrain 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 harnesses the volcano’s geothermal heat for cooking – food is prepared entirely using geothermal energy from the earth.
The Volcanic Landscape: Craters, Lava Fields and Colours
Get ready to be fascinated from your first impression of Timanfaya. The vastness of the park combined with its lunar-like appearance offers a truly unique experience.
The park’s surface is a mosaic of black basalt, red volcanic ash, and fine picón – the dark granular material covering much of the terrain. Frozen lava flows in motion, collapsed lava tubes, and rough ravines make the landscape appear as if the eruptions happened last week.
Fauna and Flora – More Life Than Expected
During your visit, you’ll not only admire the volcanoes but also experience nature’s resilience following the eruptions. This is evident in the variety of plants you’ll encounter along the way. Over 200 lichen species have established themselves in this area.
You’ll see endemic species like tabaiba and cardón, which have evolved to thrive in dry soils and high temperatures. The presence of these and other species underscores nature’s ability to regenerate.
The park is also home to a fascinating array of fauna. For instance, 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, the park lies between the municipalities of Yaiza and Tinajo. To get there, take the LZ-67 road.
Access is easy from anywhere on the island. While driving is an option, public transport and guided tours on Lanzarote also make the journey to the park comfortable.
Is There a Public Bus to Timanfaya?
There is no public bus service that takes you directly to Timanfaya National Park. Regular bus lines (Line 16 or 6) only travel to nearby towns like Yaiza or Tinajo, so you’ll need to combine the journey with a taxi or book a tour to cover the final leg.
How to Visit Timanfaya: All Options Explained
You might be wondering what’s the best way to explore the park. There are guided tours and free tours available.
In addition to visiting the park, the experience also includes a visit to El Diablo restaurant, plus the visitor centre and exhibitions.
Guided Tours and Routes
There are several tour options to explore Timanfaya. You can drive to multiple park entrances and leave your car in the car park.
The main routes are:
- Ruta Tremesana: This is a mandatory 3-hour walking 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 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 in El Golfo.
- Long Coastal Route: This is a 5-hour hiking tour covering almost 10 km. You’ll see the entire volcanic coastline created by the 18th-century eruptions. You can do it independently from Playa de Madera in Tinajo.
- Ruta de los Volcanes: 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 Centre; this includes the tour and access to the Montañas del Fuego Museum of Art, Culture and Tourism.
Visitor Centres and Educational Exhibitions
The park has a visitor centre offering information about the region’s geological history, flora, fauna and conservation measures. It’s an ideal starting point to familiarise 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 metres long and the ride lasts 20 minutes.
No advance booking is required. You can enjoy the 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 a transfer service on Lanzarote for safe and reliable transport.
- Note that during the Ruta de los Volcanes you cannot get off the bus; however, the tour does stop at certain points for landscape photography.
Environmental Protection Measures
Several protection measures have been implemented to preserve this natural environment. For example, areas with restricted access help protect sensitive habitats.
Furthermore, the health of the ecosystem is monitored and environmental education is a priority.
Sustainable Tourism Practices
Some sustainable practices include:
- Limiting the number of daily visitors.
- Stay on marked trails to enjoy nature without impacting it.
- Integrating local gastronomy to support the local economy.
Rules and Restrictions in the Park
- Drones are not permitted in the area.
- Collecting stones or volcanic material is forbidden.
Nearby Attractions
Beyond visiting Timanfaya National Park, there’s 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 gem 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.
