You can’t talk about Lanzarote without mentioning the Timanfaya National Park – an incomparable and must-see destination on the island. The park is characterized by a volcanic landscape that clearly proves the island’s origins. Keep reading to discover what awaits you during your visit and get tips to make the most of it.
What is Timanfaya National Park?
Timanfaya National Park is the most emblematic destination on Lanzarote and ranks among the island’s natural wonders. It’s a vast volcanic landscape covering nearly 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 southern Lanzarote, precisely between the towns of Yaiza and Tinajo. To the west, it borders the El Golfo coastline.
The 1730–1736 Volcanic Eruptions: How the Park Was Created
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 period, over 100 volcanoes became active, burying entire villages under lava and destroying a third of the island’s farmland.
Another eruption followed in 1824, the last one ever recorded on the island.
Why It’s Spain’s Only National Geological 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 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 can’t walk without a guide, only guided bus tours are allowed inside, and collecting stones or other materials is prohibited.
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 can’t move around freely; access is controlled to protect the park.
Montañas del Fuego (Fire Mountains)
The park’s immense geological importance becomes evident upon arrival. Among the main attractions are the Montañas del Fuego (Fire Mountains), a series of volcanic peaks that dominate the landscape. Some of these mountains reach heights up to 600 meters.
The most recognizable peaks include Montaña de Timanfaya, Montaña Rajada, and Volcán Nuevo del Fuego. You can see them during the bus tour by taking the Ruta de los Volcanes – a 14 km round-trip route.
Islote de Hilario and Geothermal Demonstrations
This is the only place where tourists can get off the bus. On Hilario Island, tour guides demonstrate the power of the volcanoes’ underground heat.
The temperature beneath the surface is around 400°C. Below the park’s surface, volcanic activity continues. For example, certain 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 – meals are entirely prepared using the earth’s geothermal energy.
The Volcanic Landscape: Craters, Lava Fields, and Colors
Prepare to be amazed by your first impression of Timanfaya. The park’s immensity combined with a lunar 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 much of the terrain. Frozen lava flows caught mid-motion, collapsed tubes, and jagged canyons give the landscape the impression that eruptions happened last week.
Flora and Fauna – More Life Than Expected
During your visit, you won’t just admire the volcanoes but also experience nature’s resilience after the eruptions. This is evident in the variety of plants you’ll encounter along the way. There are over 200 lichen species 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 highlights nature’s ability to regenerate.
The park also hosts a fascinating range of wildlife. For example, several endemic bird species have adapted to the volcanic environment, enriching the park’s biodiversity. The park was designated a bird protection zone (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’ll need to take the LZ-67 road.
Access from anywhere on the island is straightforward. While driving is an option, public transportation and guided tours of Lanzarote also make park access comfortable.
Is There Public Bus Service to Timanfaya?
There’s no public bus service that takes you directly to 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 journey with a taxi or book a tour to cover the last part.
How to Visit Timanfaya: All Options Explained
You might wonder the best way to explore the park. There are guided tours and free options.
Alongside the park visit, 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 tour options to explore Timanfaya. You can head to various park entrances and park your car in the parking area.
The main routes are:
- Ruta Tremesana: This 3-hour guided walking tour in 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 Short: This is also a guided route, 2 km long and lasting 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 departs from El Golfo.
- Ruta Costera Long: This is a 5-hour walking tour covering nearly 10 km. You’ll see the entire volcanic coast created by the 18th-century eruptions. You can do it independently starting 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 need to buy your ticket at the Montañas del Fuego Tourist Center; this includes the tour and access to the Montañas del Fuego Art, Culture and Tourism Museum.
Information Centers and Educational Exhibitions
The park has an information center that provides 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.
Horseback Riding at Timanfaya
Another option is a horseback ride, which offers a unique perspective on the landscape. The route is 250 meters long and the ride lasts 20 minutes.
No advance booking is required. You can go horseback riding on the south side of Timanfaya Mountain from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM.
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 Lanzarote transfer service for safe and reliable transportation.
- Note that you can’t get off the bus during the Ruta de los Volcanes tour; however, it will stop at certain points for landscape photos.
Environmental Protection Measures
Several protection measures have been implemented to preserve this natural environment. For example, restricted access areas help preserve sensitive habitats.
Additionally, ecosystem health is monitored and environmental education is prioritized.
Sustainable Tourism Practices
Some sustainable practices include:
- Limiting the number of daily visitors.
- Staying on designated trails to enjoy nature without impacting it.
- Incorporating local gastronomy to support the local economy.
Park Rules and Restrictions
- Drones are not allowed in the area.
- Collecting stones or volcanic material is prohibited.
- Use only authorized roads and trails.
- Park your car only in designated areas.
Nearby Attractions
In addition to visiting Timanfaya National Park, there are many other attractions to explore on the island. Be sure to visit the César Manrique Foundation 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 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.
