Knowing how big is Lanzarote island will make planning your trip around it easier. It is a compact destination that reunites so many unique landscapes and natural attractions in a small territory. Keep reading to learn more about the fourth-biggest Canary Island.
The unique charm of Lanzarote
Lanzarote is a unique island that offers something for everyone. No matter what type of traveller you are, for sure you’ll find something to enjoy.
The volcanic landscape, the paradisiacal beaches, and the pleasant climate year-round are all part of the charm of the island. This makes it the ideal destination to escape the European winter.
Furthermore, the rich culture and picturesque villages with their unique architecture.
Due to its unique ecosystem, which hosts a wide variety of endemic species, Lanzarote was designated a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1993. Later, in 2015, it was recognized as a Global Geopark for its geological heritage.
Geographical location
Lanzarote is a Spanish island, located 125 kilometres off the coast of Africa. It is the easternmost island in the Canary Islands, in the Atlantic Ocean. 11 kilometres south of Lanzarote is Fuerteventura, and just over one kilometre at north is La Graciosa island.
Between Lanzarote and mainland Spain, there are 1,000 kilometres. It is possible to arrive at the island by plane and ferry.
Overall dimensions: Lanzarote how big is the island
The island of Lanzarote is small, its total area is 845.94 kilometres. It is 60 kilometres long from north to south, and 20 kilometres wide from east to west. The highest point is Peñas del Chache, with 671 metres.
Even being a small island, it is a gifted one, with more than 300 volcanic cones that have played the main role in the configuration of the island.
Comparing Lanzarote’s size
With these dimensions, Lanzarote is the fourth-largest island in the Canary archipelago. Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, occupies a total area of 2,034.38 km². It is followed by Fuerteventura with 1,659.74 km² and Gran Canaria with 1,560.10 km².
Furthermore, it is the fifth-largest island in Spain. The first is Mallorca, located in the Mediterranean Sea, and is part of the Balearic Islands.
Exploring the geography of Lanzarote
Volcanic landscapes and natural beauty
The centrepiece of Lanzarote volcanic landscape is the Timanfaya National Park, a surreal Martian expanse with volcanic cones, craters, and solidified lava flows. Visitors of the park can witness the volcanic heat used to grill food, and also feel the earth’s geothermal power beneath their feet.
Volcanic fingerprints are everywhere. La Corona volcanic crater, a near-perfect circle, the Cueva de los Verdes, a vast lava tube; Jameos del Agua, a volcanic cave converted into a cultural centre. These are just some volcanic scenes you will enjoy at Lanzarote.
But the island isn’t just about the volcanoes. The Jardin de Cactus (Cactus Garden), designed by César Manrique, showcases over 1,400 species of cacti from Lanzarote and the rest of the world. It also has stunning beaches, such as Papagayo, Famara and El Golfo.
Key geographical features
Lanzarote is divided into three regions. At the northern end are located the Mirador El Río, Jameos del Agua, Cueva de los Verdes, La Corona. At this region you’ll find the towns of Haría, Arrieta, Máguez and Mala.
In the central region are Teguise, Tinajo, Tías, La Geria, Uga, Tinajo, Yaiza, among other towns. To the south are Playa Blanca, Los Ajaches, Salinas del Janubio, Femés and Papagayo Beach.
Additionally, the eastern coast is dominated by strong winds and powerful waves, ideal for surfing. If you are looking for quieter beaches suitable for the whole family, go to the south coast.
Population and urban areas
Major towns and resorts
Lanzarote’s population of around 150,000 is concentrated in a few key areas. The capital, Arrecife, is a port city with a lively harbour and relaxed atmosphere. Puerto del Carmen is the island’s largest resort town. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of hotels, restaurants, shops, and nightlife options nestled alongside a beautiful beach.
Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise are also two of the most popular tourist spots in Lanzarote. For this same reason, they are two of the towns that concentrate the most inhabitants. The relaxed atmosphere of Playa Blanca makes it one of the favourite places for those who come down with their family.
If you travel to Lanzarote and are looking for a more traditional village to stay, you can opt for the white towns. Places where traditional architecture prevails, such as Haria and Yaiza.
Population distribution
Lanzarote is the third most populated of the Canary Islands, but its population is unevenly distributed. The towns with the largest number of inhabitants are those hosting the majority of tourists.
So, the southeast coast is the one that concentrates most of the population, thanks to tourist development and proximity to the quietest beaches. While, the centre and north of the island are less populated. In general, these towns are agricultural.
Travelling around Lanzarote
Getting around the island
Due to its size, it is easy to see the entire island in just one week. You could even drive from north to south in a single day. But once you arrive, you’ll want enough time in each region to get the most out of your trip.
You have several transportation options in Lanzarote. You can move around the island by public transport. Although it is economical, it means being attentive to the schedules and places to which they have access. Other options are renting a car, getting around by taxi, or joining guided tours.
Our recommendation is that you pay for the Lanzarote transfers service, so that you receive a personalized service.
Tips for explorers
- Plan your itinerary in advance, considering the proximity of attractions and desired travel pace.
- Purchase a Lanzarote travel card for discounted bus travel.
- Pack for diverse weather conditions. Temperatures can vary slightly between coastal and inland regions.
- Download offline maps to navigate confidently, especially when exploring remote areas.
- Respect the island’s natural beauty. Stay on designated trails and dispose of waste responsibly.
Why Size Matters in Lanzarote
For travellers, the small area of Lanzarote brings some benefits. For example, it allows for a diverse itinerary within a short timeframe. One day you can marvel at the Timanfaya National Park, and the next, relax on a pristine beach on the opposite coast.
Day trips are easily planned, and travellers don’t need to constantly change locations. This makes it easier to explore the island.
Conclusion: The Significance of Lanzarote’s Size
Lanzarote offers a unique travel experience distinguished by its volcanic landscapes and a variety of activities for all visitors. Despite its size, it is a diverse island where the volcanic vistas, pristine beaches, and charming villages are always within reach.
It’s important to know how big is Lanzarote Island, because this will help you have the best experience during your next trip.
Our company seeks to deliver the best service you can find on the island today. We seek to optimise our clients’ time and resources, which is why we respect the schedules and offer the best prices for different transfers.
