Why visit the Timanfaya National Park?
Timanfaya, declared a national park in 1974, represents the best natural systems of volcanic origin in the Macaronesian region. It has its origin in the eruptions that occurred during the 18th and 19th centuries. The last eruptive episode took place in 1824. We can still see its destructive power, temperatures of up to 610ºC were reached at a depth of 13 meters.
The Park is a protected area surrounded by volcanoes and covered with lava from the eruptions that occurred there. The largest recorded eruptions in the area lasted for 6 years, between 1730 and 1736. More than 100 volcanoes became active and devastated part of the island.
It is one of the main parts of the Lanzarote Biosphere Reserve, established by UNESCO in 1993.
We can find lava in a multitude of shapes and colors that transmit to us through the retina, an infinity of sensations. The most repeated and commented sensation among visitors to this park is that of being transported to another place. Something similar to the Moon, it is something unique. It is also very easy to access by bus, so we recommend that you book one of the best excursions in Lanzarote with First Minute Travel.
The footprint of Cesar Manrique
The Lanzarote artist
Cesar Manrique considered this area an imposing and living work of art. So Manrique decided to use the
Islote de Hilario as the setting for his work.
The Islet of Hilario is one of the main elements around which the visit to the Timanfaya National Park is made. It is one of the most original islets in the Canary Islands. The main characteristic of this is the presence of thermal anomalies, being precisely in this area where the highest in the Canary Islands are recorded.
The artist designed the El Diablo restaurant on this islet. From where you can enjoy a majestic view of the Timanfaya National Park. In this restaurant he included a natural oven, which uses nothing more than the heat of the earth to prepare unique food dishes. Without a doubt, one of the most impressive works of art in the world.
Volcanic activity continues today. And we can also see the heat that emanates from the earth in the 2 experiments that are carried out next to the restaurant. The steam geyser, which arises by introducing cold water into an underground hole. And the fire pit, where you can see the spontaneous combustion of some dry bushes.
Visit Timanfaya
You can get to know Timanfaya from various perspectives; We propose 3 options adapted to all pockets and watches.
This is the main way to see the park. There are different organized tours, which pick you up from your accommodation in the main tourist centers of Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise or the cruise terminal. These include the visit and the route of the volcanoes in the same bus.
You can book an
express excursion that covers the trip to Timanfaya. Or, a half-day or full-day excursion that takes you on a deeper experience with other interesting stops in Lanzarote like our
Premium tour. Look at this 1-day
grand tour option, for example, or this other
south, with the Verde Lake in the town of El Golfo and the cliffs of Los Hervideros.
How long is the bus tour?
The tour of the route of the volcanoes lasts around 30 to 40 minutes, there is a pre-recorded audio in several languages that explains what you are seeing around you.
Which side of the bus do I sit on?
Both sides are worth it. You will surely end up on your feet trying to see what is on the other side. We recommend the left side when getting on the bus, since it is a little more interesting due to the views at the top of 2 stops.
Can I take photos from the bus?
You cannot leave the bus at any time along the route of the volcanoes, within the Timanfaya National Park, to take a photograph. Due to landscape protection. But rest assured, rest assured that you will be able to take some spectacular photos.
Keep in mind that the road is narrow and maybe a bit steep in some points of the route, rather you can get more impressed... But don't worry about a thing, the drivers are very professional and will make you enjoy the experience to the fullest .
Another very touristy stop is the camel ride. The camel ride is one of the most popular activities on the island, walk on the back of a camel in an environment as spectacular as that of the Timanfaya National Park, you can learn more here.
You cannot miss the Timanfaya visitor center, there you will have the opportunity to enjoy a peculiar demonstration of a volcanic eruption. You will also learn more about the geological history, flora and fauna of the area. It has a large-scale representation of the park and the alignment of the volcanoes. It is advisable to visit it during the hottest hours of the day. Open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Enjoy the tour!
Do not hesitate to leave us your comment if you have made your excursion to the Timanfaya National Park with us. We are sure that you will have enjoyed the experience.