Lanzarote is a small but incredibly diverse island that lends itself perfectly to quick, 3-hour adventures. Whether you’re after high-speed thrills, scenic walks, or off-road exploration, these short tours pack a punch. We particularly like the buggy tour for its off-road excitement and the walking tour for a closer look at the island’s volcanic landscape. Both offer immersive ways to experience Lanzarote’s unique terrain outside the usual tourist spots. If you’re craving speed and fun, the Polaris Slingshot ride is a quirky, exhilarating option that puts you in the driver’s seat of a three-wheeled roadster. For a more relaxed, scenic experience, the hiking tour in Los Volcanes offers up-close views of impressive volcanic craters and lava formations.
Below, you’ll find a quick overview of these top 3-hour tours, each with its own flavor and appeal. Whether you prefer off-road adventures, scenic walks, or high-speed drives, these options give a taste of Lanzarote’s volcanic beauty and local charm.
1. 3 Hour Guided Buggy Tour Around the Island of Lanzarote
At number one on our list is the 3 Hour Guided Buggy Tour that whisks you around Lanzarote’s most stunning landscapes. This tour takes you along the island’s most common routes and ventures into less-traveled roads, giving you a perfect mix of scenery and adventure. Starting from the Lanzarote Safaris excursion center, you’ll pass through La Geria, famous for its vineyards and wine cellars, and tour the Timanfaya National Park’s volcanic terrain. The highlight is a stop at the red volcano shore, where you can snap photos and enjoy a quick coffee break. The route also includes dunes, the village of Soo, and passes through Arrecife, Puerto del Carmen, and Puerto Calero.
What makes this buggy tour stand out is the state-of-the-art Maverick vehicle, making off-road driving both accessible and fun. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of nature, local villages, and rugged terrain without strenuous hiking. The reviews are glowing—one says, “Great trip on and off road and seen places on the island you wouldn’t normally go to.” This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a bit of thrill and want to see hidden parts of Lanzarote.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a lively, off-road experience with expert guides and scenic stops, this buggy tour offers great value and a memorable ride.
2. Lanzarote: 3-Hour Guided Polaris Slingshot Roadster Tour
At number two, the Polaris Slingshot Roadster Tour offers a unique, high-speed way to explore Lanzarote. This 3-wheeled roadster provides a open-air, exhilarating ride through some of the island’s most famous sights. The guide will share local tips and story snippets as you zoom past volcanic landscapes and coastal views, making this tour both fun and educational. The manual gear drive adds a slight challenge for drivers seeking a more engaging experience, and the small group sizes ensure personalized attention.
Guests have praised the tour for its brilliant experience and the charm of guide Tony, who shared plenty of information about the island. Some noted minor rattling issues with the vehicle, but it didn’t detract from the overall thrill. This tour appeals to those who love a bit of adventure, don’t mind wind-in-the-hair drives, and want to see Lanzarote’s highlights in a novel way.
Bottom Line: If you want a quick, fun, and memorable way to explore the island’s top sights—plus a dose of adrenaline—this Slingshot roadster tour hits the mark.
3. 3-Hour Walking Tour in Los Volcanes Nature Reserve
Number three on our list is the 3-Hour Walking Tour in Los Volcanes Nature Reserve, perfect for travelers who prefer a leisurely, close-up experience of Lanzarote’s volcanic terrain. This guided hike explores the Cerro Verde, Izalco, and Santa Ana volcanoes, revealing how eruptions in the 18th and 19th centuries sculpted this dramatic landscape. The route covers roughly 4.5 miles (7 km), mostly on gentle terrain, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
During the tour, you’ll see lava tunnels, craters, lava lakes, and the rugged lava flows that dominate Lanzarote’s scenery. The guide shares engaging stories and facts about the volcanic activity that formed the park. The reviews consistently praise the expert guide and the breathtaking views—one reviewer called it “an amazing walk with lots to see and learn about.” The tour includes hassle-free hotel pickup, adding to its convenience.
This experience is ideal for nature lovers, families, or anyone who wants to experience Lanzarote’s volcanic beauty at a relaxed pace. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring water.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those who want to walk, learn, and soak in Lanzarote’s volcanic majesty without intense physical exertion.
How to Choose the Best 3-Hour Tour for You
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and activity level. If you’re after off-road fun and scenic drives, the buggy tour (see details) offers a lively ride through diverse landscapes. For a more relaxed exploration with a sense of speed, the Polaris Slingshot (check availability) provides an exciting, open-air drive. If you prefer nature and walking, the Los Volcanes hike (see more) delivers stunning volcanic scenery on foot.
Practical tips: Book early during peak seasons, especially if you want a specific time slot. Think about your fitness level (the hike is gentle but requires good shoes), and whether you prefer a fast-paced adventure or a more leisurely walk. Budget-wise, the hike is the most affordable, while the buggy and Slingshot tours offer more adrenaline and thrill.
Final Thoughts
Lanzarote’s compact size and varied landscape make it perfect for 3-hour tours that pack a punch. Whether you’re into land roving in a buggy, zooming along in a roadster, or walking amid volcanic craters, these options give you a taste of Lanzarote’s rugged beauty without taking up your whole day.
For adventure seekers, the buggy tour is a top pick—especially if you want off-road exploration and scenic stops. The Slingshot roadster is ideal for those craving a high-speed, fun drive with a bit of a thrill. For a more educational, laid-back experience, the Los Volcanes hike offers a close-up look at the island’s volcanic past. Whichever you choose, these tours are a great way to make the most of Lanzarote’s dramatic landscape. Book early, and enjoy your volcanic adventure!