Discover Lanzarote in a Day: An In-Depth Look at the Full-Day Island Tour
If you’re visiting Lanzarote and want to see its most stunning sights without the hassle of renting a car, this full-day bus tour offers a practical and immersive way to experience the island’s unique landscapes and cultural treasures. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-organized adventure that covers a lot of ground in approximately eight hours.
What we love about this tour? First, the balance of major highlights like Timanfaya National Park and Jameos del Agua, combined with authentic experiences such as wine tasting in La Geria. Second, the expert guidance that helps travelers understand the significance of each site—plus, some guides seem downright entertaining. Third, the value for money, considering the inclusions like entrance fees and tasting experiences, all bundled into a manageable price.
That said, it’s worth noting that some reviewers mention the short time at certain stops—particularly at Jameos del Agua and the winery—and the lack of a dedicated lunch break. If you prefer a leisurely pace or culinary focus, you might find this aspect a little rushed.
This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of Lanzarote in one convenient package. It’s perfect for those who value guided insights, scenic drives, and a taste of local culture without the stress of navigating the island alone.
Key Points
- Comprehensive coverage of Lanzarote’s top sights in one day
- Guided experience offers local insights and interesting anecdotes
- Including entrance fees and wine tasting enhances overall value
- Efficient itinerary with a good mix of natural wonders and cultural stops
- Group size capped at 45 ensures a more personalized feel
- Some stops are brief, so plan to maximize the short visits
The Highlights of Lanzarote in One Tour
This full-day Lanzarote tour is designed for travelers eager to see the island’s most iconic spots without the stress of planning or driving. Starting at 9:30 am, the tour whisks you across both the north and south of Lanzarote, giving you a taste of volcanic landscapes, artistic landmarks, and local flavors.
Looking for more options in La Palma? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Itinerary Breakdown
El Golfo and the Green Lagoon:
The tour kicks off with a visit to El Golfo, a quaint fishing village famous for its vivid green lagoon. While the stop is only about 25 minutes, it’s enough to snap some photos of the striking contrast between the emerald water and the dark volcanic surroundings. As one reviewer put it, “The green lagoon is breathtakingly beautiful,” and it’s a perfect start to the day’s visual feast.
Timanfaya National Park:
Next, the tour heads to Timanfaya, Lanzarote’s volcanic heart. Here, you’ll see the famous geothermal experiments that demonstrate the island’s fiery origins. The guide often shares fascinating facts about the volcanic activity that shaped the landscape. With around 15 minutes of free time, you can explore the area or listen to the guide’s commentary. Several reviews praised this part as “like being on another planet,” with one noting that the bus drive through the park was “an experience I’ll never forget.” The narrow roads and challenging terrain require a skilled driver, and many mention that the driver’s expertise made the experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Jameos del Agua:
A highlight for many is Jameos del Agua, created by artist Cesar Manrique. This volcanic cave turned cultural center offers a surreal setting—lagoon, underground tunnels, and an auditorium—all in one. The one-hour visit allows ample time to soak in the art and natural beauty. Reviewers often call it “a must-see,” and the guide’s explanations add depth to the visit. Some mention that the stop is a little rushed, but overall, it’s a visual and cultural delight.
Transit and Photos:
There’s a brief transit segment for photos, giving everyone a chance to capture the scenery and enjoy the stunning views from the bus.
La Geria and Wine Tasting:
In the volcanic wine region of La Geria, you’ll stop for a 20-minute wine tasting in Lanzaroteño wineries. The unique method of vine cultivation on volcanic ash creates distinctive wines, which many reviewers appreciated. One said, “The wine tasting was a nice touch, and the guide shared interesting insights about local wines,” making it worth the short stop. Keep in mind, some felt the tasting was brief and wished for more time.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour includes entrance fees to major sites like Timanfaya and Jameos del Agua, as well as a professional guide who can share stories and insights throughout. The wine tasting adds a flavor of local culture, and the pick-up service makes logistics easier.
However, lunch is not included—most travelers opt to eat at the designated lunch stop, which some found to be a little rushed or not very memorable. Also, the camel ride, which some might expect, is not part of this tour. Several reviews mention waiting for the camel ride participants, which can extend the schedule and reduce sightseeing time.
What to Expect on the Day
From the moment you’re picked up, you’ll be in good hands with a knowledgeable guide—many reviewers praise guides like Paul, Roland, and Antonio for their friendliness and expertise. The bus is comfortable, and the group size (up to 45) strikes a good balance between social interaction and personal space.
Timing is well-managed, with each stop offering enough time for photos and exploration. Expect the day to be quite active, with a fair amount of walking and standing, especially at sites like Jameos del Agua and Timanfaya. The journey itself is scenic, with plenty of opportunities to admire Lanzarote’s volcanic terrain and coastal vistas.
The Value of Including Entrance Fees and Tasting
Paying $92.89 per person, the tour provides a good deal when you consider the inclusions—entrance tickets, guide, and wine tasting—are all covered. If you were to buy these individually, costs could quickly add up. Plus, the guided commentary enriches the experience, helping you understand the significance of each site rather than just viewing it.
The Experience from the Reviews
Many reviewers rave about the guides’ knowledge and friendliness—mentioning names like Manuel, Michael, and Paul—who add personality and valuable insights to the trip. Others highlight the stunning scenery: the volcanic landscapes at Timanfaya, the surreal art installations at Jameos del Agua, and the lush vineyards of La Geria.
Some criticisms revolve around short stop durations, particularly at Jameos and the winery, and the lack of a dedicated lunch break. One traveler noted that “the winery stop was too brief,” and a few were disappointed that the camel ride was not part of the itinerary, but overall, most found the schedule efficient and fulfilling.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of Lanzarote’s most famous sights without the hassle of driving or extensive planning. It suits those who appreciate cultural experiences like wine tasting, are comfortable with a busy itinerary, and enjoy scenic bus rides filled with commentary.
If you prefer a more leisurely pace or culinary experiences, you might find the brief stops and lack of a dedicated lunch time a bit limiting. However, for most, the value for money and quality of sights make it a hassle-free way to see the best of Lanzarote in one day.
The Sum Up
This full-day Lanzarote tour offers a satisfying mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and unique landmarks that will appeal to most travelers. The inclusion of key sites like Timanfaya, Jameos del Agua, and Green Lagoon ensures you get a well-rounded experience, while the guided commentary keeps things engaging.
The value for money is notable, especially considering entrance fees and wine tasting are included, making it a practical choice for those who want a hassle-free, informative day. The professional guides and drivers are praised for their friendliness and expertise, helping to create a comfortable and educational atmosphere.
While some may wish for longer stops or more free time, the organized nature of this tour makes it a reliable option for exploring Lanzarote efficiently. It’s best suited for visitors who want a solid overview, enjoy guided tours, and are okay with a day packed with sightseeing and storytelling.
FAQs
Is pick-up offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes a pick-up service, making it easier to get started without worrying about transportation.
What is the duration of the tour?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, entrance to Timanfaya National Park and Jameos del Agua is covered, along with the wine tasting.
Can I buy lunch during the tour?
Lunch is not included; most travelers choose to eat at the lunch stop, which some found to be rushed or mediocre.
Is there a camel ride available?
No, the camel ride is not part of this tour. Some reviews mention waiting for others to do the ride, which can extend the schedule.
How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is 45, providing a balance between social interaction and comfort.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, sun protection, and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore sites on foot.
Are the sites accessible for everyone?
Most sites are accessible, but some walking or standing is required. Check specific site details if mobility is a concern.
What’s the best way to prepare?
Bring a camera, water, and some cash for optional extras or souvenirs at stops like La Geria.
Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Yes, most travelers report that children enjoyed the sights, but keep in mind the full-day schedule and some walking involved.
This Lanzarote tour combines scenic beauty, cultural richness, and practical convenience—making it a smart choice for anyone eager to see the best of Lanzarote in a single memorable day.
More Guided Tours in La Palma
- Guided tour: Timanfaya National Park and La Geria with pick-up
- La Palma: Tajogaite Volcano Guided Hike
- La Palma: Springs Marcos y Cordero Guided Trekking Tour
- La Palma: Guided Tour to Tajogaite Volcano With Transfer
- La Palma: Island Highlights Guided Bus Tour
- La Palma: Guided Trekking Tour to Volcanoes South
More Tours in La Palma
More Tour Reviews in La Palma
Still browsing? Here are more La Palma experiences we've covered recently
- Guided tour: Timanfaya National Park and La Geria with pick-up
- Lanzarote Island Tour (Full-day)
- Hiking Route Visit to the New Volcano of La Palma
- La Palma: Tajogaite Volcano Guided Hike
- La Palma: Stargazing in the best sky in the world
- La Palma: Group Stargazing in Private Volcano Location
- La Palma: Springs Marcos y Cordero Guided Trekking Tour
- La Palma: Basic Diver Certification With 2 Atlantic Dives
- La Palma: Volcano Route Buggy Tour
- PADI Discover Scuba Diving Los Cancajos La Palma
- La Palma: Treasures of the Northwest Day Trp With Lunch
- La Palma: SSI Try Scuba Program