Caldera de Los Cuervos

Hiking in Lanzarote: 7 Stunning Hikes & Walks

Lanzarote’s lunar landscapes and volcanic craters make for some magnificent hikes on the island. Trails vary in difficulty, and even for minimal effort the whole family will be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of the mountains, craters, caves and coastline. 

With the third largest population, the most easterly Canary Island, Lanzarote, is known for its sunny holiday destinations. Yet with hiking routes all over the island, there’s much more to discover here than beaches, volcanic landscapes and partying. 

In fact one of the finest ways to experience the native flora, fauna, coastline and mountains is to include some Lanzarote hikes in your holiday itinerary. Nature lovers will be in their element when getting up close to the local wildlife, while exploring the stunning landscapes of contrasting colours. 

Hiking trails in Lanzarote

You can choose an easy walk if you want to take the children along, or opt for beautiful hikes that are more challenging if you’re a seasoned trekker. As Lanzarote has few days of rain per year, you can also enjoy hiking in dry, sunny weather all year round. 

This guide to the best Lanzarote hiking trails will introduce you to the finest routes the island has to offer. Covered here is the best time to visit, plus seven of our favourite hikes than we can personally recommend. Let’s get started so you can plan your ideal Lanzarote hike.

When is the Best Time to Go Hiking in Lanzarote?

One great thing about the best hikes in Lanzarote is that you can follow the trails at any time of the year. However the hottest months are July, August and September, and some routes offer little in the way of shade. 

Hiking in Lanzarote

Whenever you decide to take to the trails, be sure to use sun protection, wear a hat and bring along plenty of water – more than you think you’ll need. For some, the best time to hike in Lanzarote is between November and April, when temperatures are around 20 to 23°C during the day. Between May and October, they are more like 24 to 28°C on average. 

Our Favourite Hikes in Lanzarote

Caldera Blanca

Looming over the breathtaking landscapes of Timanfaya National Park and La Graciosa, Caldera Blanca is a vast, volcanic crater. The crater was formed during the early 18th century, and now offers one of the most beautiful hikes in Lanzarote. You can circle the edge for 360 degree views, and the trail is suitable for both adults and kids – including beginners. 

We went on this hike with our 4 and 6 year old children. The first part of the hike involves passing through lava fields (there’s a path so that isn’t a challenge). Then you arrive at the volcano, where there is a short but steep ascent. 

Crater of the Caldera Blanca in Lanzarote

The official hiking route then suggests going around the crater before arriving back at your car via a different route. As we were with the kids, we decided to skip this part. Instead, we just chilled out on top of the volcano, had a picnic and then returned via the same route. So if like us you will be hiking with children, do consider this option to make things easier. You can still conquer the volcano this way.

The views from the top are mind-blowing. It can get really windy up there, so do keep that in mind and take along appropriate clothing. But there is plenty of space to stretch out on the top, so you can sit or lie down to avoid the worst of the wind.

All in all doing this hike is highly recommended, even with kids! You can either opt to do the complete hike with your children, or cut it down a bit like we did. But if you decide to go for the full hike, do keep in mind that many people recommend doing it counterclockwise. This is because the descent can be difficult.

Hiking Caldera Blanca Lanzarote

To reach this trail, head for the Caldera Blanca car park. This begins lower down the crater, near Tinajo and Playa Blanca. The route ascends in a circular fashion, skirting the caldera as you head towards the highest point. Wear proper hiking footwear, as the track can be slippery and dirty. 

Distance: 9.5 km loop, 3 hours to complete
Elevation: 397 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Information: Hike Map, Trailhead

Caldera de Los Cuervos

The Timanfaya eruption of the early 18th century also created this part of the island’s landscape. It’s a short route, but still very worthwhile. The variation in the colour of the rock is the most striking feature of this hike. Montaña Negra, Timanfaya National Park and Montaña Colorada also make a stunning backdrop. 

Volcan El Cuervo, Lanzarote

This is an easy walk for the whole family, and doable even with the smallest ones. It’s actually one of the best things to do in Lanzarote with kids.

This volcano is quite unique, as compared to other similar ones in the area, because one side was broken open by that lava that accumulated inside during the eruption process. This means you can now enter Volcán del Cuervo, taking a walk inside the crater without needing to climb up. The views across the lunar landscape from here are other-worldly. 

Inside the crater of Volcán del Cuervo, Lanzarote

Again proper walking footwear is needed, due to the loose stones underfoot. The wind can also be powerful at times. Overall, this is among the best walks in Lanzarote for families, as it’s not too challenging and generally pretty peaceful. Good information boards here help you to interpret what you’re seeing. 

Distance: 4.2 km loop, 1 hour to complete
Elevation: 83 m
Difficulty: Easy
Information: Hike Map, Trailhead

Montaña Colorada

This is another easy hike suitable for the entire family. Montaña Colorada was the last to go off during the great volcanic eruptions in Timanfaya National Park that occurred between 1730 and 1736. It takes its name from the astonishing, characteristic reddish colour of Caldera Colorada. 

This is the result of iron oxides within the lava. Montaña Colorada is near Montaña del Cuervo (detailed previously), so doing both trails in one day is realistic. The trail doesn’t include the ascent, but there is a path leading upwards if you want to add that on. If you do, make sure you wear suitable hiking shoes. There are sweeping views from the summit. 

Montaña Colorada, Lanzarote

According to online comments, as of 2023 it may not be possible to ascend the volcano anymore. This is said to be because leaving the marked path is now forbidden due to it being named as a protected area. When we took this walk around the volcano in early 2022, we could clearly see people at the top. But perhaps that’s just not possible anymore. You’ll have to check that yourself locally. 

One of the sights not to miss here is a geological rarity – a so-called volcanic bomb. This huge example was formed when lava cooled in the air, creating a solid shape before falling to the ground. At the end of the hike you can also enjoy majestic views of the Timanfaya volcanoes.

Don’t forget to apply sunscreen and bring lots of water, as there is virtually no shade on this short, almost-flat route. 

Distance: 2.9 km loop, 40 minutes to complete
Elevation: 48 m
Difficulty: Easy
Information: Hike Map, Trailhead

Mirador del Rio Trail

The Mirador del Rio viewpoint is one of the most popular places to visit in Lanzarote. It’s a building created by César Manrique – Lanzarote’s best-known artist. This has been sculpted into the rock. 

The design incorporates a series of spectacular windows that function as the ‘eyes of the viewing point’. There is also a cafe here, so you can sip a cup of good coffee while savouring the amazing views.

Located on the summit of the Risco de Famara mountain range, Mirador del Rio is on the very edge of a huge cliff. From here you can enjoy views over El Río – a stretch of water that separates Lanzarote from its sister island, La Graciosa (this was officially named as the 8th Canary Island a few years ago). The view really is something special.

The Mirador del Rio trail, Lanzarote

La Graciosa is a tiny island and a true hidden gem of the Canary Islands. The completely unspoiled landscape is dotted with beautiful beaches and dramatic volcanoes.

Should you wish to enjoy the views without rubbing shoulders with other tourists and spending money (admission to the viewpoint costs 5 euros for adults and 2.5 euros for children), you can follow a hiking trail that commences at the front of the Mirador del Rio car park. 

You will be heading north. Set out from directly in front of the sign that prohibits the passage of cars. It’s far more tranquil here than at the viewpoint, and also a popular spot for hangliding and paragliding. Even on a cloudy day, the views are stunning. 

Distance: 4.7 km out & back, 1 hour 20 minutes to complete
Elevation: 161 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Information: Hike Map, Trailhead

Monte Corona

Another volcano – and a very important one in terms of how Lanzarote looks today. The history of Volcán de La Corona is inextricably linked to the history of the entire island. This began with an eruption that occurred thousands of years ago, which resulted in Ajaches and Famara being joined by lava to form Lanzarote.

The Monte Corona Volcano, Lanzarote

People flock to 600-metre-high Monte Corona to see the superlative views from the summit. But they also take this hike to visit the Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes cave complexes that were formed in the same way. 

The trailhead can be found close to Yé village. You can park by the church on San Francisco Javier Road (location). At first you’ll pass through fertile vineyards, then via less cultivated terrain before arriving at the dramatic crater. 

This hike is fairly steep in parts, but not too challenging. It’s worth the effort, anyway, to witness such an unearthly landscape and the incredible views. 

Distance: 3.4 km out & back, 1 hour 10 minutes to complete
Elevation: 145 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Information: Hike Map, Trailhead

Montaña Roja

Montaña Roja lies close to the southern tip of the island, near Playa Blanca. It’s worth taking this hike whether you are staying in Playa Blanca or not.

The volcano is around 350 metres wide and 200 metres tall, with a large crater about 50 metres deep. The landscape here is sometimes referred to as ‘Martian’. Here, red earth is cloaked in sand and scattered with volcanic rock. This looks incredible at any time of the day, but particularly at sunset. 

Volcano Montana Roja near the Playa Blanca, Lanzarote

It’s also worthwhile for the views from the top. You can see the Playa Blanca area and beyond, including beautiful Papagayo Beach. It’s wise to wear decent hiking shoes, and take an extra layer for the windy weather. From the path on the crater’s rim you can see as far as Fuerteventura.

Distance: 2.9 km loop, 1 hour to complete
Elevation: 144 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Information: Hike Map, Trailhead

Haría – Mirador Rincón de Haría

This 6.6 km loop trail starts in the small but very beautiful village of Haria. It’s one of the most authentic villages in Lanzarote. Haria is home to Cesar Manrique’s House Museum, where the artist lived during his final years. So we do recommend visiting this village, even if you are not planning to take the hike.

Rincón de Haría viewpoint, Lanzarote

The track leading from Haria leads upwards in the direction of the Rincón de Haría viewpoint. There are arresting Atlantic Ocean views en route, as well as a variety of local flora. Once you’ve gone all the way up to the Rincón de Haría viewpoint, you will be rewarded with jaw-dropping vistas of the Famara cliffs and beach.

If you want to, you can also extend this hike by climbing up the Aganada mountain for even more spectacular views. Don’t forget to pack water, and avoid the midday sun when taking this trail. Due to a slippery ascent on the downward slope, do wear reliable hiking shoes. 

Distance: 6.6 km loop, 1 hour 45 minutes to complete
Elevation: 167 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Information: Hike Map, Trailhead

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Jovita

Meet Jovita, co-founder of Enjoy Canary Islands. The archipelago is her favorite place on Earth. She visited all the islands multiple times and lived in Tenerife for a year. She is here to help you plan the best trip of your life.

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