Looking for Authentic Lanzarote Excursions? Here Are 10 Hidden Gems That Go Beyond the Beach
Do you feel a bit overwhelmed by the endless options for Lanzarote excursions? We totally get it! When you look at a map of this "Island of Fire," it’s easy to get lost in a sea of tourist traps and crowded bus tours. You want to feel the crunch of volcanic ash under your boots, taste wine that grew out of a literal moonscape, and stand on cliffs where the wind tells stories of ancient eruptions. You’re looking for the authentic Lanzarote, and we’re here to help you find it!
At Lanzatour Canarias, we’ve spent years exploring every nook and cranny of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. We don't just plan trips; we craft tailor made tours Canary Islands travelers remember for a lifetime. Whether you’re a travel agency looking for a unique program for your clients or a private group seeking the "real" island, consider this your ultimate Canary Islands travel guide to the hidden gems of Lanzarote.
Let’s go beyond the beach and dive into the magic!
1. El Bosquecillo: The Viewpoint Above the Clouds
Tucked away on the high ridges of the Risco de Famara, El Bosquecillo is a breath of fresh, high-altitude air. Despite its name meaning "the little forest," you won't find towering oaks here, but rather a lush sanctuary of shrubs and endemic plants that thrive in the mist.
When you stand at the edge of the cliffs, the ground drops 600 meters straight down to the golden sands of Famara Beach. The Atlantic Ocean looks like a vast sheet of crinkled turquoise silk, and the islands of the Chinijo Archipelago float on the horizon like distant dreams. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet picnic far from the crowds. If you're looking for peaceful things to do in lanzarote, this is your sanctuary!
2. La Geria: The Moon’s Own Vineyard
If you haven't seen La Geria, you haven't truly seen Lanzarote. This is where human grit meets volcanic fury. After the 18th-century eruptions covered the island’s fertile soil in black ash (picón), the local farmers didn't give up. Instead, they dug thousands of individual pits into the ash to reach the soil beneath and protected each vine with a semi-circular stone wall called a zoco.
The result is a rhythmic, hypnotic landscape of black circles and vibrant green leaves. Walking through these vineyards feels like exploring an art installation on another planet. Plus, the Malvasía Volcánica wine produced here is crisp, mineral, and absolutely divine. It’s a must-include on any of our adventures in Lanzarote.
3. Los Charcones: Nature’s Secret Spas
Forget the hotel pool for a day! Near the southern tip of the island, hidden behind an abandoned hotel, lies Los Charcones. This is a collection of natural rock pools carved out of the rugged coastline. As the Atlantic waves crash against the rocks, they fill these basins with crystal-clear water that warms up under the intense Saharan sun.
The colors here are staggering: from deep sapphire to bright emerald. Reaching them requires a bit of a bumpy drive and a short hike, but the reward is a private swim in one of the most beautiful spots on earth. It’s a true highlight for those seeking an authentic Lanzarote experience.
4. Las Grietas: The Volcanic Canyons
Hidden in plain sight near the town of Tías, Las Grietas are narrow fissures in the flank of the Montaña Blanca volcano. Imagine walking through a mini Grand Canyon, where the walls are made of layered volcanic ash and stone in shades of ochre, burnt orange, and deep charcoal.
The "cracks" are only about 20 meters long, but the way the light filters through the narrow openings makes for some of the most incredible photography on the island. It’s a quick, high-impact stop that feels like a secret known only to locals.
5. Caldera de Los Cuervos: A Walk into the Abyss
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to stand inside a volcano, Caldera de Los Cuervos is your chance! This was the very first volcano to open up during the legendary six-year eruption that started in 1730.
The circular trail is an easy, 4km walk through a sea of jagged lava that looks like a frozen ocean. The real magic happens when the path leads you right into the heart of the crater. Standing at the bottom of this silent, colorful amphitheater of stone is a humbling experience. It’s one of those things to do in lanzarote that connects you directly to the raw power of the earth.
6. Tenesar: The Village Time Forgot
Known as "The Lost Village," Tenesar is a cluster of white cube-shaped houses sitting right on the edge of the wild northern coast. Cut off by lava flows for centuries, it has no mains electricity or running water: locals use solar panels and wind turbines.
There are no shops, no bars, and definitely no crowds. Just the sound of the crashing waves and the sight of local fishermen tending to their nets. Visiting Tenesar feels like stepping back into a Lanzarote from fifty years ago. It’s raw, quiet, and utterly beautiful.
7. Punta Mujeres: White Walls and Blue Pools
While many head to the big resorts, the savvy traveler heads to Punta Mujeres. This traditional fishing village is famous for its charming white houses with bright blue doors and shutters. But the real draw is the series of natural swimming pools integrated right into the village’s shoreline.
You can spend a morning hopping between the pools, sunbathing on the stone terraces, and then grabbing a fresh seafood lunch at a local teleclub. It’s the epitome of the relaxed, coastal lifestyle that makes the Canary Islands so special. If you're deciding which island is the best for your next trip, gems like this make a strong case for Lanzarote!
8. Jardin de Cactus: César Manrique’s Spiky Masterpiece
You can't talk about Lanzarote without mentioning the legendary artist César Manrique. The Jardin de Cactus was his final gift to the island. Built inside a former quarry, it’s home to over 4,500 cacti from all over the world.
The contrast between the architectural green of the plants, the black volcanic soil, and the white-washed windmill sitting at the top is stunning. It’s not just a garden; it’s a living sculpture that perfectly encapsulates the harmony between art and nature that Manrique championed.
9. Mirador del Río: A View Like No Other
Perched on the northernmost tip of the island, Mirador del Río is an architectural marvel. Manrique literally carved this viewpoint into the cliffside, making it almost invisible from the outside.
From the panoramic glass windows or the outdoor balcony, you look down upon the "El Río" strait and the neighboring island of La Graciosa. The sight of the salt pans and the varying shades of blue in the water is enough to take your breath away. It is, quite simply, one of the most spectacular vistas in the world.
10. Teguise: The Heart of History
Finally, we have Teguise, the island's former capital. Walking through its cobblestone streets feels like walking through a history book. The white-washed colonial buildings, the grand plazas, and the historic Palacio Spínola tell the story of Lanzarote before the modern era.
While most people visit for the famous Sunday market, we recommend coming on a weekday. You’ll have the narrow alleys to yourself, allowing you to appreciate the intricate wooden balconies and the quiet, dignified atmosphere of this historic gem.
Why Choose Lanzatour Canarias for Your Excursions?
Planning a group trip or a specialized program can be a lot of work. That’s where we come in! As a dedicated Destination Management Company (DMC), Lanzatour Canarias is your partner on the ground. We don't do "one-size-fits-all." We specialize in tailor made tours Canary Islands travelers rave about because they are built around you.
From sourcing the best local restaurants for a traditional Canarian feast to arranging private transport and expert multilingual guides, we handle all the logistics. Our deep local knowledge means we can take you to the places that aren't on the standard tourist map: like the 10 gems we just listed!
Whether you are a travel agency looking for a reliable partner or a MICE organizer planning an unforgettable event, we are here to ensure every detail is perfect. You can browse our full range of trip options here to get inspired!
Are You Ready to Discover the Real Lanzarote?
Lanzarote is an island that rewards the curious. It’s a place where the landscape changes at every turn, and where every "hidden gem" tells a story of resilience, art, and natural wonder.
So, which of these authentic spots are you going to visit first? Let us help you plan the perfect itinerary that goes far beyond the beach. Contact us today and let's start crafting your next great adventure!
Adventure is calling( will you answer?)
