OVERVIEW
With its perpetual sunshine, rugged volcanic landscape and stunning beaches, Lanzarote is one of the most beloved of all the Canary Islands. Known for its diving experiences, pretty harbour villages, tranquil coves and impressive cliffs; the area is as compelling for its natural beauty as it is for its sports and leisure activities.
Lanzarote is often thought of as an arid island, but in reality it also features some stunning green valleys and the elegant palm trees that line the golden beaches are a real sight to behold. The volcanic rocks boast a stunning array of hues, and are best seen at the breathtaking Timanfaya National Park.
You can expect to discover jade lagoons set against a striking backdrop of red cliffs, exceptionally fresh seafood, delicious local wine and the intriguing cactus gardens.
WEATHER
Lanzarote experiences a consistent climate with little variation of weather throughout the year, this is due to its close proximity to the Western Sahara and Morocco, making it not only the hottest of all the islands of the Canary archipelago, but the perfect holiday destination and fabulous winter getaway, especially if you’re looking to escape those winter blues.
Owing to its lack of high mountainous peaks, fewer clouds form and precipitation levels remain relatively low in Lanzarote, with an average of only 16 days of rainfall annually, with most of this occurring through the winter months and more hours of sunshine than Tenerife and Fuerteventura.
Due to Lanzarotes microclimate the island is often split into three areas, the North, the South and the Central region.
The South is the most visited part of the island, owing to it being a lot drier with hotter temperatures, furthermore it boasts an impressive 2,500 days of sunshine a year. Towards the North the prevailing winds make the region a popular location with surfers, kite-surfers and wind surfers owing to its west-north swell and good offshore winds. This part of the island also takes the crown for being the most greenest, a result of its cooler temperatures and an increase in rainfall, making it a perfect destination for walkers or trekkers too. Nestled between the two lies Central Lanzarote, this region is the islands most inhabited area, as it experiences the most moderate climate on the island.
MUST SEE & DO
Not to be mistaken as just a year round sunshine destination, Lanzarote has so much more to offer, check out these top must see attractions
CACTUS GARDEN
Be wowed with this magical garden bringing together more than 1,400 species of cacti from all over the world. One of Lanzarote’s most popular tourist attractions, the gardens are designed by the famous Spanish artist and architect Cesar Manrique. Stroll the cobbled paths whilst enjoying the vast expanse of cacti and landscapes – a pure nature lover’s haven
CUEVA DE LOS VERDES
This lava tube, formed over 4,000 years ago is one of the longest volcanic tunnels in the world, and of great scientific interest – a must see when visiting Lanzarote.
The caves are beautifully lit up highlighting the walls and stunning volcanic structure, which keep visitors flocking back year after year.
LAGOMAR MUSEUM
If you’re a lover of eclectric design and architecture, don’t miss Logomar Museum, a magnificent home and gardens nestled into volcanic rock and caves in the hillside of Nazaret. The home was inspired by the works of architect Cesar Manrique.
ROUGH GUIDE
CULTURE
The people of Lanzorote are well accustomed to tourism, meaning they are a very welcoming nation. Warm and friendly they are very hospitable and extremely helpful, offering directions or recommendations at a drop of a hat.
ETIQUETTE
Tipping: As with most countries in Europe tipping is expected, however only tip if the service has been good, the typical amount is 10%, in bars and cafes, round up to the nearest full amount. Some restaurants many include a service charge on the bill so be sure to check.
GREETINGS & LANGUAGE
If you’re looking to socialise whilst away on holiday in Lanzarote, here are a few handy phrases to help you on your travels. The main language is Spanish, however English is widely spoken.
To say hello, it’s ‘hola’, before lunch say ‘Buenos días’ which means good morning, whilst ‘Buenos tardes’ is good night.
Be sure not to forget your please and thank yous, to say please it’s ‘Por Favor’ and thank you is ‘gracias’.
Finally if you’re wanting to order a drink, a refreshing beer for example, its ‘Por favor puedo pedir una cerveza which translates to ‘please may I order a beer?’
