Charco Verde—also called Charco de los Clicos or the Green Lagoon—is a surreal, emerald lake set inside an ancient volcanic crater on Lanzarote’s wild west coast (municipality of Yaiza). Backed by red and black cliffs and fronted by a strip of black-sand beach, it’s one of the island’s most striking natural sights and a must-see for photographers and nature lovers.
Where It Is & Why It’s Green
The lagoon sits by the fishing village of El Golfo, a short detour from the scenic coastal road that also passes Los Hervideros and the Salinas de Janubio. Its vivid color comes from a dense community of microalgae and halophilic organisms thriving in the salty water inside the flooded crater—often associated with the aquatic plant Ruppia maritima. Depending on light and weather, the color ranges from deep jade to bright neon green.
Geology & Protected Status
Charco de los Clicos forms part of the Los Volcanes Natural Park and lies on the edge of the wider Timanfaya volcanic system. The amphitheatre-like crater—shaped during 18th-century eruptions—was breached by the sea, leaving a half-cone that shelters the lagoon. Because the ecosystem is fragile, the site is strictly protected: no bathing and no access onto the beach area immediately below. Please stay on marked paths and take all litter with you.
How to Visit (Easy Viewpoint + Short Path)
- Driving & Parking: Head to El Golfo; there’s a large, free dirt car park at the village entrance. From there, a signed gravel path (≈5 minutes) leads to the main viewpoint.
- Accessibility: The viewpoint path is short and gently sloped, with ropes along exposed edges. Standard footwear is fine; avoid going beyond barriers.
- Free & Open Anytime: There’s no ticket or opening hours—sunrise to sunset is best for color and photos.
Best Time & Photo Tips
For fewer people and softer contrast, aim for early morning or late afternoon. With strong sun the lagoon can pop a fluorescent green; with cloud it shifts to khaki-jade. Low tide reveals more of the black-sand fringe and lava textures. Bring a polarizer if you have one; winds can be brisk year-round.
Meaning of the Name “Clicos”
“Clico” was a local name for a once-common, tasty shellfish found in the area—hence Charco de los Clicos. “Charco Verde” simply refers to the lagoon’s unmistakable color.
Wildlife & Landscapes
The surrounding Volcanoes Nature Reserve harbours hardy flora adapted to arid, saline conditions and seabirds that use the coast for feeding and rest—look for yellow-legged gulls and shags along the shore. Please avoid noise, drones, or approaches that disturb nesting or roosting birds.
Important: Can You Swim There?
- No swimming in the lagoon (protected ecosystem; fines apply).
- No access onto the beach immediately below the lagoon viewpoint (barriers in place).
- For a swim, use nearby beaches—choose Playa de Montaña Bermeja (wild; strong swell) or calmer south-coast options around Papagayo.
Quick Plan: A Perfect West-Coast Loop
Combine Charco Verde with these stops (all close by):
- Salinas de Janubio – photogenic salt pans with pastel hues; viewpoint pull-ins.
- Los Hervideros – wave-battered lava tubes and blowholes; dramatic in rough seas.
- El Golfo village – linger on the seafront for fresh fish and sunset views.
- Timanfaya National Park – add the Ruta de los Volcanes and geothermal demos for a full volcanic day.
Essential Tips
- Wind & Sun: It’s often breezy; bring layers, hat, and sunscreen.
- Footing: Stay on signed paths; cliffs and crumbly ash are unstable off-trail.
- Leave No Trace: No drones, no picking plants, no litter. Help preserve the colors you came to see.
Charco Verde (Charco de los Clicos) distills Lanzarote’s essence into a single frame: green water, black sand, red rock, and deep Atlantic blue. Seen from the El Golfo viewpoint—especially at golden hour—it’s an unforgettable stop on any Lanzarote itinerary.
