On the southwest coast of the beautiful island of Lanzarote, in the Canary Islands, lies a unique and evocative landscape that has been shaped by man’s interaction with nature over centuries: the Salinas de Janubio. This impressive site is a living testimony to the salt-making tradition in the region.

The Salinas de Janubio are located near the small fishing village of Yaiza, in an area that will immediately captivate you with its natural beauty and impressive volcanic landscapes. This unique enclave covers an extensive area of flat land (168 hectares) that stretches out towards the Atlantic Ocean.

Salt: the “white gold” of Lanzarote

The salt collected in the Salinas de Janubio is known for its purity, taste and brilliance. Coming exclusively from the water of the Atlantic Ocean, the salt is extracted by means of a meticulous and 100% handmade process that has been perfected throughout generations. In fact, on your visit you will see the rakes, shovels and wheelbarrows that are used to collect the island’s “white gold”.

Lanzarote’s sunny and dry climate, together with the trade winds blowing in from the sea, help to evaporate the water naturally, leaving the pure salt crystals behind. This ensures that the salt retains all its mineral properties and characteristic flavour, making it a sought-after ingredient for chefs and foodies around the world.

One of the reasons why the salt collected at Janubio is so clean and bright is due to the lava barrier (originating from the Timanfaya eruptions) that borders the lake and serves as a filter. That is why it is totally free of micro plastics and other residues that could ruin its quality. Furthermore, no additives, preservatives or other chemicals are used in the extraction process, so the Janubio salt remains completely natural.

Guided tours of Las Salinas de Janubio

For those who wish to explore this fascinating place in more depth, the Salinas de Janubio offer 90 minute guided tours that will allow you to immerse yourself in its history and operation. During these visits, you will have the opportunity to learn about the artisanal process of salt extraction: from manual harvesting to natural crystallisation. An expert guide will accompany you through the salt mountains and salt pans, explaining each stage of the process and sharing stories about the cultural and economic importance of salt in the region.

As well as learning about salt production, the guided tour will give you the opportunity to admire the natural beauty of the Salinas de Janubio. With its pink and white tones contrasting with the intense blue of the ocean, this saline landscape provides a stunning backdrop for you to capture dreamy photographs.

Of course, after this 1+ hour walk over the relentless sun and bumpy roads, you’re likely to end up hungry and curious about the taste of this salt. That’s why the guided tour ends with a tasting of snacks, such as tomatoes or cheeses, covered with different types of salt. In the area you’ll also find places to taste delicious dishes made with the magical Janubio salt.

Please note

In Banana Palm Bay we will give you a series of recommendations and tips for you to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

• The presentation and guidance is in several languages to enhance any visitor’s experience.
• The route between the cocederos and the salt pans is unchallenging.
• It is highly recommended to wear comfortable clothing and sports shoes.
• Sunscreen is definitely a must.
• Unfortunately, the paths are too narrow for people in wheelchairs in the middle of the salt flats.

Viewpoints to see the Janubio Salt Flats

The best way to enjoy this beautiful corner of Lanzarote is with the guided tour. However, at the end of the tour you can go to 2 specific locations that will allow you to enjoy the best view of the salt pans area and capture spectacular photographs.

The first is outside the Mirador de las Salinas restaurant and the second is on the way up towards Playa Blanca. In both cases you will have a place to park your car and safe places to get the best view.

We recommend going at sunset to capture the contrast between the reddish sky, the black volcanic sand of the nearby Playa de Janubio and the whitish salt. Plus, the sun’s interaction with the salt creates a spectacular reflection, so all your photographs will look like they’ve been taken in paradise.

Biodiversity in the face of adversity

Regarding the biodiversity, the Salinas de Janubio represent an important habitat for numerous species of aquatic and migratory birds. On your walk, you will be able to observe flamingos, avocets, plovers and many others, feeding in the shallow waters of the salt pans. Also, with a bit of luck you will see lizards and geckos that find refuge among the rocks and salt crystals. Vegetation adapted to the saline conditions, such as halophyte plants, is also an integral part of this unique ecosystem.

The Salinas de Janubio are not the only tourist attraction in the area. Just minutes away from this enclave, there are other places of interest that you can easily visit. Los Hervideros, for example, are spectacular rock formations created by the erosion of the Atlantic Ocean against the volcanic lava coast. There is also El Charco de los Clicos, a flooded crater with emerald green waters that creates a stunning contrast with the surrounding landscape.