Timanfaya National Park, located on the island of Lanzarote, is a natural paradise that demonstrates in depth the power of volcanic activity. The “lunar” landscape will leave you truly impressed, with vast expanses of solidified lava stretching as far as the eye can see. The twisted rock formations and volcanic craters create a surreal landscape that will literally make you feel like you’re in another world.

The park is made up of a series of volcanoes and craters that were created during a series of volcanic eruptions that took place between 1730 and 1736, known as the Timanfaya Eruptions. Timanfaya National Park is home to more than 25 volcanoes, each with unique features and attractions.

It covers approximately 51 square kilometres, and, from end to end, is one of the most impressive geological jewels of the Canary Islands archipelago. It’s definitely your must-visit if you’re in Lanzarote and want to explore unique and fascinating landscapes.

What to do and what to visit

Mancha Blanca Visitor and Interpretation Centre

The Mancha Blanca Visitor and Interpretation Centre is the ideal starting point for you to explore Timanfaya National Park. This centre offers an informative introduction to the geology, flora and fauna of the park, as well as its history and culture. Here you can learn about the formation of volcanoes, the unique wildlife that inhabits the park and the influence of volcanic activity on the island of Lanzarote.

In addition to its educational function, the Mancha Blanca Visitor Centre also offers a variety of services and luxuries, including tourist information, gift shops and spectacular views that will leave you in awe for days.

Islote de Hilario

A must visit in the Timanfaya National Park is the Islote de Hilario, where you can witness demonstrations of the underground volcanic activity. Here, the park guides pour water on the ground, which instantly turns into steam (geyser) due to the intense heat emanating from beneath the surface. To give you an idea, temperatures of over 400°C are reached at a depth of just 3 metres.

Restaurant “El Diablo”

Besides its impressive volcanic landscape, Timanfaya National Park is also known for its famous restaurant “El Diablo”. It was designed by the Lanzarote architect César Manrique and is an architectural masterpiece that blends perfectly into the volcanic landscape of the park. It also has a lookout point from where visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the park and the Atlantic Ocean.

The most remarkable thing about “El Diablo” is its cooking method. Instead of using conventional cookers, dishes are prepared using the natural heat of the volcano. The food is cooked on grills placed over holes drilled in the ground, which emanate heat from the volcanic subsoil and generate up to 400°C of temperature. This method will allow you to taste the most delicious and unique dishes.

Camel picnic spot

In addition to the natural wonders that you can enjoy in the Timanfaya National Park, you will also have the opportunity to enjoy exciting camel rides through the lava fields. This unique experience will allow you to explore the “lunar” territory in a unique and exciting way. The best part is that it is an experience suitable for the whole family.

Main trails of the Timanfaya National Park

The most outstanding trails of the Timanfaya National Park will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the amazing geology of the place and explore its unique landscapes. The Tremesana Trail is the most popular choice for the daring and intrepid, allowing you to hike through the lava field and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes. It is approximately 4 km long.

You can choose the Ruta de Los Volcanes (14 km) if you prefer a less physically demanding bus ride. The start of the route takes you through vast fields of solidified lava, where the earth twists in intricate patterns and the eroded rocks create an almost lunar atmosphere. As you progress, you will find yourself surrounded by impressive volcanic caves and craters, some of which still emit steam and heat. At the end of the route you will reach the Islote de Hilario, where the restaurant “El Diablo” is located.

The Coastal Route is quite different. With this option (which can be guided or self-guided) you can explore the fascinating contrast between the seascape and the volcanic landscape. This 9 km trail winds along the rugged coastline, where the power of the Atlantic Ocean crashes against the volcanic rock formations, creating a landscape of wild and breathtaking beauty.

From the start of the route you will be greeted by the vastness of the sea, whose blue waters stretch to the horizon. The sound of the waves crashing against the rocks and the sea breeze create an atmosphere of serenity and calm.

As you advance, the landscape changes dramatically, as the imposing volcanic activity that has shaped the island is revealed. Twisting rock formations and solidified lava flows create a backdrop that will make you feel as if you are walking on the moon. This extensive and challenging surface route makes it very important that you wear suitable hiking shoes, as well as sunscreen and hats.

In short, Timanfaya National Park is a unique destination that allows you to experience an adventure full of natural beauty and geological history. With its impressive volcanoes, craters and attractions such as the “El Diablo” restaurant, the park offers an unforgettable experience for those who wish to explore the magnificence of nature and marvel at the grandeur of volcanic activity.