Timanfaya National Park (Parque Nacional de Timanfaya) on the island of Lanzarote is one of Spain’s most extraordinary natural wonders. Often called the Lanzarote National Park or simply “Timanfaya Lanzarote,” this volcanic landscape feels more like Mars than Earth. With its fiery mountains, solidified lava seas, and vivid red and black craters, it’s the island’s most famous attraction — a must-visit for anyone exploring the volcanic national park of Lanzarote.
The park stretches across more than 51 square kilometres of protected terrain, shared by the municipalities of Tinajo and Yaiza. It is the only National Park in Spain that is entirely geological, formed by the historic Timanfaya eruptions of 1730–1736 and a later event in 1824. Over six years, the eruptions buried villages, reshaped the coastline, and created a unique landscape now preserved for science and visitors alike.
Today, Timanfaya remains one of the most popular places to visit in Lanzarote National Park, attracting travelers who come to witness its “lunar” terrain, experience geothermal energy, and even dine on food cooked by volcanic heat.
Is the Timanfaya volcano still active?
Yes — although Timanfaya volcano is not erupting, it is still considered geothermally active. Below the surface, temperatures reach 100–600°C (212–1112°F). This lingering heat powers the famous demonstrations at Islote de Hilario and even the grill at El Diablo restaurant. The last eruption occurred in 1824, but the volcano continues to release heat and gases, making it a living reminder of Lanzarote’s volcanic origin.
How to get to Timanfaya National Park
Timanfaya is located in the southwest of the island, and you can easily reach it by car along the LZ-67 road that connects Tinajo and Yaiza. The drive from Puerto del Carmen to Timanfaya National Park takes about 30–35 minutes (around 27 km). There is parking available at the main entrance (Taro de Entrada), and most tours include it in the ticket price.
Timanfaya National Park Visitor Centre
Start your visit at the Timanfaya National Park Visitor Centre in Mancha Blanca. It’s a great place to understand the park’s geology, flora, and fauna before you explore. Interactive exhibits explain how lava formed the island, while videos show the history of the Timanfaya National Park volcano. The centre also highlights the ecological importance of the lichens that slowly colonize the lava fields, creating the first steps of new life.
The Visitor Centre features multilingual displays, an audiovisual room, and panoramic terraces overlooking the volcanic plains. There’s also a small gift shop and accessible facilities. Admission is free, making it the perfect first stop.
Visitor Centre hours: typically open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. but always check the official website for updated opening hours, as schedules can change by season or maintenance periods.
Montañas del Fuego (Mountains of Fire)
Once you’ve absorbed the background, continue to the Montañas del Fuego — the core of Timanfaya National Park Lanzarote. Entry is through the Taro de Entrada, where visitors pay the entrance fee (which includes parking, geothermal demonstrations, and a guided bus tour along the Ruta de los Volcanes).
Here, you’ll see for yourself that Timanfaya is still active beneath the surface. Rangers perform geothermal experiments — dry straw bursts into flames when placed in vents, and when water is poured into boreholes, it erupts seconds later as a steam geyser. The experience is both thrilling and educational, showing the immense energy that still flows below your feet.
Timanfaya National Park entrance fee
The Timanfaya National Park entrance fee typically includes the guided bus tour and demonstrations at Islote de Hilario. Prices vary by season but average around €12 for adults and €6 for children. Entry tickets can be purchased at the gate or via the official Centros de Arte, Cultura y Turismo (CACT) website. The main opening hours for the Montañas del Fuego area are from 9:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. (arriving early helps avoid queues).
Islote de Hilario and geothermal demos
At the heart of the park lies Islote de Hilario, a viewing point where visitors can witness the park’s famous geothermal experiments. Standing here, surrounded by craters and lava fields, you can feel the ground’s heat radiating through your shoes. Temperatures of 400°C are recorded just a few meters below the surface, which is why Timanfaya is often called the Lanzarote Volcano Park.
This area also serves as the starting point for the Ruta de los Volcanes bus tour — a scenic 14 km circuit that winds through craters, lava tunnels, and volcanic ridges. The tour lasts about 35 minutes and includes commentary in multiple languages.
El Diablo Restaurant – Food cooked by the volcano
Designed by Lanzarote’s visionary architect César Manrique, El Diablo Restaurant is one of the park’s highlights. Built entirely from volcanic stone and glass, it merges harmoniously with the environment. The restaurant uses a unique volcanic grill — an open vent in the ground where geothermal heat cooks meat and fish at around 400°C. This “volcano barbecue” is one of the most unique dining experiences in Spain.
Outside, the Diablo de Timanfaya Lanzarote statue — a fiery red demon designed by Manrique — stands as the official symbol of Timanfaya and the island’s volcanic spirit.
Camel rides in Timanfaya
Continue along LZ-67 to the Echadero de Camellos — the camel station. Here, you can enjoy a short camel ride through Timanfaya, gliding over the ash slopes and lava ridges just like travelers did centuries ago. This family-friendly activity costs around €12 per camel for two people. There’s also a small museum and information point explaining how camels helped shape traditional agriculture on Lanzarote.
Main walking routes and trails
To protect the delicate environment, hiking access is limited, but there are a few official trails in Timanfaya National Park that can be joined by booking in advance through the Visitor Centre:
- Tremesana Trail: A 2–3 km guided hike through the lava fields and volcanic cones. Rangers explain the island’s formation and ecosystem. Advance reservation required.
- Ruta de los Volcanes: A 14 km bus route showcasing the most dramatic craters, lava rivers, and ash plains. Included with the park entrance.
- Coastal Route: A 9 km walk following the rugged coastline, contrasting the blue Atlantic with black volcanic rock. It can be guided or self-guided.
Flora, fauna, and geology
Despite its barren appearance, Timanfaya National Park Spain is alive with subtle ecosystems. Hardy lichens colonize lava stones, kestrels glide above volcanic ridges, and rare insects thrive in lava tubes. The area is also home to geological formations like the Caldera del Corazoncillo, Montaña Rajada, and Montañas Quemadas.
Scientists continue to study the park from the Lanzarote Geodynamics Laboratory, which monitors the ongoing thermal activity and helps answer common visitor questions such as: When did Timanfaya last erupt? — in 1824 — and Is Timanfaya still active? — yes, geothermally!
Practical information and tips
- Opening hours: Montañas del Fuego 9:00–15:45 (last entry around 15:15).
- Entrance fee: approx. €12 adults / €6 children (includes Ruta de los Volcanes tour).
- Parking: available at Taro de Entrada (included with ticket).
- Accessibility: Visitor Centre and key facilities are wheelchair accessible.
- What to bring: water, hat, sunscreen, and closed shoes. The ground can be hot!
- Conservation: Stay on marked paths; do not collect rocks or plants. This volcanic park is fragile.
Photography and best times to visit
For photographers, Timanfaya Lanzarote offers breathtaking contrasts. Morning light highlights red craters; at sunset, the lava fields glow deep gold. The best months to visit are from October to May for mild weather and fewer crowds. Arrive early (before 10:00 a.m.) to avoid long queues at the entrance and parking area.
FAQ: Common questions about Timanfaya National Park
- Is Timanfaya National Park still active? Yes, geothermally. No eruptions since 1824.
- Where is Timanfaya located? In southwestern Lanzarote, between Tinajo and Yaiza.
- How do I get to Timanfaya? Drive via the LZ-67 road or book a guided tour from main resorts like Puerto del Carmen or Playa Blanca.
- Is there parking? Yes, included with entry at Montañas del Fuego.
- Can I walk inside the park? Only on official guided trails to protect the ecosystem.
Why visit Timanfaya National Park Lanzarote
Visiting Timanfaya Lanzarote National Park is more than sightseeing — it’s stepping into the heart of the Earth. The Montañas del Fuego, the geysers of Islote de Hilario, the camel rides, and the volcanic barbecue at El Diablo together make this one of Spain’s most memorable natural attractions. Whether you come to photograph the fiery landscapes, learn about geology, or simply experience something truly otherworldly, Timanfaya will leave you speechless.
Respect the landscape, plan your visit early, and discover why Timanfaya remains Lanzarote’s most iconic national park.
