Trekking Montaña Blanca
- Casa Mialma Lanzarote
- May 22
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 7
Lanzarote, one of the Canary Islands, is famous for its otherworldly landscapes, volcanic terrain, and stunning coastal views. Among its many natural wonders, Montaña Blanca stands out as one of the island's most captivating trekking destinations.
Situated in the central part of the island, 5 minutes by car from Casa MIALMA Lanzarote, this majestic mountain offers a unique opportunity to explore Lanzarote’s volcanic heart, with dramatic vistas and a rich geological history. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, trekking Montaña Blanca is an unforgettable adventure.
The allure of Montaña Blanca
At 1,215 meters (3,986 feet) above sea level, Montaña Blanca is not the highest peak on the island, but it is certainly one of the most impressive. The mountain's stark, white appearance—due to the combination of volcanic ash and calcareous rocks—gives it a distinctive look that contrasts beautifully with the deep blues of the surrounding sky and ocean.
From the summit, hikers are treated to panoramic views that stretch across Lanzarote, offering a perspective of the island's wild beauty, its unique volcanic craters, and rugged landscapes. On clear days, you can even spot the neighboring island of Fuerteventura on the horizon.
The beginning from the parking area
The trek to the top of Montaña Blanca is accessible and well-marked, making it suitable for hikers of varying skill levels. Most trekkers begin their journey at the Montaña Blanca parking area, located just off the LZ-56 road. (The Montaña Blanca parking area in Lanzarote is located right next to the church in the village of Montaña Blanca). From here, the route to the summit takes roughly 3 to 4 hours depending on your pace and stops along the way.
The trail begins with a gentle ascent, winding through the island’s characteristic volcanic terrain—black lava fields, rocky paths, and sparse vegetation. As you climb, the landscape changes, offering glimpses of Lanzarote's iconic "moon-like" scenery. The path is well-trodden, and signs are in place to guide you through the terrain.
As you approach the summit, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging, but the views are well worth the effort. The last stretch of the hike offers a chance to pause and take in the incredible vistas before reaching the top.
The Starting Point from Conil Village
If you want to do a truly unique trek, you can choose the itinerary from Conil, starting on foot from Casa MIALMA Lanzarote. Conil is a charming, relatively undiscovered village on the northern slopes of Lanzarote, known for its whitewashed houses and peaceful atmosphere. Unlike the bustling resorts of the island’s south, Conil retains much of its traditional charm.
It’s the perfect starting point for those seeking a quieter trek. Before setting off, visitors can explore the village’s narrow streets, have a cofee or a drink at the local Teleclub, and enjoy the serene surroundings. Conil is also a good spot to get a sense of Lanzarote’s rural life, with its agricultural land, vineyards, and the occasional herd of goats or sheep dotting the landscape.
The trek from Conil to Montaña Blanca spans approximately 9 to 10 kilometers one-way (around 3–4 hours depending on pace and stops). The trail is relatively moderate in difficulty, making it accessible to those with some hiking experience, although the steady ascent to the peak does require a good level of stamina.
The trail
Starting the Journey: From Conil, the hike begins on a dirt path that cuts through the dry, volcanic landscape, with stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. As you venture further, you’ll pass fields of volcanic ash, blackened rocks, and scrubby vegetation that survive in the harsh conditions.
The Lava Fields: As you leave Conil behind, the landscape becomes more rugged and desolate. The trail gradually climbs, and you’ll encounter patches of sharp volcanic rock and barren soil. The texture and colors of the land are starkly beautiful, with the occasional cactus or wildflower adding some color to the monotony of the terrain.
The Ascent to the Summit: The final leg of the journey takes you on a more strenuous climb toward the summit of Montaña Blanca. The peak rises dramatically against the horizon, and the views from the top are nothing short of spectacular. As you reach the top, you’ll have an unobstructed panoramic view of Lanzarote’s unique volcanic landscape, including distant craters, the nearby Timanfaya National Park, and the surrounding coastline.
The Views
Once at the top of Montaña Blanca, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most stunning viewpoints on the island. From here, you can see a 360-degree view of Lanzarote’s landscape, including:
The dramatic volcanic cones of Timanfaya National Park to the south.
The turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean to the east, including the nearby island of Fuerteventura.
The sprawling lava fields and volcanic valleys that characterize much of Lanzarote’s interior.
This is a great spot to pause, catch your breath, and enjoy a well-deserved rest before beginning the descent.
Practical Information for Trekking to Montana Blanca from Conil
Distance: Around 18-20 km (round trip).
Duration: Approximately 6–8 hours (depending on pace and stops).
Difficulty: Moderate. Suitable for hikers with a good level of fitness, as the ascent is steep and the terrain is rocky.
Best Time to Hike: The best time to take on this trek is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are cooler. In the summer, Lanzarote can get very hot, making the hike more challenging and potentially unsafe due to dehydration risk.
What to Bring:
Water (at least 2 liters per person).
Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support.
A hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses for sun protection.
Snacks or a light lunch.
A camera to capture the spectacular views.
A map or GPS device, although the trail is well-marked.
Trekking from Conil to Montaña Blanca Lanzarote is a rewarding adventure that combines physical challenge, spectacular natural beauty, and a chance to discover a quieter, less-visited part of the island. Whether you’re an avid hiker or someone simply looking to experience Lanzarote’s volcanic heart, this trail offers a perfect escape into one of the Canary Islands’ most captivating landscapes. Don’t forget to bring your camera—because the views from the top are ones you’ll want to remember for a lifetime.
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