Timanfaya National Park: the black heart of Lanzarote
- Casa Mialma Lanzarote
- Feb 17
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 3
If you’re looking to experience the raw beauty of volcanic landscapes, look no further than Timanfaya National Park, located in the heart of Lanzarote, Spain. A must-visit destination for adventure seekers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
A Journey Through Volcanoes
Timanfaya Park is best known for its dramatic volcanic terrain, shaped by centuries of eruptions. The park is a testament to the power of nature, featuring over 25 craters and a vast array of volcanic formations that look almost otherworldly. With its striking red, black, and orange landscape, it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most visited attractions in Lanzarote.
One of the park’s most awe-inspiring features is the Montañas del Fuego (Mountains of Fire). Here, visitors can marvel at geysers of steam rising from the earth, a reminder of the immense heat just beneath the surface. The park’s geothermal activity is so intense that it’s used to power a unique demonstration of heat, where visitors can watch a guide light a bush on fire simply by placing it into a hole in the ground!
How to visit the Timanfaya National Park, the black heart of Lanzarote
The park entrance is a 20-minute drive from Casa MIALMA Lanzarote. Here you must leave your car and continue with an organized tour.
The best way to explore Timanfaya is via the Islote de Hilario Route, a scenic BUS TOUR that takes you through the most spectacular parts of the park. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating details about the volcanic history of the region, including the devastating eruptions that took place between 1730 and 1736.
These eruptions, which entirely destroyed Conil, where Casa MIALMA Lanzarote is today, transformed the landscape into the rugged beauty that we see today.
For a more immersive experience, consider taking one of the GUIDED HIKING TOURS available. These walks allow you to step into the volcanic world and get up close to the fascinating terrain, all while learning about the flora and fauna that have adapted to life in such an extreme environment.
If you are SPORTY and want to take advantage of a unique opportunity, you can tour the park with an electric bicycle. Read details and costs click here and remember to book!
Timanfaya’s Unique Wildlife
Despite the harsh conditions, life thrives in Timanfaya. The park is home to a variety of plants and animals, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth. The Tabaiba (Euphorbia) and Verode (a small shrub) are just a couple of examples of plants that have adapted to the volcanic environment. As for wildlife, the park is home to reptiles like the Lanzarote Lizard and various bird species, including Berthelot’s Pipit.
Sustainability and Conservation
Timanfaya National Park is committed to preserving its stunning natural beauty. The park operates under strict conservation rules, ensuring that its delicate ecosystem remains intact. It’s important to RESPECT THE GUIDELINES during your visit to help protect this extraordinary environment for future generations.
A Taste of Lanzarote’s Volcanic Soil
No trip to Timanfaya is complete without a visit to the El Diablo Restaurant, located within the park. Here, you can enjoy a meal cooked using the natural heat of the volcano itself! The restaurant’s unique design, created by local artist César Manrique, offers panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape while you savor dishes that make the most of local ingredients.
Plan Your Visit
Make sure you choose a serious and reliable operator and book your visit in time: this destination is very popular and tours are often overbooked.
We hope this guide has inspired you to discover the majestic beauty of Timanfaya.
Get ready for a truly unforgettable adventure!
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