Puerto del Carmen is much more than just a beach resort: it’s also an ideal starting point for exploring all that Lanzarote has to offer: volcanoes, vineyards, architecture, the seabed…
We’ve selected the best day trips from Puerto del Carmen that cover the highlights of what the island has to offer.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Best Day Trips from Puerto del Carmen – Quick Answers
If you’re short on time, here are our top three picks for seeing the best of Lanzarote from Puerto del Carmen:
- Discover Timanfaya National Park and its extraordinary volcanic landscapes
– See schedule and availability - Watch dolphins from a speedboat, with swimming included
– See our top pick - Follow in the footsteps of César Manrique and discover his major works
– See schedule and availability
Most of the tours organized from Puerto del Carmen include pickup directly from the hotel areas. Please check this detail when you make your reservation and find out where the meeting point is the day before the tour.
1. Trip to Timanfaya National Park
Why do we recommend this tour?
Timanfaya is undoubtedly the must-see attraction on Lanzarote. The national park consists entirely of volcanic soil, and access to it is strictly regulated: no unsupervised hiking is permitted. A guided bus travels along the only road inside the park, which may seem restrictive, but the scenery is so spectacular that you quickly forget you’re in such a controlled setting.
We were struck by the raw power of the landscapes and the intensity of the colors. From Puerto del Carmen, the drive takes only 30 minutes, making it a very convenient option for a full-day or half-day trip.
What you will see
Timanfaya National Park, located on the island’s west coast, offers breathtaking views of the volcanic craters formed between 1730 and 1736. Different types of lava appear one after another along the trail, in shades of red, brown, and black.
At the park entrance, you can also watch a demonstration of geothermal heat near the restaurant: water sprayed into the ground immediately rises as steam, and the rocks are scorching hot to the touch. We found this display very helpful in understanding the geothermal power that is still active beneath your feet.
How much time should I allow?
Allow half a day for the tour focused solely on Timanfaya. There are also full-day packages that combine a visit to the park with other sites on the island. Tip: If you’re taking the bus inside the park, sit on the right side to enjoy the best views of the craters.
Half-Day Excursion to the Fire Mountains from Puerto del Carmen:
See the options
WHERE TO STAY IN Puerto del Carmen
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
In the center, around the main beach.
Hotel Los Fariones, sumptuous – see prices, photos and availability
In Matagorda, quieter.
Hotel Aequora, for families – Check prices, photos and availability.
Around the port, old town.
Hotel Gloria Izaro Club Hotel – prices, pictures and availability
2. Boat tour to see dolphins
Why do we recommend this tour?
Of all the activities we did in Lanzarote, the boat trip to see the dolphins remains one of our most memorable experiences. Dolphins live in the waters off the island year-round, offering good chances of seeing them no matter the season.
Even when the dolphins are slow to show up, the boat ride is enjoyable, and the views of Lanzarote’s coastline are worth the trip.
What you will see
You can spot dolphins—and sometimes bottlenose dolphins—in the waters around the Canary Islands. The sight of a pod of dolphins swimming alongside the boat is hard to describe.
How much time should I allow?
From 1 hour and 30 minutes to 5 hours, depending on the format you choose. We recommend the daytime speedboat tour: it’s short, perfect for families, and includes time for swimming. If you’d like to combine dolphin watching with exploring a different landscape, the tour that includes Lobos Island is very well planned
There are four types of tours available departing from Lanzarote:
Option 1 – speedboat, daytime trip – 1 hour 30 minutes, including swimming
See details and availability
Option 2 – Speedboat, at sunset – 2.5 hours with champagne
See details and availability
Option 3 – Speedboat and Lobos Island – 5 hours, including some time on the island
See details and availability
Option 4 – Catamaran Cruise at Sunset – 2 hours
See details and availability
3. César Manrique and Lanzarote
Why do we recommend this tour?
César Manrique is inextricably linked to Lanzarote. An artist and architect native to the island, he devoted much of his life to integrating his creations into the natural landscape, rejecting structures that clashed with the environment. We owe it in part to him that Lanzarote has retained its character, with its small white houses and the absence of large hotel complexes.
Discovering his works offers a new perspective on the island’s identity. We find that this excursion offers a rich cultural experience that goes far beyond a simple sightseeing tour.
What you will see
It’s not possible to visit all the sites associated with the artist in a single day, but the organized tours cover a representative selection of them. The program includes the following, depending on the option you choose:
- the Monumento al Campesino, dedicated to local culture;
- the César Manrique Foundation, housed in the artist’s former home, which is partially carved out of lava bubbles;
- the Mirador del Rio, a viewpoint tucked away in the island’s northern cliff;
- The Cactus Garden, an unusual blend of plants and architecture;
- Los Jameos del Agua, a partially collapsed lava tube that houses an underground lake, restaurants, and an amphitheater.
We were particularly impressed by the Cactus Garden, which is beautifully arranged.
How much time should I allow?
Plan on spending a full day on this tour. The sites are scattered throughout the island, and each one is worth a visit. Two options for organized excursions:
- Tour of the northern part of the island focusing on Manrique’s works – see itinerary and availability
- Full-day tour covering all the major works— see itinerary and availability
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Lanzarote
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- A small car is all you need.
- But you can also choose a larger one if you wish, as the parking spaces are rather large.
- Demand is high, so book early.
4. A little bit of everything in Lanzarote (perfect if you’re not staying long)
Why do we recommend this tour?
You only have one day to explore the island and don’t know where to start? This “best-of” package is perfect for you. It combines several iconic sites into a single tour, so you don’t have to choose between Timanfaya, the caves, or the vineyards.
We especially recommend it to travelers who are staying in Lanzarote for only a short time or who prefer not to drive when planning their sightseeing. The pace is fast, but the experience is still very well-rounded.
What you will see
In addition to Timanfaya, full-day tours usually include several other sites. The Charco de los Clicos, also known as the Green Lake, is one of the most stunning sights: a lagoon with green hues, bordered by red, yellow, and black rocks, and a black-sand beach. This volcanic crater, formed during the eruptions of 1730, has been partially flooded by the ocean; erosion has left only half of the cone intact. Further on, the La Geria Valley reveals a unique vineyard: grapevines planted in black volcanic soil, sheltered from the wind by low stone walls. We found the contrast between the darkness of the soil and the lush greenery of the vines truly striking. The tour also includes the Jameos del Agua, a lava tube partially collapsed by César Manrique, with its underground lake and inviting swimming pool.
How much time should I allow?
All day. This type of tour is designed for those who want to make the most of their time without the hassle of driving and planning. Be sure to bring good shoes and sunscreen.
Volcanoes and Caves Tour – Full Day in Lanzarote:
See program and availability
5. Excursion to the island of La Graciosa
Why do we recommend this tour?
La Graciosa is a small island in its own right, north of Lanzarote, and it’s worth spending a whole day there. There are no paved roads here: only sandy trails crisscross the area. The golden-white sand stands in stark contrast to Lanzarote’s black volcanic soil.
We are convinced that this excursion is one of the most exotic you can take from Puerto del Carmen, especially since the ferry ride already offers stunning views of the Famara cliffs in northern Lanzarote.
What you will see
Beaches of white-gold sand, volcanoes, and basalt columns make up the landscapes of La Graciosa. You can explore the island on foot or by 4WD taxi, which is the only way to reach the most remote sites. The ferry departs from Orzola, in the north of Lanzarote. Please note that the drive from Puerto del Carmen to Orzola takes about 45 minutes.
Several options are available:
- Round-trip ferry from Orzola – view departures and book
- Bus transfer from hotels + ferry – book with bus pickup
- 4WD Jeep Tour of the Island to See the Most Beautiful Scenery – Book in Advance
- A day of catamaran sailing around La Graciosa – see the itinerary
6. Lanzarote’s Unique Vineyards
Why do we recommend this tour?
Vines growing on black volcanic soil on an island known for being arid and windy: Lanzarote’s vineyards are a fascinating agricultural paradox. To capture nighttime moisture and protect the vines from the wind, winegrowers have developed a unique technique: they dig small depressions in the ground and build low stone walls around each vine.
La Geria is the island’s most famous bodega, and the valley surrounding it offers a landscape like no other. We believe this place is one of the most unusual spots in the entire Canary Islands archipelago.
What you will see
The tour includes a hike through the La Geria Valley, surrounded by vineyards protected by their lava stone walls. The views of the volcanic landscape from the heights are very beautiful. At the end of the walk, a tasting of local white wine awaits you at the bodega.
Wine from La Geria, produced mainly from the Malvasia grape variety, is one of the island’s best-known wines. Learn more about the Lanzarote Wine Route in our dedicated article.
How much time should I allow?
Half-day. The hike itself is accessible. It’s best to make reservations in advance, especially during peak season.
Hiking, sightseeing, and wine tastings at the vineyards:
See the options
7. Catamaran to the Papagayo beaches
Why do we recommend this tour?
The beaches of Papagayo, on the southwestern coast of Lanzarote, are among the most beautiful on the island. Their stretches of golden sand have remained largely untouched, with no paved roads leading to them. You can reach them by land via an unpaved road, but the view from the sea is quite different. We find that a catamaran is a very pleasant way to admire this wild coastline, with the added bonus of possibly spotting dolphins during the crossing.
What you will see
The catamaran sails along the entire southern coast of Lanzarote, starting from Puerto del Carmen. Papagayo and the nearby beaches are part of the Macizo de los Ajaches, the island’s oldest landmass, which formed about 14 million years ago—explaining the rounded peaks and deep ravines that characterize this area. On board, you can swim or go kayaking around the boat. Please note that it is not possible to disembark directly onto the beaches from the catamaran. Check out all the boat tours available in Lanzarote in our dedicated article.
How much time should I allow?
It’s a 4-hour trip from Puerto del Carmen, making for a full half-day. This excursion can easily be combined with an afternoon at Playa Grande or Playa Chica.
Catamaran cruise to the Papagayo beaches from Puerto del Carmen:
See program and availability
8. Off-road buggy tour
Why do we recommend this tour?
If you’re looking for a way to get off the beaten path, a buggy tour is a very popular option in Lanzarote. It allows you to venture onto dirt trails, ride along volcanic landscapes, and reach viewpoints that would otherwise be difficult to access. It’s also an activity that offers a bit of a thrill, without requiring any special skills.
We recommend it to travelers who are looking for an experience that’s a little more active and unique than a typical bus tour.
What you will see
The buggy tour winds through volcanic landscapes and along cliffs, on dirt roads that are inaccessible to ordinary vehicles. The views are often spectacular. A few practical tips: bring a bandana or neck gaiter to protect yourself from dust, and keep in mind that the driver must have a valid driver’s license.
Guided Can-Am Trail Buggy Tour in Lanzarote:
See program and availability
9. Submarine Trip
Why do we recommend this tour?
Explore the ocean floor without a wetsuit or any special equipment: that’s what this submarine tour departing from Puerto Calero offers. This activity is open to everyone, including children, and is ideal for travelers who want to explore the underwater world without any physical limitations. We found the experience quite impressive: being underwater in the cabin, watching the seabed through the portholes, without feeling the slightest discomfort. The room is large enough that it doesn’t feel claustrophobic.
What you will see
The submarine leaves the port of Puerto Calero to head out and explore the nearby seabed. The portholes allow you to observe the underwater wildlife and the seabed terrain. From Puerto del Carmen, Puerto Calero is a 10- to 15-minute drive away, or you can take the water taxi that connects the two ports. Seating is limited, so it’s best to make a reservation in advance.
How much time should I allow?
The tour lasts 1 hour, plus the trip to Puerto Calero and the wait before boarding. Allow about 2 hours in total from Puerto del Carmen.
Underwater Safari from Puerto Calero – limited availability:
View availability and book
10. Introduction to Scuba Diving
Why do we recommend this tour?
Playa Chica, the small cove located east of Puerto del Carmen, is one of the best diving spots in Lanzarote. Its calm waters, protected by a natural rocky barrier, make it a particularly good spot for beginners. We think this is one of the most memorable activities you can do from Puerto del Carmen, especially if you’ve never dived before: discovering the underwater world for the first time is an experience like no other. Underwater caves, shipwrecks, and marine life await you in the waters off Lanzarote.
What you will see
The session typically includes two dives, supervised by a certified instructor. You’ll explore the local marine life, underwater caves, and—depending on the itinerary—shipwrecks in the area. No prior experience is required to participate. Two options are available:
- Guided Scuba Diving from Puerto del Carmen – see itinerary and availability
- Snorkeling (guided snorkeling) – see schedule and availability
PLAN YOUR STAY IN Puerto del Carmen
Frequently Asked Questions About Day Trips from Puerto del Carmen
Should you rent a car to go on day trips from Puerto del Carmen?
No, it’s not essential. The vast majority of organized tours offer pickup directly from the hotel areas in Puerto del Carmen. This is especially convenient for Timanfaya, the César Manrique tour, or La Graciosa.
On the other hand, if you want to explore the island at your own pace, having a car will give you more freedom, especially when it comes to sites located in the north or inland. See our tips for renting a car and driving in Lanzarote.
What’s the best day trip from Puerto del Carmen for a family?
Several excursions are ideal for families. A boat trip to see dolphins is often a big hit with kids. A visit to Timanfaya, even though it’s on a guided bus tour, offers a spectacle impressive enough to captivate people of all ages. The submarine tour departing from Puerto Calero is also a great activity for families, unless you suffer from claustrophobia. For families who want to combine sightseeing and swimming, the catamaran to Papagayo is still a great option. And a trip to Rancho Texas Park. Buy your ticket to save time
How far are the main attractions from Puerto del Carmen?
Puerto del Carmen is well-located for exploring the entire island. Timanfaya National Park is about a 30-minute drive away. The La Geria Valley is 15 minutes away. The capital, Arrecife, is also 15 minutes away. It takes about 45 minutes to get to Orzola, the departure point for the ferry to La Graciosa. Puerto Calero, the submarine’s departure port, is 10 to 15 minutes away. Lanzarote Airport (ACE) is just 10 minutes from Puerto del Carmen.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Lanzarote
- Best of
Most beautiful landscapes
Best things to do in Lanzarote
Most beautiful beaches
Most beautiful villages
Best boat tours
César Manrique’s attractions
Secret places, off the beaten track
Most beautiful hikes
- Practical advice
25 tips for a successful trip to Lanzarote
How to get around
How to rent a car in Lanzarote
Driving tips
Where to stay in Lanzarote
Best hotels in Lanzarote
Best excursions
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 1 week – 10 days
