If, like us, you love rock formations and slot-canyons, Las Grietas de Montana Blanca is a must-see on Lanzarote. It’s a place that’s still not very well known, and the crevasses in the slopes of the Montana Blanca volcano are magnificent.
Here’s our guide to help you plan your visit: how to get there, what to see, practical advice…
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
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Why visit the canyons of Las Grietas?
Are the canyons of Las Grietas worth a visit?
Yes, absolutely, it’s worth visiting Grietas. We loved the different-sized crevasses with beautiful lines carved into the rock, as well as the views towards Puerto del Carmen and the sea. And it’s easy to get to!
This is one of Lanzarote’s most beautiful “secret” spots.
What is las Grietas? Origin, geology
Las Grietas, in Spanish, literally translates as “the cracks”.
This is a formation on the side of the 600m-high Montaña Blanca volcano. 3 cracks have formed.
The cracks aren’t very long, but they are quite narrow, reminiscent of a miniature version of the canyons in Arizona and Utah.
As far as their training is concerned, we read two explanations:
- fractures are created when lava cools, contrasting with the rocks below.
- the cracks are said to be created by erosion as water flows down the mountain (a classic version of slot canyons, but we doubt it given the type of rock and the weather on Lanzarote…).
Unfortunately, there was no sign on site, and we can’t find a reliable source. But more sources indicate the cooling of the lava. If you’re a geologist, don’t hesitate to send us an e-mail with the right answer!
The advantage is that these cracks clearly reveal the layers of lava and sediment that have formed over the millennia. Fascinating!
Practical tips and map – Las Grietas, Lanzarote
Where is Las Grietas, Montana Blanca? Map
- In the heart of the island of Lanzarote
- Not far from the airport
- Puerto del Carmen to Las Grietas = 10 min
- Playa Blanca to Las Grietas = 30 min
- Costa Teguise to Las Grietas = 20 min
Las Grietas is located on the slopes of Montana Blanca near Puerto del Carmen. Be careful not to confuse with Caldera Blanca, on the Timanfaya side, which is known for its hiking.
How to get to Las Grietas and parking
Las Grietas is easily accessible by car. The parking lot is located along the LZ-35 road, between the towns of San Bartolomé and Tias.
It’s unpaved, highly visible but not clearly marked as this one.
However, the location is clearly identified on Google Maps.
You can also take a cab from Puerto del Carmen.
But you’ll need a car or a bike, as there are no organized tours to get there.
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.
Best time to visit
The place isn’t very popular yet, so you won’t find any crowds.
The cracks face south, so daylight can be difficult.
Visit duration and difficulty
It’s surprising, but access is actually very easy.
From the parking lot, you don’t even have to cross the fast-moving road. There’s a tunnel under the road. Very practical. Don’t try to cross the road!
Once through the tunnel, head left and a few dozen metres further up you’ll find the first cracks.
The path is slightly sloping and gravelly, but nothing too difficult.
We advise you to allow at least 30 minutes to enjoy the various crevasses. But if you love photography as much as we do, allow 1 hour!
Practical advice
- Price: free access to the canyon
- Protect yourself well from the sun
- We recommend that you wear closed-toe shoes as the gravel is very annoying if you are wearing open-toe shoes.
- Thanks to the tunnel, we haven’t identified any hazards. You can easily visit the site with children, who should enjoy it.
CHOOSING A HOTEL IN Lanzarote
Choosing where to stay:
Select by hotel type:
- 5-star hotels
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Our favorite: Hotel Cala Lanzarote – See prices, photos and availability
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First crevasse
The first canyon we visited was the highest.
Unfortunately I didn’t take a tripod, so I’m not in the photos to give you an idea of the size.
It’s not as high as the Antelope canyons, but it’s still pretty high, with some very narrow passages and rounded areas.
What’s more, once you turn around, at the end of the fissure, you can see the sea, making the lie even more enchanting. One of our favourite landscapes in Lanzarote!
The beauty of the place is undeniable, with its lines of sediment and rock and the work of erosion.
HAVE FUN WITH THESE Lanzarote activities
- Dolphin watching
- Buggy / Quad
- Kayak excursion
- But also: Diving at the Museum of the Atlantic, Catamaran outings, Paddle excursions, Parasailing
Second crevasse
If you continue a little higher, you’ll find a second crevasse. It’s shallower, but offers beautiful views of the mountains and sea.
It also had more color because the sun penetrated more.
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Upper section
You can then continue on the path which heads off in the other direction.
This brings you to other little crevasses that are difficult to navigate, but with some nice curves.
And if you continue, you can also see the crevasses from above, with the sea in the distance.
Another place to see, if you like rock formations
If you like geology and rock formations created by erosion, we also recommend the Stratified city, also known as Los Roferos. The style is very different, but it’s also fascinating. See our photos and tips.
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
