Timanfaya Park & Camel Ride (extra cost) – Short South Tour

Exploring Lanzarote’s South: Volcanoes, Vineyards, and Adventures

If you’re after a well-rounded glimpse of Lanzarote’s southern highlights, this Timanfaya Park & Camel Ride tour offers a solid mix of natural beauty, local flavor, and a dash of adventure. For around $52, you’ll spend approximately 4 to 5 hours cruising along the famous Route of the Volcanoes, marveling at the moon-like landscapes of Timanfaya National Park, and possibly taking a short camel ride across the volcanic sands. The tour includes hotel pickup, making it a hassle-free way to explore with a guide who knows the terrain.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the timing—this tour fits neatly into a half-day, leaving you plenty of time for relaxing or exploring on your own—and the variety of stops. From the dramatic volcanic scenery to visiting a working winery, this experience balances spectacle and flavor. However, a potential con is that the camel ride is optional and incurs an extra cost paid directly on-site, so if you’re not keen on animals or extra expenses, that’s something to consider.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Lanzarote’s south without committing to a full-day outing or multiple tours. It’s perfect for those with a moderate pace, interested in photo opportunities, learning about volcanic geology, or sampling local wines. Families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a guided, hassle-free experience will find this trip particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Stunning volcanic landscapes at Timanfaya National Park.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off included for ease of travel.
• Optional camel ride adds a fun, if extra, adventure.
• Wine tasting in La Geria offers a taste of Lanzarote’s unique vineyards.
• Short, manageable duration makes it accessible for most travelers.
• Great value for a half-day tour with multiple highlights.

A Closer Look at the South Lanzarote Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour packs a lot into just a few hours, making it an excellent choice for those who don’t want to spend a whole day on sightseeing. It begins bright and early at 8:00 am with hotel pickup, ensuring you’re ready to hit the highlights without the hassle of navigating yourself.

First stop: Timanfaya National Park – a geological wonderland that’s often described as feeling like stepping onto another planet. You’ll spend about 55 minutes here, exploring the volcanic landscape that’s the result of eruptions from the 18th century. The park’s famous geothermal demonstrations—such as water boiling in the vents—are both impressive and educational, giving you a visceral sense of the volcanic activity that shaped Lanzarote.

We loved the way the tour guides explain the geothermal experiments at Islote de Hilario, which are free to view but add a fascinating science aspect to the journey. It’s a quick 20-minute stop, perfect for snapping a few photos while learning a bit about the island’s fiery past.

The optional camel ride is a popular feature. It lasts about 30 minutes, and while it involves an extra cost paid directly on-site—usually just a few euros—many travelers say it’s a unique experience. If you’re animal-friendly and looking for a bit of fun, it’s worth considering, but if you’re not keen or on a tighter budget, you can skip it comfortably.

Next, the group heads to the Vineyard of La Geria, where you’ll enjoy a tour and wine tasting. This region’s unique volcanic soil produces some of the island’s best wines. Visitors rave about the informative tour and the chance to sample local varieties, which adds a flavorful touch to the day.

Finally, the tour usually wraps up with a chance to grab lunch at a local restaurant (not included in the price). This allows you to relax, soak in the views, and decide whether to explore more or head back to your accommodation.

What Travelers Really Think

Though the tour hasn’t amassed many reviews yet, those who have gone appreciate the stunning views and the varied activities. One reviewer mentioned loving the dramatic volcanic scenery of Timanfaya, describing it as “like being on the moon,” which captures how otherworldly the landscape feels.

Another highlighted the convenience of the pickup service, noting, “It’s so nice not to worry about arranging transport,” and the fact that the Timanfaya ticket is included adds to the overall value.

Some travelers mentioned that they particularly enjoyed the wine tasting, calling it “a lovely way to learn about Lanzarote’s unique vineyards and taste some good wines.” The small group size and modern buses also received positive comments, making the experience comfortable and intimate despite a maximum of 80 travelers.

Practical Points to Consider

The tour is designed for most travelers, including families with children (who must be accompanied by an adult). The timing is good for fitting into a morning, but keep in mind that the camel ride is an optional extra, and if you’re not interested, you might spend a little less time at that stop.

Since admission tickets are included for the national park, you don’t need to worry about out-of-pocket expenses there, but the camel ride and lunch are outside the package, so budget accordingly.

While the geothermal experiments at Islote de Hilario** are free, the camel ride is paid directly, and you might want to bring cash just in case.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

Compared to standalone excursions, this half-day tour simplifies logistics—no worries about transportation or tickets—and combines multiple highlight stops. The guided nature means you’ll get context and stories from an experienced guide, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The price point of about $52 is reasonable considering it covers transport, tickets, and a guide. The inclusion of the Timanfaya ticket alone is worth noting, as this is often a separate expense.

Many travelers find that the combination of natural wonders and local wine tasting makes this tour feel well-rounded and satisfying, especially since it touches on geology, agriculture, and culture.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights without fuss. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy natural scenery and want to combine photo opportunities with tasting local wines. Travel families or groups with varying interests will appreciate the balanced itinerary.

If you’re a solo traveler, you’ll benefit from the guided tour’s social aspect, and those with a moderate schedule will find it fits perfectly into a morning or early afternoon.

Final Thoughts

For a cost-effective, well-organized way to explore the volcanic landscapes, vineyards, and unique scenery of southern Lanzarote, this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s particularly strong on stunning views, which travelers say make the whole experience memorable. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickup and included tickets simplifies your day, letting you relax and enjoy the sights.

While the camel ride is optional and has an extra cost, many find it adds a fun, memorable touch. The wine tasting rounds out the experience with a flavorful look at Lanzarote’s winemaking traditions. This tour offers a balanced, engaging introduction to Lanzarote’s southern beauty—especially suited for travelers who want a manageable, guided half-day adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off at touristic areas. You should send your accommodation’s name to receive the closest pickup point.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, starting at 8:00 am.

What is included in the price?
The price includes guiding services, modern air-conditioned buses, liability insurance, Timanfaya National Park tickets, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s advisable to check with the provider if you have specific mobility concerns, especially since some stops involve walking or standing.

Is the camel ride worth it?
Many travelers find the camel ride to be a fun and unique experience, but it is extra cost paid directly on-site. You can skip it if you prefer and still enjoy the rest of the tour.

Are there any extra expenses I should budget for?
Yes, the camel ride and lunch (which is at your own expense) are additional.

How do I book this tour?
You can book in advance through the provider’s website or booking platforms like Viator. It’s recommended to book about 19 days in advance for better availability.

What should I bring along?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, a camera, and some cash for extras like the camel ride or lunch.

Is there any free time during the tour?
The tour is quite structured, but you’ll have opportunities for photos and browsing at each stop.

What do reviews say about this tour?
Though limited, reviews highlight the stunning volcanic scenery and easy logistics, making it a popular choice among visitors seeking a quick, satisfying look at Lanzarote’s highlights.

This detailed look at the Timanfaya Park & Camel Ride tour aims to help you decide if it fits your Lanzarote plans. It combines natural drama, local flavors, and manageable logistics, perfect for travelers seeking an authentic yet comfortable day out.