Lanzarote, a pearl embedded in the deep blue Atlantic, is a paradise for adventurers and sports enthusiasts. This corner of the archipelago is not only a feast for the eyes with its volcanic landscapes and beaches of golden sand, but also the ideal setting for tourists, locals and sportsmen and women from all over the world to enjoy their skills and passions. Whether you’re looking for the best waves or want to climb mountains like a true pioneer, here’s your guide to experiencing Lanzarote to the fullest.
Surf: conquering the waves
Water sports are the beating heart of Lanzarote, with a climate that smiles on surfers, divers and sailors all year round. Surfing in Lanzarote is more than a sport, it is a ritual that celebrates the majesty of the ocean. Here, in this Atlantic corner, surfing is transformed into aquatic ballet, where the surfer and his or her board join in a dance with the waves.
But what exactly is surfing? In essence, surfing is the ability to glide over the waves while standing on a board, a practice that combines strength, technique and, above all, a deep connection with nature.
The optimum season for those seeking their waves in Lanzarote runs from October to March, with average temperatures ranging from 25ºC in winter to 31ºC during the summer. Therefore, it is at this time that conditions become ideal for those who yearn to test themselves against the strength and height of the most imposing waves.
What do you need to know to enjoy surfing in Lanzarote?
1. Understanding the waves
The island of Lanzarote is 60 km long and 35 km wide with many miles of coastline, and each beach has its own unique characteristics.
Playa de Famara, with its long and consistent waves, is perfect for beginner surfers. Whereas for more advanced surfers, La Santa is known for its powerful waves and challenging tubes and has become an Olympus for surfers. Here you will find the El Quemao wave, a spot reserved for top-level surfers, where every year Lanzarote’s international surfing competition is hosted.
If you are a fan of surfing, here’s another article you might want to take a look at: Discover the best surfing spots in Lanzarote for beginners.
2. Having the best equipment
Invest in a good wetsuit and a board suitable for your level. Local surf shops and surf schools can advise you on the best equipment.
3. Accepting advice from locals
Listening and learning from local surfers is invaluable. They can teach you the secrets of each wave and how to respect the unwritten rules of surfing.
Kitesurfing: flying over the water
Lanzarote is also a place of worship for kitesurfers. With its constant strong winds, especially during the summer, the island is a playground for those looking to fly over the waves.
Kitesurfing, that spectacular fusion of surfing and paragliding, has found a privileged setting in Lanzarote. The island, with its constant sea breeze and its long beaches, is a dream location for anyone looking to soar over the waves and glide with the force of the wind behind them.
Kitesurfing is a water sport that combines elements of several extreme sports such as surfing, windsurfing and skydiving. Every amateur or professional kitesurfer has a traction kite which, fuelled by the wind, lifts and propels them across the water on a board.
Why is Lanzarote an ideal kitesurfing destination?
When it comes to finding the ideal setting for kitesurfing, there are few places in the world that can compete with Lanzarote. Not only is the island synonymous with natural beauty and breathtaking scenery, but its weather and geographical conditions combine to create a paradise for kitesurfers. In the following section, we explore the reasons why Lanzarote has earned its reputation as an unrivalled kitesurfing destination.
Optimal climatic conditions
Lanzarote offers exceptional weather conditions for kitesurfing. The trade winds blow steadily and are predictable in their behaviour, ensuring a stable and exciting flying experience.
In Lanzarote, the wind not only shapes the landscape, but also dictates the rhythm of kitesurfing. The island is buffeted by four main winds that create unique conditions on different beaches, making them the changing backdrop to this exciting sport. Let’s get to know the features of these winds and the beaches where they make their splendid appearance to the delight of kitesurfers.
- Trade winds: These consistent and refreshing winds are the most faithful companions of kitesurfing in Lanzarote. Blowing from the northeast, the trade winds are present on beaches like Famara, offering stable conditions for all levels of experience. They also create the acceleration zone in Costa Teguise.
- Sirocco: Coming from the southeast, the Sirocco brings with it warm, dry air from the Sahara. This wind can surprise on beaches such as Playa Honda, where kitesurfers are looking for a bigger challenge due to the changing conditions it can generate.
- Southerly winds (S-SW): These winds, blowing from the south and southwest of the Canary Islands, can cause milder conditions and are ideal for beginners to kitesurfing. Beaches such as Papagayo, with its calm waters, are turned into perfect spots when the south wind visits the island.
- North winds (N-NW): Forceful and dynamic, these winds are for the more adventurous and experienced. El Caleton beach, with its more intense environment and more challenging waves, is the place to be for kitesurfers who want to test their mettle against the force of the north.
Each of these winds gives Lanzarote a variety of conditions for kitesurfing, making the island a place where every day can offer a new adventure on the water.
Adventure sports in Lanzarote: beyond the sea
Lanzarote is a unique enclave not only for its crystal-clear waters that invite you to immerse yourself in water sports, but also for its volcanic terrain and lunar landscapes that offer endless possibilities for lovers of terrestrial adventure. From the black sands of its beaches to the peaks of its volcanoes, every corner of this island is a call to exploration and physical challenge.
In this section, we take a look at the activities that make Lanzarote an adventure destination par excellence, where the sea is only the beginning of the journey. Hiking along volcanic routes and mountain biking along rugged trails are just some of the experiences that await adventurers in this land of contrasts and wild beauty.
Hiking: walks through lunar landscapes
Lanzarote is a hiker’s paradise, with its volcanic terrain that looks like something from another planet. The island offers hiking trails that pass through landscapes so unique they seem lunar, where every step takes hikers deeper into an almost extra-terrestrial experience. Here are some of the most emblematic hiking spots on this Canary Island:
Timanfaya National Park
This park is perhaps the most spectacular example of Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape. Walking through Timanfaya is like walking on the surface of Mars, with its solidified lava floor and volcanic cones rising on the horizon. Guided walks through the park allow you to explore this environment safely and with the knowledge of expert guides.
Los Volcanes and La Geria
Caldera de los Cuervos crater
La Caldera de los Cuervos is the ideal place to understand the force of nature. An easy hike up takes you into a volcanic crater, offering breathtaking views and the opportunity to step on ground that would once have been molten underfoot.
El Golfo and Los Hervideros
This coastal route combines the beauty of the ocean with volcanic geology. The trail skirts the coast, passing the impressive green lake of El Golfo and the formations of Los Hervideros, where seawater can be seen crashing into the volcanic cavities.
Famara
Famara beach, with its spectacular cliff overlooking the bay, is the starting point for several hiking trails. Climbing the Risco de Famara offers one of the best views on the island, looking down to the beach and the ocean, and inland to the mountains.
Haría and the Valley of the Thousand Palm Trees
The north of Lanzarote is greener and more fertile, and the village of Haría is known as the “Valley of a Thousand Palm Trees”. Hiking trails here go through farmland and palm groves, offering views of traditional white villages.
These routes provide more than physical exercise – they also offer an immersion into the natural and cultural history of Lanzarote. Hiking on the island is an activity that can be enjoyed all year round, thanks to its mild climate, and is accessible to all ages and levels of experience. You can hike all year round, but spring and autumn offer more pleasant temperatures.
Tips for hikers on Lanzarote
For hiking enthusiasts choosing Lanzarote as their destination, here are some key tips to ensure a safe and enriching experience as you venture through the island’s stunning landscapes:
- Adequate equipment:
Good footwear is essential. Opt for hiking boots that offer support and grip, as the volcanic terrain can be uneven and slippery. Also, wear comfortable clothing suited to the island’s varied climatic conditions.
- Sun protection:
Lanzarote’s sun can be very intense, even on cloudy days. Don’t forget to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear sunglasses and use a hat or cap for protection.
- Hydration:
The hot, dry climate of Lanzarote requires constant hydration. Carry enough water for the entire route and drink regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Respect nature
Maintain the cleanliness and integrity of the natural environment by not leaving litter and protect the local flora and fauna by not leaving the marked trails.
- Updated information:
Check the weather forecast before you head out and check for warnings about adverse conditions. Also, find out about trail conditions at visitor centres or from local guides.
- Route planning:
Study your route in advance, taking into account your physical condition and experience. It is better to underestimate your ability than to overestimate it. If possible, carry a map or GPS and always inform someone about your itinerary.
- First aid:
Carry a small first aid kit to treat minor cuts or scrapes. Includes items such as bandages, disinfectant and dressings.
- Company:
Whenever possible, hike in a group. As well as being safer, sharing the experience makes hiking even more enjoyable.
- Comply with the signposting:
Respect the signposting and the indications of the local authorities. They are there for your safety and the preservation of the environment.
- Get used to the environment:
Finally, if you are not used to walking on volcanic terrain, take your time to adapt to the unique terrain of Lanzarote.
Cycling: pedalling among volcanoes
Cycling in Lanzarote offers an unparalleled experience for enthusiasts on two wheels. Among its many cycling routes, you’ll find roads that wind through lava fields and landscapes that look like something straight out of a science fiction tale.
By cycling between the island’s iconic volcanoes, you will not only be doing sport, but also travelling through the geological history of this unique corner of the world.
Tips for cyclists on Lanzarote
- Pre-check of your bicycle:
Before setting off on any route, make sure your bike is in perfect condition. Check your brakes, tyres, chain and gears to avoid problems along the way.
- Hydration and nutrition:
Given the scarcity of shade and the island’s temperatures, it is vital to carry enough water and energy snacks to replenish your energy. Plan your stops in towns or service stations where you can refuel.
- Sun protection:
The sun in Lanzarote can be very intense, so it is important to apply high factor sunscreen, wear breathable clothing that covers the skin and don’t forget sunglasses and a cap under your helmet.
- Appropriate clothing:
Include a windbreaker or light jacket in your gear, as the weather can change quickly, especially at higher altitudes or in coastal areas.
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Route planning:
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Use of technology:
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Climate adaptation:
Lanzarote’s climate can be windy, and the wind plays a crucial role in determining the difficulty of the routes. Plan your route taking into account the wind direction.
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Company:
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Local information:
All in all, the climate in Lanzarote is a gift from the gods to sportsmen and women. The island’s eternal spring ensures that almost any day is a good day for an adventure. With an average temperature of 22 degrees Celsius, the island is an outdoor gym all year round.
