Lanzarote has a raw volcanic terrain, unlike anywhere else in the world, ensuring that the entire island has been designated as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. As a consequence of this, much of what draws tourists to the island is held in its natural landscape.
One of the most visited areas of the island, and also one of the most fascinating is Timanfaya; nicknamed the Fire Mountains. It is recommended to make a visit to this inhospitable area close to either dawn or dusk so that the golden light is thrown against the backdrop of the volcanic structures. Visitors to this area are able to pour water into fissures witnessing the resulting spurt of steam, and can ride on the back of a dromedary through the Fire Mountains. The area enjoys around 900,000 visitors a year, travelling along the route originally defined by the island born artist and architect, Cesar Manrique. Despite being no longer home to any active volcanic activity the land is still seen to seethe in places.
Another of the most famous attractions for individuals on holidays to the Canary Islands to visit when in Lanzarote is the Jameos del Agua. The collapsed lava tube has been shaped and designed by Manrique with much of his individual style in evidence, and has been described as the eighth wonder of the world. Tropical gardens, bars and a restaurant surround an underwater lagoon in this most tranquil of places. Visitors will be able to enter via a large stone staircase, spiralling down before encountering the underground lagoon. The lagoon is also home to tiny albino crabs which are a species unique to the island proving a real draw for holiday makers. Many of the facilities found here are exceptional and the view looking out onto a different section of the 6km long tube are well worth a visit for any tourist.
Another attraction is located in the same tube – formed 3,000 years ago when the Montana La Corona erupted is the Cuevas de Los Verdes. The caves form one of the longest volcanic galleries in the world and are a place which is of great scientific interest. Despite being shaped by human hand to create a 2km pathway to show the caves to their best effect, it is difficult to see the human influence, unlike many other similar attractions worldwide. There is a fantastic lighting system within the caves really exemplifying them in their natural beauty. This is fast becoming one of the best tourist attractions in Lanzarote.
