Lanzarote: Timanfaya Volcano Trek & Lava Fields Walk

Summary

Walk Lanzarote’s wild side through Timanfaya’s volcanic scars

You’ll follow a local guide off the usual paths across Timanfaya’s lava fields, climb La Rilla Volcano, and pause at craters shaped by centuries-old eruptions. Expect crunchy volcanic rock underfoot, stories you won’t find in any guidebook, snacks along the way, and a feeling of wildness that lingers long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me was the crunch under my boots — not gravel, but this weird, sharp lava rock that made a sound almost like glass. Our guide, Marta, handed out walking sticks (I thought I wouldn’t need one… turns out I did). She pointed to the horizon where La Rilla Volcano rises up like something from another planet. The air smelled faintly of sulfur and dust. I kept thinking: this is what it might feel like to walk on Mars, if Mars had sun and a sea breeze.

We started the trek early — apparently the wind picks up by midday in Lanzarote. The path isn’t marked; you’d never find it without someone who knows these volcanoes inside out. Marta told us about the eruptions that shaped this place 300 years ago. She showed us how the ground changes color — black to rusty red to pale grey — and explained why some plants somehow survive here. There was a moment when we stopped at the edge of a crater, everyone quiet except for the wind whistling through the rocks. I didn’t expect to feel so small.

It’s only about 7km but you’re stepping over old lava flows and crunchy ash most of the way. Someone in our group asked if there were snakes (nope), and another joked about dragons (Marta just grinned). We snacked on fruit while sitting on warm stones, watching clouds drift over distant hills. Honestly, I still think about that silence — there’s nothing quite like it anywhere else I’ve walked.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Volcano trekking in Timanfaya Park

• Start three-hour volcano walk
• Climb la Rilla Volcano
• See volcanic craters
• Walk through lava fields
• Learn volcanic history of Lanzarote
• Complete circular 7km route

Top questions

How long is the volcano trekking tour in Lanzarote?

The tour lasts around three hours and covers about 7km in total.

Is hotel pickup included for the Timanfaya volcano trek?

Private transportation is included as part of your day trip experience.

What should I bring for walking in Timanfaya?

You don’t need much—walking sticks and rain jackets are provided along with snacks.

Is this volcano walk suitable for beginners or kids?

The route is low difficulty and suitable for all fitness levels; infants can join if seated on an adult’s lap.

Will we see active volcanoes during this Lanzarote trek?

No active eruptions now—the landscape was formed by eruptions around 300 years ago.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are welcome on this volcano trekking tour.

How much elevation gain is there during the hike?

The altitude difference is only about 50 meters across the circular route.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation from your accommodation to Timanfaya’s volcanic region, walking sticks if you want them (trust me—you might), rain jackets just in case those island clouds roll in, plus snacks along the way before heading back after about three hours on foot.