Los Volcanes Natural Park

Los Volcanes Natural Park is a vast volcanic landscape in the municipality of Tinajo, on the western coast of Lanzarote, wrapping around the famous Timanfaya National Park on all sides. Covering more than 10,000 hectares spread across three municipalities — Tinajo, Tías and Yaiza — it forms one of the starkest and most geologically fascinating landscapes in the Canary Islands.

Where does this terrain come from?

The park's landscape was shaped by major volcanic eruptions that took place between 1730 and 1736, followed by another wave of activity in 1824. These events transformed much of western Lanzarote into a field of lava, ash and volcanic cones, producing scenery that today feels closer to another planet than to a typical Mediterranean coastline.

What can visitors actually see here?

The terrain is dotted with dozens of volcanic cones of varying height and colour, ranging from black through red to brown depending on the mineral composition of the cooled lava. Beyond the cones, the park contains lava tunnels, solidified lava lakes, and distinctive "hornitos" — small, tower-like structures formed by accumulations of molten slag pushed up through cracks in the hardened lava crust. This variety of geological formations draws geologists and landscape photographers alike.

Why does the park carry protected status?

The area was first brought under protection as part of a larger designated zone in 1987, before being reclassified as a separate natural park in its own right in 1994, distinct from the neighbouring Timanfaya National Park. The whole region forms part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve covering the island of Lanzarote and holds Geopark status, underlining the exceptional scientific and educational value of its volcanic formations. The area has additionally been designated a Special Protection Area for birds, a sign that despite its seemingly barren appearance, the ecosystem supports species adapted to harsh volcanic conditions.

How does it differ from Timanfaya?

Although the two parks border each other and were shaped by the same eruptions, Los Volcanes acts as a buffer zone around the strictly protected core that is Timanfaya. While access to Timanfaya itself is tightly controlled, mostly limited to organised buses along a fixed route, Los Volcanes offers greater freedom to explore on foot or by bike, making it a popular choice for travellers who want to experience the volcanic scenery without the crowds.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is the park located? In the municipality of Tinajo, in western Lanzarote, surrounding Timanfaya National Park on the landward side.

When did the volcanic landscape form? Mainly through eruptions between 1730 and 1736, with a further wave of activity in 1824.

Does the park have international recognition? Yes — the area is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and holds Geopark status.

What sets it apart from Timanfaya? Less restrictive access — visitors can explore on foot or by bike, unlike the organised bus tours required inside Timanfaya itself.