Monumento Natural de Los Ajaches

Monumento Natural de Los Ajaches is a vast protected area covering the entire southern tip of Lanzarote, within the municipality of Yaiza. Spanning more than 3,000 hectares, the natural monument stretches from around Punta del Papagayo to Playa Quemada, combining rugged volcanic highlands, stony plains and a stretch of coastline that includes some of the island's most admired beaches.

Where does the landscape come from?

The Los Ajaches massif is the oldest part of Lanzarote, shaped by eruptions that took place many millions of years ago — long before most of the volcanic scenery found elsewhere on the island. No new volcanic activity has occurred here since, so today's terrain is mostly the result of long-term erosion: deep ravines, jagged ridges and steep slopes dropping toward the sea.

What does the terrain and wildlife look like?

The area splits into two distinct zones: a compact mountainous massif on the leeward side and open, rocky plateaus on the windward side. Vegetation reflects the dry, volcanic climate of the island's south, dominated by low scrub and grasses, with denser tabaiba formations gathered in sheltered pockets of terrain. Lizard species found only in the Canary Islands live among the rocks, while birds of prey — including kestrels — circle above the ridges, cliffs and ravines.

Is there more than nature here?

Los Ajaches is also an important archaeological site. Fossils dating back around a million years have been found within the monument, alongside traces of early human activity — rock engravings and remains linked to pastoral use of the land by the island's earliest inhabitants. Its ravines, caves and cliffs preserve both a geological record and centuries of human presence.

Which trails are worth exploring?

Most hiking routes begin in the mountain village of Femés, where a gravel path climbs toward the massif's two main peaks, Pico Redondo and Pico de la Aceituna. The route covers roughly six kilometres and, despite the modest distance, demands a reasonable level of fitness due to the considerable elevation gain. From the summits, views stretch out over both the Atlantic coastline and the island's interior, making it one of the most rewarding walks on Lanzarote.

How do you reach the beaches within Los Ajaches?

The monument also encloses beaches known for clear water and a quieter atmosphere than the resorts on the island's west coast. The best known is Playa de Papagayo, framed by rocky cliffs and regarded as one of the island's finest beaches. Nearby lies Playa de las Mujeres, also noted for archaeological remains found in the surrounding area.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Los Ajaches located? In the southern part of Lanzarote, within the municipality of Yaiza, between Punta del Papagayo and Playa Quemada.

Can you hike to the summit? Yes, a popular trail runs from Femés up to Pico Redondo and Pico de la Aceituna, covering about six kilometres.

Which beaches lie within the natural monument? Playa de Papagayo and Playa de las Mujeres, among others.

What makes Los Ajaches different from the rest of the island? It's the geologically oldest part of Lanzarote, shaped mainly by erosion rather than the recent volcanism visible elsewhere on the island.

Are there traces of the island's early inhabitants here? Yes, rock engravings and remains of ancient pastoral activity have been found within the area.