Travel guide – Lanzarote
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Overview
The most northeasterly of the Canary Islands, Lanzarote has embraced the tourism boom with a more laid-back feel than its popular sister islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Nature is still a big attraction on this small volcanic island, which measures only 38 miles (60km) long and 13 miles (21km) at its widest point. Camels are often used to transport goods (and sometimes tourists) in this desert-like climate, across the dry volcanic ash that covers most of the landscape. UNESCO declared the whole island a Biosphere Reserve in 1993, and visitors exploring the dozens of enchanting spots on the island will soon see why. Lanzarote’s capital, Arrecife, is a small town on the eastern coast, its harbour packed with fishing boats. Although the town itself has little to offer in the way of sights or nightlife, it does have a magnificent, clean beach, El Reducto, which has been granted blue flag status by the European Union. A promenade runs along the beach front around the San Gines lagoon with its fine golden sand and placid waters.
Climate
Lanzarote has a great climate throughout the year, although the sea breeze can be quite bracing. The average temperature is comfortable all year round, rarely dropping below 63°F (17°C) and more often above 82°F (28°C) during the day. During the winter it gets cool in the evenings and the sea temperature drops. Rainfall in the summer months is almost non-existent, but showers are likely between October and April.
Health
There are no health risks associated with travel to Spain, and no vaccination certificates are required for entry. Spain has a reciprocal health agreement with most EU countries, including the UK, providing free emergency health care at State run hospitals. UK travellers should take a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Note that private clinics are not covered, and the scheme gives no entitlement to medical repatriation costs, nor does it cover ongoing illnesses of a non-urgent nature, so comprehensive travel insurance is advised.
The basics
Getting Around
Lanzarote is small and easy to navigate; most of the major resorts and attractions are within ten miles (16km) of each other. Efficient bus services go around and between the main resorts and operate until quite late. Taxis are also easily available and fairly good value. Those going off the beaten track may wish to hire a car for a day or two; car rental companies have offices in all the main resorts.
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