Yaiza Lanzarote, volcanoes, pristine beaches, and the best south of the island

Yaiza Lanzarote is one of the municipalities with the highest concentration of attractions in Canary Islands. Within its territory are the Timanfaya National Park, the beaches of Papagayo, the cliffs of Los Hervideros, the green lagoon of El Golfo, the Janubio Salinas and the tourist center of Playa Blanca. All in a protected volcanic landscape like Biosphere Reserve.

. Furthermore, the village of Yaiza itself is a perfect example of traditional Lanzarote architecture: white houses no more than two stories high, green wooden doors and windows, and total integration with the environment. Thanks to the CanariasLife webcam in Playa Blanca , you can watch live the sea state and the conditions of the southern coast.

Timanfaya National Park in Yaiza Lanzarote

Much of the Timanfaya National Park is situated within the municipality of Yaiza. The Fire Mountains, formed by the eruptions of the 18th century, create a lunar landscape where the underground heat is still palpable.

It can be explored on a guided bus tour through the interior of the park. Additionally, at the Camel Station , you can take a camel ride along the volcanic slopes. It is a must-see visit, and it's advisable to book tickets in advance during high season.

Papagayo Beaches

The Papagayo beaches are the most famous in the south of Lanzarote: pristine coves with golden sand and turquoise waters, undeveloped and protected as Natural Monument. They are accessed via a dirt road from Playa Blanca.

. They are perfect for snorkel because of the clarity of the water and the rocky seabed. You can also reach them by walking from Playa Blanca along a coastal path with spectacular views. However, there are no services at the coves themselves, so it is advisable to bring water and food.

Los Hervideros and El Golfo

The Hervideros are lava cliffs where the sea forcefully enters through caves and tunnels, creating an impressive natural spectacle. It's a short but very visual stop.

On the other hand, next to the fishing village of El Golfo is found at the Green Pool (also called Green Lake), a semi-hidden emerald lagoon located in a volcanic crater. It is one of the most photographed spots in Lanzarote. In the restaurants of El Golfo, they serve fresh fish (old fish, sea bream) with views of the Atlantic.

Janubio Salinas

The Janubio Salinas are the largest in Canary Islands and are still active. Their ponds of pink, white, and green water, depending on the light, create a unique landscape. Additionally, they are an important point for birdwatching, as flamingos and other migratory birds rest in their pools.

Playa Blanca in Yaiza Lanzarote

Playa Blanca is the main tourist hub of the municipality of Yaiza Lanzarote. It has an urban beach with light sand and calm waters, the Marina Rubicón (marina with restaurants and shops) and a pleasant promenade.

From Playa Blanca port, ferries to Fuerteventura depart (35-minute crossing) and excursions from whale watching. In fact, it is the fastest maritime connection between the two islands.

The village of Yaiza and its heritage

The area of Yaiza is one of the most beautiful villages of Lanzarote. The Church of Our Lady of Remedies (18th century) presides over the Plaza de los Remedios, surrounded by palm trees and white houses. The entire municipality respects the norm of low building and white aesthetics, giving it a unique visual coherence.

In the upper area, the village of Femés offers panoramic views of the southern part of the island and Fuerteventura. It is a good place to eat rabbit in salmorejo in the local taverns.

Gastronomy in Yaiza

The cuisine of the municipality is rooted in Lanzarote. Wrinkled potatoes with mojo, Canarian sancocho, rabbit in salmorejo, fresh fish in El Golfo and local cheeses are the must-try dishes. All accompanied by Malvasía wine from La Geria, the wine region that begins at the limits of the municipality.

In fact, both the village of Yaiza and Playa Blanca and El Golfo have restaurants with good cuisine and views of the sea or the volcanic landscape.

Festivals and traditions

The Festivities of Our Lady of Los Remedios (September) is the main celebration of the village. In Playa Blanca, the Fiestas del Carmen (July) includes a maritime procession. And in Femés, the pilgrimage in honor of San Marcial attracts neighbors from all over the south of the island.

How to get to Yaiza

Since the Lanzarote airport you arrive at Playa Blanca in about 25 minutes via the LZ-2. There are Intercity Bus (lines 30 and 60) from Arrecife. You can also get there by ferry from Fuerteventura directly to the port of Playa Blanca.