Travel with kids Lanzarote with the whole family

There’s no video game, TV show, Disney movie or children’s story that looks anything like Lanzarote. And that’s the number one reason to choose this volcanic island as the place for your next family vacation. Because what do kids today need the most? Newness, freshness, different experiences and, at the same time, responsibility... and since this island opted for eco-tourism decades ago, it’s now a place where children can enjoy themselves in unique and imaginative places like the Cactus Garden (pictured above). But there are also tons of other unbeatable things to do with kids on Lanzarote, like the activities you’ll find below.
 

The world of Manrique

Both the Cactus Garden and Jameos del Agua are creations that the local artist and architect César Manrique left to his native island. Visiting them is like going beyond the screen to an interactive universe, where kids are amazed by the contrast and creativity bursting from each site. In the lava tubes, children can find jameítos (an endemic species of squat lobster), curious creatures that are one of a kind in the world. They’ll surprise you with their nearly fluorescent pale color while they scuttle through these unique caves.

Welcome to Mars

Timanfaya is, without a doubt, the main attraction on the island for people of all ages. First, because its landscapes can make anyone fall in love with their otherworldly appearance. Second, because the ways of exploring them—whether via guided bus tour or on the back of a camel—are entertaining and educational. And third, because the visitor center’s water-spewing fumaroles and natural ovens, which cook all kinds of meats with geothermal heat, are quite a sight to see.

Hotel or water park?

There’s no better hotel on the island for kids and adults alike than the Iberostar Selection Lanzarote Park. All of its facilities have been designed so that children don’t think of the resort as just another hotel, but rather as a world of fun. Its brand new water park, featuring waterslides of all shapes and sizes, is just the tip of the iceberg. Here the most daring visitors—as well as those who are a little more cautious—can spend their vacation splashing, sliding and swimming. And as if that weren’t enough, there’s the Star Camp, with activities for all ages. It promotes practical entertainment and helps children learn to value responsibility, diversity and caring for the environment. Who could ask for more?

A pirate’s life for me?

Pirate stories have played a part in children’s imaginations for decades. But do kids really know the origins of Captain Hook and Jack Sparrow? If the answer is no, that can be fixed at the Castle of Santa Bárbara in Teguise, a fortress built to thwart the attacks of these fierce sailors. Today it houses a museum offering fun and education in equal measure. Here kids can learn about Ali Romero and Francis Drake, savage sea bandits who are closely linked to the Canary Islands. And no… they didn’t wear eye patches or carry talking parrots on their shoulders.

The heart of the volcano

The Cueva de los Verdes is one of the jameos, or volcanic tunnels, created by the nearby Monte Corona in the north of the island. This kilometer-long cave is a collection of fascinating formations made of lava and ash carved out by water. Kids will love the colors and shapes they’ll find here. But the most breathtaking part will be revealed at the end of your visit. We’re not going to let the secret slip—it's much more exciting to see it without spoilers.

A coastline full of fun

The youngest part of the island, its southwestern region, is a veritable outdoor museum of natural rarities that will impress both grown-ups and little ones. From south to north you’ll find strange salt lakes made of volcanic stone, cliffs from which the sea seems to boil and bubble (hence the name “Los Hervideros,” the cauldrons) and what’s likely the most charismatic beach in the archipelago, Charco de los Ciclos. This spot in El Golfo is an expanse of black sand that merges with the vermilion hues of the mountains and the green of its lagoon, a color that comes from the various sulfates in the water. This psychedelic site fascinates children; it’s as if the kaleidoscopes of your own childhood have come to life for all to enjoy.

Allure and awareness under the sea

The Lanzarote Aquarium is much more than the second largest aquarium in the archipelago. It’s also a place where the whole family can have fun learning about different kinds of marine ecosystems and, above all, the importance of their preservation. For example, the aquarium has a tank that shows the impact of garbage on the oceans. Other highlights include the touching pools, where you can touch creatures like sea urchins and sea cucumbers. Of course, visitors are only allowed to touch the animals with care and supervision, and without disturbing them too much.

Much more than a quick dip

The beaches of Papagayo are the best way to expose your littlest ones to the wildest side of nature—and it won’t be in vain. The coves and waters here are home to many marine species that can easily be seen with a snorkel mask. Plus, since you don’t have to swim too much to enjoy these underwater volcanic homes, it’s the perfect place for beginners to fall in love with the world hidden beneath the waves.

Head to the unpaved island

An outing to the island of La Graciosa is one of the best ways to spend a day with the family on an improvised adventure. Crossing the water to reach Caleta del Sebo from Orzola, in northern Lanzarote, is an experience in and of itself. Once ashore, expect a nearly deserted island, with a dry landscape of volcanoes and remote beaches that seem to have never before been set foot on by humans. Add a few extra activities to the scene, like an orienteering game with compasses or a bike tour, and your day will be, quite simply, perfect.

If there is a Canary Island capable of surprising and enchanting, it is definitely Lanzarote. With an area of only 846 km², this fascinating island in the province of Las Palmas is a territory with landscapes not to be found anywhere else in the world, which was recognized by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve in 1993. To understand how unusual Lanzarote is, look no further than its almost lunar, rocky plains which are astonishingly arid, with hundreds of volcanoes scattered around. Its nickname – the Island of the Moon – comes exactly thanks to the scenery. If that isn’t enough for you to start planning family holidays to Lanzarote, short breaks from your everyday routine or a romantic weekend, then there is much more of the island to discover. What is more, in order for you to be able to experience the entire island’s beauty with comfort, we provide the best hotels in Lanzarote.