Where to Find the Best View in Lanzarote (Photo Spots Guide)
Last Updated on 5th June 2024 by Sophie Nadeau
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Lanzarote is a volcanic island that is one of the eastern most isles of the Canary Islands, a group of islands belonging to Spain that is off the coast of west Africa. The very nature of the island means that it is littered with peaks and troughs, thus ensuring dozens of dazzling vistas. Here’s where to find the best view in Lanzarote, including some of our favourite photo spots.
The Calima
One of the most important things to know before visiting Lanzarote is that there is a weather phenomenon that may well put a weather-shaped dent in your viewpoint spotting plans if it happens to you during your Lanzarote trip.
The Calima is when hot or warm winds from the east blow sand and dust over from the Sahara desert, thus covering almost everything in an orange dust. Typically, humidity rises and you can’t see as far as usual.
La Calima happens several times a year and it unfortunately occurred during our trip, meaning that none of the viewpoints were as clear as they are normally! The Calima most commonly occurs during the winter months, though it can also occur during the summer.
The air quality also drops during this time and so you should avoid spending extended times outside. Normally, rain really helps clear the Calima away and so if the Calima happens during your time on Lanzarote, you’ll probably actually end up hoping for a rainy day!
If it’s your first time on the island, be sure to check out our suggested 72 hours in Lanzarote itinerary.
Best view in Lanzarote
Mirador de Guinate
One spot where we particularly enjoyed the view was the Mirador de Guinate. You have to reach this viewpoint via car, and it’s a short drive down the western coastline from Mirador del Río.
The viewpoints is completely free and allows you to see both La Graciosa island and Guinate from the same spot. We personally found that there were fewer people here than at other spots on the island, making it somewhat of a hidden gem.
Situated 500 meters above sea level on the cliffs of Risco de Famara, this Lanzarote viewpoint overlooks the Chinijo Archipelago and you should note that there are almost always strong winds so be sure to wrap up warm with a jacket, even during the summer months.
Mirador del Rio
One of the most popular viewpoints in Lanzarote is Mirador del Río, which is at the northernmost point of the island. It’s worth noting that there’s a free viewpoint here, close to the car park (also free), as well as a cultural interpretation centre that you have to pay for.
The Mirador del Río is on the Risco de Famara escarpment and if you go into the paid visitor centre (at the cost of 5 euros, then there’s a small café and viewing terrace).
We weren’t able to visit the centre as it was closed for filming during our trip. Instead, we enjoyed the free view close to the car park, which is particularly spectacular at sunset.
I recommend arriving at least 15 minutes before sunset so that you have sufficient time to park and find a spot to watch the sunset from. There are no barriers on the cliff so be sure to pay special attention to children and don’t venture too close to the edge.
El golfo
One of the most beautiful photo spots on the island can be found by heading to El Golfo. The little village is best-known for the Charco Verde, a green lake close to the sea that is simply stunning and is a true testament to the beauty of nature.
Please note that the lake is protected and so it is forbidden to enter the water. El Golfo itself is a picturesque village with little by way of attractions but is worth visiting at sunset, if only to enjoy the black sand beach and gorgeous colours of the sunset.
Driving around
Truth be told, one of the best ways to get a feel for the island is to drive between the major attractions and admire the scenery en route. We personally rented with Cicar and it was truly the best car rental experience we’ve ever had.
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