Why Lanzarote is the ultimate green holiday destination
If you love travelling but would an eco-friendly holiday, then look no further. Lanzarote has always been a sustainable tourism destination, long before the concept of green holidays was born.
Whereas many destinations are now realising they need to be more sustainable, Lanzarote has been evolving in line with sustainable tourism principles for over fifty years.
César Manrique: creating sustainable tourism through art and nature
César Manrique (1919-1992) was a local artist inspired by the incredible natural beauty of his homeland. Upon his return to Lanzarote in the mid-1960s, he collaborated with the island’s government in a series of artistic projects.
These projects aimed to turn the island’s stunning natural landscape and attractions into valuable, sustainable tourism resources for all to enjoy. You can appreciate just how visionary Manrique was and visit some of these magnificent tourist centres during your stay.
One of Manrique’s spectacular projects of blending art and nature is Jameos del Agua. These magnificent caves sit in a seven-kilometre-long lava tunnel formed by the eruption of La Corona volcano some 25,000 years ago. Some parts of this tunnel collapsed, forming holes in the ceiling (or jameos), and the artist created a haven of peace and beauty within it.
Enjoy the singular beauty of Jameos del Agua. Marvel at how Manrique reimagined this geological wonder through art and design, with his trademark colours of blue (the ocean), green (vegetation), red (fire) and white (the island’s houses). Incredibly, it also houses a restaurant, a magnificent auditorium and the iconic outdoor pool.
A natural paradise for eco-friendly holidays
Lanzarote is a land of contrasts and a spectacular example of pure geology, with lunar landscapes, crystal clear waters, parched lands, and palm oases. An annual average temperature of 21⁰C and eternal blue skies make this one of the most beautiful places in the world.
When you come to Lanzarote, the magnificent natural landscape and sustainably designed attractions mean you are in for a truly eco-friendly holiday. These amazing natural sights include The Fire Mountains, with over 50 square kilometres of striking volcanic landscape. Mirador del Rio is truly a sight for sore eyes with its breathtaking views over La Graciosa.
See the mesmerising green lake at Charco de los Clicos or the majestic cliffs at Famara Beach. Geology has blessed the island with idyllic beaches and reefs with crystal blue waters all over the island. Some of the particularly stunning include Papagayo, La Francesa in La Graciosa and Caletón Blanco to name a few.
Lanzarote: a certified sustainable tourism destination
The harmony between man and nature that has developed over the years was one reason the entire island of Lanzarote was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1993. Then in 2015, Lanzarote and the surrounding islands (Chinijo Archipelago) were also declared a UNESCO Geopark.
Lanzarote was also the first destination in the world to obtain a Biosphere Responsible Tourism certification and is committed to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals set out by the United Nations. The island government is now actively encouraging Lanzarote tourism companies to join this initiative and work together to achieve these goals.
The UN also outlined some sustainable development goals for tourism so that travellers can also contribute to leaving a positive footprint in the countries they visit. Watch out for some SDG tips for travellers throughout this article.
Where to stay – green hotels in Lanzarote
SDG tip for travellers 🌱 : Look for accommodation that aligns with your sustainable values when travelling the world
If you’re a sustainable traveller, you’ll probably be looking for green hotels. Luckily, Lanzarote already boasts a range of eco-friendly hotels that have also gained Biosphere Sustainable certification and where you can minimise your environmental impact. Click on the links below and decide which one is perfect for you!
Click on the links below and decide which one is perfect for you!
- H10 Lanzarote Princess
- H10 Palacio de Timanfaya
- H10 White Suites Boutique Hotel
- Sandos Atlantic Gardens
- Hotel Grand Teguise Playa
- La Isla y el Mar Hotel Boutique
How can you help sustainable tourism in Lanzarote?
Buy and eat local
Despite Lanzarote’s dry climate and the harsh conditions, farmers have faced in the past, you’ll find delicious and colourful local produce nearby wherever you are on the island.
If your idea of a holiday is eating out to try local food, you’ll find flavour some local dishes at a wide range of Lanzarote restaurants that use 0km products to prepare authentic local dishes.
If you prefer self-catering and enjoy cooking, pick up fresh Lanzarote produce at local markets or buy direct from local producers. Try the variety of freshly caught fish, bread, cheese, eggs, craft beers, locally made wines, marmalades, and preserves. Alternatively, you can take them home to savour as you relive your wonderful holiday memories.
SDG tip for travellers 🌱 : So, how can you help sustainable tourism? Try to avoid wasting food and leaving leftovers by ordering or filling your plate with only what you’ll eat.
Learn about the fascinating local culture
Lanzarote locals (or Conejeros) are proud of their roots and traditions remain strong in many towns and villages around the island. The island even boasts one of the most beautiful towns in Spain, an award given to the picturesque old capital of Teguise in 2020.
One place to immerse yourself in local culture and learn about the island’s history is Casa Museo del Campesino in San Bartolome. Also designed by Manrique, it was created as a tribute to Lanzarote farmers who prevailed in the face of adversity after the Timanfaya eruptions between 1730-1736. The islanders lost their most fertile lands under lava and were forced to adapt to a new way of survival.
You can learn all about the island’s agricultural history and see traditional tools and arts and crafts. Why not also savour delicious local produce, wine and typical tapas in the bar-restaurant?
SDG tip for travellers 🌱: Learn a few words of the local language. It’ll help you connect with the local community and its people more meaningfully.
Reduce energy consumption
Hire an electric vehicle from one of the many car rental companies on the island. Check out their websites to browse the vehicles they offer. They’ll also be able to give you information about the different charging points available.
Use public transport or join an excursion to reduce your carbon footprint. And besides, you’ll enjoy the breath-taking scenery much more if you don’t have to worry about driving.
You could also hire a bike or eBike. Just contact one of the many bike rental businesses in Lanzarote.
Enjoy the great outdoors responsibly
Lanzarote is a paradise for outdoor sports, the best way to enjoy nature, be healthy and travel sustainably!
Around 30% of the world’s marine life is found in the Canary Islands. Lanzarote’s Biosphere Reserve and Geopark status also means that our exuberant waters are protected. By far the best place to celebrate the month when we celebrate World Ocean’s Day and World Environment Day.
You can find a wide range of diving schools that offer visitors to know the wonderful marine world of Lanzarote, some of them are also accredited as centers with biosphere certificate as is the case of Timanfaya Sub diving center. You can try diving for the first time and even get your PADI qualification. If you’re already an experienced diver, join a group to discover some of the locals best kept underwater secrets.
If you prefer to stay under, on top of the water, or perhaps trekking or visiting some of the local wineries on land, Lanzarote is the ideal sports destination for your eco-friendly holiday.
Remember to check out our events calendar before coming to Lanzarote. Surely you can match your getaway to the island with one of the sporting or cultural events that are organized throughout the year in which the application of good sustainable practices and care for the environment is also usually encouraged.
Help protect Lanzarote marine life with ZEConsciente
SDG tip for travellers 🌱 : If you see an interesting initiative or social project while travelling, join in and leave a positive impact wherever you go.
While the entire island is a Biosphere Reserve, some areas that have special environmental protection. The marine area of Cagafrecho is one of these, covering over 600 hectares that lap the shores near Puerto del Carmen in the municipality of Tias. The area forms part of Nature 2000, a European network of core breeding and resting sites for protected species.
The Tias local council organises ongoing fun and educational activities through a programme named ZEConsciente. During the month of June, there are water-based activities that explore the sounds and sights of the sea, and informative documentaries and workshops on dry land.
All ages are welcome, as are both residents and tourists, although most activities are in Spanish. However, during August and September, the council will hold bilingual English and Spanish stand-up paddle exploration activities along the municipality’s coastline. Visit the Tias council English website for information and contact details.