While Lanzarote boasts numerous vantage points, a visit to the Mirador del Río in Lanzarote promises a breathtaking panorama of the island and the Chinijo Archipelago just off its shores. This site stands as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lanzarote, suitable for all types of itineraries, be it with family or friends.
Mirador del Río, Lanzarote – Entrance Fee & Opening Hours
The concept for Mirador del Rio was conceived in the 1970s, and its construction spanned two years. Perched on a 1,600-foot-tall cliff, its strategic placement necessitated the excavation of rocky terrain and subsequent camouflaging with volcanic stone in order to blend it into the natural environment. Beyond offering a lookout point to marvel at the coastline, it also serves to enhance the beauty of the island’s landscapes, making it one of the best works of César Manrique in Lanzarote.
So, if you are looking for a fresh perspective on Lanzarote, this guide will provide all the essential information to make your visit to César Manrique’s Mirador del Río a memorable experience.
Guide to visiting the Mirador del Río in Lanzarote
I will provide you with all the information about Mirador del Río that you need for your visit, including ticket prices, directions, hours, and more. Here’s a quick review of what we will cover in this guide:
- Best things to do at the Mirador del Río
- Mirador del Rio opening times
- Entrance price of the Mirador del Río
- How to get to the Mirador del Rio
- Best things to do near the Mirador del Río in Lanzarote
- Other tips for visiting the Mirador del Rio
Best things to do at the Mirador del Río
The primary draw of the Mirador del Río is its panoramic views of the entire coast, making it an essential experience on the island. Situated atop the highest point of the Risco de Famara at 1,500 feet, this site offers unparalleled vistas. To give you a better picture, on clear days, you can gaze as far as the island of La Graciosa and the neighboring islands of the Chinijo Archipelago, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The stunning turquoise hues of the water further emphasize why this location is the largest and most beautiful marine reserve in Europe.
Panoramic views from Mirador del Rio
Beyond the expansive coastal views, there are several must-visit attractions at Mirador del Río in Lanzarote. You can admire the Salinas del Río along the coast, take in the sights of Montaña Clara, and glimpse the charming town of Caleta de Famara. Whether you’re on a multi-day tour of Lanzarote or a shorter visit, the indescribable merging of sea and sky on the horizon makes this a must-see destination.
View of the Salinas del Río from Mirador del Rio
Another notable point of interest is a distinctive sculpture by Manrique depicting a bird and a fish, which guards the entrance. The artist aimed to embody the two elements with the strongest presence in this environment – water and air.
Upon entering, you can spot two dome-shaped windows offering a glimpse of the views that await you on the terrace. Manrique’s meticulous touch is evident in various decorative details, including the staircase, aboriginal ceramic objects, and sculptures made with iron rods and plates hanging from the ceiling.
I also recommend making a stop by the gift shop, which offers a range of items, from traditional crafts to natural cosmetics and architecture books.
View from the upper terrace at Mirador del Rio
The upper terrace, a favored spot for many visitors, provides an ideal vantage point for capturing stunning photographs and enjoying the sea breeze. If you are eager to learn more, there are multiple informative panels about César Manrique’s work and telescopes. Moreover, there are outdoor play areas for the little ones, ensuring everyone has a great time.
Mirador del Rio restaurant
Finally, you can cap off your visit with a delicious aperitif or freshly brewed coffee at the Mirador del Rio cafeteria, serving simple dishes of traditional Canarian cuisine. The cafeteria also boasts the renowned “Barraquito“—a delightful mixture of coffee, liquor, foamed milk, cinnamon, and lemon. The interior is adorned with artistic creations by César Manrique and lamps shaped like prickly pear leaves, providing a fitting end to your Mirador del Río experience.
Mirador del Río opening times
The Mirador del Rio is open Monday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. However, it’s crucial to note that the last admission is at 4:40 p.m. So, I highly recommend arriving early to fully enjoy your visit.
Mirador del Río entrance fee
The ticket price for the Mirador del Río is €5 for adults and €2.50 for children aged 7 to 12. To ensure a smooth visit, I recommend purchasing your tickets online in advance. This not only helps you avoid potential queues but also allows you to better plan and organize your visit.
How to get to the Mirador del Río
There are several ways to reach Mirador del Río in Lanzarote. Renting a car in Lanzarote provides a convenient solution, allowing you to drive effortlessly along well-marked roads to the town of Ye in the northern part of the island.
The Mirador del Rio viewpoint is easily accessible from major tourist hubs such as Arrecife, Costa Teguise, Puerto del Carmen, and Playa Blanca. There are parking lots right at the entrance, so you don’t have to worry about finding a suitable parking spot. Additionally, there are nearby attractions that are worth your visit, making it possible to explore multiple points of interest in the vicinity— I’ll introduce them later.
Now, if you decide to explore alternative modes of transportation in Lanzarote, your best option is using the local buses, known as “guaguas.” Take line 26 from Arrecife to the town of Ye, and from there, either take a taxi or enjoy a half-hour walk to reach the Mirador del Río viewpoint. The journey from Arrecife to Ye typically takes around 60 minutes.
How to get to the Mirador del Río
Alternatively, if you don’t have a car, consider booking one of the best excursions in Lanzarote that offers a comprehensive visit to the Mirador del Río and other tourist attractions on the island. For instance, this full-day tour includes the remarkable Route of the Volcanoes at Timanfaya National Park, stops at iconic works like Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes, and a visit to Mirador del Rio at sunset, where you’ll get unparalleled panoramic views.
Another option is this excursion that delves into the works of César Manrique. This tour encompasses the Mirador del Río, along with visits to the Cactus Garden, Campesino Monument, Jameos del Agua, and the César Manrique Foundation.
Best hotels near the Mirador del Río
If you’ve decided to visit the Mirador del Rio in Lanzarote and prefer to stay nearby, consider finding accommodation in Lanzarote on one of the neighboring towns. Staying in the area allows you to explore the Mirador del Río early in the morning, so you can avoid the usual tourist crowds later in the day.
Here are my recommendations for the best hotels in Lanzarote in the vicinity:
- Casa Nube Blanca: This rural home in Ye is just 1.2 miles away, making it one of the best hotels at the Mirador del Río. It features double rooms with spectacular views of the surrounding area as well as tranquil spaces to relax and disconnect from the routine.
- Órzola Apartments: Located a 15-minute drive away in the town of Órzola, these apartments are strategically positioned for visits to the Mirador del Río and also serve as a departure point for ferries to La Graciosa. Fully equipped kitchens with amenities such as a microwave, toaster, refrigerator, coffee maker, and kettle, as well as stunning sea views, make Órzola Apartments a comfortable choice.
- Surf Lanzarote: This accommodation is one of the best apartments in Famara, ideally situated in the town center near shops, restaurants, and supermarkets. Featuring two bedrooms and a well-equipped kitchen, Surf Lanzarote apartments are perfect for families.
Best things to do near the Mirador del Río in Lanzarote
As mentioned earlier, a visit to the Mirador del Río only requires a few hours, leaving you with enough time and energy to explore other nearby landmarks. Here are some interesting attractions to consider visiting on the same day:
Cueva de los Verdes (Green Cave)
The Cueva de los Verdes is situated approximately 8 miles from Mirador del Rio, which translates to around a 15-minute car ride. This is another of César Manrique’s renowned works that you shouldn’t miss, showcasing an impressive adaptation of Lanzarote’s terrain for this artistic creation.
Cueva de los Verdes (Green Cave)
The site comprises a cave that forms part of a volcanic tube from the Corona Volcano, one of the most important volcanoes in Lanzarote, responsible for creating the largest lava field on the island during one of its eruptions. A network of trails has been established here, allowing you to journey underground and marvel at a fascinating grotto. Moreover, you can find different vaults and lagoons here that will undoubtedly leave you speechless.
The landscape is reminiscent of a postcard, featuring various shades of ochre and reddish colors. Additionally, an auditorium hosts several shows, so I highly recommend checking the schedule to ensure you don’t miss any performances.
Jameos del Agua
Continuing your exploration, you can head to the Jameos del Agua, located just half a mile from the Cueva de los Verdes. While it shares the same volcanic tunnel, this section has been transformed to house a museum, a spectacular auditorium, and a restaurant.
Jameos del Agua
Within this unique space, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter one of the rarest and most exotic species in the world —the albino crab or jameito. This species exclusively inhabits the lagoon inside Jameos del Agua, so visiting this place is truly a unique experience.
La Corona Volcano
The Corona Volcano is around 3,000 years old and played a pivotal role in shaping the geography of Lanzarote during one of its eruptions. Its intense activity led to the formation of various remarkable volcanic structures, later serving as the canvas for artistic interventions by César Manrique, including the Jameos del Agua and the Cueva de los Verdes that I mentioned earlier.
La Corona Volcano
If you like outdoor activities, I highly recommend exploring one of the best hiking routes in Lanzarote, which lasts about 3 hours until you reach the volcano’s crater. Not only is it renowned as one of the best-preserved craters on the island, but it also allows you to explore its interior.
The trail begins in the town of Ye, where you can find numerous charming restaurants and a picturesque historic center. Despite its relatively short duration, the hike unveils diverse landscapes, and the panoramic views from the summit are the perfect reward for your efforts. So, I suggest wearing your sturdy boots and enjoying this exciting adventure.
Caletón Blanco Beach
Caletón Blanco Beach stands out as one of the best beaches in Lanzarote, conveniently located just a 15-minute drive from the Mirador del Río. On scorching days, when the urge to cool off strikes, you can head to the beach, take a refreshing dip, and enjoy the sea breeze and crystal-clear waters.
Caletón Blanco Beach
The volcanic landscape, adorned with lava flows, creates a stunning interplay of colors. Additionally, there are multiple natural pools dotting the Lanzarote coastline, offering ideal spots for relaxation and leisure, making Caletón Blanco a perfect destination, especially for families with children.
César Manrique House Museum
For a more comprehensive understanding of the attractions you’ve explored, consider a visit to the César Manrique House Museum. This museum provides valuable insights into the life of the artist and his artistic philosophy, emphasizing harmony with the environment. César Manrique not only left an indelible mark on the art world but also played a pivotal role in safeguarding the pristine landscapes of the Canary Islands from the impacts of mass tourism.
César Manrique House Museum
Situated in the renowned “Casa del Palmeral,” the museum occupies the house where the artist spent his final years. Originally, the house was part of a dilapidated agricultural estate, but later it underwent reconstruction in a traditional Canarian architectural style, meticulously preserving its essential structural elements. The museum features a collection of personal belongings, handicrafts, utensils, and other works.
Other tips for visiting the Mirador del Río
Here are some helpful tips for your visit to Lanzarote’s Mirador del Rio. Feel free to share additional recommendations in the comments if you have any.
- Dress warmly, especially in colder months (October to May). As you climb the Mirador del Río, you’ll reach high elevations where the wind makes it a lot cooler.
- Apply sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
- During bad weather or very cloudy days, the Mirador del Río offers a reduced rate. While you may not be able to see some islands on the horizon, the visit remains enjoyable.
- The Mirador del Río is open year-round for visits.
- Plan for an average visit time of approximately 45 minutes, but consider combining your visit with other essential attractions on the island. If you plan to watch the sunset at the Mirador del Rio or enjoy a coffee at the Mirador del Rio cafe, you might extend your stay.
- Bring your camera to capture breathtaking photos of Mirador del Río, especially from the upper terrace. But don’t forget to enjoy the panorama with your own eyes!
- Utilize the free parking available at the entrance.
- If you are traveling with children, note that strollers are not permitted on-site.
FAQs – Mirador del Río in Lanzarote
Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions when visiting the Mirador del Rio in Lanzarote:
What is the best way to visit the Mirador del Río?
While you can visit the Mirador del Río on your own, opting for a tour like this one is the most comfortable way to experience the Mirador del Río viewpoint. This tour includes transportation from your hotel and informative commentary from your guide, so it helps you optimize your time.
How much is the entrance price of Mirador del Río?
The entrance price of Mirador del Río is €5 for adults and €2.50 for children between 7 and 12 years old.
How long does it take to visit the Mirador del Río?
The average duration of a visit to the Mirador del Río is approximately one hour, but consider extra time if you want to watch the sunset at the Mirador del Río.
What are the Mirador del Río’s opening times?
The Mirador del Río is open Monday to Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with the last admission 20 minutes before closing.
Is there a restaurant at Mirador del Río?
Yes, the Mirador del Río cafe offers snacks, sandwiches, and coffee.
And that concludes our guide to Mirador del Río in Lanzarote. Now that you have all the information to make the most of your visit, take a moment to explore our Lanzarote tourist map and discover other charming places to add to your Lanzarote travel itinerary.
If you have any questions about Mirador del Rio or want to share your experience exploring one of the most famous Canary Islands, feel free to leave me a comment below.
Enjoy your time in Lanzarote!
