Cueva de los Verdes, Lanzarote – Tickets & Hours

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Cueva de los Verdes is one of the most unique places I’ve encountered in all my travels. That’s why I decided to provide you with all the essential information to help you organize your visit to this fascinating destination. Today, the Green Cave in Lanzarote is widely recognized as one of the most important tourist attractions in Lanzarote, with a history reaching back over 4,000 years.

To provide some context, the Volcán de la Corona, one of the most famous volcanoes in Lanzarote, underwent intense activity that resulted in a significant lava spill that formed the Malpaís de la Corona. This eruption also dramatically increased the island’s surface area. Over time, natural forces sculpted this expanded surface, giving rise to magnificent geological formations, including the captivating Cueva de los Verdes in Lanzarote.

Cueva de los Verdes, Lanzarote – Tickets & Hours

Not only is this site celebrated as one of the Art, Culture, and Tourism Centers (CACT) in Lanzarote, but it also holds immense cultural importance since it was rehabilitated by the Canarian artist César Manrique.

By focusing on the conservation and enhancement of the site, Manrique crafted a mesmerizing tour through the interior of these lava caves in Lanzarote. The tour offers an opportunity to witness rock formations and natural vaults that will undoubtedly leave you in awe.

Guide to visiting the Cueva de los Verdes in Lanzarote

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Cueva de los Verdes in Lanzarote. From ticket information to directions, prices, and more, I’ve got you covered.

These are the topics I’ll cover in this article:

• Best things to do at Cueva de los Verdes
• Cueva de los Verdes opening hours
• Cueva de los Verdes entrance fee
• How to get to Cueva de los Verdes
• Best hotels near Cueva de los Verdes
• Best things to do near Cueva de los Verdes

Best things to do at Cueva de los Verdes

To explore Cueva de los Verdes (Green Caves) in Lanzarote, you must take a tour. Your guide will share interesting stories and will highlight special corners to give you a better picture of the site. Cueva de los Verdes has a rich history, with early records dating back to the 16^th and 17^th centuries when locals sought refuge from pirate attacks. Additionally, a family of shepherds whose last name was “Verdes” used to live here, using it to protect their flock from inclement weather conditions.

Best things to do at Cueva de los Verdes

Beyond its historical significance, Cueva de los Verdes offers a stunning visual spectacle. The journey begins by descending the “Tunnel of Atlantis,” a one-mile stretch leading deep into this lava tube in Lanzarote. The varied hues of the rock formations, ranging from reddish to ochre and black tones, create a unique landscape. As if that were not enough, the cave’s lighting and the water seeping through its walls further enhance the visual experience.

Things to do at Cueva de los Verdes

The tour is divided into three distinct areas: the Hall of the Aesthetes, the Throat of Death, and the Moorish Gate. These areas are interconnected through overlapping galleries, which allows you to have an immersive experience in this natural wonder, located at an elevation of approximately 150 feet. On top of it all, you can witness magnificent stone vaults, lava tubes, solidified drops on rocks, saline deposits, and magma stalactites.

At the end of the tour, you will come across an immense cliff that I am sure will leave you breathless, just as it did for us. Furthermore, here, your guide will reveal the true secret of Cueva de los Verdes, adding a captivating finale to your tour.

Cueva de Los Verdes Auditorium

Complementing the grandeur of these Lanzarote lava tunnels, you can also explore the Cueva de Los Verdes Auditorium inside. With a 200-person capacity, this unique space offers a captivating setting where you can experience magnificent acoustics during select concerts and shows.

Cueva de Los Verdes Auditorium

Moreover, the annual Lanzarote Visual Music Festival is hosted in this auditorium. If you plan your visit around this time, you cannot miss the opportunity to attend one of its events, featuring a diverse range of performances, including classical music shows, fusion, jazz, opera, and flamenco.

Cueva de los Verdes opening hours

The Green Caves in Lanzarote are open to visitors from Monday to Sunday between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. It’s important to note that the last admission and guided tour start at 4:00 p.m. I recommend arriving before this time so you don’t risk missing out.

The guided tour takes around 50 minutes. With this in mind, you can efficiently organize your day and even consider combining your visit with other attractions in Lanzarote. I’ll share more details on additional must-visit spots later.

Cueva de los Verdes entrance fee

The entrance fee to Cueva de los Verdes is €10 for adults and €5 for children aged 7 to 12 years old. You can buy your ticket online or at the on-site box office. To better organize your visit, I recommend getting your ticket in advance.

How to get to Cueva de los Verdes

There are several transportation options available for you to reach Cueva de los Verdes, depending on how you prefer to travel around the island. Cueva de los Verdes is situated in the north, where numerous attractions are concentrated. This means you can organize your itinerary to make the most out of your visit.

We decided to rent a car in Lanzarote, and it proved to be our best choice. The well-connected roads to the main tourist towns, including Arrecife, Costa Teguise, Puerto del Carmen, and Playa Blanca, make it easy to access the cave. Plus, there is a parking lot available right at the entrance.

If you don’t have a car, Lanzarote’s local buses (known as “guaguas“) are an excellent alternative. You can take line 9 from Arrecife to Órzola and reach Cueva de los Verdes with stops at Teguise, Guatila, Arrieta, and Punta Mujeres. The journey takes approximately an hour since there are multiple stops.

How to get to Cueva de los Verdes

Another option for those who prefer not to drive is booking one of the best excursions in Lanzarote that combines the Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes. Both attractions are adjacent and truly spectacular. If that sounds good to you, I recommend this guided tour, which offers a good value for money.

Alternatively, this full-day tour covering Jameos del Agua, Cueva de los Verdes, the Route of the Volcanoes in Timanfaya National Park, and the Mirador del Río is an excellent choice. This comprehensive tour also offers stunning views of La Graciosa.

If you are interested in César Manrique’s life and work, then I recommend this excursion, which provides you with insights into emblematic places such as the Cactus Garden, the Campesino Monument, Mirador del Río, and the César Manrique Foundation, alongside Cueva de los Verdes. If you ask me, this is the most practical and informative way to explore these attractions in a single day.

Best hotels near Cueva de los Verdes

Cueva de los Verdes is a highly popular point of interest, so it’s a good idea to stay in Lanzarote and start your day early in the morning.

Here are three of the top Lanzarote hotels I recommend for an enjoyable experience:

• Casa Azul: Strategically located in Punta Mujeres, less than two miles from Cueva de los Verdes, Casa Azul offers well-equipped apartments. You can choose between 1 or 2 rooms depending on whether you are traveling to Lanzarote as a couple or as a family. With the beach just 650 ft away, you can conclude your day with a refreshing dip.

• Hotel Emblemático La Casa de los Naranjos: This hotel is an excellent option if you are traveling by car, as it is located just a 10-minute drive from Cueva de los Verdes. This accommodation is nestled in the town of Haría, in the middle of volcanic landscapes. This historic building boasts sophisticated decor, a charming atmosphere, and à la carte breakfast.

• El Charcón Apartments: These apartments are located in Arrieta, just three miles from Cueva de los Verdes. The establishment ranks among the best apartments in Lanzarote, featuring well-equipped kitchens, balconies, and stunning sea views to ensure a cozy and scenic experience.

Best things to do near Cueva de los Verdes, Lanzarote

If you are planning to explore Cueva de los Verdes in Lanzarote, you have an excellent opportunity to combine your visit with other captivating sites in the vicinity. Here is some information about key places to consider:

Jameos del Agua

Only half a mile away from Cueva de los Verdes, the Jameos del Agua is another brilliant creation by the visionary artist César Manrique. This beautiful cave is located within the lava tubes of La Corona Volcano, creating a truly magnificent natural spectacle.

Jameos del Agua cave

Jameos del Agua encompasses a museum, an auditorium, and a restaurant, all integrated into the natural surroundings. Plus, its close proximity to Cueva de los Verdes allows you to take a leisurely tour on foot and discover all the unique corners of these two natural wonders at your own pace.

To learn more about this fascinating destination, I recommend checking out our guide on Jameos del Agua in Lanzarote.

La Corona Volcano

The La Corona Volcano is one of the most famous volcanoes in Lanzarote that played a pivotal role in shaping the island’s current surface and appearance. At 3,000 years old, its well-preserved crater attracts numerous visitors who embark on a picturesque walking route from the town of Ye to its summit.

La Corona Volcano

This is one of the best hiking trails in Lanzarote, so if you have a few hours to spare, I can’t recommend it enough.  Plan for around three hours to complete the journey, with an option to extend your adventure by descending to the bottom of the crater. Regardless, the panoramic views of the surrounding area will surely captivate you.

Mirador del Río

If you want to enjoy Lanzarote’s scenic beauty, a visit to the Mirador del Río is a must. This iconic site is only a 15-minute drive from the Green Caves in Lanzarote and was also crafted by the visionary César Manrique. The Mirador del Río is the highest point on the island, offering a breathtaking panorama from an elevation of 1,500 feet.

Mirador del Río

On clear days, the vista extends to the island of La Graciosa, positioned right in front, as well as other small islands making up the Chinijo archipelago and Caleta de Famara. To fully appreciate the scenery, I recommend timing your visit for sunset. I also suggest capping off your excursion with a visit to the cafeteria, where you can enjoy an aperitif against the backdrop of this remarkable natural spectacle.

Caletón Blanco Beach

If you are looking for a place to relax after visiting Cueva de los Verdes, venture to one of the best beaches in Lanzarote – Caletón Blanco. Just five miles away from Lanzarote’s Green Caves, this idyllic spot invites you to take a refreshing dip in its crystal-clear waters.

Caletón Blanco Beach

What sets Caletón Blanco apart is not just its clear waters but also the unique landscape where lava flows merge with white sands, a testament to Lanzarote’s volcanic heritage. Plus, it’s an ideal destination for families, particularly those with children, given the gentle waves and the natural pools formed along the coastline. If you still have some energy left, consider that this beach is very close to Órzola, so you can easily take a ferry ride to La Graciosa.

Punta Mujeres

Punta Mujeres might not be the first spot on every tourist’s list, but it’s a delightful hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This charming fishing town invites you to wander through its cozy streets and enjoy a relaxed stroll through its picturesque setting. I recommend stopping by for lunch so you can savor the local flavors, especially the fresh catch of the day.

Punta Mujeres

Beyond the culinary delights, you can observe and enjoy the traditional Canarian architecture of its charming houses. Or, you can simply go for a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters surrounding Punta Mujeres.

Arrieta

Arrieta is another lovely town where you can enjoy delicious local cuisine. While slightly more touristy than Punta Mujeres, Arrieta retains its unique charm. Plus, it’s only three miles away from Cueva de los Verdes, so you can get here in just a few minutes by car.

Arrieta

Close to the heart of Arrieta, you’ll discover the Charcón de Arrieta – a perfect spot for chilling out in the shallow waters. Alternatively, you can head over to La Garita Beach, known for its calm and family-friendly atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to visit the renowned La Casa de la Playa, one of the most recommended restaurants in Lanzarote by the seaside, where you can treat your taste buds to delicious dishes while enjoying beautiful views.

César Manrique House Museum

If you enjoyed the work of César Manrique in Cueva de los Verdes, then I highly recommend visiting the César Manrique House Museum, which offers a unique opportunity to delve into the artist’s life and distinctive style. Beyond his professional endeavors, he played a pivotal role in safeguarding the pristine landscapes of the islands from mass tourism, which made him a beloved figure among the local community.

César Manrique House Museum

Formerly known as the “Casa del Palmeral,” this residence used to be a house situated on a ruined agricultural site. Later, it was restored by César Manrique in a traditional Canarian architectural style to serve as the artist’s home during the final years of his life. Within its walls, you’ll encounter a collection of personal belongings, handcrafted pieces, and utensils, which help you learn more about the artist’s world and imagine the life he led.

Tips for visiting Cueva de los Verdes

Here are some invaluable tips to enhance your journey to Cueva de los Verdes in Lanzarote. But feel free to share your own recommendations in the comments:

• The volcanic stone floor can be steep, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes to navigate the terrain without any challenges.

• Cueva de los Verdes welcomes visitors throughout the year, as the temperatures inside these Lanzarote lava tubes are quite pleasant.

• Exploring Cueva de los Verdes takes around 50 minutes, so you can combine your visit with other activities.

• I highly recommend paying attention to the guide’s explanations to understand the characteristics of Cueva de los Verdes.

• Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture memorable moments unless the guide tells you otherwise. Also, make sure to use flash sparingly to preserve the environment.

• Remember that you can leave your car in the free parking lot for a hassle-free visit.

• If you are traveling with children, keep in mind that you will have to leave any strollers outside, as they are not allowed within the complex.

FAQs – Cueva de los Verdes in Lanzarote

Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about visiting Cueva de los Verdes in Lanzarote:

And that concludes our guide to the Green Caves in Lanzarote. Now that you are equipped with all the information necessary for your visit, make sure to check out our tourist map of Lanzarote to uncover more interesting destinations.

If you have any questions about Cueva de los Verdes or wish to share your experiences exploring this famous Canary Island, feel free to drop a comment below.

Enjoy Lanzarote!