LanzaroteOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt

Early Inhabitants and European Arrival

Lanzarote's history extends back at least two millennia. Archaeological findings indicate the island was first settled by people of Berber descent from North Africa. These early inhabitants, known as Majos, sustained themselves through pastoralism, fishing, and limited agriculture. They referred to the island as Tyterogaka.

The island remained largely isolated until the early 14th century. The Genoese navigator Lancelotto Malocello is believed to have been the first European to visit, giving the island its current name. The Spanish conquest began in 1402 with the arrival of Jean de Béthencourt, who claimed Lanzarote for the Crown of Castile.

Volcanic Activity and Artistic Influence

A significant period in Lanzarote's modern history occurred between 1730 and 1736. A series of volcanic eruptions dramatically altered the island's landscape, creating 32 new volcanoes. This volcanic activity, while initially destructive, eventually led to a unique agricultural system. Islanders learned to use volcanic ash to enhance crop productivity, particularly for grapes, which boosted exports.

The 20th century brought a different kind of transformation, largely shaped by the artist, architect, and environmentalist César Manrique (1919–1992). Born in Arrecife, Manrique returned to Lanzarote in the 1960s. He developed a vision to integrate art and architecture with the island's natural volcanic environment. He promoted sustainable development, advocating for low-rise buildings and the use of local materials such as volcanic stone and whitewashed walls. His efforts prevented the overdevelopment seen in other tourist destinations. Manrique's influence is visible across the island, contributing to its designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1993, the year after his death.

• —Fundación César Manrique — César Manrique's former residence, constructed within a lava flow near Tahíche. The building incorporates five volcanic bubbles as living spaces, demonstrating his integration of natural formations and architecture.
• —Jameos del Agua — Part of a volcanic tunnel system, adapted by César Manrique into an artistic and cultural center. It contains a natural underground lake inhabited by a species of blind albino crabs.
• —Mirador del Río — A viewpoint designed by César Manrique, located on the Risco de Famara at 475 meters above sea level. It provides views of the Chinijo Archipelago, including La Graciosa island. The structure was built on the site of a 19th-century artillery battery.
• —Castillo de San José — An 18th-century fortress in Arrecife, originally built to defend the port. César Manrique later converted its basement into an International Museum of Contemporary Art and a restaurant.
• —Castillo de Santa Bárbara — Located on Guanapay volcano near Teguise, this 15th-century fortress now houses a Piracy Museum, detailing the island's historical defense against pirate raids.
• —Palacio Spínola — A historic residence in Teguise, once home to Genoese merchants. It displays traditional Canarian architecture.
• —Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe — The main church in Teguise, a religious and architectural landmark in the former capital, featuring a distinct bell tower.

Lanzarote has a consistent climate throughout the year. For comfortable weather and fewer people, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons: April to June and September to November. During these months, daytime temperatures range from 22-29°C. Sea temperatures are around 20-22°C.

Avoid July and August if you prefer to avoid the largest crowds and highest temperatures, which can reach 30-31°C. These months also bring strong trade winds to the northern beaches. December and January are the wettest months, though average highs remain around 20-21°C.

Lanzarote César Manrique Airport (ACE) is 5-6 kilometers southwest of Arrecife. A taxi to Arrecife takes about 10 minutes and costs approximately €15. Bus lines 22 and 23 connect the airport to Arrecife in 7-15 minutes for €1.40.

While buses (guaguas) serve major towns, their coverage to many attractions is limited, and frequencies decrease on weekends and holidays. Renting a car is recommended for exploring the island. Roads are generally good, and fuel costs are moderate. Parking is usually free outside central resort areas.

Markets are held regularly: the largest is every Sunday in Teguise. Arrecife hosts a craft market every Saturday morning in Plaza de las Palmeras. Markets also take place in Marina Rubicón (Playa Blanca) on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and in Costa Teguise on Friday evenings.