Duration: approx. 4 hours

No one can fail to be intrigued by one of Lanzarote’s more unusual attractions; the strange blind white crabs that are native only to this island. We will take a coach to Teguise to visit the historic cave complex of Jameos del Agua where the tiny albino sea creatures live in a seawater lake within the cave chambers. This unique colony of eye-less crustaceans are an example of successful natural evolution, having adapted to their environment after being trapped in the caves following pre-historic earthquake activity.

Lanzarote’s unique ‘Martian’ landscapes are shown off to their best in the spectacular Timanfaya National Park. Forged from years of volcanic eruptions, nature has shaped this island’s scenery which is a compelling mix of petrified lava fields and lush vegetation. The largest eruption took place in the 1730s and some volcanic activity still continues today; at Islote de Hilario for example, we will admire the steaming geysers typical of the volcanic nature of the island. Enjoy a scenic drive back to the port through the pretty vineyards that thrive in Arrecife’s climate and which flourish in the island’s mineral-rich sand dunes.

Join us for a day of art and architecture and an excursion themed around Cesar Manrique, one of the pioneers of Spanish modern art and former resident of the island from 1968 until his death here in 1992. We will head for the atmospheric “Jardin de Cactus” (cactus garden), one of the last finished works of the artist and architect Cesar Manrique. Manrique’s famous structural style is displayed in the cactus gardens which are set in a sweeping arched quarry. The 10,000 cacti from all over the world have made these Gardens a symbol of the island’s artistic heritage. The Cactus Garden is located on the road to Mala, an area where cacti are encouraged, as they feed the parasitic cochineal beetles. These insects have been cultivated here for over 100 years and are valued for their colorant properties. Our tour continues at the Cesar Manrique Foundation located in the artist’s former home, ‘El Taro de Tahiche’ (“Taro” is a local word for cement-free, dry-stone constructions). Look around the Foundation before proceeding to the nearby El Patio Museum to learn more about traditions and life on Lanzarote.