From:
$1760
$1676 (USD)
Travel Club discount: -$84
NB: Prices correct on 22-Apr-2025 but subject to change.
This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry
Tour Overview
Discover the enchanting island of Lanzarote with the "Contrasts of Lanzarote" tour, a journey through Spain's unique landscapes and cultural treasures. This self-drive adventure offers the freedom to explore at your own pace, starting with a car hire from Lanzarote Airport. Immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty, from the birdwatching haven of Chinijo National Park to the serene beaches of La Graciosa. Marvel at the artistic legacy of Cesar Manrique at the Cactus Garden and the Mirador del Rio. Hike the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Caldera Blanca and the Famara Cliffs, and enjoy the tranquility of unspoilt beaches. With carefully selected accommodations and daily breakfasts included, this tour promises a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Highlights
A year-round destination with a temperate climate and other-worldly terrain.
Designated a UNESCO Biosphere reserve in 1993 for its commitment to sustainability.
Enjoy birdwatching at Chinijo National Park with the chance to see many protected bird species.
Visit the little-known island of La Graciosa, with its unspoilt, sandy beaches and coastline.
Explore the wonderful Cactus Garden, established by the renowned artist Cesar Manrique.
Hike to the widest volcano on the island, the Caldera Blanca, near Timanfaya National Park.
Discover the volcanic cliffs of Risco de Famara with views towards La Graciosa.
Arriving at the airport, pick up the hire car and travel to your hotel for your stay on Lanzarote.
Day 2
:
Femes - Pico de la Aceituna - Playa del Pozo
Location: Lanzarote
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your exploration of Lanzarote starts with a short drive to the village of Femes, where the walk begins with an ascent to the Pico de La Aceituna, the summit rising above the village at 450 metres above sea level. These ancient mountain ranges were once the seat of aborginal tribes and provide a perfect vantage point from which to see the islands of Fuerteventura and Lobos, as well as the Papagayo National Park, located in the south of the island. From here the path continues until it reaches the next peak: the Pico Redondo and after enjoying the incredible views, you will begin to descend towards the sea. Upon reaching the coast, enjoy a break and a swim if you like at Playa Quemada, a quiet fishing village before your walk back to your car.
Day 3
:
Ascent to the Caldera Blanca
Location: Caldera Blanca
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today's hike is to the widest volcano on the island, the Caldera Blanca, a memorable walk with a gradual ascent. Situated close to the Timanfaya National Park, the crater is believed to have been caused by a single eruption millions of years ago and is 1.5km in diameter. Reaching the crater rim, the view is quite breath-taking, as you try to imagine the powerful eruption that caused this natural phenomenon. Very windy at the top, you can walk into the crater itself or trek along the rim and then head back through the lava fields to the National Park, where you should still have plenty of time for a visit. The most significant volcanic eruptions here were in the 18th century, shaping this landscape with huge geomorphic structures and providing the variety of colours which can be seen in the rocks.
Day 4
:
Volcanoes of Soo
Location: Lanzarote
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel north today until you reach Soo, a village in the Chinijo National Park, in the northwest of Lanzarote. After a quick break for refreshment or to pick up a picnic for lunch, leave the car and begin to ascend towards the Pico Colorado (206m) located behind the village. This whole area is protected as a 'Special Protection Area for Wild Birds', so be on the lookout for some of its residents, the white-faced petrel, Scopoli's shearwater, western osprey and Eleonora's falcon, all endemic to Lanzarote. From here you climb to the Caldera Trasera, a steep volcano almost 300 metres high, with incredible panoramic views over the volcanoes below. The return journey provides vistas of the islands of Alegranza and the tiny Montana Clara. These uninhabited islands feature huge volcanic craters and are also part of Chinijo Archipelago Nature Reserve, providing refuge for marine birds and other wildlife.
Day 5
:
The North Coast
Location: Lanzarote
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your day begins with a visit to the final project of one of Lanzarote's most famous inhabitants, the artist Cesar Manrique. Drive to Guatiza and first visit the Jardin de Cactus, a botanical paradise created by the Canarian artist to help preserve the islands rich biodiversity. With its huge collection of some 4500 cactus species, you can see works of art dotted amongst the sculptured paths in the extensive gardens, well worth a couple of hours visit. Leave the village and head towards the Caldera de la Montana Tinamala (old mouth of the volcano) to the coast at Los Cocoteros, with its natural swimming pool providing a welcome break on a hot day. After your break, head up the coast towards the further natural pools at La Olla, and the quite magical Cueva del Agua, before turning inland back towards the cactus gardens at Guatiza and your drive back to the hotel.
Day 6
:
Biking on La Graciosa
Location: La Graciosa
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
The choice is yours today, as you can choose to relax by the pool at the hotel, explore another part of Lanzarote by car or enjoy a day trip to the beautiful and unspoilt island la Graciosa. Drive to the port of Orzola, where the short ferry trip of about half an hour takes you straight to the main town, Caleta del Sebo. Pick up your bicycle and route map, not forgetting to stock up for the day, as this is the only settlement on the islands with shops and restaurants. With no asphalted roads on the whole island, you will feel like you have stepped back in time, enjoying a relaxing ride with hardly any traffic, discovering hidden spectacular beaches such as Pedro Barba, Playa de Las Conchas in the north or the Playa Francesa in the south. These golden sand beaches are perfect to spend some time relaxing, or jump into the turquoise waters for an idyllic swim, far away from the crowds. Later, if you can bear to tear yourself away, return to the town for your ferry back to Lanzarote.
Day 7
:
Famara Cliffs
Location: Famara
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Starting at the northern village of Haria, your final day begins at one of the oldest villages on the island. Tucked away in a green and fertile area known as the Valley of the Palms, the legend says that a palm was planted for every child that was born in the village. You can visit the Cesar Manrique Museum, as he used to live in the village and was buried in the local cemetery. From here the path takes you towards Risco de Famara, 15km of volcanic cliffs situated on the northern coastline and with fantastic views over the sea and towards La Graciosa. The path runs southwards along the edge of the cliff with a spectacular panoramic view towards the Beach of Famara. A must - see is the restaurant at the end of the cliffs called Mirador del Rio, another of Cesar Manrique's creations, it was once an old artillery position until being transformed into an example of surrealist architecture and is now a restaurant and breath-taking viewpoint. Amble back towards Haria and enjoy some time in the village at the beautiful, shaded plaza, with plenty of shops and cafes for you to while away the hours, or if you are lucky enough to visit on a Saturday, be sure to check out the market full of local hand crafts. Journey back to your hotel for your final evening.
Day 8
:
Leave Lanzarote
Location: Lanzarote
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart your hotel for your flight home, or stay on a few extra days on Lanzarote, or another island.
Not what you're looking for?
People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:
We've included breakfast each day and picnic lunches are easy to organise or if you prefer, stop off for some lunch in one of the many eateries along the way. In all overnight locations there are a few restaurants to choose from, so we have left your evening meal up to you.
Canarian dishes tend to be simple and elegant, owing much to sun-ripened tropical fruits such as paw-paw, prickly pear and bananas, local vegetables such as sweetcorn and potatoes and fresh fish such as moray and snapper.
Specialities include conejo al salmorejo (slow cooked rabbit with garlic, paprika and chili); rancho canario (a chickpea meaty soup), ropa vieja (chicken, pork and or beef stew); chocos (cuttlefish); and crema de puerros y bubangos (cream of leek and prawn stew). The most popular fish are members of the sea bass family - cherne, cabrilla or merluza are common, and you may find grilled swordfish (espada a la plancha), as well as calamares (squid), gambas (prawns) and pulpo (octopus).
Your hotels have been carefully chosen for their locations and the warm friendly welcome you will receive. Room upgrades may be available on request for a supplement. All prices are based on 2 persons sharing, with a compulsory supplement for a single room for solo travelers.
Check out our Q&As
What type of transportation is provided during the tour?
Transportation includes car hire for the duration of your stay, allowing you to explore Lanzarote at your own pace. You will pick up your hire car upon arrival at the airport and use it to travel between destinations and attractions throughout the tour.
Are room upgrades available during the tour?
Room upgrades may be available on request for a supplement. You should enquire at the time of booking for further details and prices. Upgrades are available at select hotels only and not for the entire duration of the tour.
What meals are included in the tour package?
All buffet breakfasts are included in the tour package. Picnic lunches are easy to organize, or you can stop off for lunch in one of the many eateries along the way. Evening meals are not included, allowing you to choose from a variety of restaurants in the overnight locations.
What can I expect to see at the Cactus Garden?
The Cactus Garden, established by the renowned artist Cesar Manrique, is a botanical paradise with a huge collection of some 4500 cactus species. You can see works of art dotted amongst the sculptured paths in the extensive gardens, making it well worth a couple of hours visit.
What wildlife might I see in Chinijo National Park?
Chinijo National Park is a 'Special Protection Area for Wild Birds', where you might see the white-faced petrel, Scopoli's shearwater, western osprey, and Eleonora's falcon, all endemic to Lanzarote.
What activities are available on the island of La Graciosa?
On La Graciosa, you can enjoy a day trip with a bicycle ride to discover hidden spectacular beaches such as Pedro Barba, Playa de Las Conchas, and Playa Francesa. These beaches are perfect for relaxing or swimming in the turquoise waters. The island has no asphalted roads, offering a unique and tranquil experience.
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.
How long has the tour company been trading?
Exodus has been trading since 1974
What documents will I receive before I travel?
Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.
Can I join the tour once it has departed?
You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.
show more
Reviews of this operator
Jane Holdaway (Google Reviewer)
Had an exceptional holiday with...
24-Mar-2025
Had an exceptional holiday with Exodus during which we travelled extensively around Sri Lanka and got a real taste of the country and the people who live there. The itinerary was packed with interesting trips and activities and all of the hotels were very comfortable. We had an excellent local guide who looked after our group brilliantly and became a friend by the end of the tour. This was not the cheapest tour we looked at but we don't regret a penny spent on it because of the quality and attention to detail. Would thoroughly recommend Exodus!
Gergana Racheva
Very helpful and prompt service
06-Jan-2023
Very helpful and prompt service.
I called to check for an already booked trip and once we sorted this, the agent was ready to help me with another booking as well. He actually waited for me to book my flight tickets, answered all my questions, informed me of all my options. Exodus is a tour company I am using regularly due to the quality of their trips, ease of booking and helpfulness of their customer service team
Trustpilot
Tim Hardy
Stunning walking. Walking the Amalfi Coast
04-Nov-2021
This trip takes you through the most beautiful parts of the Mediterranean walking with a guide and also discovering the wonders of Pompeii and Vesuvius. The hotel had a nice feel as family run, spotless and comfortable rooms, we were well looked after for breakfasts and dinner each day, and the barmen fixed some mean cocktails for us.!
paul green (Google Reviewer)
Went on a tour of...
14-Jan-2022
Went on a tour of morocco in October and loved it ,mohamed the tour guide was excellent, probably go with exodus to India next year
Paul Green
It's amazing what you can do in a week! Cycling the Dalmatian Coast.
08-Oct-2021
This holiday was extremely enjoyable. The itinerary is well planned and the route takes you to a variety of destinations. Not having been to Croatia before I didn't know there were so many beautiful small islands and I loved the ferry and catarmaran rides. The coastal route we took was dramatic and the World Heritage sites in Split and Dubrovnik very interesting and worth visiting. The Adriatic Sea was warm, blue and inviting, good for swimming even in October. The hotels we stayed in varied in size from medium to large. I particularly liked the one just outside Dubrovnik as I had a sea view. Tourists were plentiful in Split and Dubrovnik but in the other places we stayed there was an end of season feel and it was quiet on the roads and in the resorts. The food was good and our guide was always able to recommend a nice restaurant for our evening meal. The weather in October was good for cycling - not hot, partly cloudy most days and one day it rained!
Roger Wells (Google Reviewer)
We have just returned from...
12-Feb-2025
We have just returned from a 2 week Exodus trip to Egypt, Alexandria to Aswan. We had a great time, enjoyable company, with an excellent guide, Sayed. All worked out as described. The 3 day Red Sea extension was relaxing. Even the train journey, Cairo to Aswan, was a great part of the experience
Sian Anstey (Google Reviewer)
I have just returned from...
31-Mar-2025
I have just returned from the most fabulous cycling holiday to Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. It was without doubt the best holiday you could ever wish for. Excellent in every possible way. Thank you Exodus. I just can’t decide which holiday to do next.
Damian Cannon (Google Reviewer)
We've been on several group...
21-Mar-2025
We've been on several group trips with Exodus to destinations such as India and Jordan where we'd rather let some one else do the organising. In all cases these trips have been excellent with wonderful guides and well designed itineraries. We have always returned with happy memories.
In cases where things have gone wrong Exodus have never disappointed us with their service. During one case our plane was diverted at the start and we joined the tour 3 days late. But despite this Exodus organised everything, including a driver, required to let us catch up. Equally during the pandemic our trip was cancelled twice and in the end we decided to take a full refund which Exodus handled properly.
Having just returned from our latest trip we're already considering where we can go next. It's possible that we wouldn't bother to use Exodus in Europe because we can organise everything ourselves but further afield we'll definitely be travelling with Exodus again.
Mrs Y Morrison
Fabulous company and trip
06-Jan-2023
We went overland from Cape Town to Zimbabwe through Botswana and Namibia. What a fantastic trip. Our first time with Exodus although we have travelled extensively around the world. We would highly recommend this company for such a brilliant trip - we got everything and more all at a good price. Thanks to everyone involved. We are looking at our next trip!
Trustpilot
Alison Payton (Google Reviewer)
I've done 8 trips in...
17-May-2023
I've done 8 trips in the last 14 years with Exodus, and have been rewarded with a 10% discount on all future bookings. I feel very confident that I'll receive pleasant, efficient service, and have the unusual holiday experience that I'm looking for each time. I've trekked to the top of snow-capped peaks, wild-camped in the desert, seen amazing spectacles of nature, visited 4 capital cities in a week, and learned about local culture and experienced local hospitality in a way that I simply wouldn't on a conventional holiday.
The quality of the accommodation and guides can vary, but this is mainly down to cultural differences and things that Exodus can't control. I've only ever complained once, my complaint was taken seriously, and I was sent a discount voucher - you can't say fairer than that.
I remain a loyal customer.
CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
Low Deposit
CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of
55%
or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
[{"title":"Day 1: Arrival in Lanzarote","name":"Lanzarote","description":"Arriving at the airport, pick up the hire car and travel to your hotel for your stay on Lanzarote.","lat":"29.046854","lng":"-13.589973"},{"title":"Day 2: Femes - Pico de la Aceituna - Playa del Pozo","name":"Lanzarote","description":"Your exploration of Lanzarote starts with a short drive to the village of Femes, where the walk begins with an ascent to the Pico de La Aceituna, the summit rising above the village at 450 metres above sea level. These ancient mountain ranges were once the seat of aborginal tribes and provide a perfect vantage point from which to see the islands of Fuerteventura and Lobos, as well as the Papagayo National Park, located in the south of the island. From here the path continues until it reaches the next peak: the Pico Redondo and after enjoying the incredible views, you will begin to descend towards the sea. Upon reaching the coast, enjoy a break and a swim if you like at Playa Quemada, a quiet fishing village before your walk back to your car.<br/><br/><br/><br/> ","lat":"29.046854","lng":"-13.589973"},{"title":"Day 3: Ascent to the Caldera Blanca","name":"Caldera Blanca","description":"Today's hike is to the widest volcano on the island, the Caldera Blanca, a memorable walk with a gradual ascent. Situated close to the Timanfaya National Park, the crater is believed to have been caused by a single eruption millions of years ago and is 1.5km in diameter. Reaching the crater rim, the view is quite breath-taking, as you try to imagine the powerful eruption that caused this natural phenomenon. Very windy at the top, you can walk into the crater itself or trek along the rim and then head back through the lava fields to the National Park, where you should still have plenty of time for a visit. The most significant volcanic eruptions here were in the 18th century, shaping this landscape with huge geomorphic structures and providing the variety of colours which can be seen in the rocks.<br/><br/><br/><br/> ","lat":"29.040308","lng":"-13.729427"},{"title":"Day 4: Volcanoes of Soo","name":"Lanzarote","description":"Travel north today until you reach Soo, a village in the Chinijo National Park, in the northwest of Lanzarote. After a quick break for refreshment or to pick up a picnic for lunch, leave the car and begin to ascend towards the Pico Colorado (206m) located behind the village. This whole area is protected as a 'Special Protection Area for Wild Birds', so be on the lookout for some of its residents, the white-faced petrel, Scopoli's shearwater, western osprey and Eleonora's falcon, all endemic to Lanzarote. From here you climb to the Caldera Trasera, a steep volcano almost 300 metres high, with incredible panoramic views over the volcanoes below. The return journey provides vistas of the islands of Alegranza and the tiny Montana Clara. These uninhabited islands feature huge volcanic craters and are also part of Chinijo Archipelago Nature Reserve, providing refuge for marine birds and other wildlife.<br/><br/><br/><br/> ","lat":"29.046854","lng":"-13.589973"},{"title":"Day 5: The North Coast","name":"Lanzarote","description":"Your day begins with a visit to the final project of one of Lanzarote's most famous inhabitants, the artist Cesar Manrique. Drive to Guatiza and first visit the Jardin de Cactus, a botanical paradise created by the Canarian artist to help preserve the islands rich biodiversity. With its huge collection of some 4500 cactus species, you can see works of art dotted amongst the sculptured paths in the extensive gardens, well worth a couple of hours visit. Leave the village and head towards the Caldera de la Montana Tinamala (old mouth of the volcano) to the coast at Los Cocoteros, with its natural swimming pool providing a welcome break on a hot day. After your break, head up the coast towards the further natural pools at La Olla, and the quite magical Cueva del Agua, before turning inland back towards the cactus gardens at Guatiza and your drive back to the hotel.<br/><br/><br/><br/> ","lat":"29.046854","lng":"-13.589973"},{"title":"Day 6: Biking on La Graciosa","name":"La Graciosa","description":"The choice is yours today, as you can choose to relax by the pool at the hotel, explore another part of Lanzarote by car or enjoy a day trip to the beautiful and unspoilt island la Graciosa. Drive to the port of Orzola, where the short ferry trip of about half an hour takes you straight to the main town, Caleta del Sebo. Pick up your bicycle and route map, not forgetting to stock up for the day, as this is the only settlement on the islands with shops and restaurants. With no asphalted roads on the whole island, you will feel like you have stepped back in time, enjoying a relaxing ride with hardly any traffic, discovering hidden spectacular beaches such as Pedro Barba, Playa de Las Conchas in the north or the Playa Francesa in the south. These golden sand beaches are perfect to spend some time relaxing, or jump into the turquoise waters for an idyllic swim, far away from the crowds. Later, if you can bear to tear yourself away, return to the town for your ferry back to Lanzarote.<br/><br/><br/><br/> ","lat":"29.255364","lng":"-13.503208"},{"title":"Day 7: Famara Cliffs","name":"Famara","description":"Starting at the northern village of Haria, your final day begins at one of the oldest villages on the island. Tucked away in a green and fertile area known as the Valley of the Palms, the legend says that a palm was planted for every child that was born in the village. You can visit the Cesar Manrique Museum, as he used to live in the village and was buried in the local cemetery. From here the path takes you towards Risco de Famara, 15km of volcanic cliffs situated on the northern coastline and with fantastic views over the sea and towards La Graciosa. The path runs southwards along the edge of the cliff with a spectacular panoramic view towards the Beach of Famara. A must - see is the restaurant at the end of the cliffs called Mirador del Rio, another of Cesar Manrique's creations, it was once an old artillery position until being transformed into an example of surrealist architecture and is now a restaurant and breath-taking viewpoint. Amble back towards Haria and enjoy some time in the village at the beautiful, shaded plaza, with plenty of shops and cafes for you to while away the hours, or if you are lucky enough to visit on a Saturday, be sure to check out the market full of local hand crafts. Journey back to your hotel for your final evening.<br/><br/><br/><br/> ","lat":"29.11816","lng":"-13.565746"},{"title":"Day 8: Leave Lanzarote","name":"Lanzarote","description":"Depart your hotel for your flight home, or stay on a few extra days on Lanzarote, or another island.","lat":"29.046854","lng":"-13.589973"}]
