Charco de los Clicos | La Graciosa

Information

Landmark: Charco de los Clicos
City: La Graciosa
Country: Canary Islands
Continent: Europe

Charco de los Clicos, La Graciosa, Canary Islands, Europe

Charco de los Clicos is a green lagoon situated on the southwestern coast of La Graciosa, Canary Islands. This natural landmark is characterized by its vivid green water contrasting with black volcanic sand and red cliffs.

Visual Characteristics

The lagoon displays an intense emerald green color, attributed to the concentration of sulfur-rich algae. It is separated from the Atlantic Ocean by a strip of black volcanic sand and pebbles. The surrounding landscape consists of dark red and ochre volcanic rock formations, remnants of an ancient crater. The overall appearance is a stark contrast of green, black, red, and the blue of the ocean.

Location & Access Logistics

Charco de los Clicos is located approximately 6 kilometers southwest of Caleta de Sebo, the main settlement on La Graciosa. Access to La Graciosa is via ferry from Órzola on Lanzarote to Caleta de Sebo. From Caleta de Sebo, the lagoon can be reached by walking or cycling along a dirt track. There are no paved roads or private vehicles permitted on La Graciosa. Parking is available at the ferry terminal in Órzola, Lanzarote. No public transport directly serves the lagoon on La Graciosa; visitors rely on their own locomotion or organized jeep tours from Caleta de Sebo.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The lagoon is a remnant of a volcanic crater that has been partially eroded by the sea. Its distinctive green color is due to the presence of phytoplankton and algae adapted to the high salinity and mineral content of the water. The surrounding rock formations are basaltic, formed from ancient volcanic eruptions.

Key Highlights & Activities

The primary activity is viewing and photographing the lagoon from designated viewpoints. Visitors can observe the color contrast between the green water, black sand, and red cliffs. Walking along the adjacent black sand beach is possible, though access to the lagoon itself is restricted to protect its delicate ecosystem. Swimming in the lagoon is prohibited.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Infrastructure at Charco de los Clicos is minimal. There are no public restrooms, shade structures, or food vendors directly at the site. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) can be intermittent depending on the network provider and specific location. Visitors should carry their own water and provisions.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during daylight hours, particularly in the late morning or early afternoon for optimal light on the lagoon's green color. The months from April to October generally offer the most stable weather conditions with less wind. There are no specific high/low tide requirements for viewing the lagoon, as its water level is largely independent of the ocean's tides.

Facts & Legends

The name "Clicos" refers to a type of small, edible shellfish that once thrived in the lagoon. These shellfish are now extinct in the lagoon due to changes in its ecosystem. The site was featured in the 1999 film "Broken Embraces" by Pedro Almodóvar, adding to its recognition.