Cueva de los Verdes | Lanzarote

Information

Landmark: Cueva de los Verdes
City: Lanzarote
Country: Canary Islands
Continent: Europe

Cueva de los Verdes, Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Europe

Cueva de los Verdes is a volcanic tube system formed by the eruption of the Monte Corona volcano, situated in the northern region of Lanzarote, Canary Islands.

Visual Characteristics

The cave system consists of a series of interconnected tunnels and caverns, primarily composed of dark basalt rock. Internal lighting, designed by Jesús Soto, illuminates the rock formations with warm, amber, and green hues, enhancing the geological features. The tunnels vary in height and width, with some sections requiring visitors to stoop. Specific chambers feature smooth, solidified lava flows and intricate rock textures.

Location & Access Logistics

The Cueva de los Verdes is located off the LZ-1 highway, approximately 25 kilometers north of Arrecife and 3 kilometers north of Haria. Ample free parking is available directly at the entrance. Public transport is limited; bus line 9 (Arrecife-Órzola) stops near the site, but a walk is required. Taxis or rental cars are the most direct access methods.

Historical & Ecological Origin

This volcanic tube formed approximately 5,000 years ago during an eruption of Monte Corona. The lava flow created a subterranean channel as its outer layers solidified, allowing molten rock to continue flowing beneath. Historically, the cave served as a refuge for islanders seeking protection from pirate attacks during the 16th and 17th centuries. In the 1960s, it was adapted for tourism by local artist Jesús Soto.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors participate in a guided tour that navigates approximately one kilometer of the volcanic tube. The tour includes passage through various chambers and tunnels, culminating in a specific chamber known for an optical illusion. The cave also houses a small auditorium where concerts are occasionally held, utilizing the natural acoustics of the space.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the entrance area. A gift shop selling souvenirs and local products is also located near the entrance. There are no food vendors inside the cave, but a small cafeteria is present at the entrance complex. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available at the entrance but diminishes significantly or is absent within the cave system. The cave maintains a constant temperature of approximately 19°C, offering natural shade.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during the morning, shortly after opening, or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds, especially during high season (July-August, December-January). The internal lighting is consistent regardless of external daylight. Weather conditions outside do not impact the cave experience, as it is entirely underground. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.

Facts & Legends

The name "Cueva de los Verdes" does not refer to the color green, but rather to the "Verdes" family, who historically owned the land where the cave is located. The cave contains a famous optical illusion at the end of the tour, which is a closely guarded secret and a highlight for many visitors.