Best Attraction in Las Palmas, Spain - Map and Reviews

Jardín de Cactus is one of Lanzarote’s most distinctive visitor attractions and one of the final major works of César Manrique. Located in the village of Guatiza, this carefully designed cactus garden brings together art, landscape, architecture, and botany in a way that reflects Manrique’s lasting influence on the island. The garden was created in a former volcanic sand quarry, a space that had once been used to extract material for local agriculture. Volcanic sand was traditionally spread over farmland in Lanzarote to help the soil retain moisture in the island’s dry climate. After the quarry was no longer in use, the site was left as a hollowed-out space with little obvious purpose. César Manrique saw potential in the abandoned quarry and transformed it into a botanical attraction that works with the shape and character of the land rather than hiding it. With the help of botanist Estanislao González Ferrer, the site was redesigned and opened as Jardín de Cactus in 1991. Today, it covers around 5,000 square metres and contains thousands of cactus plants from many different species and regions of the world. The layout of the garden makes strong use of the former quarry’s natural amphitheatre shape. Terraces curve around the central space, with volcanic stone walls, pathways, planting beds, ponds, and sculptural features arranged to guide visitors through the collection. The result is not a typical botanical garden, but a carefully composed landscape where every viewpoint feels intentional. Cacti are the main focus throughout the site, but Manrique’s design touches can be seen everywhere. The entrance, gates, handles, sculptures, and architectural details all reflect the same theme, creating a consistent visual identity. Even before entering, visitors are greeted by a large roadside cactus sculpture and the sight of the restored white windmill above the garden. Inside the garden, the contrast between the green plants, dark volcanic stone, pale walls, and blue sky gives Jardín de Cactus a strong visual impact. The central area includes natural stone features, ponds, and carefully arranged planting, while the surrounding terraces allow visitors to walk among the different species and view the garden from several angles. One of the highlights is the viewpoint near the restored gofio windmill. From here, visitors can look down over the full garden and appreciate the scale of the design. The elevated position also gives a wider sense of the surrounding Guatiza landscape, where traditional agriculture and volcanic terrain are closely linked. Jardín de Cactus is especially appealing for visitors interested in photography, garden design, architecture, botany, and César Manrique’s work. It is also a good stop for anyone exploring northern or eastern Lanzarote, particularly as part of a route including Guatiza, Mala, Arrieta, Punta Mujeres, or other Manrique-designed attractions. Although the garden is compact, it rewards slow exploration. Visitors can spend time noticing the variety of cactus shapes, textures, colours, and sizes, as well as the way the planting has been arranged to suit the quarry setting. The site also includes a café bar and restaurant, making it a pleasant place to pause during a day of sightseeing. Jardín de Cactus is a strong example of how Lanzarote has reused and reimagined its volcanic landscape. What was once an abandoned quarry has become a calm, unusual, and beautifully designed attraction that reflects both the island’s natural character and César Manrique’s creative legacy.

Lanzarote Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the Canary Islands and a popular family-friendly attraction in Costa Teguise. With more than a million litres of water across a wide range of tanks, it offers visitors the chance to discover marine life from the Canary Islands and beyond in an accessible indoor setting. The aquarium is home to many species commonly found in Canarian waters, including moray eels, bream, fulas, and other fish associated with the Atlantic environment around Lanzarote. These displays help visitors understand more about the marine ecosystems that surround the island and the variety of life found beneath the surface. Alongside local species, Lanzarote Aquarium also features colourful tropical marine life. Visitors can see species such as clownfish, anemones, pufferfish, hermit crabs, and other striking fish with unusual shapes, patterns, and behaviours. These tanks are especially appealing for younger visitors, as they offer close-up views of bright and active sea creatures. One of the main highlights is the large central tank and underwater tunnel. This area allows visitors to walk beneath and beside the marine displays, creating a more immersive view of the aquarium’s larger species. Sharks are among the most memorable animals here, giving guests the chance to observe them from a safe and impressive perspective. The aquarium is also an important place for education. Its displays introduce visitors to marine habitats, conservation issues, and the importance of protecting ocean life. For families, it offers an easy way to combine entertainment with learning, particularly for children interested in animals, the sea, and the natural world. A key part of Lanzarote Aquarium’s work is its role as a sea turtle rehabilitation centre. Injured or vulnerable turtles are cared for at the facility, with the aim of helping them recover and return to their natural habitat. This conservation work adds extra meaning to a visit and highlights the challenges faced by marine animals around Lanzarote and the wider Atlantic. Visitors can learn more about the threats affecting sea turtles and other marine species, including pollution, fishing-related injuries, and damage to ocean habitats. Seeing this work up close helps connect the visitor experience with the wider need to protect Lanzarote’s coastal and marine environment. Lanzarote Aquarium is a useful attraction for all ages, especially families, animal lovers, and anyone looking for an activity away from the beach. It is also a good option on windy days, very hot afternoons, or when visitors want a quieter indoor experience during their stay in Costa Teguise. The aquarium’s location makes it easy to combine with a visit to Costa Teguise’s beaches, restaurants, shops, or promenade. It can also be included as part of a wider day out exploring the eastern side of Lanzarote. With its mix of local marine species, tropical displays, sharks, underwater viewing areas, and sea turtle rehabilitation work, Lanzarote Aquarium offers an enjoyable and educational look at life beneath the waves. It is a worthwhile stop for visitors who want to better understand the marine world surrounding the Canary Islands.

Cueva de los Verdes is one of Lanzarote’s most fascinating volcanic attractions, hidden beneath the rugged landscape of the Haría municipality in the north of the island. Formed by ancient lava flows from the Monte Corona volcano, this remarkable cave system offers visitors the chance to walk through part of one of the longest volcanic tunnels in the world. The cave is part of the wider lava tube known as the Tunnel of Atlantis, which was created thousands of years ago when molten lava flowed from Monte Corona towards the sea. As the surface of the lava cooled and hardened, the molten rock beneath continued to move, leaving behind a network of underground tunnels and chambers. Cueva de los Verdes is one of the most accessible and impressive sections of this volcanic system. The name “Cueva de los Verdes” is often translated as “Green Caves”, although it is believed to be linked to the Verdes family, who once owned or used the land in the area. Today, the caves are known for their atmospheric passages, unusual rock formations, natural colours, and carefully designed lighting, which helps reveal the shapes and textures of the volcanic stone. Walking through Cueva de los Verdes is a memorable experience. The guided route takes visitors through a series of tunnels, chambers, narrow passages, and open spaces formed entirely by volcanic activity. The mix of shadows, mineral tones, and layered rock gives the cave an almost otherworldly character, making it one of the most distinctive places to visit on Lanzarote. The caves also have an important place in the island’s history. During the 16th and 17th centuries, local people are said to have used the underground passages as a hiding place during pirate raids. The dark and winding tunnels offered shelter at a time when coastal communities in the Canary Islands were vulnerable to attacks from the sea. One of the most unusual features of Cueva de los Verdes is its natural acoustics. Part of the cave has been adapted as a small concert space, taking advantage of the way sound carries through the volcanic chambers. This adds another layer to the visitor experience, showing that the cave is not only a geological site, but also a cultural venue. The guided tour usually covers around one kilometre of the cave system and gives visitors time to appreciate both the natural formations and the history of the site. Access is controlled, so visitors should follow the marked route and listen carefully to the guide, especially in narrower or darker sections. Cueva de los Verdes is ideal for travellers interested in geology, natural history, photography, and unusual landscapes. It is also a good option for families and anyone looking to experience a different side of Lanzarote away from the beaches and resorts. Comfortable footwear is recommended, as the cave floor can be uneven in places. The cave is located close to other major attractions in northern Lanzarote, including Jameos del Agua, another part of the same volcanic tunnel system, and the dramatic coastline around Punta Mujeres and Arrieta. Visiting Cueva de los Verdes as part of a wider northern Lanzarote route is a good way to understand how volcanic activity has shaped both the island’s surface and its hidden underground world. A visit to Cueva de los Verdes offers a rare chance to step inside Lanzarote’s volcanic past. With its ancient lava tunnels, historic associations, striking natural formations, and atmospheric setting, it remains one of the island’s most memorable places to explore.

A sea of lava is a sad reminder of how destructive nature can be. To an imaginative mind like César Manrique’s, though, it’s a diamond in the rough. With creativity, he turned this hidden gem into a famous work of art – the Volcano House. Today, it is also called Fundacion César Manrique, Tahíche’s most popular tourist spot. And, its doors are wide open to those who seek art, beauty, nature, and uniqueness. Table of Contents The Birth of the Volcano House Visit a House like No Other Entrance Fee and Opening Hours Dining Options Food and Fun Heavenly Bakeries How to Get to the Volcano House of Manrique More Than a House and a Museum The Birth of the Volcano House A native of Lanzarote, César Manrique went back to his roots from New York City in 1966. It was while he was walking around the sea of lava that covered much of Tahíche that he chanced upon the tip of a fig tree. Curious and puzzled, he took a closer look and learned that it grew from within a lava bubble. And, that’s when a fantastic idea hit him. Underneath what many people thought was a useless field of volcanic rocks are five bubbles. And, for an artist and architect in search of a new home, they are precisely what he needed. The bubbles were interconnected and, in 1968, the work and display space were finished. Manrique’s new abode, however, wasn’t only some unique structure. It was art in nature and nature in art, the very philosophy he dedicated his life to. Fundation Cesar Manrique (Volcano House, Taro de Tahíche) Entrance to César Manrique Foundation in Tahíche – Image Courtesy of Frank Vincentz Visit a House like No Other The abode is known by three names: Volcano House, Fundacion César Manrique, and Taro de Tahíche. Built on 3,000 m2 of hardened lava flow and with five lava caves, it was destined to be unlike any other. It wows every guest as soon as they arrive. And, by the time they reach the lava rooms, jaws are already on the floor. First impressions count, and Manrique sure did think so too. Visitors are welcomed by his two sculptures Juguetes del Viento (Wind Toys) and El Triunfador (The winner). The gates then open onto a small yard that is a prime example of ‘stylish’ planting. It has palm trees sticking out of the lava caves, not the usual way anyone would see these floras. The wall-climbing cactus and lush red bougainvillea also beautify even the walls. The Upperground The two-story home turned museum has 11 sections. Guests will first walk into the main room called “Personal Collection.” This parlor is a giant bubble decked with Manrique’s private contemporary art collection. Some of the works are by Chirino, Equipo Crónica, Farreras, Guerrero, Gerardo Delgado, Sempere, and Zóbel. The outdoor pathway to the second room has a panoramic view of the tranquil lava expanse. It is also one of the areas where the roofless swimming pool can be seen. Before heading to the next area, take a moment to admire the sights first. Fundación César Manrique Pool Fundación César Manrique Pool – Image Courtesy of H. Zell “Spaces,” the second room, is all about the maestro’s love for nature. Exhibited are drawings and photos of his works that involve and revolve around it. To get to the next area, guests must cross a corridor of contemporary art from the Canaries and go past the main room. The third chamber, “Sketches,” is Manrique’s very own bedroom. It is unlike any other, though, as it has the scent and mark of a genuine artist. Amongst his artistic creations displayed are personal drawings, notes, mural sketches, and sculptures. The Lava Bubbles Although not exactly a room, the basalt stairway is one of the most unusual parts of the house. It leads to five underground volcanic caves with names according to their themes. The first cave is the “Fountain Bubble.” It is what its name suggests, and the only one not named after a color. The four other bubbles are parlors named and furnished in different hues. The White Bubble has a palm tree in the center peeking to the outside world through the roof hole. The adjoining Red Bubble is similar but has a dead fig tree instead. This is the same fig three that Manrique noticed while walking on the lava field. From here, visitors can continue to the swimming pool which once had a roof, until it collapsed. View of the Red Bubble from Above View of the Red Bubble from Above – Image Courtesy of H. Zell The next cave is the Black Bubble which has four pillars. Then, the Yellow Bubble which leads to a painting exhibit hall called the “Manrique Collection.” At the end of the gallery is a huge window that gives the illusion that lava has flowed into the building. It also offers a fantastic view of the lava stretch that makes the space look longer than it is. Before Leaving It’s going to be hard to part with such a lovely and serene place. To stay a little longer, guests can either have a snack at the cafeteria or drop by the art shop for a souvenir. Stroll around the property again. Its magnificent architecture and landscape deserve one more look. After a tour of the museum, visitors have greater respect for César Manrique and his works. There’s also a deeper understanding of the concept art in nature and nature in art. How about visiting his Palm Grove House in Haria next? That sounds like a great idea.

Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park is one of the main family attractions in Puerto del Carmen, combining animal encounters, themed entertainment, water play areas, and a Wild West-inspired setting. Located a short distance from the resort centre, it offers a full day out for visitors looking for something different from the beach. The park is designed around a Texan and Western theme, with wooden buildings, landscaped paths, animal areas, performance spaces, and family-friendly facilities. It is especially popular with families, but it also appeals to visitors who enjoy wildlife, live shows, and relaxed theme park-style attractions. One of the main reasons to visit Rancho Texas Lanzarote is its animal experiences. The park is home to a variety of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and marine species. Visitors can see animals from different parts of the world while learning more about their behaviour, habitats, and conservation. The live shows are a major part of the park experience. Depending on the daily programme, visitors may be able to watch displays featuring dolphins, sea lions, birds of prey, parrots, or other animals. These presentations are designed to be entertaining while also giving guests a closer look at the animals and the work carried out by their trainers and keepers. The dolphin and sea lion presentations are among the most popular attractions at the park. They offer visitors the chance to see the animals’ agility, intelligence, and interaction with their trainers. For many families, these shows are one of the highlights of the visit. Bird shows are another key feature. Birds of prey displays usually demonstrate speed, flight control, and hunting instincts, while parrot shows add a lighter and more playful element to the day. These performances help give the park a varied programme, so visitors are not limited to one type of attraction. Rancho Texas Lanzarote also includes water attractions, making it particularly useful on hot days. The splash and pool areas give children and families a place to cool off between animal shows and walks around the park. Visitors should bring swimwear, towels, and sun protection if they plan to use these areas. Away from the animals and water zones, the park’s Western theme adds to the atmosphere. The setting includes cowboy-style buildings, themed areas, and entertainment that reflects the park’s American frontier inspiration. This gives Rancho Texas a different character from a standard zoo or water park. The park also hosts evening entertainment on selected nights, including its well-known Country and Western-themed events. These usually focus on live music, dancing, food, and a more social atmosphere. Evening events are separate from a normal daytime visit, so visitors should check the current programme before planning around them. Rancho Texas Lanzarote is well suited to families with children, as the park offers a mix of animals, shows, water play, food options, and open-air spaces. It is easy to spend several hours here, especially if visitors plan their day around the show times. Arriving earlier can make it easier to see more of the park without rushing. Facilities on site usually include places to eat and drink, toilets, shaded areas, seating, and gift shops. As much of the park is outdoors, comfortable footwear, hats, water, and sun cream are recommended, particularly during the warmer months. The park is close to Puerto del Carmen, making it convenient for visitors staying in the resort. It can also be reached from other parts of Lanzarote by car, taxi, excursion transfer, or organised transport where available. Visitors staying in Playa Blanca, Costa Teguise, or Arrecife can also include it as part of a family day out. Rancho Texas Lanzarote is ideal for travellers who want a lively, easy-to-enjoy attraction with plenty to keep children entertained. With its animal shows, water areas, themed setting, and family facilities, it is one of the most popular non-beach days out in Lanzarote.

LagOmar Museum is one of Lanzarote’s most unusual architectural attractions, set within the volcanic landscape of Nazaret. Built into the rock of a former quarry, the site combines natural caves, whitewashed walls, tunnels, terraces, water features, and dramatic views to create a space that feels part house, part artwork, and part hidden retreat. The property is closely linked to César Manrique and Jesús Soto, whose influence helped shape many of Lanzarote’s most distinctive visitor attractions. Their approach focused on working with the island’s volcanic landscape rather than replacing it, and LagOmar is a strong example of that philosophy. The building follows the shape of the rock, using natural formations, curved lines, and local materials to create a design that feels carefully integrated with its surroundings. LagOmar is also famous for its connection to the actor Omar Sharif, best known for films such as Doctor Zhivago and Lawrence of Arabia. During the early 1970s, Sharif came to Lanzarote while working on a screen adaptation of The Mysterious Island, based on the adventure novel by Jules Verne. While on the island, he is said to have discovered the house in Nazaret and been captivated by its unusual design. According to local legend, Sharif bought the property but owned it only briefly. The story claims that he lost the house during a game of contract bridge against one of the developers, who was reportedly an expert player. Whether the tale is entirely true or partly myth, it has become one of LagOmar’s best-known stories and adds an extra layer of intrigue to the museum. The architecture is the main reason to visit. LagOmar is built around the contours of the volcanic quarry, with cave-like rooms, narrow passageways, staircases, pools, and open terraces arranged across several levels. The contrast between dark volcanic rock, smooth white surfaces, greenery, and water gives the site a distinctive visual character. As visitors move through the museum, each area reveals a different view of the building and surrounding landscape. Curved stairways, arched openings, stepping stones, and shaded corners create a strong sense of exploration. The layout encourages visitors to slow down and notice how the design uses the existing rock formations rather than hiding them. Natural light plays an important role throughout LagOmar. Openings in the rock allow sunlight to enter the cave-like spaces, while the terraces and outdoor areas offer brighter views across Nazaret and the surrounding volcanic terrain. In the evening, subtle lighting highlights the texture of the stone and gives the site a more atmospheric feel. Today, LagOmar includes museum spaces, galleries, a restaurant, bar areas, and places used for cultural events. These additions give the building a modern purpose while preserving its original character. Art, architecture, geology, and local history all come together within the same setting. LagOmar Museum is ideal for travellers interested in César Manrique’s influence, unusual architecture, photography, film history, and Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape. It is also a good stop for visitors exploring the centre or north of the island, particularly alongside Teguise, Haría, Jameos del Agua, Cueva de los Verdes, or other Manrique-associated sites. A visit to LagOmar offers more than a look around a historic house. It is a chance to experience one of Lanzarote’s most imaginative spaces, where volcanic rock, artistic design, local legend, and cinematic history all combine in a memorable setting.

The Monumento al Campesino is one of Lanzarote’s most meaningful cultural landmarks, created as a tribute to the island’s farmers and rural workers. Located near the geographical centre of Lanzarote, close to San Bartolomé, it combines sculpture, architecture, local history, traditional crafts, and island cuisine in a setting shaped by César Manrique’s distinctive vision. The monument itself is also known as the Monumento a la Fecundidad. Designed by César Manrique, it honours the generations of farmers who worked Lanzarote’s difficult volcanic land and helped shape the island’s rural identity. Farming on Lanzarote has never been easy, with dry conditions, limited rainfall, and challenging soil, but local communities developed inventive methods to make the land productive. The sculpture is an unusual and striking piece of public art. It was created using old water tanks from fishing boats, giving discarded materials a new purpose. Its bold white form rises from the landscape and can be seen from a distance, standing as a visual symbol of resilience, fertility, and the close relationship between Lanzarote’s people and the land. Beside the monument is the Casa-Museo del Campesino, or Campesino House Museum. This site explores the traditional architecture, agriculture, crafts, and everyday life of rural Lanzarote. Built in the style of a traditional farmhouse, it gives visitors a closer look at the tools, techniques, and customs connected with farming on the island. Inside and around the museum, visitors can learn about the challenges faced by agricultural workers in Lanzarote’s dry volcanic environment. Displays and objects show how farmers adapted to harsh conditions, using practical knowledge passed down through generations. The site helps explain why agriculture remains such an important part of the island’s cultural story. The museum also highlights traditional crafts. Depending on the programme, visitors may see demonstrations or workshops involving pottery, weaving, leatherwork, basketry, or other local skills. These craft elements make the site more than a static museum, giving it a living connection to Lanzarote’s heritage. The architecture of the complex is also worth noticing. Whitewashed walls, green woodwork, courtyards, volcanic stone, and simple rural forms reflect the traditional building style of the island. As with many of Manrique’s projects, the design feels carefully balanced with the surrounding landscape rather than imposed on it. Food is another part of the experience. The site includes spaces where visitors can try traditional Canarian and Lanzarote dishes, often with an emphasis on local ingredients and rural recipes. This makes it a good place to connect the island’s agricultural history with its food culture. The Monumento al Campesino is especially suitable for visitors interested in César Manrique, Lanzarote’s rural heritage, traditional crafts, architecture, and local culture. It is also a useful stop for families, as the site is easy to explore and offers a clear introduction to how people lived and worked on the island before modern tourism became dominant. Its central location makes it easy to include in a wider sightseeing route. Visitors can combine it with nearby San Bartolomé, La Geria, Teguise, or other inland attractions, making it a practical stop while travelling between the north, south, and centre of Lanzarote. A visit to the Monumento al Campesino offers a thoughtful contrast to Lanzarote’s beaches and volcanic landscapes. It tells the story of the island’s people, their work, their creativity, and their ability to adapt to a demanding environment. As both a cultural site and a work of art, it remains one of the best places to understand Lanzarote’s rural identity.

Jameos del Agua is one of Lanzarote’s most distinctive attractions, combining volcanic geology, art, architecture, and nature in a way that feels uniquely connected to the island. Located in the municipality of Haría in northern Lanzarote, it forms part of the same volcanic tunnel system as Cueva de los Verdes and was shaped by lava flows from the Corona Volcano thousands of years ago. The site was created when molten lava flowed from Montaña La Corona towards the sea. As the surface of the lava cooled and hardened, the molten rock beneath continued to move, leaving behind long hollow tunnels. In places, sections of the cave roof collapsed, creating natural openings known locally as “jameos”. These openings allow light, air, and vegetation to enter the volcanic tube, creating a dramatic contrast between the dark lava stone and the bright open spaces above. Jameos del Agua became famous largely because of César Manrique, the Lanzarote-born artist and architect whose influence can be seen across the island. In the 1960s, Manrique transformed this natural lava cave into a cultural and visitor attraction, carefully blending the volcanic setting with architecture, planting, water, light, and artistic detail. His work helped show how Lanzarote’s natural landscape could be preserved while also being made accessible and inspiring for visitors. The experience begins with Jameo Chico, reached by descending a stone staircase into the lava tube. This atmospheric section includes a restaurant and bar area overlooking a small underground lake. The combination of volcanic rock, water, filtered daylight, and careful design makes it one of the most memorable parts of the site. The lake is home to the tiny blind albino crabs known as “jameitos”. These rare creatures are closely associated with Jameos del Agua and have become one of its most recognisable symbols. Visitors are asked not to throw coins or objects into the water, as the crabs are sensitive to changes in their environment and the lake forms part of a delicate natural ecosystem. From Jameo Chico, visitors continue through the volcanic passageways towards Jameo Grande. This larger open-air space feels almost like a hidden oasis, with white architectural features, lush planting, dark lava walls, and a striking turquoise pool at its centre. The pool is one of the most photographed views in Jameos del Agua, although it is ornamental and not open for public swimming. Beyond the main open space is the auditorium, a remarkable venue built within the volcanic cave. Its natural acoustics make it especially suited to concerts and performances, and it has hosted music, theatre, and cultural events over the years. The auditorium is another example of how Manrique used the existing volcanic structure rather than working against it. Another area of interest is Jameo de la Cazuela, a quieter and less commonly visited section of the site. This part is usually accessed only on selected guided tours and offers a more intimate view of the cave system, including features not seen on the standard visitor route. La Casa de los Volcanes, located within the wider Jameos del Agua complex, provides further insight into Lanzarote’s volcanic origins. This interpretation centre focuses on geology, volcanic activity, and the forces that shaped the island. It is a useful addition for visitors who want to understand the science behind the landscape as well as enjoy the visual experience of the site. Jameos del Agua is ideal for travellers interested in art, architecture, geology, photography, and Lanzarote’s cultural identity. It is also a good place to appreciate César Manrique’s lasting influence on the island, particularly his belief that tourism, design, and the natural environment could work together rather than compete. A visit to Jameos del Agua pairs well with nearby Cueva de los Verdes, as both are part of the same volcanic tunnel system. The northern coastline around Punta Mujeres and Arrieta is also close by, making this a strong stop on a wider route through northern Lanzarote. With its volcanic caves, underground lake, rare wildlife, dramatic architecture, and carefully designed spaces, Jameos del Agua is one of Lanzarote’s most memorable attractions. It offers a clear example of how the island’s raw volcanic landscape has been transformed into a place of beauty, culture, and quiet fascination.