Are you planning a trip to Lanzarote and wondering what to do? Look no further than Jameos del Agua. This unique cultural attraction is situated in the north of the island and is a must-see for any visitor. We recently visited Jameos del Agua and were blown away by its beauty and cultural significance.
Getting to Jameos del Agua
Getting to Jameos del Agua is relatively straightforward. Located in the northeastern part of Lanzarote, one of the Canary Islands in Spain, it is easily accessible by car, bus, or taxi.
If you’re driving, head north from Arrecife, the island’s capital, on LZ-1. After about 20 kilometres, you’ll see signs for Jameos del Agua – follow these to reach your destination.
If you prefer public transportation, take bus line 9 from Arrecife’s central bus station directly to Jameos del Agua. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes.
Taxis are also readily available throughout the island. Remember to check the opening hours before your visit, as they can vary depending on the season and local holidays.
We recommend renting a car – the LivingFuerteventura way of seeing the Canaries.
The Location of Jameos del Agua
Jameos del Agua is located inside a volcanic tunnel created by the eruption of La Corona Volcano.
It is one of the longest volcanic tunnels in the world, stretching over six kilometres.
The attraction owes its name to the existence of an interior lake caused by infiltrating sea water, which gives rise to a unique geological formation.
César Manrique, a famous artist and architect from Lanzarote, was responsible for turning Jameos del Agua into a cultural centre.
Today, the attraction serves as a testament to his creative work and his vision of harmony between nature and artistic creation.
History and Background
At Jameos del Agua, we were fascinated by the history and background of this unique attraction. Here are some key highlights.
Formation of the Caves
The Jameos del Agua caves were formed thousands of years ago by the eruption of the Monte Corona Volcano.
The native Guanche word “jameo” refers to an opening where the roof of a lava tube has collapsed.
The lava tube, which is also home to the Cueva de los Verdes, is 6 kilometres long in total, of which at least 1.5 kilometres are located underwater.
César Manrique’s Influence
The artist and architect César Manrique played a significant role in the creation of Jameos del Agua. He transformed the caves into a unique space that represents the maximum expression of his ideology: artistic creation in harmony with the environment and nature.
Manrique was a key figure in the development of Lanzarote’s tourism industry, and his influence can be seen throughout the island. At Jameos del Agua, he created an art, culture, and tourism centre that showcases the beauty of the caves while also providing visitors with a range of amenities.
Today, Jameos del Agua is managed by the government of Lanzarote and remains a popular destination for tourists from around the world. Visitors can explore the subterranean salt lake, dine at the restaurant, stroll through the gardens, and enjoy the emerald-green pool, museum, and auditorium.
Exploring the Jameos del Agua
When we visited Jameos del Agua, we were fascinated by the unique geological formations of the caves.
The caves are a natural wonder that has been transformed into a beautiful tourist attraction.
We spent a good amount of time exploring the caves and were impressed by the different sections open to the public.
Here are some of the highlights of our exploration.
The Lake
The first thing that caught our attention was the beautiful lake in the middle of the cave.
The lake is home to a unique species of blind albino crab that is found only in Lanzarote.
Known scientifically as Munidopsis polymorpha. These tiny, ethereal creatures, endemic to this location, are a symbol of the site. They are so integral to the identity of Jameos del Agua that they are even featured in the centre’s logo.
Their delicate existence within the lake’s clear blue waters adds another layer of intrigue to this already fascinating location.
We were amazed by the clear blue waters of the lake and the reflections of the cave walls on the surface. There is a small bridge that crosses the lake and gives visitors a great view of the crabs and the water.
The Auditorium
The next section that we explored was the auditorium. This section of the cave has been transformed into a concert hall that can seat up to 600 people.
We learned that many famous musicians have performed in this unique venue.
The auditorium within Jameos del Agua is not just a marvel of natural acoustics; it’s also a vibrant cultural hub.
The site frequently hosts concerts and cultural events, offering a unique experience of enjoying performances in this extraordinary setting. It’s worth checking the event schedule ahead of your visit.
The Gardens
The last section that we explored was the gardens. This section of the cave has been transformed into a beautiful garden with palm trees, cacti, and other plants. We were impressed by the creativity of the designers who were able to create a garden in such an unusual location.
We enjoyed walking through the gardens and taking in the beauty of the plants and the cave walls.
The Museum
Nestled within the volcanic structure of Jameos del Agua is a museum dedicated to volcanology.
This educational resource provides an in-depth exploration of the volcanic history of Lanzarote and the Canary Islands.
It’s a treasure trove of information for those with a keen interest in geology, offering a deeper understanding of the forces that shaped this unique landscape.
More info about the museum is here.
The Pool
Amidst the rugged beauty of the caves, a stunning turquoise pool designed by César Manrique glistens like a hidden gem.
Although not open for public use, its aesthetic appeal enhances the overall allure of the site.
This tranquil pool, reflecting the surrounding natural and architectural beauty, is a favourite spot for capturing memorable photographs. We made good use of it!
Night Visits
As the sun sets, Jameos del Agua transforms into an enchanting nocturnal wonderland.
The caves, bathed in soft, ambient lighting, create a magical atmosphere that’s a stark contrast to the daytime experience.
The on-site restaurant offers a culinary delight, where visitors can savour a delicious meal accompanied by live music, all under a starlit sky.
Get more information about the night visits here.
Conservation Efforts
The preservation of Jameos del Agua’s delicate ecosystem, especially the unique blind crabs, is a testament to the ongoing conservation efforts.
The careful management of this site ensures the survival of its endemic species and maintains the natural beauty that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.
Make sure You leave everything as it is at Jameos del Agua!
Practical Information
Planning your visit to Jameos del Agua is made easier with some practical information. The site is open from 10 am to 6:30 pm, with night visits starting from 7 pm. Ticket prices vary, so it’s advisable to check the official website for the most accurate information.
Pro traveller tip: You can book Your tickets online in advance here. Saving precious standing-in-line time on location. Something we didn’t do but were made aware of once we got there. You travel and You learn!
Are You planning to visit Jameos del Agua Lanzarote? Or have You been there already? What was Your favourite thing about this incredible place? Let us know in the comments below!
Other Lanzarote posts:
Visiting Bodega La Geria Winery
