Lanzarote is dream vacation on a Spanish island, spanning from the easternmost Canary Islands within the Atlantic Ocean. Registering as the fourth largest island in the area, Lanzarote translates to “the red mountains”. If you ever get a chance to see it for yourself you’ll know why immediately. Cheap flights to Lanzarote are always available if you know where to look.
It’s estimated by many historians that Lanzarote was the first Canary Island to reach settlement. Many Greek writers throughout history kept records of the area, proving the area was relevant even thousands of years ago. It’s mind-boggling to consider that some of the earliest civilizations shared the view with me. Although the written records survived, much evidence of early settlement has been lost to time.
Volcanic eruptions have occurred as recently as the 19th century, giving it the appearance of nothing else on Earth. Some people even describe it as like walking on an alien planet! To maintain that feel, skyrise building and billboard advertisements are essentially prohibited everywhere.
Activities run in great supply here. The more active individuals will be instantly smitten by the ideal surf conditions. There are also great opportunities for scuba diving and various sports facilities scattered throughout. It’s no wonder most of the locals are very fit.
To witness the skyline over the ocean near the coastline is a transformative experience. It’s easy to lose yourself in the beauty of Lanzarote, and the hiking trails are endless. A bit of a hiker’s paradise, the unique volcanic landscape creates some of the most unique trails I’ve ever personally experienced. Make sure to pack some comfortable hiking shoes, your feet will be busy!
Apart from the gorgeous landscape and scenery, Lanzarote is blooming with exotic wildlife. One particular special breed here is the Canarian Egyptian Vulture. Here on Lanzarote, this bird calls the island its sanctuary, its numbers dwindling all the time. It’s here on the island that this special bird attempts to fight off extinction.
Preservation is an important theme in Lanzarote. This is one of the few areas of the world where mankind hasn’t left a noticeable imprint, allowing the area to sustain its unique DNA.
I came here mainly to photograph the different varieties of plants, understand how they adapt to the secluded conditions of the island. It really is remarkable to consider that an otherwise limited typography can support nearly 500 different varieties of plants. Many of them wouldn’t be possible without the volcanic presence, breathing life into the landscape.
Lanzarote is like no place else in the world. If you haven’t added it to your bucket list yet, you clearly haven’t finished adding all the essential items!
