The oldest of Lanzarote’s tourist centres is a marvellously lit tour through a volcanic cave system. The surprise towards the end is genuinely stunning. Here’s what to expect when you visit.
Like the Jameo del Agua, the Cueva de los Verdes is part of the volcanic tube created after the eruption of La Corona Volcano approximately 4,000 years ago. Previously used as a refuge from pirates from North Africa, the Cabildo asked Jesús Soto to adapt the cave and make it into an attraction for visitors around the world.
Most visitors will see both the Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes on their trip as the two centres are next to each other. However, they both offer very different and unique experiences.
As you drive towards the centre, look out of the “Cueva de los Verdes” wooden sign on the right-hand side. Once you spot it, you’ll need to park at the adjacent car park. Keep your eyes peeled as the centre can be hard to spot at first – it isn’t as built up at the Jameos del Agua.
The tours allow for up to 50 visitors at a time so you may have to wait in line if you visit during peak months as the CACT tourist centres get are very busy.
Once the tour starts, you’ll be led into the cave by a tour guide for the 1km tour through the volcanic tube.
As you enter the cave, you’ll be treated to a soundscape that was recorded specifically for the caves to add to the ambiance as your tour guide explains the history of the eruptions and the formation of the volcanic tube. You’ll be exploring just a small section of the tube for the tour (the full tub extends nearly 8 kilometres in length, with a large section underwater).
You’ll be led through a narrow part of the tube and down some steps before it opens up into a large stunning space with dramatic lighting emphasising its natural beauty.
Further on you may be surprised to see a concert hall with chairs and a stage. Here you’ll sit and listen to the tour guide as they explain more about the history of the volcanic tube (concerts are frequently held here and can be booked online via the CACTs website). Does it get much better than a concert in a cave?
Towards the end of the tour, you’ll be greeted by quite the surprise inside the volcanic tube… which we won’t spoil.
BOOKING INFORMATION
The Cueva de los Verdes is open every day from 10am until 5pm (last entrance at 4pm) and takes approximately 50 minutes to an hour to complete the tour.
Entry is €15 per adult, €7.50 per child (ages 7 – 12) and free for children under the age of 6. There is a discount for residents which is €8 per adult and €4 per child.
Those with disabilities can receive a 30% discount on tickets too (the centre is not wheelchair accessible).
You can buy tickets online from the official website here:
https://ventaonline.cactlanzarote.com/en/tickets/cueva-de-los-verdes-ticket
