Fun Interactive Activities for Kids in Lanzarote: A Family Adventure Starting at Lanzarote Airport
Lanzarote, a volcanic gem in the Canary Islands, offers a treasure trove of experiences for families travelling with children. From the moment you land at César Manrique-Lanzarote Airport (ACE), the island’s only airport, the adventure begins. Located just five kilometres from the capital, Arrecife, this gateway is more than a transit hub—it’s your starting point for a holiday filled with interactive fun. The Lanzarote Airport Information guide, available online or at the terminal, provides essential details on transport options, nearby attractions, and family-friendly amenities. Whether you’re picking up a hire car or hopping on a shuttle, the airport’s proximity to resorts like Puerto del Carmen (10 minutes away) ensures you’re quickly immersed in Lanzarote’s charm. This article explores the best activities for kids, weaving in practical insights tied to your arrival, ensuring a seamless and exciting family getaway.
Arrival Made Easy: Navigating Lanzarote Airport with Kids
Stepping off the plane at Lanzarote Airport, you’ll notice its modern yet compact design, tailored for ease of use. Named after the island’s iconic artist, César Manrique, the airport reflects his influence with its artistic flair. For families, the Lanzarote Airport Information guide is a lifesaver, detailing buggy-friendly routes, car hire desks like Cicar, and bus services to key resorts. A short taxi ride to Costa Teguise, about 15 minutes, lands you near the island’s biggest waterpark—a hit with kids. Alternatively, the airport’s shuttle buses connect to Playa Blanca, where beaches await little explorers. With clear signage and a welcoming atmosphere, your journey from baggage claim to Lanzarote’s wonders is smooth, setting the tone for a holiday packed with interactive delights.
Timanfaya National Park: A Volcanic Playground
A 30-minute drive from Lanzarote Airport, Timanfaya National Park offers kids a thrilling introduction to volcanic landscapes. Known as the “Mountains of Fire,” this otherworldly expanse was shaped by eruptions in the 1730s. The park’s visitor centre, accessible via the LZ-67 road, features interactive demonstrations—watch water turn to steam as it’s poured into volcanic fissures, a spectacle that captivates young minds. Kids can also hop on a camel ride, a gentle 20-minute trek across lava fields, blending adventure with education. The Lanzarote Airport Information guide highlights guided tours departing from nearby resorts, making it easy to plan. With its lunar-like terrain and hands-on activities, Timanfaya is a must-visit, sparking curiosity about nature’s power.
Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park: Wild West Meets Wildlife
Just 10 kilometres from the airport, Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park in Puerto del Carmen combines a zoo, waterpark, and Wild West theme for a full day of family fun. Children can marvel at white tigers, interact with sea lions, or cool off on waterslides. The park’s dolphin shows and bird-of-prey displays add an educational twist, while the cowboy-themed playground lets imaginations run wild. The Lanzarote Airport Information guide suggests booking tickets online to skip queues, with shuttle services available from major resorts. After a day of exploration, the evening “Western Night” offers lasso tricks and line dancing—perfect for kids who love a bit of theatrics. This attraction’s proximity to the airport makes it an ideal first stop.
Aquapark Costa Teguise: Splash into Fun
A 15-minute drive from Lanzarote Airport, Aquapark Costa Teguise is the island’s largest waterpark and a paradise for water-loving kids. With twisting slides, a lazy river, and a dedicated toddler zone, it caters to all ages. The park’s paintball area adds a competitive edge for older children, while parents can relax in shaded chill-out zones. The Lanzarote Airport Information guide recommends the Linebus service from Arrecife, stopping near the park, or a quick taxi ride from the terminal. Located in a windy resort known for watersports, Costa Teguise also boasts Playa de las Cucharas, a beach perfect for post-aquapark sandcastle building. This splash-filled day out is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Jameos del Agua: Nature and Art Collide
Roughly 40 minutes from the airport, Jameos del Agua is a volcanic cave system transformed by César Manrique into a surreal attraction. Kids will be enchanted by the underground lake, home to tiny blind albino crabs—a rare natural wonder. The site’s auditorium, carved into lava tunnels, hosts occasional concerts, while the interactive museum upstairs explains Lanzarote’s geology. The Lanzarote Airport Information guide points to coach tours from Playa Blanca or Puerto del Carmen, simplifying the trip. A café overlooking the turquoise pool offers a family-friendly pitstop. This blend of art, nature, and discovery makes Jameos del Agua a unique outing, igniting kids’ sense of wonder.
Submarine Safari: Dive into the Deep
Departing from Puerto Calero, a 20-minute drive from Lanzarote Airport, the Submarine Safari offers an underwater adventure kids won’t forget. Descending 30 metres below the Atlantic, the sub reveals shipwrecks, barracudas, and vibrant marine life through large windows. Guides provide commentary, turning the hour-long dive into an educational journey. The Lanzarote Airport Information guide lists transfer options, including taxis or pre-booked excursions, ensuring easy access. Suitable for children over two, this activity combines excitement with learning, offering a rare peek at Lanzarote’s coastal ecosystem. It’s an ideal rainy-day escape, though the island’s year-round sunshine rarely demands it.
Papagayo Beaches: Coastal Exploration
A 40-minute drive south from the airport, the Papagayo Beaches in Playa Blanca are a collection of sheltered coves with golden sand and turquoise waters. Kids can snorkel, build sandcastles, or join a catamaran cruise—many include lunch and swim stops, bookable via the Lanzarote Airport Information guide. The natural park setting means no shops, so pack supplies, though a cliffside restaurant offers stunning views. Accessible by car or shuttle from Playa Blanca resorts, these beaches provide a relaxed yet interactive day out. Their proximity to the airport makes them a feasible detour, blending nature with family bonding.
Cueva de los Verdes: Underground Adventures
Located 40 minutes north of Lanzarote Airport, Cueva de los Verdes is a lava tube formed 4,000 years ago, now a guided tour bursting with intrigue. Kids will love the dimly lit tunnels, where colourful lights highlight volcanic formations, and a surprise twist at the end keeps everyone guessing. The Lanzarote Airport Information guide suggests combining this with Jameos del Agua, as both are part of the same volcanic system. Tours last about an hour, with knowledgeable guides explaining the cave’s history. This subterranean journey near Haría village offers a cool, interactive escape from the sun, perfect for curious young explorers.
Lanzarote Karting: High-Speed Thrills
A 20-minute drive from the airport, Lanzarote Karting in San Bartolomé delivers adrenaline-pumping fun for kids over eight. With junior karts and a safe, winding track, it’s a chance for children to race while parents cheer or join in. The Lanzarote Airport Information guide notes affordable rates and easy access via the LZ-2 road. Helmets and safety briefings ensure a secure experience, while the on-site café provides a refuelling spot. Set against Lanzarote’s volcanic backdrop, this activity blends excitement with the island’s rugged charm, making it a hit with thrill-seeking families.
César Manrique Foundation: Creative Inspiration
Just 10 minutes from Lanzarote Airport in Taro de Tahíche, the César Manrique Foundation is the artist’s former home, built into volcanic bubbles. Kids can explore quirky rooms, a subterranean garden, and a small museum showcasing Manrique’s art. The Lanzarote Airport Information guide highlights its accessibility by car or bus from Arrecife, with affordable entry (£8 adults, £3 kids). Interactive elements, like peering into lava-formed windows, spark creativity, while the palm-lined grounds invite a family stroll. This cultural stop near the airport celebrates Lanzarote’s artistic soul, engaging young imaginations.
Teguise Market: A Sunday Family Outing
Every Sunday, a 25-minute drive from the airport takes you to Teguise, Lanzarote’s former capital, for its bustling market. Kids can hunt for handmade toys or trinkets among stalls, while street performers add a festive vibe. The Lanzarote Airport Information guide suggests arriving early via the LZ-1 road to beat crowds. Nearby, the Pirate Museum in Santa Bárbara Castle offers an interactive look at Lanzarote’s swashbuckling past—perfect for little adventurers. Pair this with a café stop in Teguise’s charming square, and you’ve got a lively, family-friendly day out steeped in local culture.
Playa Blanca’s Aqualava Waterpark: Waves and Slides
In Playa Blanca, a 35-minute drive from Lanzarote Airport, Aqualava Waterpark brings aquatic fun with a saltwater wave pool and twisting slides. Tailored for younger kids, it features shallow areas and gentle rides, though older children enjoy the faster drops. The Lanzarote Airport Information guide recommends shuttle buses from the airport or resorts, with tickets available online. Set in a resort known for its calm beaches, like Playa Flamingo, it’s a great base for families. Aqualava’s volcanic-themed design ties into Lanzarote’s landscape, making it a splashy, memorable outing.
Glass-Bottom Boat Trips: Marine Magic
From Puerto del Carmen, 15 minutes from the airport, glass-bottom boat trips offer a window into Lanzarote’s underwater world. Kids can spot fish and rays without getting wet, with some trips including a swim stop at Papagayo. The Lanzarote Airport Information guide lists operators like Biosfera Express, with bookings possible from the terminal. Lasting two to three hours, these excursions blend relaxation with discovery, showcasing the island’s coastal beauty. Departing near the airport, they’re an easy add-on to your itinerary, delighting sea-loving children.
Hiking Caldera Blanca: Nature’s Classroom
For active families, a hike up Caldera Blanca, 35 minutes from Lanzarote Airport, offers stunning views and volcanic education. This 10-kilometre trail, suitable for kids over six, winds through lava fields to a crater’s edge. The Lanzarote Airport Information guide advises driving to Mancha Blanca village to start, with sturdy shoes a must. The stark landscape teaches kids about Lanzarote’s geology, while the summit rewards with panoramic vistas. Pack water and snacks, as this off-the-beaten-path adventure immerses you in the island’s wild heart.
Comparison Table: Top Kid-Friendly Activities Near Lanzarote Airport
| Activity | Distance from Airport | Age Suitability | Key Feature | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Timanfaya National Park | 30 minutes | All ages | Volcanic demos, camel rides | £10 adults, £5 kids |
| Rancho Texas Park | 10 minutes | All ages | Zoo, waterpark, shows | £25 adults, £18 kids |
| Aquapark Costa Teguise | 15 minutes | 3+ | Slides, toddler zone | £20 adults, £15 kids |
| Submarine Safari | 20 minutes | 2+ | Underwater exploration | £50 per person |
| Papagayo Beaches | 40 minutes | All ages | Snorkelling, sandcastles | Free (cruise £30+) |
FAQs
What’s the best way to get from Lanzarote Airport to family attractions?
Hiring a car at the airport offers flexibility, with companies like Cicar providing child seats. Alternatively, the Lanzarote Airport Information guide lists shuttles and buses to resorts like Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca, where many activities are based.
Are there indoor activities for kids if it rains in Lanzarote?
Yes, the Submarine Safari and Cueva de los Verdes offer sheltered fun. The Lanzarote Aquarium in Costa Teguise, 15 minutes from the airport, is another indoor gem, featuring shark-feeding experiences.
Which Lanzarote resorts are best for families with young children?
Playa Blanca excels with calm beaches and Aqualava Waterpark, while Puerto del Carmen offers Rancho Texas and easy airport access. Both are well-connected via the Lanzarote Airport Information guide.
How can I plan a budget-friendly family holiday in Lanzarote?
Book activities like Teguise Market or Papagayo Beaches (free entry) and use affordable public transport from the airport. The guide suggests multi-attraction passes for Manrique sites, saving on costs.
What should we pack for a kid-friendly Lanzarote trip?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, and sturdy shoes for hikes like Caldera Blanca. The airport’s shops stock essentials, but packing snacks suits remote spots like Papagayo.
Accommodation Tips: Family-Friendly Stays Near the Airport
Staying near Lanzarote Airport cuts travel time to activities. In Puerto del Carmen, 10 minutes away, Hyde Park Lane offers bungalows with kids’ pools. Playa Blanca’s Iberostar Selection Lanzarote Park, 35 minutes south, boasts family suites and beach access. Costa Teguise, 15 minutes north, features Apartamentos El Guarapo, ideal for self-catering. The Lanzarote Airport Information guide lists these options, with shuttle or car hire suggestions. Booking early secures deals, especially in peak seasons like February, when the island’s mild climate shines.
Local Experiences: Tasting Lanzarote with Kids
Beyond activities, Lanzarote’s cuisine delights families. Try papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce at El Diablo in Timanfaya, cooked using volcanic heat. In Arrecife, near the airport, La Lupe Cantina serves kid-friendly tapas. The Lanzarote Airport Information guide points to markets like Teguise for local sweets like bienmesabe. Dining in a cave at Jameos del Agua adds a quirky twist. These culinary stops, tied to your airport arrival, enrich your trip with authentic flavours.
Conclusion: Lanzarote, a Family Haven from Touchdown to Takeoff
Lanzarote transforms a family holiday into an interactive odyssey, starting at César Manrique-Lanzarote Airport. From volcanic wonders at Timanfaya to underwater thrills on a submarine, every activity blends fun with discovery. The Lanzarote Airport Information guide ties it all together, ensuring seamless travel to resorts, attractions, and hidden gems. Whether splashing in waterparks, exploring caves, or racing karts, kids thrive in this sun-soaked playground. With practical transport, nearby stays, and local tastes, Lanzarote delivers a holiday where memories are forged in lava and sand, proving it’s a destination where arrival is just the beginning. For more inspiration, visit Lanzarote Tourism, Canary Islands Government, or Visit Spain.
