Pet-Friendly Airlines Flying to Lanzarote from the UK: A Comprehensive Guide
Travelling with a pet can transform a holiday into an unforgettable adventure, especially when your destination is as captivating as Lanzarote. Known for its volcanic landscapes, golden beaches, and year-round sunshine, this Canary Island gem is an ideal spot for pet owners seeking a getaway. Lanzarote Airport, officially César Manrique-Lanzarote Airport (ACE), serves as the island’s main gateway, located just 5 kilometres southwest of the capital, Arrecife. For UK travellers, finding pet-friendly airlines flying to this destination is key to planning a seamless trip. This article explores the options, offering insights into airlines, airport details, and everything Lanzarote has to offer for you and your furry companion.
Why Choose Lanzarote for a Pet-Friendly Holiday?
Lanzarote’s unique appeal lies in its blend of natural wonders and welcoming atmosphere, making it a standout choice for pet owners. The island’s Timanfaya National Park, with its lunar-like volcanic terrain, is a must-visit, though pets may need to wait in the car due to strict conservation rules. Beyond this, Lanzarote boasts pet-friendly beaches like Playa Blanca, where dogs can enjoy a splash. The island’s mild climate, averaging 21°C in winter and 29°C in summer, ensures comfortable conditions for pets year-round. Lanzarote Airport facilitates easy access, with its modern facilities streamlining arrivals.
Understanding Pet-Friendly Travel from the UK to Lanzarote
Travelling with pets from the UK to Lanzarote involves navigating specific regulations, primarily under the EU Pet Travel Scheme, despite Brexit changes. Pets need a microchip, rabies vaccination, and an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued within 10 days of travel. Lanzarote Airport’s Terminal 1 handles international arrivals, including pet processing, with staff accustomed to assisting UK travellers. The island’s proximity to Africa, just 125 kilometres off the Saharan coast, means a flight time of around 4 hours from the UK, making it a manageable journey for pets. Planning ahead ensures compliance and a smooth experience.
Pet-Friendly Airlines Operating from the UK to Lanzarote
Several airlines offer flights from the UK to Lanzarote, but pet policies vary, affecting your choice. Ryanair, a budget favourite, flies from airports like London Stansted and Manchester to Lanzarote Airport but does not permit pets in the cabin or hold, except for guide dogs. EasyJet, another low-cost carrier with routes from London Gatwick and Bristol, follows a similar policy, restricting pet travel. Jet2, however, stands out as a pet-friendly option, allowing small dogs and cats in the cabin on select flights from Manchester and Birmingham. Checking airline-specific rules is crucial, as Lanzarote’s resorts like Puerto del Carmen are just a short drive from the airport.
Jet2: A Closer Look at a Pet-Friendly Option
Jet2 offers a lifeline for pet owners, permitting animals weighing up to 10 kilograms (including carrier) in the cabin, subject to availability and a fee. Departing from UK hubs like Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds Bradford, Jet2 flights land at Lanzarote Airport’s Terminal 1, where pet clearance is efficient. The airline’s focus on customer service extends to pet travel, with pre-booking required to secure a spot. Once on the island, explore Costa Teguise, a resort town near Arrecife, known for its pet-friendly cafes and coastal walks. Jet2’s reliability makes it a top pick for a stress-free journey.
TUI Airways: Limited but Viable Pet Travel
TUI Airways connects multiple UK airports, including London Gatwick and Newcastle, to Lanzarote, landing at the island’s sole commercial airport. While TUI primarily caters to package holidays, it allows pets in the hold on certain routes, though not in the cabin. This option suits larger dogs, with strict crate requirements and advance notification mandatory. Lanzarote Airport’s transfer times are short—Playa Blanca is 30 minutes away—making it convenient post-flight. TUI’s network is ideal for those pairing flights with accommodation, such as pet-friendly villas in the lush Haría region, offering a peaceful retreat.
British Airways: A Premium Pet Travel Choice
British Airways (BA) flies from London Heathrow to Lanzarote via a stopover, typically in Madrid, as direct flights are rare. BA permits pets in the hold, handled through its cargo partner, IAG Cargo, rather than the cabin. This suits travellers with larger pets, though costs and logistics increase with the connection. Lanzarote Airport’s Terminal 1 manages these arrivals smoothly, with taxis readily available for the 10-minute ride to Arrecife. Once there, visit the César Manrique Foundation, a cultural highlight reflecting the island’s artistic heritage, though pets may need to stay outside.
Comparison Table: Pet-Friendly Airlines from the UK to Lanzarote
| Airline | Departure Airports (UK) | Pet Policy | Flight Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jet2 | Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds | Cabin (up to 10kg) | ~4 hours | Limited spaces, pre-booking needed |
| TUI Airways | Gatwick, Newcastle, others | Hold only | ~4 hours | Ideal for larger pets, extra fees |
| British Airways | Heathrow (via Madrid) | Hold only (cargo) | ~6-8 hours | Stopover adds time, higher cost |
| Ryanair | Stansted, Manchester, others | No pets (guide dogs only) | ~4 hours | Budget-friendly but restrictive |
| EasyJet | Gatwick, Bristol, others | No pets (guide dogs only) | ~4 hours | Affordable, no pet options |
This table highlights key differences, aiding your decision based on pet size and travel preferences. Lanzarote Airport serves all these carriers efficiently.
Navigating Lanzarote Airport with Your Pet
Lanzarote Airport, named after the island’s iconic artist César Manrique, is compact yet well-equipped. Terminal 1, handling international flights, includes customs areas where pet documentation is checked. Staff are familiar with UK pet arrivals, ensuring a swift process. There’s no dedicated pet relief area, so plan a stop outside near the car park. Taxis and car rentals are accessible, with the latter ideal for exploring Lanzarote’s Jameos del Agua, a volcanic cave system turned cultural site. The airport’s proximity to Arrecife (5 kilometres) means quick transfers, minimising pet stress.
Transportation Options from Lanzarote Airport
Once cleared at Lanzarote Airport, transportation choices abound. Car hire is recommended, available from providers like Hertz and Avis on-site, offering flexibility to visit pet-friendly spots like Famara Beach, famed for surfing and stunning views. Public buses connect to Arrecife and Playa Honda, but they’re less practical with pets due to limited routes. Taxis, found outside Terminal 1, are affordable and convenient, with a 30-minute ride to Playa Blanca costing around €40. This resort’s white sands and calm waters are perfect for a pet-friendly day out, enhancing your Lanzarote experience.
Pet-Friendly Accommodation in Lanzarote
Lanzarote offers diverse lodging options welcoming pets. In Puerto del Carmen, a bustling resort near the airport, hotels like the Beatriz Playa & Spa accept pets with prior notice. Playa Blanca’s villas, such as those listed on Booking.com, provide private spaces ideal for dogs to roam. For a quieter stay, Haría’s rural fincas—traditional farmhouses—offer a serene escape amidst palm groves. Always confirm pet policies, as fees may apply. These bases let you explore nearby attractions like the El Grifo winery, where Lanzarote’s volcanic soil crafts unique wines, though pets stay outside tasting rooms.
Exploring Lanzarote’s Pet-Friendly Attractions
Lanzarote’s attractions cater to pets and owners alike. Playa Blanca Beach allows dogs to enjoy the shore, while Costa Teguise’s coastal paths are perfect for walks with scenic Atlantic views. Timanfaya National Park, a volcanic marvel, restricts pets from trails, but nearby viewpoints offer photo-worthy moments. The island’s capital, Arrecife, hosts the Castillo de San Gabriel, a historic fort with pet-friendly grounds. Lanzarote Airport’s efficient layout means you’re quickly on your way to these sites, with car hire enhancing access to hidden gems like the green lagoon of El Golfo.
Dining with Your Pet in Lanzarote
Lanzarote’s culinary scene embraces pets, especially in tourist-friendly areas. Puerto del Carmen’s waterfront eateries, like La Ola, often welcome dogs on outdoor terraces, serving fresh seafood such as grilled octopus. In Costa Teguise, Casa Tomas offers a laid-back vibe with pet-friendly seating, ideal for sampling “sancocho,” a local fish stew. Arrecife’s markets, held Sundays in Teguise, provide a taste of Lanzarote’s culture—pets can join as you browse. Lanzarote Airport’s proximity ensures you’re dining soon after landing, with car hire simplifying trips to these gastronomic hotspots.
Weather Considerations for Pet Travel to Lanzarote
Lanzarote’s subtropical climate suits pets year-round, with little rainfall and consistent warmth. Winter highs of 21°C and summer peaks of 29°C mean comfortable conditions, though summer humidity may require extra water for pets. Spring and autumn offer milder weather, ideal for exploring sites like the Mirador del Río, a clifftop lookout designed by César Manrique. Lanzarote Airport’s arrivals align with this stable climate, ensuring pets aren’t stressed by extreme shifts. Timing your trip outside peak school holidays (July-August) avoids crowds at resorts like Playa Blanca, enhancing pet comfort.
Planning Your Pet’s Journey: Tips and Tricks
Preparation is vital for a smooth trip to Lanzarote with your pet. Book flights early with pet-friendly airlines like Jet2, securing cabin space. Obtain an AHC from a vet, and pack familiar items—bowls, toys—to ease pet anxiety. At Lanzarote Airport, allow time for customs checks, and have paperwork handy. On the island, stick to shaded walks during midday heat, especially near volcanic areas like Timanfaya. Research pet-friendly rentals in advance via platforms like Visit Lanzarote (www.turismolanzarote.com), ensuring a welcoming stay. These steps guarantee a hassle-free holiday.
Cultural Experiences with Pets in Lanzarote
Lanzarote’s rich culture enhances any pet-friendly trip. The annual San Ginés festival in August, celebrating the island’s patron saint, features fireworks and street events in Arrecife—pets can join the outdoor fun. César Manrique’s influence shines at Jameos del Agua, where volcanic tunnels house an auditorium; pets wait outside but nearby paths suit strolls. Teguise’s Sunday market offers a taste of local life, with pet-friendly vibes. Lanzarote Airport’s efficient arrivals mean you’re soon immersed in these traditions, with car hire unlocking the island’s cultural depth.
Outdoor Adventures for You and Your Pet
Lanzarote’s rugged terrain invites adventure. Famara Beach, a 30-minute drive from the airport, is a haven for surfing and dog-friendly walks, its dramatic cliffs a stunning backdrop. The northern Haría Valley, with its thousand palms, offers shaded trails perfect for pets. While Timanfaya’s core is off-limits, its surrounding roads provide scenic drives with stops for pets to stretch. Lanzarote Airport’s car hire options make these outings accessible, ensuring you and your companion enjoy the island’s wild beauty, from volcanic plains to windswept shores.
Shopping and Souvenirs with Pets in Lanzarote
Shopping in Lanzarote is pet-friendly in many spots. Arrecife’s boutiques and Teguise’s market welcome dogs, offering local crafts like volcanic stone jewellery. Puerto del Carmen’s Biosfera Plaza has outdoor areas where pets can join you while browsing. Bargaining is common at markets, so snag a deal on Lanzarote wine or aloe vera products—perfect souvenirs. Lanzarote Airport’s proximity to these hubs means quick trips, with taxis or rentals simplifying transport. Pets may not enter stores, but outdoor shopping keeps them part of the experience.
Health and Safety for Pets in Lanzarote
Keeping pets safe in Lanzarote requires attention to local conditions. Veterinary clinics, like those in Arrecife, are accessible from the airport, a 10-minute drive. Bring pet sunscreen for summer visits, as volcanic areas reflect heat. Water is essential, especially on walks near La Geria’s vineyards, where grapes grow in volcanic craters. Lanzarote Airport’s efficient layout minimises travel stress, but check pet insurance covers Spain (see www.gov.uk for advice). The island’s calm pace and pet-friendly ethos ensure a healthy, happy trip for your companion.
FAQs About Pet-Friendly Travel to Lanzarote
Which airlines fly pets directly from the UK to Lanzarote?
Jet2 offers direct flights with pets in the cabin from Manchester and Birmingham, while TUI Airways allows pets in the hold from Gatwick and Newcastle. British Airways flies via Madrid, with pets in cargo.
What documents do I need for my pet at Lanzarote Airport?
An Animal Health Certificate (AHC), microchip, and rabies vaccination are required, checked at Terminal 1 upon arrival.
Are there pet-friendly beaches in Lanzarote?
Yes, Playa Blanca and Famara Beach welcome dogs, offering sand and surf just a short drive from the airport.
How long is the flight from the UK to Lanzarote?
Direct flights take around 4 hours, with stopovers (e.g., BA via Madrid) extending to 6-8 hours.
Where can I find pet-friendly accommodation?
Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca, and Haría offer options, bookable via platforms like Booking.com or local tourism sites.
Conclusion: A Pet-Friendly Lanzarote Adventure Awaits
Lanzarote beckons UK pet owners with its stunning landscapes, welcoming resorts, and accessible travel options. Jet2 leads as the top pet-friendly airline, offering cabin travel, while TUI and British Airways cater to larger pets in the hold. Lanzarote Airport streamlines arrivals, connecting you swiftly to the island’s beaches, volcanic wonders, and cultural treasures. Whether strolling Famara’s shores or sipping wine in La Geria, you and your pet can savour a holiday blending relaxation and exploration. Plan wisely, book early, and let Lanzarote’s charm create lasting memories for you both. For more inspiration, visit Turismo Lanzarote or Jet2’s pet policy page.
