Los Jameos del Agua: a work of art in the volcanic heart of Lanzarote
Located in the municipality of Haría, just 3 km from Punta Mujeres, is one of the most impressive places in Lanzarote, Los Jameos del Agua. It is a masterpiece of nature and art, created by the brilliant César Manrique, one of the most renowned Canarian artists.
The Jameos del Agua are a set of underground spaces formed by the eruption of the Corona volcano, which house a wide variety of attractions: the cave of the Jameos, the house of the volcanoes, the natural auditorium and the cactus garden.
What is a jameo?
A jameo is a natural hollow or cave that forms when the roof of a volcanic lava tube collapses. These tubes originate when lava flows below the surface and solidifies on the outside, creating a tunnel.
The word jameo comes from the Guanche, the language of the ancient aborigines of the Canary Islands, and it is a term exclusive to Lanzarote, fully alive in the popular speech of the island thanks to a large extent to today's protagonist.
How to get to Jameos del Agua?
The Jameos del Agua are located in the northern municipality of Haría, near the town of Punta Mujeres. There are different options for getting to this natural space, although this will depend on two variables, the method of transport and the starting point.
Bearing in mind that the starting point will depend explicitly on where you are located or where you are at the time you want to visit, we can only help you by highlighting the different ways to get there:
By bus/guagua
If you want to travel by public transport, you can take line 9 which runs from the bus station in Arrecife, the island's capital, and also passes through the municipalities of Teguise and Órzola. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes and the price of the ticket varies between 2 and 4 euros, depending on whether you buy it individually or with a voucher.
By taxi
Another option is to take a taxi from anywhere on the island to Jameos del Agua. The journey will be quicker and more comfortable, but the price and duration will depend on the distance you travel. For example, from Arrecife it would cost you between 45 and 60 euros and you would arrive in about
By car
You can also drive to Jameos del Agua, following the LZ-1 road that runs along the north coast of the island . If you live or stay in the north of the island, you will have to head for Arrecife, which is about 27 minutes and 28 km from the capital.
Attractions to see in Jameos del Agua
A fascinating journey into the heart of an underground world inhabited by unique endemic species of flora and fauna awaits you at Jameos del Agua. In this magical place you can enjoy a unique and fascinating experience that combines exploration, discovery and entertainment.
The Cave of Jameos
The entrance to Jameos del Agua takes you to an impressive underground cave, where you can admire the beauty and complexity of the geological formation. The cave is equipped with paths and stairs that allow you to explore it safely and comfortably.
The most surprising thing about this cave is the natural lake of crystalline waters that is found inside, which fills with colours with the reflection of the sunlight. This lake is unique, as it is home to a species of blind albino crab called ‘jameíto’, which is endemic to Lanzarote and can only be found here.
These small crustaceans are very sensitive to pollution and noise, so visitors are asked to respect their habitat and not to touch or feed them.
El Auditorio natural
Inside the cave there is an auditorium built by the Lanzarote artist César Manrique. This space offers exceptional acoustics and is the setting for cultural events such as concerts and performances.
The auditorium seats 600 people and is surrounded by volcanic rock walls that create a unique and spectacular atmosphere. The auditorium also has a cafeteria and a souvenir shop.
The House of Volcanoes
This interpretation centre on the geology and volcanology of the island is the perfect place to learn about the origin and evolution of Lanzarote, as well as the volcanic phenomena that have shaped it.
The Casa de los Volcanes also has an exhibition hall, a library, a laboratory and a seismic observatory. It also offers the possibility of experiencing the energy and magic of the volcanic landscapes of the area through avant-garde museographic resources, such as immersive experiences and virtual reality.
The Cactus Garden
The Cactus Garden is an oasis of native and exotic vegetation that surrounds the entrance to the Jameos del Agua site. Here you can see more than 450 species of cactus from all over the world, which contrast with the arid, volcanic landscape of the island.
Jameos del agua opening hours and prices
The Jameos del Agua is open 365 days a year from 10:00 - 17:15. The entrance fee varies between 15 € (adults) and 7,5 € (children from 7 to 12 years old), being free for children under 7 years old.
These prices are the general prices, as discounts can be applied to these prices: 20% less for residents of the islands and 30% for people with disabilities. You can buy your ticket online from their website or in person at the ticket office at the entrance to Jameos del Agua.
Services in Jameos del Agua
In addition to the main attractions, in Jameos del Agua you will also find a large area of services, rest areas, souvenir shops and a restaurant where you can enjoy the local gastronomy. Below is a list of all the services you can enjoy:
- Restaurant in a volcanic cave
Casa de los Volcanes Museum
Shop at the end of the trail
Bar - cafeteria overlooking the albino crab lake
Auditorium inside a volcanic grotto
Free parking for vehicles and bicycles
An unforgettable experience in Lanzarote
If you travel to Lanzarote, the Jameos del Agua is one of the places you can't miss. A magical place where you can explore an underground world full of surprises, discover endemic species and enjoy a wide range of cultural and leisure activities.
Whether you are a nature lover, an art enthusiast or simply looking for a different experience, in Jameos del Agua you will find something that will surprise you. Let yourself be carried away by the magic of this place and experience an unforgettable journey to the heart of Lanzarote.
