Charco De Los Clicos
Charco de los Clicos is a striking volcanic lagoon on the rugged coast of Lanzarote, its vivid green waters contrasting with the black lava sands and the deep blue Atlantic beyond. Formed by a volcanic eruption in the 18th century, this collapsed crater now holds a shallow lake whose emerald hue comes from the algae living in its mineral-rich waters. It's a photographer's dream and a must-see for anyone exploring the island's dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Highlights & What to See
- The Green Lagoon: The main attraction is the surreal, bright green lake set in a black volcanic crater. The colour is most intense on sunny days.
- El Golfo Village: The nearby fishing village offers a glimpse into local life, with whitewashed houses and a small harbour.
- Lava Cliffs and Ocean Views: Walk along the rugged coastline for dramatic views of the Atlantic crashing against the black volcanic rocks.
- Timanfaya National Park: A short drive away, this otherworldly park showcases Lanzarote's volcanic heart with geysers and lunar-like landscapes.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors spend about 30 minutes to an hour at Charco de los Clicos itself, taking photos and absorbing the scenery. However, combine it with a visit to El Golfo village for a coffee or a seafood lunch, and you can easily fill a morning or afternoon. If you're also heading to Timanfaya National Park, plan for a half-day trip to do both justice.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Timanfaya National Park – Just a 10-minute drive away, this park offers guided bus tours through volcanic craters and the famous 'devil's kitchen' restaurant.
- Los Hervideros – A dramatic coastline where lava tubes and blowholes create spectacular sea spray during high tide.
- El Lago Verde – Another green lake, but smaller and less visited, offering a quieter alternative.
- Yaiza – A charming inland village with white architecture and a good base for exploring the south.
- Playa de la Cera – A black sand beach near El Golfo, great for a stroll but not for swimming due to strong currents.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- El Golfo — NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information. / Public domain
- Playa de la Cera — MichaelEmilio / CC BY-SA 4.0
- El Lago Verde — Aldoarianto.87 / CC BY-SA 4.0