Driving around Lanzarote takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours of direct driving from one end (e.g., Playa Blanca in the south) to the other (e.g., Orzola in the north). Covering the whole island is easily done in a day, but exploring key attractions usually takes 3-4 hours of driving time over several days.
Lanzarote isn't a very big island (although the locals might ask you if you're crazy, when you want to cross the whole island in one day). From one tip to the other it takes you about 1,5 hours of (comfortable) driving. We therefore recommend to rent a car (Price for one week: we paid around 200 Euros, excl.
Driving in Lanzarote is generally very easy, especially out on the main roads that link up the island's cities, coasts and points of interest. The roads are generally in good condition. There are two main highways to get from one end of Lanzarote to the other: LZ1 (Arrecife to Orzola), LZ2 (Arrecife to Playa Blanca).
Lanzarote is situated to the the north (above) the equator and we sit directly in the area where the wind is blowing steadily from the north east. This wind blows all year around, although the speed varies from time to time.
These rules mean, if you stay at an all inclusive hotel in one of these resorts, you can have a maximum of 6 alcoholic drinks a day as part of your all inclusive package – 3 at lunch and 3 with evening meals. Soft drinks are unlimited at any time of day and you can buy additional alcoholic drinks if you wish.
Yes, hiring a car in Lanzarote is highly worth it for most visitors, offering freedom to explore volcanic landscapes, beaches, and villages at your own pace, often costing less than taxis or transfers, with easy driving conditions, good roads, and cheaper fuel than the UK. It allows access to places public transport doesn't reach and beats queues for airport transfers.
The best time to visit Lanzarote is generally spring (late February-April/May) or autumn (September-November) for warm, pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices, perfect for exploring volcanic landscapes. Summer (July-August) offers peak heat for beach lovers, while winter (December-February) provides a mild escape with cooler evenings, ideal for those seeking sunshine without intense heat.
Truckers aren't legally limited to a certain number of miles driven per day, but on average, the typical truck driver can travel about 500 miles per day. This number is a reflection of drivers' maximum hours behind the wheel, average speeds, and other variables.
Driving in Lanzarote is generally very relaxed. The roads are well-maintained, traffic is light outside of the main towns, and there are no major motorways or complicated junctions. It's an ideal place for a driving holiday.
The night sky in Lanzarote is characterised by its deep darkness, and this is due to several reasons. One is the island's remote location, another is its low population, and there's also no light pollution. Moreover, the island's warm, dry climate all year round means rainy days are rare, and clear nights predominate.
With so much to offer, the Lanzarote Market is definitely a must on your itinerary. What you see in the shops around the resort you can usually get a little cheaper at the Teguise market as you can haggle and barter which is lots of fun and is expected so don't be shy.
Typically petrol stations are open from 08:00 to 22:00 each day. The majority of petrol stations in Lanzarote have a fuel attendant, they will walk around to the drivers window and ask how much fuel you want to put in the car and take your keys if they required to open the fuel flap.
