Charco de los Clicos (Green Lagoon) Lanzarote
A volcanic crater holding a vibrant green lagoon, set against black sand and the Atlantic. A unique natural wonder.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Charco de los Clicos (Green Lagoon) Lanzarote
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A volcanic crater holding a vibrant green lagoon, set against black sand and the Atlantic. A unique natural wonder.
"Absolutely stunning views! A must-see spot in Lanzarote with otherworldly colors."
🚗 Park Smartly
Park at Siroco Coffee or the Mirador parking. A short uphill walk leads to the best views.
📸 Golden Hour is Key
Visit at sunrise or sunset for dramatic colors and fewer people.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Emerald Lagoon
Within the volcanic crater
A striking green lake formed in an ancient volcanic crater, contrasting with black sand and red cliffs.
Mirador del Charco de los Clicos
Viewpoint overlooking the lagoon
Offers panoramic views of the lagoon, ocean, and dramatic volcanic formations. A photographer's dream.
El Golfo Village
Adjacent to the lagoon
A charming coastal village with seafood restaurants offering ocean views and a relaxed atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking and Access
Best Light for Photos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park Smartly
Park at Siroco Coffee or the Mirador parking. A short uphill walk leads to the best views. +1
📸 Golden Hour is Key
Visit at sunrise or sunset for dramatic colors and fewer people.
🚶♀️ Short, Scenic Walk
An easy, short path from the parking to the viewpoint offers stunning volcanic scenery.
🌊 Beach Access Nearby
While you can't swim in the lagoon, a path leads to a black sand beach with crashing waves.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park Smartly
Park at Siroco Coffee or the Mirador parking. A short uphill walk leads to the best views. +1
📸 Golden Hour is Key
Visit at sunrise or sunset for dramatic colors and fewer people.
🚶♀️ Short, Scenic Walk
An easy, short path from the parking to the viewpoint offers stunning volcanic scenery.
🌊 Beach Access Nearby
While you can't swim in the lagoon, a path leads to a black sand beach with crashing waves.
🍽️ Lunch in El Golfo
Combine your visit with fresh seafood at one of El Golfo's seaside restaurants.
⚠️ Color Varies
The lagoon's green hue depends on light and algae; it might not always be as vibrant as photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, otherworldly views of the green lagoon set against dramatic volcanic landscapes and the blue ocean. The Mirador offers breathtaking panoramas, and the nearby black sand beach adds to the dramatic scenery. While direct access to the lagoon is restricted, the visual impact is undeniable.
"The views are absolutely stunning! You can’t access the lake directly, but you can walk down to a nearby beach area. Although the lake contains ocean water, it appears green because of the algae"
Theodora Mocanasu
"The Mirador del Charco de los Clicos is a viewpoint overlooking the stunning Charco de los Clicos, also known as the Green Lagoon, located near the village of El Golfo on the west coast of Lanzarote. This spot offers breathtaking views of the lagoon, surrounded by dramatic volcanic landscapes, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
What to Expect:
1. Panoramic Views:
• From the mirador, you can enjoy an elevated view of the vivid green lagoon set against the backdrop of black volcanic sand, rugged cliffs, and the deep blue Atlantic Ocean.
2. Walking Path:
• A well-maintained walking path leads to the mirador, making it easily accessible. The route is relatively short and suitable for all ages.
3. Volcanic Geology:
• The surrounding area showcases Lanzarote’s volcanic origins, with layers of lava rock and dramatic formations shaped by centuries of eruptions.
4. Photographic Opportunity:
• The contrast of colors and textures makes this spot a photographer’s dream. Visiting during golden hour (sunrise or sunset) adds an extra layer of beauty to the scene.
Tips for Visitors:
• Getting There:
• The mirador is located on the edge of the village of El Golfo. It’s well-signposted and easy to reach by car, with parking available nearby.
• Combine with Nearby Attractions:
• After enjoying the view, you can explore El Golfo village, dine at its seafood restaurants, or visit other nearby volcanic attractions like Los Hervider"
Matúš Komarňanský
"Awesome location, shame you can't get down to the lake without walking all the way around.. However I know it would be a bad idea with people littering."
Ryan Jordan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by car. Park at the designated parking area near the Mirador del Charco de los Clicos or at the Siroco Coffee shop. From there, a short uphill walk leads to the viewpoint. +1
While direct public transport might be limited, you can often reach the nearby village of El Golfo via local bus routes and then walk to the viewpoint. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Parking is available at the Mirador del Charco de los Clicos and near the Siroco Coffee shop. It can get busy, especially during peak times, so arriving earlier is recommended.
It's possible to hike or cycle to El Golfo, but it's a significant distance from major tourist hubs. Driving or taking a tour is generally more practical for most visitors.
Many visitors combine a stop at the viewpoint with exploring the charming El Golfo village and enjoying a meal at one of its seaside restaurants.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Charco de los Clicos is a natural attraction and is free to visit. There are no entrance fees for the viewpoint or the surrounding areas. +1
As a natural site, Charco de los Clicos is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best views and safety.
No, swimming in the Charco de los Clicos is not permitted. It's a protected natural area, and direct access to the lagoon is restricted.
The Mirador del Charco de los Clicos is a public viewpoint and does not have an entrance fee. Enjoy the stunning views for free.
While there are no specific entry restrictions, visitors are asked to respect the natural environment and not litter. Direct access to the lagoon is prohibited.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours, around sunrise and sunset, offer the most dramatic lighting and vibrant colors for photography. The contrast between the green lagoon, black sand, and blue ocean is spectacular.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water and enhance the colors.
Drone regulations can vary and are often restricted in natural parks and coastal areas. It's advisable to check the latest regulations for Lanzarote and the Timanfaya National Park area before flying a drone.
The unique combination of the vibrant green lagoon, the stark black volcanic sand, the rugged red cliffs, and the deep blue Atlantic Ocean creates a visually stunning and otherworldly landscape.
You can't access the lagoon directly, but the viewpoint offers excellent perspectives. A walk down to the nearby black sand beach provides different angles and the chance to capture the crashing waves.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The main activity is admiring the stunning green lagoon from the Mirador del Charco de los Clicos. You can also walk down to the black sand beach and explore the charming village of El Golfo.
The walk from the parking area to the Mirador del Charco de los Clicos is relatively short and uphill, but it's generally considered easy and suitable for most fitness levels.
Yes, you can walk down to the black sand beach adjacent to the lagoon. Be mindful of the waves and rocky terrain.
Yes, the short walk to the viewpoint is manageable for children. However, direct access to the lagoon is not allowed, and supervision is needed on the beach due to waves.
Most visitors spend about 30-60 minutes at the viewpoint and the nearby beach area. If you plan to have lunch in El Golfo, allow more time.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the nearby village of El Golfo is known for its excellent seafood restaurants, many offering tables with views of the ocean.
El Golfo specializes in fresh seafood, often caught locally. You can enjoy dishes like grilled fish, paella, and other Canarian specialties.
Prices can vary, but generally, dining in El Golfo offers good value, especially considering the quality of the seafood and the scenic locations.
While there isn't a cafe directly at the viewpoint, the Siroco Coffee shop is located nearby and is a good spot for a coffee or a light snack before or after visiting the lagoon.
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks to enjoy at the viewpoint or on the beach. Remember to take all your trash with you to keep the area clean.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. The nearby village of El Golfo offers family-friendly restaurants for a meal with a view, making it a convenient stop for lunch. Visiting in the morning can help avoid the midday sun and potential crowds.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Parking is available, and the viewpoint offers a quick yet impactful visual experience. For those on a longer road trip, the village of El Golfo provides a perfect opportunity for a refreshing lunch break with stunning ocean vistas before continuing your journey.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Aim for the golden hours for the best light, and experiment with different angles from the viewpoint and the beach. Be mindful of the crowds, especially during peak times, and consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a more exclusive shooting experience. The contrast and textures here are truly Instagram-worthy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of the Green Lagoon
+1The surrounding area showcases Lanzarote's unique volcanic terrain, with layers of lava rock and dramatic formations sculpted by the elements. The contrast between the emerald waters, the stark black volcanic sand, and the rugged red cliffs creates an otherworldly and visually striking scene. This unique environment is part of the broader Timanfaya National Park, highlighting the island's protected natural beauty.
+1While you can't enter the lagoon itself, the Mirador del Charco de los Clicos provides an elevated vantage point to appreciate its beauty. A walk down to the adjacent black sand beach offers a different perspective and the chance to experience the raw power of the Atlantic Ocean crashing against the shore.
Photography Tips for Charco de los Clicos
When composing your shots, focus on the contrasts: the vivid green against the deep blue sea, the dark volcanic sand, and the reddish-brown cliffs. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive panoramic views from the Mirador. If you're on the black sand beach, try to incorporate the crashing waves for a sense of dynamism. A polarizing filter can be beneficial to reduce glare on the water and deepen the colors of the sky and sea.
Remember that direct access to the lagoon is prohibited, so you'll be shooting from the viewpoint or the beach. Be patient, as the crowds can sometimes obscure views. Visiting on a weekday morning or during the shoulder seasons can offer a more serene experience for photography.
Exploring El Golfo Village
Strolling through El Golfo, you'll find a handful of quaint shops and a laid-back atmosphere. It's the perfect place to unwind after visiting the lagoon, perhaps enjoying a coffee or a glass of local wine while watching the waves. The village itself is small and easily walkable, offering a glimpse into traditional Canarian coastal life.
Many visitors recommend combining a trip to Charco de los Clicos with lunch or dinner in El Golfo. It's an opportunity to savor local delicacies, particularly the day's catch, and soak in the serene ambiance of this coastal gem. The proximity makes it a natural and highly recommended addition to your itinerary.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit