The Cueva de los Verdes represents one of the most fascinating geological phenomena in the Canary Islands, located in the municipality of Haría, Lanzarote. This extraordinary lava tunnel was formed around 4,000 years ago during the eruptions of the Corona volcano and, with a total length of more than 6 kilometres, 1 kilometre of which is accessible to visitors, the cave offers a unique journey into the belly of the earth. The structure is built on several levels, creating an intricate system of tunnels and volcanic chambers that testify to the power of the natural forces that have shaped the island.
In the 18th century, the cave served as a refuge for the local population during pirate raids, demonstrating the historical as well as geological importance of this site. Today, thanks to a skilful artistic lighting intervention by artist Jesús Soto, visitors can admire the extraordinary rock formations and plays of light that make this place even more impressive.
The Cueva de los Verdes is a unique underground experience, where nature and history intertwine in a fascinating way. The guided tour through this lava tunnel allows you to discover one of the most impressive examples of natural volcanic architecture in the world, enhanced by artistic lighting that enhances its primordial beauty.
The main tunnel of the Cueva de los Verdes represents one of the most spectacular geological formations in the Canary Islands. This incredible natural corridor was formed when the more superficial lava cooled and solidified, while the lava below continued to flow, creating this underground void. The walls show extraordinary streaks of different colours, from red to black through various shades of ochre, testifying to the complex mineral composition of the lava. The ceiling, up to 10 metres high in places, has stalactite formations created not by limestone as in karstic caves, but by the solidification of lava itself.
The particular conformation of the tunnel, with its smooth walls and sinuous shapes, tells the story of the lava flow that generated it. Visitors can observe the ‘lava shelves’ along the walls, indicating the different levels reached by the magma during successive eruptions, offering an extraordinary open book on the geological history of Lanzarote.
One of the most surprising points of the visit is the natural auditorium, a vast volcanic chamber that can accommodate up to 500 people. This hall, with its exceptional natural acoustics, is still used today for concerts and cultural events. The curved walls and the special shape of the rock create perfect acoustic conditions, transforming this underground space into a true natural concert hall.
The combination of artistic lighting and the natural architecture of the cave creates an almost surreal atmosphere in this environment. The skilfully positioned lights enhance the textures of the lava walls and create shadow effects that increase the drama of the space. During musical events, the experience becomes even more magical, with notes that seem to come from the bowels of the earth itself.
The Cueva de los Verdes hides a special surprise that is only revealed during the guided tour: the famous ‘secret of the cave’. This particular element, which cannot be revealed in advance so as not to spoil the surprise for future visitors, is one of the most memorable moments of the tour. It is a natural optical phenomenon that has fascinated generations of visitors and shows how nature can still amaze us with its visual tricks.
This particular aspect of the tour has become one of the highlights of the experience, generating reactions of wonder and amazement in all visitors. The guide skilfully builds anticipation for this moment, making the revelation even more surprising and memorable.
A visit to the Cueva de los Verdes is only accessible by guided tour or by purchasing tickets in advance online. Especially for guided tours, it is advisable to book in advance during the high season.
The cave is open daily from 09:30 to 16:15.
Guided tours start approximately every 30 minutes and last approximately 45 minutes.
Closed on 25 December.
The Cueva de los Verdes is located in the northern part of the island of Lanzarote, in the municipality of Haría. The attraction is easily accessible from César Manrique-Lanzarote Airport, which is about 25 kilometres away. The drive from the airport takes about 30 minutes along the LZ-1 heading north.
From Arrecife, the capital of the island, the journey is about 20 kilometres and takes 25 minutes by car. From Puerto del Carmen, one of the main tourist resorts on the island, the journey is about 35 kilometres and takes 40 minutes. It is also possible to reach the cave by tourist buses that leave from the main resorts on the island, although the car remains the most convenient and flexible option.
Parking at the cave is free and well organised, with ample space for cars and tourist coaches. Road signs are clear and clearly visible along the entire route.
The Cueva de los Verdes is located in the north of Lanzarote, about 23 kilometres from Arrecife. The cave is part of the Monte Corona volcanic system and is only 5 kilometres from the Jameos del Agua, another unmissable volcanic attraction. The strategic location makes it easy to combine the visit with other attractions in the north of the island, such as the Mirador del Río and the Jardín de Cactus.