Lanzarote Cueva de los Verdes

Cueva de los Verdes is a remarkable volcanic tunnel, created thousands of years ago when lava from Monte Corona flowed towards the sea. The entire tube stretches for more than six kilometres, reaching from the heart of the volcano right out beneath the ocean. It is one of those places that never fails to impress, no matter how many times you visit.

Part of the tunnel has been carefully opened to visitors, with beautiful lighting created by Cesar Manrique and Jesus Soto that turns the natural cave into a truly magical underground world. For many of us who live here, it remains one of Lanzarote’s most unforgettable experiences, and it is easy to see why so many people consider it a highlight of the Canary Islands.

Guided tours set off every half hour or so, and each one lasts just under an hour. As you wander through the one-kilometre visitor tunnel, your guide shares stories about the cave’s geology, its history, and the clever lighting that brings the space to life. The walkway is paved and mostly level, but do watch your head in a few spots where the ceiling dips and be prepared for a handful of steps along the way.

You will find yourself moving from soaring caverns that really show off the sheer scale of the volcanic tube, to narrow stretches where the lava walls seem to gently hug you on both sides. One of the most impressive sights is the underground concert hall, which can seat up to 600 people. The acoustics here are truly special, and every so often, you might be lucky enough to catch a concert in this unique setting. There is also a little surprise waiting for you near the end of the tour. We will leave it for you to discover, but it is a clever touch that most visitors remember long after they leave.

The guides share their knowledge in both Spanish and English, and they do so with real enthusiasm and a touch of humour, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

The cave takes its name from the Verde family, who once owned the land above. In the days when Lanzarote faced frequent raids from pirates, local villagers would slip quietly into the cave system, finding shelter and safety deep underground.

The pirates never managed to discover the entrance, so hundreds of people found refuge in these cool, winding tunnels whenever danger threatened. The cave itself is a wonder of Lanzarote’s volcanic past. It was created when the surface of a lava flow hardened, while the molten rock beneath kept moving, eventually leaving behind a long, hollow tube. As you walk through, you’ll notice the walls shift in colour from deep red to grey and black, each shade telling a story of minerals and heat from ancient eruptions. In some places, you can look up and see stalactites of solidified lava, frozen in time since the last flow thousands of years ago.

Cueva de los Verdes is a truly remarkable place to explore, but it is important to know that the cave is not suitable for wheelchairs. The guided walk takes you along a route with steps, some narrow stretches, uneven ground and a few low ceilings to duck under.

There is no alternative accessible route through the cave, so if you have significant mobility challenges, severe claustrophobia or breathing difficulties, it is worth considering carefully whether this underground adventure is right for you.

Lighting inside the cave is kept low to preserve its natural atmosphere, which can be a challenge for anyone with visual impairments. If you are comfortable walking for around 50 minutes on a path that is mostly paved but sometimes uneven, and can manage a few steps along the way, you should find the tour quite manageable. Most children are absolutely captivated by the cave, though it is not possible to bring pushchairs due to the steps and narrow sections. Little ones will need to walk or be carried, and some under six may find the darkness a bit daunting in places. Older children and teenagers usually find the whole experience unforgettable.

The cave stays at a steady 19 degrees all year round, which feels pleasantly cool after a day in the Lanzarote sunshine. I always recommend bringing a light jumper or jacket for everyone, just to be comfortable during your visit.

Admission is €17.00 for adults, while children aged 7 to 12 enjoy a reduced rate of €8.50, and little ones under 7 can visit free of charge. It is important to book your tickets for the Green Caves ahead of time, as tickets are not sold at the entrance on the day.

This helps to keep the experience special for everyone and ensures the delicate lighting inside the caves is well protected. I always recommend wearing comfortable, flat shoes with a good grip, as the cave floor can be a little damp and slippery in places. Flip-flops and heels are best left for another day. The Green Caves are tucked away in the north of Lanzarote, just off the LZ-1 coast road near Haria, and are an easy drive—about 25 minutes from Costa Teguise or 35 minutes from Puerto del Carmen.

There is a free car park on site, making your visit nice and straightforward. Many visitors like to pair their trip with a stop at Jameos del Agua, just a few minutes further along the same road and part of the same fascinating volcanic tunnel system.