Lanzarote Weather in January

January in Lanzarote is a world away from the chilly winters of the UK or mainland Europe. With daytime temperatures hovering between 17 and 20°C, it’s ideal for enjoying the outdoors without feeling overheated. The island takes on a fresh look at this time of year, and it’s always a pleasure to see how the landscape changes.

After the autumn rains, the volcanic hills come alive with a soft green hue, and wildflowers begin to appear in unexpected corners. It’s a lovely reminder of how Lanzarote surprises us, even after many years.
This is the quieter season, and you’ll notice a gentle calm across the island. Prices are lower, and there’s a relaxed pace that makes it easy to unwind.

You’ll find plenty of space on the beaches, and there’s no need to book ahead for restaurants or worry about queues at the main sights. While the occasional rainy day can appear, most of January is bright and clear. It’s a wonderful time for hiking, visiting Timanfaya National Park, or simply lingering over a long lunch on a sunny terrace.

During the day, temperatures usually settle between 15°C and 20°C, which feels pleasantly mild under the Lanzarote sun. Early mornings can be a little brisk, especially if you find yourself in the shade or when the breeze picks up, so I always recommend packing a light jacket. Evenings cool down to around 13°C. Rain is rare and never stays long; a January shower might pass through in twenty minutes, and then the sunshine returns as if nothing happened.

The sea temperature sits at around 18 or 19 degrees, which many regular visitors find comfortable, especially if you are used to Atlantic waters. If you are thinking of surfing, I would recommend a wetsuit to keep you warm while you make the most of the waves.

Here on Lanzarote, I always recommend dressing in layers, especially as the sun dips below the horizon. Most days, a t-shirt and light trousers will keep you comfortable, but as evening arrives, you might find a fleece or a cosy hoodie just right for those cooler breezes.

It’s always wise to tuck a light waterproof into your bag, just in case one of our rare showers passes through. Swimwear is a must, of course, as Lanzarote offers plenty of sun-soaked days perfect for the beach or a dip in the pool. And if you’re tempted to wander the volcanic trails, a pair of comfortable walking shoes will make your explorations all the more enjoyable.

January is a wonderful time to get outside and enjoy Lanzarote at its most peaceful. The cooler days are perfect for walking along the Famara cliffs, cycling through the quiet vineyards of La Geria, or wandering through the Cactus Garden and Jameos del Agua at your own pace, with hardly a crowd in sight.

Up on the north coast, the Atlantic brings in steady waves for surfers, while the island’s roads come alive with athletes training for Ironman Lanzarote. If you prefer a gentler pace, the Sunday market in Teguise and the Saturday market in Haria are especially enjoyable at this time of year, with a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of space to browse.