Lanzarote is a fascinating volcanic island, characterized by its lunar-like terrain, offering plenty of attractions and activities for holiday visitors. Located easternmost of the Canary Islands, Lanzarote hosts 150k people living on the island and more than 300 hundred volcanic cones. The island is a paradise destination for volcano hikers, nature & water sport lovers. Those 3 factors makes Lanzarote my favourite island of the Canary archipelago. Check my top things to do in Lanzarote in the Canary Islands for best attractions and adventurous itineraries to explore and enjoy the island.
Aurora Borealis in Rovaniemi - Best Time, Places & Tips for seeing the Northern Lights!
Here’s everything you should know about aurora hunting in Rovaniemi (Lapland), a city known for two things: Santa Claus’s hometown and the Northern Lights! I was so looking forward to seeing the Aurora Borealis in Rovaniemi, which is a magnificent phenomenon in Lapland. After spending 5 days up north, let me guide you on how to track the Northern Lights for an unforgettable experience, whether you chase it alone or with an organized tour!
Some advice before you go chasing the Aurora Borealis in Rovaniemi or the Northern Lights in general.
The Northern Lights often look less colourful and bright to the naked eye than they do in photos.
If you arrived in Rovaniemi, you’re likely on the hunt for one of nature’s most incredible displays: the Aurora Borealis.
Rovaniemi, Finland, is a magical place to witness this spectacle. But it is not that straightforward, so you may want to check the best times, places, and tips for seeing the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi.
I went with this top-rated tour and I have to say the guys and the photographer were amazing:
TRAVEL ADVICE: Take one of the most adventurous trains – the Santa Claus Express Train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi- it’s a 12-hour night train with sleeping cabins.
Rovaniemi is 800 kilometres north of Helsinki, Finland’s capital.
It is considered the capital of Lapland, with magical attractions in wintertime (including insane crowds). Rovaniemi is famous mainly as the official hometown of Santa Claus, but there is much more to it. It is one of the best-known gateways to Finnish Lapland and the Arctic. And of course, the city is a popular base for seeing the Aurora Borealis.
The entire Lapland region records hundreds of thousands of overnight stays specifically during the mid-winter peak. Estimates indicate that December alone brings tens of thousands of staying and day-trip travelers directly to Rovaniemi.
What to do in Helsinki - 15 Unique things to see in Finish Capital.
Helsinki is Finland’s largest city and serves as a hub for culture, politics, and education. But let’s be honest – it’s not an overwhelming and highly entertaining city; it’s charming but calm and stable. Despite its northern location, the city is surprisingly accessible and still offers a plethora of activities throughout the year. So, what to do in Helsinki? There are actually a bunch of unusual things to do in the city apart from typical sightseeing – and this is what you should be experiencing here for lots of fun.
Skip most of the typical sightseeing; visit places I suggest below and experience the unusual – like relaxing at a public Finnish sauna and dipping in the cold sea or swimming pool in the city centre 😉 Take a Helsinki boat tour across 300 islands and try the best salmon soup in the world in the port market.
Even if you are here for one or two days, you’ll have enough time to explore most activities. I spent 2 days in Helsinki and managed to check out most of the attractions.
I can’t tell you how surprised I was by the Finns’ kindness and hospitality. They are very well-mannered and smiling, characterised by unforced and effortless kindness in any situation.
Let’s be honest, life is quite slow in Finland; traffic is light, and everything seems to work in order. Trains, hotels and attractions are incredibly clean and organised.
Language and Communication
While Finnish is the official language, English is widely spoken in Helsinki, especially in tourist areas. You’ll have no trouble communicating with locals, who are generally friendly and eager to help.
Two endless things in Helsinki are coffee and salmon. Finns are among the world’s biggest coffee drinkers, and Helsinki is brimming with cosy cafes where you can enjoy a cup of locally roasted kahvi.
I’m a coffee freak myself, usually drinking 5 cups of coffee – oat milk flat white or Americano!
My favourite picks: Roberto Cafe (quite popular) or Café Regatta.
Salmon is an iconic fish in Finland and I have to say it tastes amazing here. In general, Finland probably has some of the best-cooked food in Europe. I highly recommend smoked salmon and salmon soup (must-try!).
10 Best Things to do in Cape Verde: Epic hikes & Unforgettable adventures.
Cape Verde was a spontaneous destination and turned out to be an extremely fun, authentic and easygoing country if you want a mix of sunshine, nature, incredible beaches, magnificent hiking adventures and a unique blend of African and Portuguese culture! I visited a few islands, explored them on a motorbike and here is my list of all the amazing things to do in Cape Verde!
Cape Verde is an African country located 570 km (350 miles) off the west coast of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean.
It is extremely friendly, untouristic and it felt really safe while traveling alone across the islands.
Cape Verde is often ranked among the most politically stable and democratic countries in Africa.
Cape Verde is a beautiful country – each island represents a different character, from dramatic volcanic landscapes to green valleys, wild beaches and coastal cities.
Cape Verde is one of the world’s most important nesting areas for loggerhead sea turtles.
The 10 volcanic islands: The 10 volcanic islands vary dramatically.
SAL is the main island with the major airport.
Boa Vista and Sal are known for endless white sand beaches and Saharan dunes.
Santo Antão – green valleys and towering mountain peaks.
Fogo is dominated by a massive active volcano, Pico do Fogo.
São Vicente: music and nightlife.
MAIN ACTIVITIES: hiking, kitesurfing, windsurfing, surfing, diving and fishing.
Domestic Flights: CVsky.com – it’s a new website – the B service no longer works.
FERRIES: (updated schedules and prices): https://www.cvinterilhas.cv/routesschedules
CURRENCY: CEV, but Euros are widely accepted in tourist areas
ATMs: Main cities /withdrawal fee applies/.
CUISINE: Delicious food; try grilled seafood, fresh exotic fruits, and Cachupa – a traditional slow-cooked, hearty stew made with ground corn, beans, and vegetables! AVOID uncooked food; t drink tap water – there have been a few fatal food poisonings.
Getting around
- Inter-island travel: domestic flights (fastest) or ferries (cheaper but less reliable)
- On islands: shared taxis called aluguers are common and cheap
Language:
- Official: Portuguese
- Everyday: Cape Verdean Creole
Unique things to do in Lanzarote.
Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are two most adventurous islands among the main 4: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura. There are 3 other significant islands of the archipelago: La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro, which are easily accesible on a day-trips.
How to get to Lanzarote?
The easiest way to get to Lanzarote is flying, if you are looking for cheap deals check Skyscanner.com for best prices.
Places to visit in Lanzarote.
Lanzarote is very quiet and family friendly island. The island appears to be very safe with very low crime rate and friendly local people. The biggest attractions on the islands and must-visit breathtaking sights are:
- Parque Nacional de Timanfaya with kilometres of lava fields and stunninc volcanic cones landscape,
- Mirador del Río full day tour – magnificent viewing point at 475 metres (by architect Cezar Manrique).
- Los Hervideros – longest lava tunnels!
- Playa de los Ciclos – black beach and a green lake Charco de Los Clicos,
- Volcano hiking tours!
Lanzarote view from the plane.
Arrecife – the capital of Lanzarote.
Arrecife is a port city and a capital of Lanzarote. César Manrique-Lanzarote Airport or Arrecife Airport is located 6km from Arrecife city.
Arrecife with it’s unique architecture and endless beaches is nothing like other capital cities of Canary Islands. Cesar Manrique – famous artist and architect, designed most of the top attaractions in the island. Arrecife is one of the best places to visit in Lanzarote.
Playa del Reducto is the main beach in Arrecife. Take a short walk along the promenade and you’ll find youself on a beautiful old bridge leading to Castillo de San Gabriel – 16th century fortress (entry fee is $2).
Where to stay in Arrecife?
An alternative to expensive hotels are high-standard appartments, which are greatly organized – check on Agoda.com for affordable stays for $40-$100 per night.
The one highly recommended hotel is Hotel Miramar, located in the most interesting part of Arrecife.
How to get from Lanzarote airport to Arrecife?
BY TAXI: A quick way to get from Lanzarote Airport to Arrecife is by taxi. It’s a 10 minute drive and should not cost you more than $15.
PRE-BOOKED TRANSFER: But you can also choose an easy, hassle free way to get from the airport by booking your transfer on GetTransfer.com – whether it’s an airport transfer, long distance travel or hourly chauffeured.
PUBLIC BUS: If you wish to take the bus 22, it leaves from Terminal 2 and drops you off in the south-west coast of Arrecife – just next to Playa del Reducto. It’s 1 km from the famous Castillo de San Gabiel – located in the cetral port.
Things to do in Puerto del Carmen.
Puerto del Carmen – probably the most popular resort town in Lanzarote, located 7km south direction from the Arrecife Airport (taxi approx. $20) or eaven cheaper GetTransfer.com.
Puerto del Carmen has it all – kilometres of golden beaches, amazing restaurant set up, plenty of water sport adventures and one of the most luxury villas.
One of the top things to do in Lanzarote in Canary Islands is volcano hiking. Puerto del Carmen is a gateway for few stunning hikes. Volcan el Cuervo (photos) is located only 15 minute drive from the town. There is a convenient parking at the starting point of the trail. Volcanic landscape and lunar fields amaze from the start. Follow the path for 30 minutes to reach the volcano. There are signs do not leave the path for safety reasons. You’ll be able to walk to the interior of the volcano and trek around it.
If you are traveling with a family you might consider a day in Aqualava Watrpark in Playa Blanca.
Adventurous day tours in Lanzarote.
5-STAR RATED DAY TOURS FROM PUERTO DEL CARMEN:
- Full day tour to Timanfaya, Green Lagoon and La Geria – TRIPADVISOR.
- Buggy Tours, Island Cruises & Submarine Safaris.
TOURS FROM COSTA TEGUISE:
Lanzarote car rental.
The most comfortable and hassle free way of exploring the island is by car. Car rental in Lanzarote (like in most Canary Islands) is very straightforward and affordable. I highly recommend Rentalcars.com – the world’s largest online car rental service, operating in 160 countries, offering free cancellations and 24/7 customer service. I never had an issue with any of the rental companies (I go for rated +8.0).
Had really great experience with this company was one of the best, it’s just a proper car rental company with very polite service, excellent cars – mine was abrand new.
Timanfaya National Park - Fire Mountains (Montañas del Fuego).
Timanfaya National Park is undoubtly one of the most spectacular parts of the island. Visiting Timanfaya is a must activity on the island and one of the most adventurous things to do in Lanzarote. The National Park is UNESCO protected space where some of the volcanoes are still active. The entry to the park is 12 Euro and you need to leave your car in the coach park and you’ll be taken on a bus tour.
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING TIMANFAYA:
- Get there as early as possible – Timanfaya is on the top of Lanzarote tourist sttractions, the place is extremely popular and there are hundreds or even thousadns of people trying to get in. Try to be there 15-20 minutes before opening to secure smooth entry.
- If you get there for 12, you will need to queue for a long time (depending on a season of course, but Lanzarote is full with tourists almost all year round).
- Take water and some snacks with you!
- Once you are in the coach, there are no stopovers (so make sure to use toilet before getting in).
- Volcanic landscape of Timanfaya is breathtaking – have camera with you.
One of the most spectacular tours on the island you can take are those 3 top rated options on Tripadvisor:
Most people would be booking Timanfaya tour online, here are few top rated tours from Tripadvisor:
Most spectacular beaches in Lanzarote.
- Playa de Famara – one of the most famous surfing beaches, located in central-north of the island.
- Playa de los Ciclos – black beach near the green lake (on the photo) – Charco de Los Clicos and Los Hervideros (the lava tunnels),
- Puerto del Carmen
- Playa Blanca (west end of the island),
- Arrecife – gold sand beach.
- Playa Honda – located between Puerto del Carmen and Arrecife) just next to the airport. This is the place if you want to do kitesurfing but it also offers lots of other beach attractions.
Tinajo the west part of Lanzarote.
TINAJO is a quiet traditional town, located in the western part of Lanzarote, with a population of only 6000 people. If you want to spend a lovely time far from the crowds – this is the best place. I stayed a week in Tinajo to enjoy the local culture and admire the architecture and surrounding volcano landscape. I booked a beautiful pool villa with a rose garden. Staying in a traditional village is one of the best things to do in Lanzarote. It was very rewarding to discover there will be a Carnival in Tinajo, which seriously felt like in Brazil!
Tinajo Carnival.
I was very lucky to witness summer festivals on the island of Lanzarote. Concerts, parades, costume & dancing performances spread all over the island all year round with religious celebrations in September month.
Tinajo – where I stayed, perhaps is not the biggest tourist hub (which I loved about it) but it hosts the biggest island’s annual fiesta! The municipality of Tinajo is located in the heart of the island.
The place welcomes you with a great chilled atmosphere and the surroundings will slow pace of life. To witness this Spanish Carnival is one of the greatest things you can do in Lanzarote. With few delicious local restaurants around and a car next to your villa, Tinajo is a great gateaway for many Lazarote adventurous.
The best accommodation in Tinajo, Lanzarote.
here are few exceptional accommodations:
- BUDA – $144/per night for a double room. Spectacular beach nearby.
- CASA TERE Y MARCIAL – exclusive holiday home with 2 bedrooms and 2 living rooms for $101/per night.
Mid-range hotels and lofts:
- HOTEL FINCA RURAL JOSE MANUEL – exceptional place for $77/per night.
- LOFT VOLCANES – $85/per night including breakfast – top rated.
Los Hervideros - the longest Lava Tubes in the wolrd.
Los Hervideros cliffs with magnificent black lava tunnels are among top things to discover in Lanzarote in the Canary islands. There are the longest lava tubes in the world. There is a beautiful coastal drive along the black cliffs with convenient viewing points. Get closer to the lava tubes to see the unreal power of the oceanic water flowing below the black rocks.
Charco de Los Clicos - the Green Lagoon.
Charco de los Clicos is a beautiful emerald green lake cut off from the shore by an impressive black beach. The is located close to El Golfo – tiny fishing village, 2-3km from famous Hervideros – black lava tunnels. The colour of the lake comes from algae contrasting against the black sand. There is a convenient parking next to the beach, from where you can take a short walk toward the emerald lake. One of the best things to do in Lanzarote is taking a tour to the Green Lagoon Lake, Timanfaya and La Geria.
Aloe plantations & natural cosmetics.
Lanzarote is extremely famous for aloe plantations, there’s plenty of them across the island. You can buy 99% aloe vera cosmetics in many local shops. Aloe vera museum is well worth visiting, to get to know how positive effect aloe has on human body. There are 300 types of aloe but only about 10 of them are extremely beneficial. Shops located near aloe plantations produce face and body care products – which are 100% organic and not tested on animals.
Lanzarote volcano hiking.
There’s no better to discover Lanzarote in the canary islands other than hiking. With many incredible volcano hikes you’ll be able to explore Timanfaya National Park erruptions (some volcanoes are still active) or Cueva de los Verdes formed by the underground river of lava. I was so fascinated by the volcanic landscape of the island that I hiked almost every cone 😉 Check my best 8 hiking routes in Lanzarote.
Aurora Borealis in Rovaniemi - Best Time, Places & Tips for seeing the Northern Lights!
Here’s everything you should know about aurora hunting in Rovaniemi (Lapland), a city known for two things: Santa Claus’s hometown and the Northern Lights! I was so looking forward to seeing the Aurora Borealis in Rovaniemi, which is a magnificent phenomenon in Lapland. After spending 5 days up north, let me guide you on how to track the Northern Lights for an unforgettable experience, whether you chase it alone or with an organized tour!
Some advice before you go chasing the Aurora Borealis in Rovaniemi or the Northern Lights in general.
The Northern Lights often look less colourful and bright to the naked eye than they do in photos.
If you arrived in Rovaniemi, you’re likely on the hunt for one of nature’s most incredible displays: the Aurora Borealis.
Rovaniemi, Finland, is a magical place to witness this spectacle. But it is not that straightforward, so you may want to check the best times, places, and tips for seeing the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi.
I went with this top-rated tour and I have to say the guys and the photographer were amazing:
TRAVEL ADVICE: Take one of the most adventurous trains – the Santa Claus Express Train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi- it’s a 12-hour night train with sleeping cabins.
Rovaniemi is 800 kilometres north of Helsinki, Finland’s capital.
It is considered the capital of Lapland, with magical attractions in wintertime (including insane crowds). Rovaniemi is famous mainly as the official hometown of Santa Claus, but there is much more to it. It is one of the best-known gateways to Finnish Lapland and the Arctic. And of course, the city is a popular base for seeing the Aurora Borealis.
The entire Lapland region records hundreds of thousands of overnight stays specifically during the mid-winter peak. Estimates indicate that December alone brings tens of thousands of staying and day-trip travelers directly to Rovaniemi.
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