The park's wildlife is primarily composed of small invertebrates and reptiles adapted to the harsh volcanic environment. Notable species include the Gallotia lizard, endemic to the Canary Islands, and various species of insects unique to the volcanic habitat. The park's airspace is frequented by several bird species, including Barbary falcons, kestrels, and occasional Egyptian vultures. Marine life along the park's coastal areas includes various species of crabs, mollusks, and fish that have adapted to the volcanic shoreline.
Despite the harsh volcanic environment, over 180 plant species have been identified in the park. The most notable are lichens, which play a crucial role in breaking down the lava and creating conditions for other plants to grow. Endemic species like the Canary Island Pine and various succulent plants have adapted to the extreme conditions. The park also features unique adaptations of local plant species such as the Euphorbia balsamifera and the Kleinia neriifolia, which have evolved to survive in the minimal soil and arid conditions.
Timanfaya's landscape consists of over 25 volcanoes and extensive lava fields covering approximately 51 square kilometers. The volcanic terrain features various geological formations including aa and pahoehoe lava flows, volcanic bombs, lapilli fields, and numerous volcanic cones. The area remains geothermally active, with temperatures reaching 400°C (752°F) just a few meters below the surface. This geothermal activity is demonstrated at the park's restaurant, where food is cooked using natural heat from the volcano, and through popular demonstrations where water poured into boreholes instantly erupts as steam.
The park's dramatic landscape was formed during a series of volcanic eruptions that occurred between 1730 and 1736, with additional activity in 1824. These eruptions dramatically transformed approximately one-quarter of Lanzarote's surface, burying several villages and fertile agricultural land. The area was declared a national park in 1974 and was later designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1993. The park's name comes from the local village of Timanfaya, which was one of the settlements destroyed during the eruptions. Today, the park serves as both a tourist attraction and a vital scientific research area for volcanic studies.
The park's most famous attraction is the Islote de Hilario, where visitors can experience dramatic geothermal demonstrations. The Ruta de los Volcanes (Route of the Volcanoes) offers a guided bus tour through the volcanic landscape, showcasing the most spectacular formations. The El Diablo restaurant, designed by César Manrique, features a unique volcanic barbecue using geothermal heat. The Montañas del Fuego (Fire Mountains) provide stunning viewpoints of the volcanic landscape, while the visitor center offers interactive exhibits explaining the park's formation and ecology. The park also features several walking trails, though access is strictly controlled to protect the delicate ecosystem.
Timanfaya National Park experiences a subtropical desert climate characterized by very low rainfall and consistent warm temperatures throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) in winter to 24°C (75°F) in summer, rarely dropping below 16°C (61°F) or exceeding 32°C (90°F). The park receives less than 150mm of rainfall annually, making it one of the driest regions in Spain. Strong trade winds are common, especially during summer months, and the lack of natural shade means visitors should be prepared for intense sun exposure.
Spain
28.0210°, -13.7800°
1974
51.1
Timanfaya showcases a dramatic volcanic landscape created by eruptions in the 18th century. The park's otherworldly terrain features over 100 volcanoes and vast fields of solidified lava. The extreme conditions support unique adaptations of plant life and the landscape remains largely unchanged since its formation.