Charco de los Clicos: A Natural Treasure in Lanzarote
On the rugged west coast of Lanzarote, just a stone's throw from the charming fishing village of El Golfo, lies a landscape unlike any other: a striking green lagoon bordered by black volcanic sand, dramatic reddish cliffs, and the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean. This is Charco de los Clicos, also known as Lago Verde, an ancient volcanic crater partially open to the sea that has become one of the island’s most iconic sights.
A visit to Charco de los Clicos fits perfectly into a tour of southern Lanzarote. To stay close to the area's main volcanic landscapes, you can use our 4-star hotel in Playa Blanca as your starting point. If you prefer a peaceful couples' getaway, the Elba Lanzarote Premium Suites Adults Only (+16) offers a serene atmosphere designed for relaxation and exploring the island at your own pace.
From Playa Blanca, you can plan a perfectly balanced day combining dramatic coastlines, volcanic craters, and traditional villages, making a trip to Lago Verde a natural addition to your southern island itinerary.
Why is the water at Charco de los Clicos green?
At first glance, the vibrant color of the water seems almost surreal, yet its origin is entirely natural. The striking green hue is caused by the presence of specific micro-organisms and algae adapted to a highly saline environment, which thrive in the unique conditions of this lagoon.
Although it sits just meters from the ocean, the lagoon isn't directly fed by the crashing waves. Instead, seawater filters underground through the porous volcanic rock, rising to the surface inside the ancient crater. The precise combination of high salinity, mineral composition, specialized plant life, and sunlight creates its distinctive appearance. As a result, the green can shift from pale to deep, or even take on a yellowish tint, depending on the time of day and the weather.
The stark contrast of the surroundings also plays a massive role. The vivid lagoon sits against black volcanic sand, ochre and reddish crater walls, and the sweeping open ocean, making Charco de los Clicos an incredibly photogenic scene. If you want to explore more fascinating volcanic formations, Las Grietas in Lanzarote reveals another surprising aspect of the island’s geology.
Travelers looking for information about the beach at Charco de los Clicos should note that the stretch of black sand beside the lagoon is part of El Golfo beach. This isn't a conventional beach where you can lay out your towel for hours, nor are you allowed to freely approach the green water. First and foremost, it is a highly protected nature reserve that must be admired from designated paths and viewpoints.
Rules for visiting Charco de los Clicos
Preserving this breathtaking landscape depends entirely on the behavior of its visitors. Although the trail is straightforward, remember that you are entering a fragile volcanic ecosystem that is constantly subjected to wind and sea erosion. The barriers and footpaths aren't there to restrict your experience; they are crucial for protecting the lagoon and preventing accidents in unstable areas.
During your visit to Charco de los Clicos, please follow these essential guidelines:
- Stay strictly on the designated paths and viewing points, even if you spot unofficial footprints off the route.
- Never climb over barriers or attempt to approach the water's edge.
- Do not collect volcanic stones, sand, plants, or any other natural elements from the surroundings.
- Take all your trash with you, including food wrappers and cigarette butts.
- Avoid stacking stones or altering the landscape to take photographs.
- Do not disturb the local wildlife, and keep your voice at a moderate volume.
Sticking to the official route not only protects the ecosystem but also keeps you safe from slips or falls. The ground can be uneven and covered in loose gravel, especially after wind or rain. If you’re traveling with children, it’s best to keep them close by at all times during the walk.
How to get to Charco de los Clicos
To find your way to Charco de los Clicos, use El Golfo as your main reference point—a picturesque coastal village situated just west of Timanfaya National Park. The most convenient way to reach it is by car, giving you the freedom to combine this stop with other southern attractions and tailor the itinerary to your own pace.
As you approach the village, you'll spot parking areas and clear signs pointing toward the El Golfo viewpoint. From there, a short path leads up to the main vantage point, offering the most famous panoramic view. While the walk doesn't require a high fitness level, wearing sturdy footwear and bringing drinking water and sunscreen are highly recommended.
You can also head down toward the coast to admire the scenery from a different angle, provided you stay on the official paths at all times. Since the wind can blow strongly and there is hardly any shade, midday visits are often less pleasant, especially in the summer. To round off the route with a refreshing swim, you can check out this selection of natural pools in Lanzarote and choose the one that best suits your itinerary.
Late afternoon is undoubtedly one of the best times to visit Charco de los Clicos. The warm golden-hour light intensifies the red colors of the crater and softens the reflection on the lagoon. Even so, time your return carefully and avoid staying on the paths once visibility drops.
Plan your visit from our Elba Hotels
Playa Blanca is a highly convenient base for exploring the south of Lanzarote. From here, you can organize a day trip that includes Charco de los Clicos, Los Hervideros, the Janubio Salt Flats, and some of the surrounding villages. You can also draw inspiration from other corners of Lanzarote to extend your trip without cramming too many stops into just a few hours.
The Elba Lanzarote Royal Village Resort is situated in Playa Blanca and offers spectacular swimming pools, excellent dining options, family-friendly activities, and wellness facilities. It’s a particularly practical option when you want to alternate between island excursions and moments of pure relaxation at your accommodation.
For a more intimate stay, Elba Premium Suites offers a serene atmosphere, exclusive pools, and wellness-focused services. Its prime location means you can set off early for El Golfo and return after your trip to relax without having to travel far.
Visiting Charco de los Clicos means getting close to the raw volcanic essence of Lanzarote. It is an accessible place, full of surprises, and one that reveals a different kind of beauty at every time of day. Here at Hoteles Elba, we encourage you to explore it at your own pace, respect the fragile environment, and turn your trip into an experience that perfectly combines nature, relaxation, and the joy of discovery.
