How to reach La Graciosa from Lanzarote

Lanzarote

Small, free of paved roads, and exuding a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere—La Graciosa, located north of Lanzarote, is the hidden gem of this region in the Canary Islands. Since officially being recognised as the eighth inhabited island of the Canaries in 2018, its popularity has been steadily increasing. But fear not—it still retains that untouched charm that makes it so appealing.

If you’re spending a few days in Lanzarote, chances are you’ll want to take a short trip to La Graciosa. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to get there and share everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to this little island.

Where is La Graciosa and how do you get there from Lanzarote?

Situated to the north of Lanzarote, La Graciosa is part of the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park. It is separated from its neighbouring island by a narrow strait of just two kilometres, known as “El Rio.” Despite the proximity, there is no bridge or road connection—meaning the only way to reach it is by sea.

The journey to La Graciosa begins at the port of Orzola, a small fishing village in northern Lanzarote. From here, ferries depart for Caleta de Sebo, the main settlement of La Graciosa. The boat trip is short and comfortable, offering views of the cliffs and the Chinijo Archipelago itself.

Ferry departures to La Graciosa: Orzola Port

Orzola is the main port from which most boats depart for La Graciosa. But beyond being the gateway to the island, it is also a charming fishing village worth spending some time exploring.

To get to Orzola from other parts of Lanzarote—especially if you are staying in the south of the island or near the airport—travelling by car is the most convenient option. While there are bus routes connecting Orzola with Arrecife and other towns, their schedules and frequency don’t always align with travel needs.

It’s advisable to check ferry tickets in advance to find the times that best suit your plans and to secure your seat, as this excursion is particularly popular during peak season.

Hiring a car in Lanzarote allows you to travel at your own pace, without relying on timetables. With DoYouSpain, you can collect your hire car directly at Lanzarote Airport upon arrival and begin your journey north. The drive to Orzola is direct, taking you through stunning landscapes and unique natural areas. Additionally, the port offers designated parking areas, making it easy to leave your car before setting off for La Graciosa.

What to see and do in La Graciosa to make the most of your time

Una de las principales razones para visitar La Graciosa son sus playas. Aquí no encontrarás hamacas ni chiringuitos, sino arena dorada, aguas turquesas y una tranquilidad absoluta. Entre las más conocidas está la Playa de las Conchas, situada en la parte norte de la isla. Es una playa de postal, con vistas a la isla de Montaña Clara y un paisaje salvaje que impresiona.

Another standout is Playa Francesa, situated closer to the port and ideal for swimming or snorkelling. It’s a perfect spot to spend the day and enjoy a relaxing dip.

If you’re keen on hiking, climbing Amarilla Mountain offers spectacular views of the coastline and ocean.

The island has two main settlements: Caleta de Sebo, which preserves the essence of a traditional fishing village. Its unpaved streets, whitewashed houses, and small local restaurants create an authentic atmosphere, far removed from mass tourism. And Pedro Barba, the first settlement on the island, is much smaller and less touristy than Caleta de Sebo.

Additionally, snorkelling is highly recommended in La Graciosa. Thanks to its crystal-clear waters and thriving marine ecosystem, some of its beaches—such as Playa Francesa and Playa de la Cocina—are ideal for discovering underwater life in a peaceful and safe environment.

How to explore La Graciosa

Due to its small size and location within a protected natural area, La Graciosa has no paved roads. This means that having your own car isn’t necessary to discover the island. Instead, visitors can explore it using authorised 4x4 vehicles that operate within La Graciosa.

However, many tourists prefer to explore by bicycle, a hugely popular alternative. To fully experience the island, it’s best to dedicate several hours to your visit—so taking the first ferry in the morning and returning on the last one in the afternoon is recommended.

Right after arriving, you’ll find several rental points offering mountain bikes for around €10 per day. The main circular route takes between 3 and 4 hours, although you’ll likely stop often to admire the island’s stunning views.

Another fantastic way to get around La Graciosa is on foot. Beyond a simple walk, hiking here offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors.