The past of Canarian Islands is completely destructive. And I really mean that. Huge volcanoes exploded in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, next to the African coastline, spreading lava rivers and rocks that, when solid, formed these beautiful islands that nowadays stand there, and that have already a huge touristic potential, specially after the arrival or real low cost flights in Europe.
So, let's get started. The first thing is to realize that there are many islands to visit and possibly you will want to focus in one of them. To really stick with my area of knowledge, I must admit I have only visited Lanzarote, so I will share my experience there with you.
The most important thing to do is to get a rental car. Lanzarote is not going to be a city tourism destination, so you really need to understand that renting a car will be the best way to move from one side to another with entire freedom. The island is not big, but still public transport adapted to tourism can make your bill raise up. And this in the case that you find the adequate transport to move to some places.
What to see in Lanzarote? First of all, even if I am not really into the sun & beach holiday, possibly because in my dear home Spain I already have it, it is obvious that temperatures and general climate in the Canarian Islands, together with some white sand and black volcanic sand beaches with intense blue waters are a perfect combination to go for some swimming.
After that special recommendation for Nordic tourists, Lanzarote has a wide range of touristic attractions to look for, all turning around the volcanic activity in the island. The most important feature is Malpaís, that translated directly would mean Bad Country. This is quite a big natural park, where the only thing you can see when looking to the horizon is black rocks. And more black rocks. Trekking on this zone can be really challenging, and the reason behind the name is obvious. Nothing really can live there, and this is also announced when in the road you find the entrance sign to the park: a red Demon standing at each side of the asphalt welcomes you inside.
Another interesting place to visit is La cueva de los Verdes, translated directly as The Cave of the Greens. It receives the name for it's great colors, and the artists have also done their job properly when placing hidden colored lights along the way that create fascinating shadows and visual effects. Also, a surprise is included at the end of the route. This is basically an exploration of the underground rivers of lava created after the eruptions.
Coming back to the thermal wonderlands, it exists a tour to a restaurant where they cook using the temperature of the ground at a special active place. Also some geyser exhibitions can be found there.
And finally, I really encourage the visitor to simply open the eyes. Nature in Lanzarote is abrupt, plenty of scars from the past. Admire this wilderness as a form of art, as a treasure, and you will bring home possibly the best of the souvenirs: amazing pictures on a dark volcanic landscape surrounded by the blue of the water.
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