Mirador del Río (Lanzarote), the best views to La Graciosa
In my case, when I go to the Mirador de Famara or the Ermita de las Nieves (another undiscovered viewpoint), I usually combine it with the Mirador del Río to enjoy the north of Lanzarote calmly. If the sky is unstable, I prefer to adjust the order and leave the latter for when the atmosphere opens up.
What is the Mirador del Río and why is it worthwhile?
The Mirador del Río is an iconic work by César Manrique, located on the Risco de Famara, opposite the strait of El Río, with the best views of La Graciosa and the Chinijo Archipelago. Its main hall has curved windows – the “eyes” -,an upper terrace and a cafeteria.
Work by César Manrique and interior design (“los ojos”)
The route runs through organic corridors that lead to the hall with large windows facing La Graciosa. Details of wrought iron, ceramics and a spiral staircase complete the aesthetics.
Panoramic view of La Graciosa and Chinijo Archipelago
The view encompasses La Graciosa, Montaña Clara, Roque del Oeste and Alegranza, as well as the Salinas del Río. When the day is clear, I can perfectly distinguish the volcanic cones of La Graciosa and the ochre tones; this is when I enjoy the panoramic view the most.
Price and tickets
Tickets can be purchased from the official CACT website (without booking a time; QR on the device). The duration of the visit will be about 45 min.
- Adult: 8,50 €.
- Child (7-12): 4,25 €.
- Canarian resident: 6,50 € (adult) / 3,25 € (child)
- Resident in Lanzarote (>7 years): 1,00 €.
- Functional diversity: specific reductions.
Is it possible “without paying”?
Exterior views from points along the LZ-203/LZ-202 allow you to look out without entering the building (they are not a substitute for the architectural experience). As a free alternative, the Mirador de Guinate offers an open balcony to La Graciosa.
Time and best time to go
- Official opening hours: 10:00-17:00, last access 16:40, open 365 days.
- Light and photos: at midday visibility is usually high; in the afternoon the light is warmer over La Graciosa.
- I prefer to climb on clear days; with low clouds or haze, I rearrange the route so as not to lose the view.
How to get to Mirador del Río (car, bus and tours)
Access via the northern axis LZ-1 → LZ-201/202/203 towards Yé (Haría). Car park next to the entrance.
Indicative distances and times
| Origin | Approx. distance | Approx. time |
|---|---|---|
| Arrecife ↔ Mirador del Rio | ~34 km | 45-60 min |
| Costa Teguise ↔ Mirador del Rio | ~29 km | 40-50 min |
| Airport (ACE) ↔ Mirador del Rio | ~40 km | 35-45 min |
| Puerto del Carmen ↔ Mirador del Rio | ~48 km | 40-55 min |
| Mirador de Famara ↔ Mirador del Rio | ~18-20 km by road | 30-40 min |
Practical tip: When I link Famara with the Mirador del Río, I leave this stop for when the sky is clear; if it is not clear, I change the order of the day.
Public transport
There are bus connections (Intercity Bus Lanzarote) to Haría/Yé with limited frequency; from the bus stop you will have a final stretch on foot or by taxi. If you don’t drive, consider a tour.
Services, accessibility and on-site advice
Inside you will find a cafeteria (10:00-16:45), telescopes, rest areas, shop and panels. The site is recognised as accessible by PREDIF; the upper floor (shop) is not adapted due to structural limitations.
On windy days, wear a coat: the wind chill drops at the top. I usually spend a long time just looking around; I don’t enjoy it as much when I’m in a hurry.
Photos and better framing to make
- Windows (“eyes”) and terrace for clear views of La Graciosa and the Salinas del Río.
- Sunset: warm lateral tones over the archipelago.
- Hiking plan: if you feel like combining scenery and walking, take a look at the playa del Risco route, which goes down to the coast of El Risco (with a slight slope).
Where to eat near Mirador del Río (Yé, Haría, Órzola)
After the visit, Yé offers simple bars, Haría more variety and Órzola good fish.
- Yé (5-10 min / 2-4 km): nearest option for a quick meal: sandwiches, tapas, grilled meats, papas arrugadas.
- Haría (15-20 min / 9-12 km): more variety around the square: local/creative cuisine and cafés with terrace; ideal for after dinner.
- Órzola (15-20 min / 9-12 km): fishing port; order fish of the day (vieja, cherne), limpets with mojo, grilled octopus.
- Dietary alternatives: vegetarian/vegan (wrinkled potatoes, salads, vegetables/rice); gluten free (grilled fish, potatoes; confirms mojos and type of gofio).
- Quick tips: book at weekends; out of season some kitchens close after midday; bring a light coat for windy terraces and some cash in Yé.
Suggested itinerary for the best route
- Morning: Cueva de los Verdes + Jameos del Agua.
- Midday/afternoon: Haría → Mirador del Río ( price, timetable and entrance fees above).
- Extension to the coast: combine with the Mirador de Famara; if you fancy the beach, here’s how to get to Famara beach and a stroll along the Caleta de Famara Lanzarote to finish off the day.
- If you want to surf you can get more information at the best surf school in Lanzarote.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Quick Visit Checklist
- Ticket purchased (online or at the ticket office) and confirmed timetable for the day.
- Revised cloud/climate and windforecast.
- Lightwarm clothing (especially in winter and on windy days).
- Visiting time: set aside 45-60 min to enjoy the terrace and the “eyes”.
- Free Plan B: outside of LZ-203/LZ-202 or Mirador de Guinate if you just want the view.
About the author
Maike Famara
Director of Surf Famara. A free surfer from the 1970s, renowned in the Canary Islands, he has surfed on five continents (the entire South African coast, Western Australia, Indonesia, Peru, Chile, Puerto Rico, Panama, France, Portugal, Senegal, Morocco...) and has dedicated himself to teaching and developing new surfers since 1996! You can find him in San Juan or La Santa, where he remains connected to the ocean like the first day.
