Art in the lava landscape – Jameos del Agua on La Graciosa
Jameos del Aguaa place that is difficult to describe. A lava tunnel leading into the sea – where it forms an underground brackish-water lake. This is home to the blind albino crab, Munidopsis polymorphawhich is found nowhere else. César Manrique has transformed this natural tunnel into a work of art: a concert hall, a garden, a restaurant – all carved into the rock.
What you can experience at Jameos del Agua
The lava tunnel
The tunnel was formed during the eruption of the Corona volcano around 3,000 years ago. The lava flowed into the sea – leaving behind a tubular tunnel that stretches several kilometres beneath the earth’s surface. Jameos del Agua is the entrance to this tunnel from above.
| Jameos del Agua — Practical | |
|---|---|
| Opening hours | Ca. 10:00–17:00 Uhr |
| Admission | Adults €17 / Children (7-12) €8.50 |
| Duration | Approx. 1–1.5 hours |
| Location | North coast of Lanzarote, approx. 65 km from Órzola |
| Website | cactlanzarote.com |
The blind albino crab
Munidopsis polymorphatiny, white, blind. Over thousands of years, this crab has adapted to life in total darkness – without eyes, without pigment. It lives exclusively here. Do not touch, do not take photographs with a flash – the animals are protected.
César Manrique’s artwork
César Manrique redesigned the Jameos del Agua in 1966. A concert hall carved into the rock, a garden with white spheres, a pool – all in organic forms that blend harmoniously with nature. The result: a World Heritage Site experience.
Combination: Jameos del Agua + Timanfaya
On a day out in Lanzarote: in the morning Timanfaya (south), in the afternoon Jameos del Agua (north coast). In between: lunch in Haría or Teguise. This is the ideal day trip in Lanzarote from La Graciosa.
Practical tips
- Can be combined with Timanfaya – a hire car is essential
- Concerts at Jameos del Agua: in the evening – for those staying overnight on Lanzarote
- Casa de los Volcanes (next door): Volcano museum, free admission
- Mirador del Río on the way back: View of La Graciosa from above
Both are parts of the same lava tunnel. Cueva de los Verdes is the more natural part, whilst Jameos del Agua was designed by Manrique. Both are well worth a visit – if you have time.
Conclusion
- Jameos del Agua: lava cave, blind crab, César Manrique’s art – unique in the Canary Islands.
- Combined with Timanfaya = a perfect day out in Lanzarote.
- Return to La Graciosa by ferry in the evening.
This article is based on on-site research by the go-la-graciosa.com editorial team. Last updated: April 2026
