5-km sightseeing route with fortress and lagoon

Lanzarote's cruise port is located in the capital, Arrecife, on the east of the island. This 5-km loop connects two of the city's main attractions, including the Castillo de San Gabriel and the Charco de San Ginés lagoon.

Key facts

Highlights

Route description

Start at Arrecife Cruise Port

The route starts directly after exiting the cruise port. From there, it follows the road to the left towards the city center. After a short distance, the route crosses the Puente de las Bolas directly to Castillo de San Gabriel. It then leads back to the promenade via the opposite entrance.

Circumnavigating Charco de San Ginés

Subsequently, the route heads back towards the Charco de San Ginés lagoon. The lagoon is fully circumnavigated before the route leads directly back to the cruise port. Optionally, you can use the pedestrian bridge in the last few meters, which allows for an additional section along the marina.

Conclusion

The route connects two of Arrecife's main attractions, the Castle and the Lagoon, within a compact distance. It is particularly suitable for a short, uncomplicated unit with a sightseeing character directly from the cruise port.

Perfect day

The 5-km route is ideal as a short, flexible run directly from the cruise port – either as an active start to the day or a relaxed finish after an excursion.

For those focusing on nature and activity, you can take a guided volcano hike in the Timanfaya area in the morning (transfer possible). This tour typically starts in the morning and lasts several hours, leaving ample time in the afternoon for a leisurely run along the lagoon and promenade.

Alternatively, a relaxed day trip across the island is a great option, visiting several of Lanzarote's highlights. This tour is less athletic but designed specifically for cruise passengers and therefore ideal for getting a comprehensive impression of the island in a short amount of time. Depending on the return time, there will still be enough time for a shorter or slightly longer run from the cruise port.

Frequently asked questions

Does the route start directly from the cruise port or do I need a transfer?

The running route starts in the immediate vicinity of the cruise port.

How does navigation with the map and GPX file work? Do I need internet?

You can either follow the route directly on the map on this page or import the GPX file into a navigation app like Komoot. We recommend navigating via the GPX file, as it is significantly more precise and provides clear guidance via GPS while you run. After saving the GPX file in your app, you can usually use the map offline. We recommend testing the navigation beforehand in airplane mode without active Wi-Fi to ensure it works without an internet connection.

Tip: For safety, it's still useful to have internet while on the go. If your mobile provider on Lanzarote offers no or only expensive data roaming, a global data plan that works in many countries is suitable for cruises – for example, from eSIM.sm (advertisement).

Is the route safe?

The route runs partly along roads, but mostly on sidewalks and promenades. Overall, it can be considered safe.

What if I can't continue or run out of time?

The route runs in close proximity to the harbor and can be shortened or stopped at any time. For emergencies, it is advisable to save the ship's phone number beforehand. Additionally, apps like Uber or Bolt should be installed and ready for use. However, these services do not work or work only very limitedly on Lanzarote, so you will regularly have to rely on traditional taxis.

Are there public restrooms and water fountains along the route?

Public restrooms are not available along the route. One option is at Playa del Reducto near Pizzeria Amore Mio (opening hours approx. 10 am to 7 pm), which extends the route by about 2 km. Drinking water stations are not known, but there are opportunities to buy drinks.

What is the terrain like and what equipment do you recommend?

The route covers cobblestones and paved paths. Normal running shoes are sufficient. We also recommend bringing sun protection (ad), enough water, and a cell phone or watch for navigation. A payment method is also useful, although you can usually pay by card or smartphone on Lanzarote.

Alternatives