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Visiting Lanzarote is an opportunity you cannot miss. This paradisiacal place combines volcanoes, beaches and unique places to relax and find comfort. But before arriving to the island, there are several questions you need to find answers to, such as this one: can you drink tap water in Lanzarote? Keep reading to find the answer.
Overview of Lanzarote’s Water Supply
Lanzarote is a volcanic island, part of the Canary Islands archipelago. Due to its geographical location, its water supply primarily comes from desalinated seawater.
This means that, in order to have clean water for residents and visitor consumption, the island’s water undergoes a rigorous treatment process to remove salt and other impurities.
The water treatment process makes it safe to drink. This could answer the question about if is it OK to drink the water in Lanzarote. But, as a tourist, you need to know how the process works, so you can take informed decisions about your consumption habits.
You need to stay hydrated. While some visitors donāt have any problems drinking tap water, others prefer the taste of bottled water.
Tap Water Quality in Lanzarote
Source of Tap Water
The main source of tap water at the capital city of Lanzarote and the rest of the island are desalination plants. These plants use reverse osmosis to remove salt and impurities from seawater. This system has been working in Lanzarote since 1964, and today there are more than 20 plants all over the island.
Another source of water is wells in Lanzarote. These are natural reservoirs from which water is obtained, reducing total dependence on desalination plants.
Safety Standards and Regulations
To consume the water, treatment plants must meet the same regulations as in the rest of Spain and Europe. In the same way, they follow the standards of the World Health Organization (WHO). For this reason, drinking tap water in Lanzarote is safe.
The water in Lanzarote and the rest of the Canary Island is tested several times every year. The objective of these tests is to ensure that the greatest number of microorganisms and contaminants have been removed from the water.
Common Concerns about Drinking Tap Water
Taste and Mineral Content
Many travellers express their concerns about drinking tap water in Lanzarote. Mostly because of it taste. It is a fact that the taste and smell is different from what you may be used to, yet it is safe to consume.
The variation in flavour is due to the fact that after desalination, the water goes through a distillation process. During this process, chlorine is added, which affects the flavour.
Health Implications
Given these conditions, it is normal to worry about safety when consuming tap water. However, although security standards are met, you can look for other alternatives.
If you have a health problem, are pregnant, or have small children, you may prefer not to drink tap water.
Alternatives to Tap Water
Bottled Water
Travellers who prefer not to drink tap water have some other alternatives. A popular choice is bottled water. Supermarkets, convenience stores, and most restaurants offer a wide selection of local and international brands.
The main issue about bottled water is its environmental impact. Plastic bottles take hundreds of years to decompose, and their production contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. If you choose bottled water, consider opting for larger containers to minimize waste and recycle them responsibly.
Water Filtration Systems
Another option for residents and visitors is a water filtration system. This is a more sustainable alternative to bottled water.
There are several types of water filters, including portable water purifiers. These compact devices offer advanced filtration, removing bacteria, parasites, and heavy metals. They’re ideal for adventurous travellers or those staying in remote locations.
For short trips, like a quick visit to Teguise Sunday market, you could use a refillable water bottle with a built-in filter might be sufficient. If you are planning to explore remote areas or are sensitive to taste variations, a portable water purifier might be a better choice.
Practical Tips for Tourists
Here are some handy tips to ensure a refreshing experience with water in Lanzarote:
Using Tap Water for Daily Activities
Tap water in Lanzarote is safe for most daily activities. You can use it to brush your teeth, wash fruits and vegetables, and even use it for cooking without any worries. The main concern is that it can have a slightly different taste due to the desalination process.
If that is a problem, try boiling tap water for a few minutes before using it for tea or coffee. This can help improve the taste by releasing some gases. Also, you can use a filter to remove some of the taste impurities that affect the water.
Feel free to use tap water for cooking pasta, rice, and washing vegetables. However, if you have concerns about the taste impacting your culinary creations, consider using bottled water for final rinsing or boiling delicate ingredients.
Staying Hydrated
Here are some tips to stay hydrated during your trip to Lanzarote:
- Don’t wait until you feel thirsty to drink water. Aim to sip on water throughout the day, even if it’s just small amounts frequently.
- Invest in a reusable water bottle and carry it everywhere.
- Carry a reusable water bottle and fill it up with tap water whenever possible. Supplement with bottled water if needed.
- Enjoy local fresh fruits with high water content, like watermelon, melon, and oranges.
As a tourist, it’s essential to be aware whether you can drink tap water in Lanzarote, so you ensure a responsible and enjoyable travel experience. Take care of every detail during your trip, not just the water, but also book your Lanzarote transfers to Costa Teguise with anticipation.
This post is also available in: EspaƱol (Spanish)