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Children love discovering the wonders of nature, and in Lanzarote, there is much to see. If you’ve started planning your trip around the island, make sure to include a visit to the Volcán del Cuervo in your itinerary, where you can walk straight into the crater that was the origin of what is now Timanfaya.
Why Visit the Volcán del Cuervo with Children?
Make your children feel like real explorers as they venture through the Volcán del Cuervo. This is one of the must-visit spots on the island, where they can learn about volcanic activity while having fun and admiring the unique landscapes surrounding this site.
Lanzarote offers plenty of hiking routes to discover the island’s wonders, and the Volcán del Cuervo is one of the easiest and safest. Including children in this outdoor adventure is an experience they will thoroughly enjoy.
The route is suitable for all ages and does not require great physical aptitude. The little ones will enjoy the walk without getting too tired.
History and Geology of the Volcán del Cuervo
This volcano, also known as Caldera de los Cuervos, is closely linked to the origin of Timanfaya. In fact, it was here that the eruptions of 1730 began, continuing for the next six years.
We owe the impressive Timanfaya landscape, as we know it today, to the Volcán del Cuervo. By visiting, children will learn about the formation of the islands and the power of nature.
During the walk, be sure to teach them to respect nature by staying on the marked paths and not leaving any litter behind.
Preparing for the Visit
If you are getting ready to explore Lanzarote’s volcanoes, here are some useful tips.
Essential Equipment for the Visit
Although it is a simple route, it’s important to remember that volcanic ash and lava fragments dominate the landscape. Additionally, it is a protected area, and there are no services around, so you have to bring everything you may need with you.
The essential equipment consists of the following:
- Comfortable footwear: Trekking shoes are ideal for walking around the Caldera del Cuervo, although regular trainers will also suffice.
- Appropriate clothing: Wear light, comfortable clothing, as well as a hat and sun protection, especially during the warmer months.
- Water: It’s essential to bring enough water to stay hydrated during the walk.
- Snacks: Some small snacks can be useful to recover energy.
- Binoculars: With these, children can observe the volcanic landscape around them in more detail.
Safety Recommendations for Children
Ensure children are always under adult supervision. They should stay on the marked paths, as the terrain contains rock fragments that can be dangerous in case of falls. Additionally, this is a measure to preserve the environment.
In this regard, also teach them to respect nature and not to litter. They should not take volcanic rocks with them, as they are part of the environment.
Lastly, use sun protection and avoid going during the hottest part of the day.
Best Time of Year to Visit with Children
Lanzarote enjoys pleasant weather all year round, with little rainfall, so any time is good for exploring the island. However, if you’re looking for a time with good weather and fewer tourists, the best seasons are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October).
Hiking Route: A Safe Family Walk
Route Description and Duration
The Caldera de los Cuervos route is a circular trail that surrounds the entire volcano. During the walk, visitors enjoy the panoramic views that surround it, as well as imagining the magnitude of the eruptions.
The trail starts at the parking area. From there, you walk for about 20 minutes to the volcano. On the northeast side of the cone, there is an opening through which you can descend into the crater and continue the walk inside.
The entire walk takes around an hour, during which you can take photographs, observe the wildlife, and spot some plant species that grow in the area.
Trail Difficulty and Points of Interest
From the moment you arrive at the parking area, the trail is well signposted. The route is safe and doesn’t involve steep inclines. The volcanic ash covers the trail, and once inside the crater, you will see the formations created by the walls and volcanic rock.
The place is ideal for discovering the colours and textures of the rocks. You will also observe how the flora and fauna have adapted to this environment, while imagining how the eruptions in this volcano occurred.
The panoramic views from the Volcán del Cuervo are impressive. Take the opportunity to observe and show the children the volcanic landscape around them.
Educational Experience: Learning in Nature
Flora and Fauna of the Volcán del Cuervo
Despite its barren, desolate appearance, the volcano is home to extraordinary life. Some animals, such as birds of prey, reptiles, and insects, have made the volcano their habitat. The same goes for some plant species that can be observed along the path.
For children, this is an opportunity to learn how living beings can adapt even in adverse conditions, and about the importance of each of these species within the volcanic ecosystem.
Interactive Activities for Children
Make this walk more enjoyable by including some activities to engage the children. For example, they can guess what shapes the shadows on the walls form, or you can encourage them to draw what they see at the volcano.
Another interesting game is a treasure hunt. You just need to create a list of natural elements for the children to find, such as a stone of a specific colour, a bird feather, or an animal footprint.
How to Encourage Respect for the Natural Environment
Excursions in Lanzarote around its volcanoes are perfect for teaching children to respect the environment. And for that, nothing is better than setting a good example.
- Teach them to pick up rubbish and leave the place clean.
- Explain that animals are living beings and that we must respect them.
- Similarly, teach them to respect the flora.
- Always walk on the trails and leave the stones in their place.
The Volcán del Cuervo is a unique place where you can nurture children’s curiosity and encourage them to learn about nature. Take the necessary precautions to make this a safe and unforgettable walk.
This post is also available in: Español (Spanish)