12/08/2018
Stepping off the plane at Arrecife Airport (ACE) in Lanzarote, the first thing on many travellers' minds is how to reach their sun-soaked destination. While public transport options from the airport can be limited, especially to the main resorts, taxis emerge as a highly convenient and often surprisingly economical solution, particularly for shorter journeys or when travelling with luggage. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about catching a cab from Arrecife Airport and utilising Lanzarote's taxi services during your stay.
Finding Your Ride: The Arrecife Airport Taxi Rank
The immediate question for many new arrivals is, "Where do I find a taxi?" Fortunately, the answer is remarkably straightforward and designed for ease of access. The designated taxi rank at Arrecife Airport is located directly outside the arrivals hall at Terminal 1. This prime location means that once you have collected your luggage and cleared customs, a short walk will bring you straight to the waiting taxis. There's no need to search far and wide or worry about navigating complex airport layouts; simply follow the signs for taxis upon exiting the arrivals area, and you'll find a queue of vehicles ready to transport you to your holiday accommodation. This direct access makes for a seamless transition from air travel to ground transport, ensuring your holiday begins with minimal fuss.
Understanding Lanzarote's Taxi System
Once you're out of the airport, understanding how taxis operate across Lanzarote will enhance your travel experience. Taxis on the island are regulated and operate on a metered system, ensuring transparency in pricing. You'll know you're looking at an available taxi if the green light on its roof is illuminated; this indicates it's free and ready for hire. Beyond the airport, you can flag down a taxi in the street if you see this green light, or head to one of the many designated taxi ranks strategically placed in various areas across the main resorts and major towns such, as Arrecife itself, and the charming Teguise. This dual approach of flagging down or using ranks offers flexibility for your travel needs, whether you're planning a day trip or simply heading out for dinner.
Typical Fares and Journey Times from Arrecife Airport
One of the primary concerns for travellers is the cost and duration of their journey from the airport to their resort. Taxis in Lanzarote offer a relatively inexpensive option, especially when shared among a few passengers. The prices provided below are based on two people sharing a taxi from Arrecife Airport to some of the island's most popular destinations. It's important to note that while these figures are taken from official sources and were correct at the time of writing, actual fares can fluctuate. Factors such as the time of day (night tariffs may apply), the number of passengers, and the quantity of luggage can all influence the final price. Always confirm the meter is running at the start of your journey.
Airport Transfer Price Guide (Approximate)
The table below provides a clear overview of estimated costs and journey times:
| Destination | Approximate Journey Time | Approximate Cost (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Puerto del Carmen | 10 to 15 minutes | 20 |
| Playa Blanca | 30 to 40 minutes | 45 |
| Costa Teguise | 10 to 15 minutes | 25 |
As you can see, destinations like Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise offer particularly quick and affordable transfers due to their proximity to the airport, making taxis an exceptionally appealing choice for these popular resorts. Playa Blanca, being further south, naturally incurs a higher fare and longer travel time, but still represents a convenient direct service.
Booking Your Taxi: Local Offices and Online Options
While flagging down a taxi or finding one at a rank is often straightforward, there might be times when you prefer to book in advance or require a taxi from a specific location without a nearby rank. Lanzarote offers several ways to secure your ride.
Calling a Local Taxi Office
If you prefer to speak to someone directly or need to arrange a pick-up, you can contact one of the local taxi offices by phone. Remember to use the 0034 area code prefix if you are calling from outside Spain.
Here are the contact numbers for the main resort and town taxi offices:
- Playa Blanca: 0034 928 524222
- Costa Teguise: 0034 928 524223
- Puerto del Carmen: 0034 928 524220
- Arrecife: 0034 928 803104
Having these numbers handy can be incredibly useful for arranging trips to attractions, restaurants, or for your return journey to the airport.
Online Booking for Convenience
For those who prefer to arrange their transport well in advance or manage bookings digitally, the official Lanzarote Taxi website offers an excellent online booking service. This platform allows you to book airport transfers, general journeys, and even excursions. Online booking provides peace of mind, knowing your transport is secured before you even arrive, and can be particularly beneficial for late-night arrivals or early morning departures.
Tips for a Smooth Taxi Journey in Lanzarote
- Confirm Your Destination: While most drivers will understand common resort names, having the full address or the name of your hotel ready can avoid any confusion.
- Ensure the Meter is On: Always check that the meter is running at the start of your journey. This ensures you are charged the correct, regulated fare.
- Carry Small Change: While drivers will typically have change, having smaller denominations can make the transaction quicker and smoother, especially for shorter fares.
- Official Taxis: Always use official, licensed taxis. These will be clearly marked and have the green light on the roof. Avoid unsolicited offers for rides.
- Luggage: If you have a significant amount of luggage, be aware that a small surcharge might apply, and it's always good practice to ensure your bags fit comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Lanzarote Taxis
To further assist your travel planning, here are answers to some common questions regarding taxi services in Lanzarote:
Q: Where exactly is the taxi rank at Arrecife Airport?
A: The taxi rank is conveniently located directly outside the arrivals hall at Terminal 1.
Q: Are taxis in Lanzarote metered?
A: Yes, all official taxis in Lanzarote operate using a meter to determine the fare.
Q: Can I flag down a taxi in the street in Lanzarote?
A: Yes, you can flag down a taxi in the street if its green roof light is lit, indicating it is available for hire.
Q: What factors can affect the taxi fare?
A: The final fare can be influenced by the time of day (e.g., night tariffs), the number of passengers, and the quantity of luggage.
Q: Can I book a taxi by phone in Lanzarote?
A: Yes, you can book a taxi by calling one of the local taxi offices. Phone numbers for Playa Blanca, Costa Teguise, Puerto del Carmen, and Arrecife are available.
Q: Is it possible to book an airport transfer online?
A: Yes, you can book airport transfers, general journeys, and excursions online via the official Lanzarote Taxi website, offering a convenient way to arrange your transport in advance.
Q: How long does it typically take to get from Arrecife Airport to major resorts by taxi?
A: Journey times vary: approximately 10-15 minutes to Puerto del Carmen, 30-40 minutes to Playa Blanca, and 10-15 minutes to Costa Teguise.
Q: Are taxis a good option for short journeys in Lanzarote?
A: Absolutely. Taxis are relatively inexpensive for shorter hops and provide a quick, direct, and comfortable way to get around, especially where public transport might be less frequent.
In conclusion, taxis offer a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective means of transport for your Lanzarote holiday, starting right from your arrival at Arrecife Airport. With easily accessible ranks, transparent pricing, and multiple booking options, navigating this beautiful island by taxi is a stress-free experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying your well-deserved break.
If you want to read more articles similar to Lanzarote Airport Taxis: Your Essential Guide, you can visit the Transport category.