05/10/2015
Arriving at Lanzarote Airport (ACE), often referred to as Guasimeta Airport, marks the beginning of your island adventure on one of Spain's captivating Canary Islands. Located conveniently close to Arrecife, the vibrant capital, as well as the charming areas of Playa Honda and Casas de Guasimeta, the airport serves as your gateway to golden beaches and unique volcanic landscapes. While public transport options exist, for many travellers, the swiftness and comfort of a taxi or private transfer offer the ideal start to their holiday. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through everything you need to know about securing reliable transport from the airport to Arrecife and beyond, ensuring a smooth transition from plane to palm tree.
Finding Your Taxi at Lanzarote Airport
Lanzarote Airport is designed with passenger convenience in mind, and finding a taxi upon arrival is remarkably straightforward. Regardless of whether you land at Terminal 1, which handles the majority of international flights, or Terminal 2, dedicated to inter-island travel, you'll find official taxi ranks located just outside the arrivals area of both buildings. The airport's facilities are well-signposted in English, Spanish, and German, making navigation simple for international visitors.
In most cases, there's no need to worry about pre-booking a taxi, as a plentiful supply of vehicles is usually available in the ranks, ready to whisk you away to your destination. However, for those who prefer the peace of mind that comes with a reservation, or if you have specific requirements, you can contact the airport directly for more information at 928 520 176. The official airport taxi company, Lanzarotetaxi, can also be reached at (0034) 630 207 305. They boast a diverse fleet of vehicles, ranging from comfortable estate cars, perfect for travellers with ample luggage, to more spacious options designed for groups of up to five or six passengers, ensuring there's a suitable vehicle for every party size and need.
Understanding Taxi Fares to Arrecife and Beyond
One of the most common questions for arriving passengers is, 'How much will it cost?' The journey from Lanzarote Airport to Arrecife is notably short, typically a quick fifteen-minute drive covering approximately five kilometres. The approximate taxi fare for this route is around €11.00. However, it's crucial to understand that taxi fares in the Canary Islands operate on a meter system, charging per kilometre travelled. The quoted prices are generally for travel during standard daytime hours (06:00 to 22:00) on weekdays.
For journeys undertaken between 22:00 and 06:00 on weekdays, or at any time on weekends and public holidays, higher rates apply. You can expect to add an additional €2.00 to €10.00 onto the standard fare during these peak times, depending on the overall length of your journey. Furthermore, the metered charge does not include certain supplements. There's an airport supplement fee of €1.65, and a waiting charge of €14.53 per hour. While official airport taxi drivers are generally considered friendly and honest, it's always a good practice to confirm the approximate fare to your destination before commencing your journey. Information desks within the terminal buildings can usually provide these average rates. Knowing a few basic Spanish phrases can also be helpful to ensure clear communication and avoid any misunderstandings.
Popular Destinations and Approximate Fares
Beyond Arrecife, Lanzarote offers a host of popular resorts, and taxis provide a convenient way to reach them. Here's a comparative table of approximate taxi fares to other key destinations on the island:
| Destination | Approximate Fare (Daytime Weekday) |
|---|---|
| Arrecife | €11.00 |
| Puerto del Carmen | €15.00 |
| Puerto Calero | €19.00 |
| Costa Teguise | €20.00 |
| Caleta Famara | €31.00 |
| La Santa | €32.00 |
| Arrieta | €34.00 |
| Playa Blanca | €41.00 |
These fares are indicative and subject to the specific time of travel and any additional supplements, as mentioned above. It's always wise to factor in a little extra for potential surcharges or waiting times, particularly if your flight is delayed.
Accessibility and Special Requirements
Lanzarote Airport taxis are committed to providing accessible transport for all passengers. Special vehicles adapted for disabled passengers are available, equipped with features such as ramps, secure anchorage systems, and safety belts, allowing individuals to remain comfortably in their wheelchairs throughout the journey. To ensure availability and minimise waiting times, it is highly recommended to reserve these specialised taxis in advance of your arrival. While it is possible to request a special car upon landing, there may be a delay while a suitable vehicle is dispatched. The terminal buildings themselves are also fully equipped with facilities to cater to the needs of disabled passengers, ensuring a comfortable experience from the moment you disembark.
Considering Private Transfers: An Excellent Alternative
While traditional taxis offer great convenience, private transfer services present another highly viable and often preferred option for many travellers. Similar in nature to a taxi, a private transfer typically offers the advantage of being pre-booked and pre-paid, often at a competitive, fixed price that can save you up to 40% compared to a metered taxi fare. This eliminates any guesswork regarding the final cost and provides financial clarity from the outset.
One of the key benefits of a private transfer is the personalised service. Upon your arrival, your professional driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals area, usually holding a sign with your name, ready to escort you directly to your waiting vehicle. This seamless transition is particularly appealing after a long flight, removing any stress about finding transport. Private transfer companies often offer a wider range of vehicle types, suitable for larger groups or families, and many provide valuable amenities such as child seats upon request, ensuring the safety and comfort of younger passengers.
These services are typically available 24/7 and can cater to various needs beyond simple airport-to-resort transfers. They often include private hire by the hour, transfers to and from events across Lanzarote, cruise port transfers, and even bespoke sightseeing tours. The emphasis on professional and reliable chauffeurs, coupled with excellent customer care, makes private transfers a highly attractive option for those seeking comfort, convenience, and peace of mind.
Exploring Arrecife and Lanzarote
Once you've arrived in Arrecife, you'll find yourself in the bustling capital of Lanzarote, a city with a population of nearly 60,000. Arrecife boasts a fascinating history, evident in its impressive fortresses overlooking the harbour, such as San José and San Gabriel. The San Juan Castle is particularly notable for featuring works by César Manrique, the island's celebrated artist and architect, whose unique touch can be found at many points across Lanzarote.
Lanzarote itself is a geological marvel. As the northernmost and oldest of the Canary Islands, its landscape has been sculpted over millions of years by volcanic activity, creating a truly 'lunar landscape' that is rarely seen elsewhere on Earth. The Timanfaya National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1993, is a testament to this unique geology, with its extraordinary rock formations and rare plant life. Formed by the island's largest volcanic eruption between 1730 and 1736, the park offers a glimpse into powerful natural forces, featuring vast lava fields, intriguing cave systems, and dramatic valleys. Here, you can truly feel as if you are walking on another planet.
Beyond its volcanic heart, Lanzarote is also renowned for its stunning beaches. From the white sands of Playa Blanca, the island's newest resort, to the crescent-shaped bays that embrace the unique lunar landscape, there's a beach for every preference. Playa Blanca, meaning 'white beach', lives up to its name with a nine-kilometre stretch of pristine sandy shoreline, ideal for enjoying the ocean and the warm year-round climate. Other popular coastal spots like Punta del Papagayo and Puerto del Carmen further cement Lanzarote's reputation as a true tropical holiday destination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Taxis in Lanzarote
How do I book a taxi from Lanzarote Airport?
You can easily get a taxi directly from the ranks outside Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at Lanzarote Airport upon arrival. For pre-booking, especially for larger vehicles or adapted taxis, you can contact the official airport taxi company at (0034) 630 207 305. Alternatively, consider booking a private transfer online through various reputable companies, which often offer fixed prices and meet-and-greet services.
Can I stop a taxi on the street in Arrecife?
Yes, you can hail a taxi on the street in Arrecife. However, for added convenience, security, and to monitor driver and vehicle quality, it is increasingly recommended to use a ride-hailing app if available, or to opt for pre-booked services, particularly for airport transfers.
Are taxis from Lanzarote Airport expensive?
Taxis are generally more expensive than public bus services on the island, but they offer significant advantages in terms of speed and convenience. For a short journey like to Arrecife, the cost is modest (around €11.00). Prices increase for longer journeys and for travel during night hours, weekends, or public holidays. Remember to factor in the airport supplement (€1.65) and potential waiting charges.
Are there taxis for disabled passengers at Lanzarote Airport?
Yes, the official airport taxi company can provide specially adapted vehicles for disabled passengers, equipped with ramps and secure systems for wheelchairs. It is advisable to reserve these vehicles in advance to ensure availability upon your arrival and minimise any waiting time.
What other ways are there to get around in Arrecife besides taxis?
While this article focuses on the convenience of taxis and private transfers, Arrecife and Lanzarote also offer public bus services (guaguas), car rental options for independent exploration, and cycling opportunities in certain areas. However, for direct, comfortable, and efficient transfers, especially with luggage, taxis and private transfers remain the top choice for most visitors.
Conclusion
Whether you opt for the immediate convenience of an airport taxi or the pre-arranged comfort of a private transfer, reaching Arrecife from Lanzarote Airport is a straightforward and stress-free affair. Both options provide a significantly quicker and more comfortable journey than public transport, allowing you to begin your holiday in Lanzarote without delay. By understanding the fare structures, knowing where to find your ride, and considering your specific travel needs, you can ensure a seamless transition from the airport to your chosen destination, setting the perfect tone for your unforgettable Canary Islands getaway.
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