26/01/2023
When planning a trip to the Canary Islands, understanding the most cost-effective ways to navigate between popular destinations is crucial for any budget-conscious traveller. Lanzarote, with its stunning volcanic landscapes and beautiful coastlines, offers numerous options for getting around. This article focuses specifically on the cheapest method to travel from the southern resort town of Playa Blanca to the vibrant coastal area of Costa Teguise, detailing the bus routes and providing helpful tips for a smooth and affordable journey.
Lanzarote's public bus system, operated by the company Intercity Bus Lanzarote (often referred to as 'La Guagua'), is a reliable and incredibly affordable way to explore the island. The buses are generally well-maintained, punctual, and connect the major towns and tourist areas. For those looking to travel between Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise without the expense of a taxi or private hire, the bus is undoubtedly the champion.
The Cheapest Route: A Step-by-Step Guide
The most economical way to get from Playa Blanca to Costa Teguise involves a two-stage bus journey. While it may seem a little more involved than a direct route, the savings are significant. Here's how to do it:
Stage 1: Playa Blanca to Arrecife (via Playa del Reductro)
Your journey begins at the main bus station in Playa Blanca. You'll need to catch Line 60. This bus serves as a vital link connecting the southern tip of the island to the capital, Arrecife. The destination you're looking for on the bus display or when asking the driver is typically 'Arrecife' or 'Estación de Guaguas Arrecife'.
The Line 60 bus will take you from Playa Blanca to the main bus interchange in Arrecife, known as the 'Intercambiador'. It's important to note that while the route description mentions 'Intercambiador Playa del Reductro', this is a key stop on the Line 60 route within Arrecife itself, where you will likely disembark to catch your next bus. The journey itself is scenic, passing through various towns and villages across the island, offering glimpses of Lanzarote's unique volcanic terrain.
Key Information for Line 60:
- Starting Point: Estación Playa Blanca
- Destination: Intercambiador Arrecife (Playa del Reductro is a stop within Arrecife)
- Bus Number: 60
- Frequency: Buses run regularly throughout the day, but it's always advisable to check the latest timetable online or at the station, especially if travelling during off-peak hours or on weekends.
- Journey Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of stops.
Stage 2: Arrecife to Costa Teguise
Once you arrive at the Intercambiador in Arrecife, you will need to transfer to another bus to reach Costa Teguise. The bus you're looking for is Line 3. This line directly connects the capital with the popular resort of Costa Teguise.
You'll disembark from the Line 60 at the Arrecife Intercambiador. Navigate to the bay for Line 3. The destination displayed will be 'Costa Teguise'. The stop you're aiming for in Costa Teguise is typically near Playa Bastian, a central point in the resort.
Key Information for Line 3:
- Starting Point: Intercambiador Arrecife
- Destination: Costa Teguise (e.g., Playa Bastian)
- Bus Number: 3
- Frequency: Line 3 also operates with good frequency during daylight hours.
- Journey Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Estimated Costs
The beauty of using the bus system in Lanzarote is its affordability. While exact prices can fluctuate slightly, you can expect the following:
For Line 60 (Playa Blanca to Arrecife): The fare is typically in the region of €2.00 - €3.00 per person.
For Line 3 (Arrecife to Costa Teguise): The fare is usually around €1.00 - €2.00 per person.
Therefore, the total cost for the round trip, per person, should be well under €5.00. This makes it significantly cheaper than a taxi, which could easily cost upwards of €50-€70 for a one-way journey between these two locations.
Comparison: Bus vs. Taxi
To illustrate the cost savings, consider this comparison:
| Option | Estimated Cost (One Way) | Estimated Cost (Return) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus (Line 60 + Line 3) | €3.00 - €5.00 | €6.00 - €10.00 | Extremely affordable, experience local travel, environmentally friendly. | Requires transfers, longer journey time, less flexibility with luggage. |
| Taxi / Private Hire | €50.00 - €70.00+ | €100.00 - €140.00+ | Direct, convenient, door-to-door service, faster. | Significantly more expensive, can be harder to find immediately at Playa Blanca during peak times. |
Tips for a Smooth Bus Journey
- Purchase Tickets: Tickets are typically purchased directly from the bus driver. Have smaller denominations of Euros ready, as drivers may not always have change for large notes.
- Check Timetables: While buses are frequent, it's wise to check the latest timetables, especially for the last services of the day, to avoid being stranded. You can usually find these at the bus stations or on the official Intercity Bus Lanzarote website.
- Luggage: Buses have luggage compartments underneath, but space can be limited during busy periods. Pack strategically if you have a lot of luggage.
- Comfort: Buses are generally comfortable with seating. Bring water and perhaps a snack for the longer leg of the journey from Playa Blanca to Arrecife.
- Language: While drivers are usually helpful, knowing basic Spanish phrases can be beneficial, although most drivers will understand simple English requests.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I buy a day ticket or a travel card?
While specific tourist passes might exist, generally, you pay per journey directly to the driver. For this specific route, paying per journey is the most straightforward and economical approach.
Q2: What if I miss my connection in Arrecife?
The buses are timed to connect reasonably well. If you miss your connection, don't worry. Buses on both Line 60 and Line 3 run frequently, so you'll likely only have a short wait for the next one.
Q3: Is this route suitable for travellers with a lot of luggage?
It's manageable, but not ideal if you have multiple large suitcases. The luggage compartments have limited space. If you have minimal luggage, it's perfectly fine. For extensive luggage, a taxi might be considered despite the cost.
Q4: Are the buses accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most modern buses in Lanzarote are equipped with ramps and designated spaces for wheelchairs and pushchairs. However, it's always a good idea to check with the bus company directly if you have specific accessibility requirements.
Q5: How do I know which stop to get off at in Costa Teguise?
Playa Bastian is a common and central stop. If you are staying elsewhere in Costa Teguise, it's best to ask the driver when boarding Line 3, or consult a map beforehand. The main tourist areas are well-served by Line 3 stops.
Conclusion
For the most budget-friendly way to travel from Playa Blanca to Costa Teguise, the public bus system is the clear winner. By taking Line 60 to Arrecife's Intercambiador and then transferring to Line 3 for Costa Teguise, you can complete the journey for a fraction of the cost of a taxi. This approach not only saves money but also offers a more authentic experience of getting around Lanzarote like a local. Remember to check timetables and have your fare ready for a hassle-free trip.
If you want to read more articles similar to Budget Travel: Playa Blanca to Costa Teguise, you can visit the Transport category.