While half of Europe shivers under rain, snow or perpetual grey, Lanzarote in January offers blue skies, temperatures of 20 °C and over six hours of daily sunshine. It’s no coincidence that thousands of visitors choose the island to start the year: it’s the perfect antidote to winter.

This guide covers everything you need to know to enjoy Lanzarote in January: actual weather, what to pack, the best things to do, and how to experience the island with respect for its nature and people.

Lanzarote weather in January

January is one of the cooler months in Lanzarote, but “cool” here means something very different than in London, Dublin or Manchester.

Temperatures

• Daytime highs: 20-22 °C (68-72 °F)
• Night-time lows: 13-15 °C (55-59 °F)
• Sea temperature: 18-19 °C (64-66 °F) – swimmable with a short wetsuit or for the brave

Sun and rain

Lanzarote enjoys an average of 6-7 hours of sunshine per day in January. Rainfall is scarce — around 20-25 mm for the whole month — and when it does rain, showers are usually brief. The island is the driest in the Canaries thanks to its low terrain, which doesn’t trap clouds.

Wind: the factor to consider

January can bring days of north or northeast wind, especially on the east coast. Nothing trip-ruining, but it’s worth packing a windbreaker and checking forecasts if you’re planning water activities. Calima days (Saharan dust) are rare in January.

January weather comparison

• London: 7 °C, 2 hours of sun, frequent rain
• Dublin: 8 °C, 2 hours of sun, regular showers
• Manchester: 7 °C, 1.5 hours of sun, grey skies
• Lanzarote: 21 °C, 7 hours of sun, beach possible

What to pack

The most common mistake is coming prepared only for beach or only for cold. January in Lanzarote calls for layers and versatility.

Essentials

• Light daywear: T-shirts, shorts or light trousers, dresses
• Layers for mornings and evenings: A hoodie or light jumper, a windproof jacket
• Comfortable footwear: Walking shoes or trainers for exploring, sandals for the beach
• Sun protection: SPF 30+ cream, sunglasses, cap (January sun is deceptively strong)
• Swimwear: Always. Calm sunny days invite a dip

Optional but useful

• Light rain jacket (just in case)
• Short wetsuit for surfing, paddle boarding or snorkelling
• Binoculars for birdwatching and whale spotting

Things to do in Lanzarote in January

January is low season for mass tourism but high season for possibilities. Fewer queues, better prices and an island that breathes tranquillity.

Explore the Art, Culture and Tourism Centres

The spaces created by César Manrique are at their best: uncrowded and bathed in winter light that enhances the volcanic contrasts. The Cactus Garden, Jameos del Agua, Cueva de los Verdes and Mirador del Río can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace.

A tip: visit Jameos del Agua or Cueva de los Verdes first thing in the morning. You’ll have the spaces almost to yourself and help spread visitor flow throughout the day.

Hiking without extreme heat

January is the ideal month for walking in Lanzarote. Mild temperatures allow routes that would be exhausting in summer:

• Volcanoes Route (Timanfaya): Martian landscapes without the suffocating summer heat
• Caldera Blanca: Climb to the island’s most photogenic crater
• Famara Cliffs: Spectacular cliffs with views to La Graciosa
• La Geria: Stroll among volcanic vineyards, ideal at sunset

Remember to stay on marked trails. Lanzarote’s volcanic ecosystem is fragile: the lichens covering the lava take decades to form and a single footstep can destroy them.

Beaches in January: is it possible?

Yes, with caveats. On sunny, calm days — which are the majority — the beaches are inviting. Southern beaches (Papagayo, Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen) tend to be more sheltered from wind.

Famara is spectacular in January, though the water is fresh and wind can blow strong. Perfect for surfers and walkers, less so for sunbathing all day.

A reminder: always take your rubbish with you and avoid leaving cigarette butts in the sand. Lanzarote’s beaches belong to everyone.

Whale and dolphin watching

January marks the start of peak season for whale and dolphin watching in Lanzarote’s waters. Bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales and, with luck, sperm whales or fin whales can be spotted on excursions departing from Puerto Calero and Puerto del Carmen.

Choose operators that respect safety distances and don’t chase animals. Responsible watching ensures these species continue visiting our waters.

Markets and local life

January is a great time to connect with authentic Lanzarote:

• Teguise Market: Sundays 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. The largest market in the Canaries, with crafts, local products and a festive atmosphere.
• Haría Market: Saturdays 10:00 am to 2:30 pm. More intimate, in the Valley of a Thousand Palms.

Buying local products — La Geria wine, cheese, mojo sauce, aloe vera — is a direct way to support the island’s producers.

Cultural events in January

January isn’t a month of big festivals, but it does offer quality culture:

• Canary Islands International Music Festival (FIMC): Classical music concerts in unique venues like Jameos del Agua and the Convento de Santo Domingo.
• Three Kings Parades: On January 5, all seven municipalities hold their traditional parades.
• San Sebastián Festival (El Mojón): January 20, a local tradition with torrijas and hot chocolate.

→ Check the January Cultural Agenda for the updated program.

Advantages of visiting Lanzarote in January

• Fewer tourists: Queue-free attractions, peaceful beaches, restaurants without waits
• Lower prices: Flights and accommodation are typically cheaper than high season
• Perfect weather for activities: Hiking, cycling and excursions without summer heat
• Photogenic light: Low winter sun creates spectacular contrasts on the volcanic landscape
• Connection with the real island: Less crowding allows more interaction with locals

Tips for responsible travel

Lanzarote was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1993. Its volcanic landscape, marine ecosystems and traditional architecture are unique and fragile. Here’s how to care for the island while enjoying it:

• Respect natural spaces: Stay on trails, don’t take rocks or sand, don’t touch the lichens
• Save water: Lanzarote depends on desalination. Short showers and reuse towels
• Reduce plastic: Bring a reusable bottle and cloth bag
• Support local: Eat at guachinches (local eateries), shop at markets, choose local tour operators
• Drive carefully: Roads cross areas of high natural value and wildlife roadkill is a problem

Getting there and around

Flights

Lanzarote Airport (ACE) receives direct flights from major European cities year-round. In January, routes operate from the UK (London, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, Bristol, Edinburgh), Ireland (Dublin, Cork), Germany (Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin) and beyond.

Getting around the island

Car hire is the most practical option for exploring Lanzarote at your own pace. Distances are short (the island is 60 km long) and roads are in good condition.

If you prefer not to drive, the guagua (bus) network connects main towns, though frequencies are limited. For one-off excursions, taxis and transfers are an alternative.

Summary: is Lanzarote worth visiting in January?

Absolutely. January offers the best value for money of the year, weather that allows you to do everything, and a quieter, more authentic island. It’s the perfect time to discover Lanzarote without rushing, connect with its volcanic nature and understand why César Manrique fought to protect this unique landscape.

Just remember: Lanzarote’s beauty depends on all of us caring for it. Enjoy, respect and return.

Last updated: January 2026.