mirador del rio tour

The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Mirador Del Rio, Lanzarote

Thinking of visiting Mirador del Rio in Lanzarote? Find out what to expect, including details on opening hours, prices and plenty of beautiful photos too!

Whenever we travel, we always end up searching for the best views. This usually involves hiking to the top of hills or mountains, driving to the edges of cliffs or if all else fails, flying our drone for some cool aerial shots.

Thankfully in Lanzarote, the hard work had been done for us! There’s the most incredible mirador (viewpoint) carved into the rocks in the north of the island.

Mirador del Rio is a creation of Lanzarote architectural genius César Manrique. He seamlessly incorporated Lanzarote’s natural beauty and geology with his unique style of architecture and design. In essence, he saw the beauty of his island and wanted to preserve it for future generations.

From the viewpoint you’ll enjoy panoramic views of La Graciosa, Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park and across Lanzarote’s undulating landscapes.

This travel guide will cover everything from what you can see from the top, how to get there and useful information like prices and opening times.

Planning your trip to Lanzarote? Here are a few quick highlights:

What is Mirador del Rio?

This is one of the best viewpoints on the island of Lanzarote. At a height of 474 metres, the panoramic mirador has been built into the rock face at one of the island’s highest points.

The name is derived from El Rio , which is the name of the narrow strait that separates Lanzarote from La Graciosa. This stretch of water is just over 1.1 kilometres at its narrowest point.

What can you see from Mirador del Rio?

This remarkable landmark looks out towards the ocean, with the main feature being its view to La Graciosa and the small islets within Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park. You’ll spot small ferries and boats coming and going from Caleta de Sebo, La Graciosa’s main town.

From the viewpoint you can also take in the dramatic slopes of the cliffs around Famara, known as the Risco de Famara. If you look directly down, you’ll also spot the Salinas del Rio. These are recognised as being the oldest salt ponds in the Canary Islands, although as far as I know, they’re no longer in use.

What’s inside Mirador del Rio?

You might be thinking, I could drive all the way to the car park and see the same view… so why pay for a ticket to go inside? To be honest, when I arrived, I thought the same. I went off and took lots of photos at the side of the road. I wasn’t the only one either, there were lots of other tourists doing the same!

Once I went inside I realised there was a lot more to the experience than the view, after all this is one of César Manrique’s creations!

After paying for our tickets, we walked along a white hallway to a cavernous room with enormous curved windows, which started at the floor and seemed to frame the view perfectly. This room is the café and there are tables and chairs dotted around. What a spot to stop for a drink!

The room itself is huge, with dome-like curves in the ceiling, all painted white. The windows give a cinematic feel, while the curves remind me of the psychedelic art of the 60s and 70s. There are modern bronze sculptures hanging from the ceiling, splaying out with a bundle of prongs. There’s a terrace outside, along the edge of the rock face too.

There’s more to this place than this floor though. Head up through the spiral staircase and you’ll pass by the shop and then emerge at the top. This part almost looks like a lighthouse! From here you can go out to more terraces to take all the photos you could dream of.

Restaurant at Mirador del Rio

As mentioned there’s a café inside Mirador del Rio. If you fancy a snack or light lunch with a view, this is the perfect spot. We sat down and enjoyed a coffee here. The café serves a range of sandwiches, paninis, pastries, chocolate bars and crisps. There is also a menu of smoothies, plus standard options of teas, coffees and alcoholic drinks.

I’d recommend trying a glass of the island’s own white wine. If you want to learn more about that, definitely book onto a wine tour of Lanzarote during your trip!

Who built Mirador del Rio?

The mirador was a collaboration between César Manrique, Jesús Soto and Eduardo Cáceres and was constructed between 1971-1973.

If you’ve seen other works by César Manrique on the island, including Jameos del Agua and the César Manrique Foundation in Tahiche, you’ll recognise his signature style. His innovative creations were always designed to work in harmony with nature.

The mirador was built on the site of a former military battery. To construct it, the top of the cliff was excavated, the new areas built inside and then it was all covered over again with volcanic stone. It’s barely visible from the outside, in fact it’s pretty much camouflaged!

Is there a Shop at Mirador del Rio?

There’s a gift shop on the first floor, selling a range of gifts and souvenirs. There were some pretty pieces of jewellery, interesting books about the island and local produce. There was also more information on architect Cesar Manrique here.

Are there toilets at Mirador del Rio?

Yes – there’s a row of toilets outside the left-hand door when you enter the main building.

How to get to Mirador del Rio

To reach this spot you’ll need to drive or organise a taxi. You can also cycle if you’ve got calves of steel (this is steep)! The address of Mirador del Rio is Carretera de Ye, S/N, 35541 Haría. This link takes you to a helpful Mirador del Rio map so you can get your bearings and plan your route.

Access is via the LZ-202 which is steep and windy. I wouldn’t recommend this drive unless you’re reasonably confident! There’s plenty of free parking once you reach the top.

If you’ve not seen much of Lanzarote yet, I’d recommend driving towards Orzola after visiting the viewpoint. From there, you can join the LZ1 and follow the east coast. I’ve recommended a few places to stop off at further down this post.

How much are tickets for Mirador del Rio?

Adults: €5.00 Children aged 7-12 years: €2.50 Child aged 0-6 years: Free

Prices are 50 cents cheaper if you can prove you’re a resident of the Canary Islands, and just €1 per person if you are a Lanzarote resident.

As there are several great attractions in Lanzarote that belong to the CACT (Centres of Art, Culture and Tourism) I’d recommend buying a CACT pass that will give you entry to multiple venues. These include the Montańas del Fuego in Timanfaya National Park, Cueva de Los Verdes, Jameos del Agua, Jardin del Cactus, MIAC contemporary art gallery, and of course, Mirador del Rio.

The price for visiting three CACT attractions is €29.50 for adults and €11.75 for children. For four attractions it’s €29 for adults and €14.50 for children. Alternatively, you can purchase a pass that covers all six for €35 for adults and €17.50 Euros for children. This was the best option as we visited five of the locations during our weeklong trip to the island.

What are the opening hours at Mirador del Rio?

The Mirador del Rio is open from 10am – 5pm every day.

Other places to visit near Mirador del Rio

If you’re planning a day trip to the mirador, there are lots of other lovely places close by on this part of the island.

I’d recommend driving towards Orzola and exploring the north and east coasts.

Stop at Caleton Blanco to see one of the only beaches with white sand and black rocks. Then continue along the LZ1 following the coast, stopping at Punta Mujeres and Arrieta.

These traditional towns and villages are full of character and absolutely gorgeous. I included them in my guide to the best things to do in Lanzarote , so you can see lots of lovely photos there!

You could also visit Jameos del Agua and Cueva de Los Verdes on your way back to the south of the island.

Alternatively, head to the northwest coast and visit the town of Famara . This town is famed for its surf beach, with great waves all year round. The town itself has a fun, hippie vibe to it too, with lots of interesting places to eat and drink.

Hotels near Mirador del Rio

The north of Lanzarote is a lot less touristy than the south, so you won’t find so many accommodation options close by. There are several self-catering options, apartments and small guesthouses in the surrounding areas, in Haria, Arrieta, Orzola, Famara and Punta Mujeres. You can move the map to take a look at some options.

So, is it really worth visiting Mirador del Rio?

As mentioned, you can drive to the top of the cliffs and take in the magnificent panoramas of volcanic islands, ocean views and more… but it’s not the same experience as diving into the creative mind of Cesar Manrique.

The experience of the curvy architecture, the way the mirador is constructed into the environment and the way it frames the view is really special. So yes, it’s 100% worth visiting the Mirador del Rio in Lanzarote.

I hope you’ve enjoyed learning more about Mirador del Rio! If you’re looking for other amazing places on the island, check out miss my huge guide to the  best things to do in Lanzarote . There are over 28 fun activities, including a really fun wine tour, so you’re guaranteed to find something you like the sound of! Plus, if you’re thinking of visiting Timanfaya National Park, check out my  review of El Diablo Restaurant , where they cook food using the heat of the volcano!

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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• What to see
• Tourist attractions

Mirador del Río

Mirador del Rio is a panoramic balcony designed by César Manrique . Located on the north coast of Lanzarote, it overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and offers unparalleled views of La Graciosa .

In the early 1970s, César Manrique set his sights on the north coast of Lanzarote, and worked his magic to create a monumental viewpoint in harmony with its surrounding natural landscapes . The Mirador del Rio - or River Viewpoint, named after the strip of sea between Lanzarote and La Graciosa - was opened in 1973.

Like the rest of  César Manrique 's works , the Mirador del Rio is characterised by the way its architecture is integrated into the nature of the island. The viewpoint has an incomparable location 400 metres above sea level on the Risco de Famara, so it offers the best possible views of Lanzarote. At the edge of the cliff you'll feel the refreshing sea breeze while admiring the views of the Chinijo Archipelago Nature Park .

Inside Mirador del Rio

Inside the viewpoint, you'll find spacious vaulted rooms with large windows offering unparalleled views while sheltered from the sun and wind. The Mirador's simple design integrates nature into its architecture , with curved whitewashed walls and wooden furniture decorated with hanging plants and wrought iron sculptures.

From the upper floor, you can access the outside terraces. Up here, you'll have an unforgettable view of the Atlantic Ocean, the mountains and the nearby island of  La Graciosa .

The Mirador del Rio is one of Lanzarote's top attractions and a must-visit  spot due to its incomparable panoramic views of the Canary Islands . If you're able to choose which day to visit, try and pick the clearest day possible for the best visibility.

How to get to the Mirador del Río

There are two ways to visit Mirador del Rio: by car or by booking an organised tour .

If, like most tourists, you're renting a car  to explore Lanzarote, you can reach Mirador del Rio easily from Haria, following roads LZ-201 and LZ-202.

If you'd prefer to relax and let someone else take you to see the  island's main places of interest , you can book a César Manrique tour of Lanzarote. As well as taking in the spectacular views from Mirador del Rio, you'll also visit the Campesino Monument , the  Cueva de los Verdes ,  Jameos del Agua , the  Jardín de Cactus and the César Manrique Foundation .

In the north of Lanzarote.

Daily from 10 am to 5:45 pm (until 6:45 pm in summer).

Adults: € 8 ( US$ 8.60). Children between 7 and 12 years old: € 4 ( US$ 4.30). Children under 6: free entry. Combined entry ticket with  Cueva de los Verdes ,  Jameos del Agua ,  Timanfaya National Park  and the  Jardín de Cactus saves up to € 9.50 ( US$ 10.20).

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Mirador del Río, Lanzarote – Entrance Fee & Opening Hours

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While Lanzarote boasts numerous vantage points, a visit to the Mirador del Río in Lanzarote promises a breathtaking panorama of the island and the Chinijo Archipelago just off its shores. This site stands as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lanzarote , suitable for all types of itineraries, be it with family or friends.

Mirador del Río, Lanzarote – Entrance Fee & Opening Hours

The concept for Mirador del Rio was conceived in the 1970s, and its construction spanned two years. Perched on a 1,600-foot-tall cliff, its strategic placement necessitated the excavation of rocky terrain and subsequent camouflaging with volcanic stone in order to blend it into the natural environment. Beyond offering a lookout point to marvel at the coastline, it also serves to enhance the beauty of the island’s landscapes, making it one of the best works of César Manrique in Lanzarote .

So, if you are looking for a fresh perspective on Lanzarote, this guide will provide all the essential information to make your visit to César Manrique’s Mirador del Río a memorable experience.

Guide to visiting the Mirador del R ío in Lanzarote

I will provide you with all the information about Mirador del Río that you need for your visit, including ticket prices, directions, hours, and more. Here’s a quick review of what we will cover in this guide:

• Best things to do at the Mirador del Río
• Mirador del Rio opening times
• Entrance price of the Mirador del Río
• How to get to the Mirador del Rio
• Best things to do near the Mirador del Río in Lanzarote
• Other tips for visiting the Mirador del Rio

Best things to do at the Mirador del R ío

The primary draw of the Mirador del Río is its panoramic views of the entire coast, making it an essential experience on the island. Situated atop the highest point of the Risco de Famara at 1,500 feet, this site offers unparalleled vistas. To give you a better picture, on clear days, you can gaze as far as the island of La Graciosa and the neighboring islands of the Chinijo Archipelago, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The stunning turquoise hues of the water further emphasize why this location is the largest and most beautiful marine reserve in Europe.

Panoramic views from Mirador del Rio

Beyond the expansive coastal views, there are several must-visit attractions at Mirador del Río in Lanzarote . You can admire the Salinas del Río along the coast, take in the sights of Montaña Clara , and glimpse the charming town of Caleta de Famara . Whether you’re on a multi-day tour of Lanzarote or a shorter visit, the indescribable merging of sea and sky on the horizon makes this a must-see destination.

View of the Salinas del Río from Mirador del Rio

Another notable point of interest is a distinctive sculpture by Manrique depicting a bird and a fish , which guards the entrance. The artist aimed to embody the two elements with the strongest presence in this environment – water and air.

Upon entering, you can spot two dome-shaped windows offering a glimpse of the views that await you on the terrace. Manrique’s meticulous touch is evident in various decorative details, including the staircase, aboriginal ceramic objects, and sculptures made with iron rods and plates hanging from the ceiling.

I also recommend making a stop by the gift shop, which offers a range of items, from traditional crafts to natural cosmetics and architecture books.

View from the upper terrace at Mirador del Rio

The upper terrace, a favored spot for many visitors, provides an ideal vantage point for capturing stunning photographs and enjoying the sea breeze. If you are eager to learn more, there are multiple informative panels about César Manrique’s work and telescopes. Moreover, there are outdoor play areas for the little ones, ensuring everyone has a great time.

Mirador del Rio restaurant

Finally, you can cap off your visit with a delicious aperitif or freshly brewed coffee at the Mirador del Rio cafeteria , serving simple dishes of traditional Canarian cuisine . The cafeteria also boasts the renowned “ Barraquito “—a delightful mixture of coffee, liquor, foamed milk, cinnamon, and lemon. The interior is adorned with artistic creations by César Manrique and lamps shaped like prickly pear leaves, providing a fitting end to your Mirador del Río experience .

Mirador del R ío opening times

The Mirador del Rio is open Monday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. However, it’s crucial to note that the last admission is at 4:40 p.m. So, I highly recommend arriving early to fully enjoy your visit .

Mirador del R ío entrance fee

The ticket price for the Mirador del Río is €5 for adults and €2.50 for children aged 7 to 12. To ensure a smooth visit, I recommend purchasing your tickets online in advance. This not only helps you avoid potential queues but also allows you to better plan and organize your visit .

How to get to the Mirador del R ío

There are several ways to reach Mirador del Río in Lanzarote . Renting a car in Lanzarote provides a convenient solution, allowing you to drive effortlessly along well-marked roads to the town of Ye in the northern part of the island.

The Mirador del Rio viewpoint is easily accessible from major tourist hubs such as Arrecife , Costa Teguise , Puerto del Carmen , and Playa Blanca . There are parking lots right at the entrance, so you don’t have to worry about finding a suitable parking spot. Additionally, there are nearby attractions that are worth your visit, making it possible to explore multiple points of interest in the vicinity— I’ll introduce them later.

Now, if you decide to explore alternative modes of transportation in Lanzarote, your best option is using the local buses, known as “ guaguas .” Take line 26 from Arrecife to the town of Ye, and from there, either take a taxi or enjoy a half-hour walk to reach the Mirador del Río viewpoint . The journey from Arrecife to Ye typically takes around 60 minutes.

How to get to the Mirador del Río

Alternatively, if you don’t have a car, consider booking one of the best excursions in Lanzarote that offers a comprehensive visit to the Mirador del Río and other tourist attractions on the island. For instance, this full-day tour includes the remarkable Route of the Volcanoes at Timanfaya National Park , stops at iconic works like Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes , and a visit to Mirador del Rio at sunset , where you’ll get unparalleled panoramic views.

Another option is this excursion that delves into the works of César Manrique. This tour encompasses the Mirador del Río , along with visits to the Cactus Garden , Campesino Monument , Jameos del Agua , and the César Manrique Foundation .

Best hotels near the Mirador del R ío

If you’ve decided to visit the Mirador del Rio in Lanzarote and prefer to stay nearby, consider finding accommodation in Lanzarote on one of the neighboring towns. Staying in the area allows you to explore the Mirador del Río early in the morning, so you can avoid the usual tourist crowds later in the day.

Here are my recommendations for the best hotels in Lanzarote in the vicinity:

• Casa Nube Blanca : This rural home in Ye is just 1.2 miles away, making it one of the best hotels at the Mirador del Río . It features double rooms with spectacular views of the surrounding area as well as tranquil spaces to relax and disconnect from the routine.
• Órzola Apartments : Located a 15-minute drive away in the town of Órzola, these apartments are strategically positioned for visits to the Mirador del Río and also serve as a departure point for ferries to La Graciosa . Fully equipped kitchens with amenities such as a microwave, toaster, refrigerator, coffee maker, and kettle, as well as stunning sea views, make Órzola Apartments a comfortable choice.
• Surf Lanzarote : This accommodation is one of the best apartments in Famara, ideally situated in the town center near shops, restaurants, and supermarkets. Featuring two bedrooms and a well-equipped kitchen, Surf Lanzarote apartments are perfect for families .

Best things to do near the Mirador del R ío in Lanzarote

As mentioned earlier, a visit to the Mirador del Río only requires a few hours, leaving you with enough time and energy to explore other nearby landmarks. Here are some interesting attractions to consider visiting on the same day:

Cueva de los Verdes (Green Cave)

The Cueva de los Verdes is situated approximately 8 miles from Mirador del Rio , which translates to around a 15-minute car ride. This is another of César Manrique’s renowned works that you shouldn’t miss, showcasing an impressive adaptation of Lanzarote’s terrain for this artistic creation.

The site comprises a cave that forms part of a volcanic tube from the Corona Volcano, one of the most important volcanoes in Lanzarote , responsible for creating the largest lava field on the island during one of its eruptions. A network of trails has been established here, allowing you to journey underground and marvel at a fascinating grotto. Moreover, you can find different vaults and lagoons here that will undoubtedly leave you speechless.

The landscape is reminiscent of a postcard, featuring various shades of ochre and reddish colors. Additionally, an auditorium hosts several shows, so I highly recommend checking the schedule to ensure you don’t miss any performances.

Jameos del Agua

Continuing your exploration, you can head to the Jameos del Agua , located just half a mile from the Cueva de los Verdes. While it shares the same volcanic tunnel, this section has been transformed to house a museum, a spectacular auditorium, and a restaurant.

Within this unique space, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter one of the rarest and most exotic species in the world —the albino crab or jameito . This species exclusively inhabits the lagoon inside Jameos del Agua, so visiting this place is truly a unique experience.

La Corona Volcano

The Corona Volcano is around 3,000 years old and played a pivotal role in shaping the geography of Lanzarote during one of its eruptions. Its intense activity led to the formation of various remarkable volcanic structures, later serving as the canvas for artistic interventions by César Manrique, including the Jameos del Agua and the Cueva de los Verdes that I mentioned earlier.

If you like outdoor activities, I highly recommend exploring one of the best hiking routes in Lanzarote , which lasts about 3 hours until you reach the volcano’s crater. Not only is it renowned as one of the best-preserved craters on the island, but it also allows you to explore its interior.

The trail begins in the town of Ye, where you can find numerous charming restaurants and a picturesque historic center. Despite its relatively short duration, the hike unveils diverse landscapes, and the panoramic views from the summit are the perfect reward for your efforts. So, I suggest wearing your sturdy boots and enjoying this exciting adventure.

Caletón Blanco Beach

Caletón Blanco Beach stands out as one of the best beaches in Lanzarote , conveniently located just a 15-minute drive from the Mirador del Río . On scorching days, when the urge to cool off strikes, you can head to the beach, take a refreshing dip, and enjoy the sea breeze and crystal-clear waters.

The volcanic landscape, adorned with lava flows, creates a stunning interplay of colors. Additionally, there are multiple natural pools dotting the Lanzarote coastline, offering ideal spots for relaxation and leisure, making Caletón Blanco a perfect destination, especially for families with children.

César Manrique House Museum

For a more comprehensive understanding of the attractions you’ve explored, consider a visit to the César Manrique House Museum . This museum provides valuable insights into the life of the artist and his artistic philosophy, emphasizing harmony with the environment. César Manrique not only left an indelible mark on the art world but also played a pivotal role in safeguarding the pristine landscapes of the Canary Islands from the impacts of mass tourism.

Situated in the renowned “Casa del Palmeral,” the museum occupies the house where the artist spent his final years. Originally, the house was part of a dilapidated agricultural estate, but later it underwent reconstruction in a traditional Canarian architectural style, meticulously preserving its essential structural elements. The museum features a collection of personal belongings, handicrafts, utensils, and other works .

Other tips for visiting the Mirador del R ío

Here are some helpful tips for your visit to Lanzarote’s Mirador del Rio . Feel free to share additional recommendations in the comments if you have any.

• Dress warmly , especially in colder months (October to May). As you climb the Mirador del Río , you’ll reach high elevations where the wind makes it a lot cooler.
• Apply sunscreen , even on cloudy days.
• During bad weather or very cloudy days, the Mirador del Río offers a reduced rate . While you may not be able to see some islands on the horizon, the visit remains enjoyable.
• The Mirador del Río is open year-round for visits.
• Plan for an average visit time of approximately 45 minutes , but consider combining your visit with other essential attractions on the island. If you plan to watch the sunset at the Mirador del Rio or enjoy a coffee at the Mirador del Rio cafe , you might extend your stay.
• Bring your camera to capture breathtaking photos of Mirador del Río , especially from the upper terrace. But don’t forget to enjoy the panorama with your own eyes!
• Utilize the free parking available at the entrance.
• If you are traveling with children, note that strollers are not permitted on-site.

FAQs – Mirador del R í o in Lanzarote

Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions when visiting the Mirador del Rio in Lanzarote :

What is the best way to visit the Mirador del Río?

While you can visit the Mirador del Río on your own, opting for a tour like this one is the most comfortable way to experience the Mirador del Río viewpoint . This tour includes transportation from your hotel and informative commentary from your guide, so it helps you optimize your time.

How much is the entrance price of Mirador del Río?

The entrance price of Mirador del Río is €5 for adults and €2.50 for children between 7 and 12 years old.

How long does it take to visit the Mirador del Río?

The average duration of a visit to the Mirador del Río is approximately one hour, but consider extra time if you want to watch the sunset at the Mirador del Río .

What are the Mirador del Río’s opening times?

The Mirador del Río is open Monday to Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with the last admission 20 minutes before closing.

Is there a restaurant at Mirador del Río?

Yes, the Mirador del Río cafe offers snacks, sandwiches, and coffee.

And that concludes our guide to Mirador del Río in Lanzarote . Now that you have all the information to make the most of your visit, take a moment to explore our Lanzarote tourist map and discover other charming places to add to your Lanzarote travel itinerary .

If you have any questions about Mirador del Rio or want to share your experience exploring one of the most famous Canary Islands , feel free to leave me a comment below.

Enjoy your time in Lanzarote!

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Mirador del Rio

Mirador del Rio is a cliff-top viewpoint, offering superb panoramic views over the archipelago of small islands that lie off Lanzarote’s North coast. The current tourist centre opened its doors in 1973 and was conceived by the local artist, Cesar Manrique (with Jesús Soto, and the Architect, Eduardo Cáceres). It was built on part of a site that previously housed an artillery battery ( Bateria del Rio ), and you can still see the remains of several small bunkers and an observation post in the immediate vicinity. The interior of the modern Mirador is in the usual white-washed Manrique style, while the exterior is nearly perfectly camouflaged through the use of local stone.

Strategic Position

At around 478 metres above sea level, the site’s commanding strategic position was obvious to the Spanish Military who feared a US invasion during the Spanish–American War. The Spanish thought that the US could anchor a fleet in the strait between the islands, and constructed the defensive position in 1898. The site was further enhanced during the Second World War, when it was feared that there would be a British Invasion of the Canary Islands in retaliation for Franco assisting the Germans. Despite the continued upgrades to the site, the installed weapons were nearly always obsolete, reflecting Spain’s dire economic circumstances during the period when it was operational. The installation was dismantled after the second world war, and two of its canons can now be seen decorating the exterior of the Castillo de San Gabriel in Arrecife.

El Rio and Chinijo Archipelago

The string of small Islands to the north are known as the Chinijo Archipelago, or, archaically, as the Minor Canaries. The nearest, and only inhabited island, La Graciosa, is separated from Lanzarote by a strait known as El Rio (the river). Beyond La Graciosa, are Montaña Clara and Alegranza (an important Seabird breeding site), and the two small rocks; Roque del Este and Roque del Oeste.

The magnificent cliffs, that Mirador del Rio sits on top of, are part of a 22km-long escarpment that stretches from Punta Fariones, the most northerly point of Lanzarote, to just outside Teguise village. Below the cliffs to the North, and overlooked by the Mirador, are the Salinas del Río , the oldest salt pans in the Canary Islands.

This part of the island is often shrouded in mist, especially when the prevailing northerly trade winds are blowing. This can detract somewhat from a place that is primarily about its views, though even when the visibility is poor, there are normally short gaps in the cloud that facilitate a glimpse of the islands. At €4.75, the entrance fee may seem a little steep for what is essentially a cafe (unless you are a Cesar Manrique aficionado). However, you can enjoy the same views for free by walking a short way down the narrow road to the west of the car park.

Since there are no public buses to Mirador del Rio, you will have to either visit by coach tour or by hiring a car yourself. We recommend visiting Mirador del Rio by car, so that you can see the other sights of Northern Lanzarote, stopping off to enjoy a nice lunch in Famara, Arrieta or Orzola. Alternatively, the  The Best of César Manrique Coach Tour stops at Mirador del Rio as part of its itinerary and includes the entrance fee.

Related Pages

La Graciosa

Further Reading

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Mirador del Rio, Lanzarote - Price, Opening times & How to get there

Mirador del Rio offers one of the best views in Lanzarote, in a building that is completely integrated in the surrounding natural space, a feature that is typical for all the works of César Manrique.

Useful info about Mirador del Rio - price & opening times

The history of mirador del rio, the best view over the island la graciosa, how to get to mirador del rio.

• Address: 35500 Lanzarote, Las Palmas, Spain
• Mirador del Rio entrance fee : Adults: 4,74 Euros; Children 7-12: 2,40 Euros. Resident in the Canary Islands: Adults, 3,80 Euro; Children - Canary Islands Residents, 1,90 Euro. If you plan on visiting several attraction points in Lanzarote, ask to buy a multi-ticket, which will work out cheaper.
• Opening times Mirador del Rio:  Daily from 10:00 h to 17:45 h. During the summer and until 30th September there is an extended schedule: Daily from 10:00 h to 18:45 h
• Estimated duration of the visit: 30 minutes to an hour

Restaurant and Coffee-Bar: 10:00 h - 17:45 h. During summer months and until 30th September, the restaurant at Mirador del Rio is open between 10:00 h and 18:45 h.

Remember you can buy a multi-ticket if you plan on visiting several tourist attractions in Lanzarote .

Mirador del Rio is one of my favorite places in Lanzarote and you should not miss it when visiting the island.

The view from Mirador del Rio is simply breathtaking, but make sure to visit on a sunny day, when there aren't many clouds in the sky.

If you're staying in the south of Lanzarote and even if you're staying in Puerto del Carmen , it's actually pretty difficult to predict how the weather will be up at the mirador, so it's a chance you'll have to take. 

Mirador del Rio was used in the past for its strategic position, so that locals could see the pirates approaching the island.

By the end of the 19th century a fortress had been build at the site, with the purpose of defense against USA's ships, while Spain was at war over the ownership of Cuba. The cannons used then can now be seen in Arrecife , at Castillo San Jose.

Mirador del Rio is situated at an altitude of 475 m and it is the work of Cesar Manrique, as well as Jameos del Agua and many other cultural sites on the island. The mirador started functioning in 1974 and its design blends in perfectly with the shape of the rocks around which it's built.

In the clear days, from Mirador del Rio you have a spectacular view over Archipelago Chinijo Nature Park, especially over the neighbor island of La Graciosa. In the background of La Graciosa you can see Montana Clara and Roque del Oeste and the furthest away of all is called Alegranza. These small islands are extremely important for biologists and researchers, since 13 animal species and 20 endemic plant species inhabit these islands, so preserving their natural habitat is of utmost importance. 

The name of the viewpoint comes from the name given to the strip of ocean that separates Lanzarote from the nearby islands. This narrow stretch of water is called in Spanish "El Rio" (The river) and from here derives the name of Mirador Del Rio.

If you look down from the viewpoint you can also see the Salinas del Rio (now abandoned) and also Playa del Risco, a wild beach that is accessible only on foot or by water.

The reason you shouldn't miss a visit at Mirador del Rio is because it provides the best view over the island of La Graciosa. Also, in my opinion, this is one of the most breathtaking views from Lanzarote, one you will never forget.

Inside the mirador there is also a cafe-bar, with a huge glass wall, where you can enjoy a drink while admiring the view. With its widescreen windows and flowy design, the cafeteria makes you think of another era, one where you can envision spy movie characters planning some evil plot while overlooking the beautiful La Graciosa.

Unless you are coming from Orzola in the very north of Lanzarote, you will have to drive up to Arrieta, where you have to turn unto the LZ-201 road, which will lead you all the way up to Mirador del Rio. 

If you are coming from Jameos del Agua or Cueva de los Verdes , you will be following the LZ-204 road until it intersects with the LZ-201 road. You turn right on the LZ-201 road and follow the same route as previously mentioned, which will take you directly up to Mirador del Rio.

When you arrive you will see a parking, where you can leave your car.

You can see the view also from the area surrounding the mirador, but believe me when I tell you that it is not the same and it's really worth it to go inside. 

There are lots of trips available on the island and many of them are centered around the works of Cesar Manrique, which is understandable given the fact that he was born in Lanzarote.

Book online the Lanzarote: César Manrique Full-Day Tour 

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity starts
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Mirador del Rio Tours

Tours to Mirador del Rio Lookout

Private excursions

Size of the group: minimum 30 people.

Duration: Upon request.

Tour days: Upon request.

Pick up areas: Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise, Puerto Calero and Arrecife.

Four-seater vintage buggy excursions

Discover some of the most symbolic sites in Lanzarote while you enjoy a buggy tour around the island.

Free cancellation : up to 24 hours in advance.

Duración: 2 a 5 horas.

Tour days: from Monday till Friday.

Pick up areas : No pick up service.

Departure point: Calle Montaña Almurnia 16, cerca de Yaiza.

Treasures of the North and Cesar Manrique´s legacy

Excursion to the essential places in northern Lanzarote

Duration: 9-10 hours

Tour days: Mondays.

César Manrique Tour: Cactus Garden, Mirador del Rio, Cesar Manrique Foundation and Jameos del Agua or Cueva de los verdes

Visit the heritage of the most important artist of the Canary Island.

Duration: 10 hours.

Tour days: Wednesday.

Excursions to the Mirador del Río Viewpoint

However, the most relevant view provided by the River Lookout is that of the neighbouring islands of the Chinijo archipelago , where La Graciosa is the main island. It is separated from Lanzarote by only a narrow stretch of sea, called “the river,” which is where this lookout gets its name. Once you see the views, you can understand why many visitors decide to do a La Graciosa day trip from Lanzarote during their holidays.

What makes this creation truly special is not just the views that it offers, but also the fact that the River Lookout is practically invisible from afar due to its semi-underground construction integrated into the rock. Therefore, it’s not until you arrive at the place that you can truly appreciate the magic of this creation by César Manrique, an artist capable of generating works like the River Lookout and whose intention was to make his beloved native island the main character of all of his works.

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Mirador del Río

Mirador del Río (Río Viewpoint) is one of the most unique architectural creations by  César Manrique . It is located high up on the Risco de Famara escarpment, at an altitude of 474 metres , in the northernmost part of the island. From here you can gaze out at one of Lanzarote’s most spectacular panoramic views : the Parque Natural del Archipiélago Chinijo (Chinijo Archipelago National Park) and the Risco de Famara escarpment.

Opening hours: 10:00 to 17:00.

Recommended visiting time:  During the months of summer (July, August and September), due to the large number of visitors, individual visits are recommended during the afternoon to avoid the crowds.

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