Monumento Natural de Los Ajaches
The southernmost tip of Lanzarote is dominated by Los Ajaches, a protected natural monument of ancient eroded volcanic mountains that tumble dramatically into the Atlantic. Hiking its trails rewards you with solitude, extraordinary geology and views that stretch to Africa on a clear day.
The Landscape
Los Ajaches is one of the oldest geological formations on Lanzarote — its rounded, heavily eroded peaks contrast sharply with the raw lava fields further north. The colours shift from deep ochre to burnt sienna to dusty purple depending on the time of day and the minerals in the rock.
The area is legally protected as a natural monument, meaning no new construction is permitted and the trails remain blissfully uncrowded compared to the resort beaches just a few kilometres away.
Walking the Trails
The most rewarding route starts from the small car park near Playa Mujeres and climbs to the ridge above the Papagayo coves, offering 360-degree views across the southern coast, Fuerteventura and — on exceptionally clear winter days — a faint smudge of the Sahara on the horizon.
The walk is moderate, around 7 km return, with some loose rocky sections. Sturdy shoes, a hat and at least two litres of water per person are non-negotiable — there is no shade and no water source on the mountain.
Wildlife and Flora
Despite the arid appearance, Los Ajaches supports a surprising diversity of endemic Canarian flora — tabaibas (Euphorbia species), cardones (giant Canarian cacti) and the low-growing verode shrub cling to the volcanic slopes.
Barbary ground squirrels dart between rocks, Eleonora's falcons hunt overhead in late summer, and the offshore waters are frequented by loggerhead sea turtles, occasionally visible from the cliff viewpoints.
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