Guide to Mirador del Río Lanzarote: Tickets, opening times and the perfect time to go

Spectacular panoramic views, sculptures, and a showcase of the island’s unique architecture are part of what you’ll find at Mirador del Río in Lanzarote. Here we tell you everything you need to know about this tourist spot—one of the must-see stops to enjoy the landscape and a beautiful sunset.

What is Mirador del Río, and what makes it unique?

Around Lanzarote you’ll find a series of architectural works that are the legacy of César Manrique. One of these creations, in which he fuses art with nature, is Mirador del Río: a vantage point from which you’ll see the panorama of “El Río”, the island of La Graciosa in all its splendour, and the sea surrounding it.

César Manrique’s work and the “eyes” of the viewpoint

Mirador del Río stands on a cliff 500 metres high. Like all of Manrique’s works, it blends art and nature.

Manrique’s marking is reflected in every detail of the viewpoint: first, the clear intention to alter the landscape as little as possible; then, the sculptures and features that accompany the work. Among these are the “eyes” of the viewpoint—arched picture windows from which you can observe the Chinijo Archipelago.

The viewpoint openned in the 1970s, two years after construction began. It sits atop the Risco de Famara. It comprises three areas from which you can admire the scenery: the first is an indoor space where you can look out through a circular window; outside there is a balcony overlooking the ocean; and, finally, the upper terrace that offers an even wider view.

Where it is and what you can see

To reach Mirador del Río you need to head to the north of Lanzarote. It’s close to other attractions such as Cueva de los Verdes and Jameos del Agua, so you can plan your itinerary to visit several places in a single day.

From here, you can see the strip of ocean that separates Lanzarote from La Graciosa, known as “El Río”. You can also admire La Graciosa—the largest island of the Chinijo Archipelago—and other islets in the archipelago.

At the base of the cliff you can also see the Salinas del Río, the oldest saltworks in the Canaries.

Tickets and discounts

Official prices and where to buy online (2025)

To enjoy this privileged view, you can buy tickets for the viewpoint online. Once purchased, your ticket is valid for three months from the date of issue, and you don’t need to book a time slot to enter.

On 2025, the ticket price for adults is €8.50; children aged 7 to 12 pay €4.25; and children aged 0–6 enter free.

Policies and considerations

Canary Islands residents pay €6.50 per adult and €3.25 for children aged 7 to 12. There are also reduced rates for people with disabilities.
Although Mirador del Río has good accessibility in some areas, there are limitations for reaching the upper terrace due to the structure of the site.

Opening hours and the best time to go

The viewpoint opens at 10:00 and closes at 17:00. However, during the early hours you may not have the best visibility due to morning cloud. Wait for it to clear to get the best view; for this reason, the ideal time to arrive is from 13:00 onwards.

Before you go, check whether it will be windy or cloudy, or if there is calima (Saharan dust), as this also affects visibility.

How to get there and where to park

By car and parking

You can reach Mirador del Río by car via the LZ-201 or LZ-202 roads from Haría. There is free parking for cars and bicycles at the viewpoint.

By bus and organized tours

You also have the option to book an excursion in Lanzarote that includes this attraction.

By bus, you can take Intercity line 08 from Arrecife to Yé. From Yé you’ll need to walk to the viewpoint or take a taxi. This route also passes other towns such as Teguise, Teseguite, Arrieta, Punta Mujeres, Haría, among others.

What to see and do inside

It’s advisable to schedule at least 45 minutes to enjoy the viewpoint and walk through each of the areas. This will be enough time to get to appreciate it.

Terraces, picture windows, café, and shop

Once inside the viewpoint, besides enjoying the views, you can have a drink in the café or a Lanzarote wine at the bar. You can also have a snack while you let the landscape wash over you.

Accessibility and services

Bear in mind that during the visit, it’s not allowed to bring food or drinks purchased outside the viewpoint. So if you’ve bought supplies at the supermarket, save them to consume elsewhere. At the viewpoint, however, there’s a café available where you can have something to eat and drink. If you’re visiting with small children, there are high chairs for added comfort.

In terms of accessibility, it’s difficult to reach the upper floor with a pushchair. However, moving around the lower floor is easy. Pets are not allowed, except for assistance dogs.

Free alternatives and nearby viewpoints

It’s possible to enjoy similar views without entering Mirador del Río. There is a free viewing platform nearby, accessible on foot from the car park. Note that you won’t be able to enter the café or enjoy the rest of the amenities of Mirador del Río.

There are other nearby viewpoints, such as Guinate, located between Yé and Máguez. From here you can also observe the Chinijo Archipelago.

Local tips and visit checklist

These recommendations will help you make the most of your visit to Mirador del Río:

• Arrive after 10:00, once the clouds have cleared.
• The viewpoint sits on the Risco de Famara, so it’s windy. Bring a light jacket for protection.
• Plan a route through the north of Lanzarote that includes Mirador del Río, Playa Mujeres, Cueva de los Verdes, Jameos del Agua and other nearby attractions.

Mirador del Río in Lanzarote is one of the unmissable stops on the island. Plan your visit and enjoy the views offered by this work of César Manrique.