Weather in Lanzarote

For a holiday at any time of the year, Lanzarote is the place to go because it does not lack sunshine and warmth, which obviously makes it a popular winter holiday as well as during the summer months.

Lanzarote can boast temperatures of not less than 16ºC in winter and 30ºC in summer. It sits in the Atlantic Ocean and because of its closeness to Northern Africa and its fine warm climate, the sea is still good for swimming in at around 18°C during February - April. The sea temperature remains fairly constant all year round, which makes it an excellent place to go at any time of the year, if you especially enjoy sunbathing and swimming. The sun can still be very strong in the winter months, so don't forget your lotion.

Lanzarote is situated in a geographical zone of a hot and dry climate, there is little rain which gives a desert like atmosphere. The difference in climate with Lanzarote, in comparison to the other Canary Islands, is that there is only one high mountain to form a natural barrier of clouds, and therefore rainfall. There are usually only about 16 days of rain per year, usually between November and March.

During the winter months although the temperatures during the day can rise to as high as 20°C, there is a vast contrast for the night temperatures which can be around 12°C, so it is advisable to have a cardigan or light-weight jacket with you just in case.

During the height of the summer months (July to September) you can usually expect temperatures of 30°C + during the day and usually not less than 20°C at night. Lanzarote can be exposed to a hot sirocco wind - typical of African weather referred to by locals as Tiempo Africano - during the summer.

If you prefer cooler temperatures, the north of the island is the place for you as it can suffer from the Trade Winds, which in fact help to keep the temperatures down slightly. Be aware that you are more likely to suffer from sun burn because of these winds.

In the south it is possible to enjoy as much as 2500 sunshine hours annually, where it is drier and hotter. You could opt for the centre of the island where you can get the best of both worlds, with gentle winds from the north to the hot sunshine from the south, creating a fine mix for a perfect holiday.