Lanzarote in Autumn: The Best Season for Cycle Tourism
Autumn in Lanzarote is, for many cyclists who know the island, the best time of year to ride. The temperatures are mild, the tourist crowds thin out, the roads are quieter and the light has a quality that makes every route feel special.
If summer is the season of those who come to train hard and winter is the season of those who escape the cold, autumn is the season of those who come to enjoy cycling at its best. Pleasant temperatures, consistent wind but less extreme, and an island that breathes more calmly after the summer hustle.
In this guide we explain why autumn is the ideal time for cycle tourism in Lanzarote and how to make the most of it with Papagayo Bike.
Why autumn is the best season for cycling in Lanzarote
Temperature: the sweet spot
After a summer of intense heat, autumn brings temperatures that are warm enough to ride comfortably but not so hot that you need to start at dawn. Daytime highs typically range from 24 to 28 °C in October and November, with cooler mornings and evenings that make for pleasant rides.
This temperature range means you can ride at any time of day without suffering. Long routes, exploratory rides, relaxed spins — everything works in autumn.
Wind: present but manageable
The trade winds don't disappear in autumn, but they tend to be less intense and more consistent than in summer. This means you still have wind as a factor in your route planning, but it's less likely to be the dominant force that makes or breaks your ride.
Crowds: fewer, calmer
Autumn marks the transition from peak tourist season to a quieter pace. The roads are less busy, the restaurants have more space, the bike paths are more relaxed and the overall atmosphere of the island is more peaceful. For cyclists, this means safer roads and a more enjoyable experience overall.
Light: still generous
Although the days get shorter compared to summer, autumn in Lanzarote still offers 10-11 hours of daylight. That's plenty for long rides, with the added bonus that sunrise and sunset happen at more comfortable times.
Recommended autumn routes
The complete south: Puerto del Carmen to Playa Blanca via Yaiza
One of Lanzarote's most rewarding routes, and autumn is the ideal time to ride it. From Puerto del Carmen, head towards Yaiza, skirt the Timanfaya National Park and continue to Playa Blanca. The volcanic landscape in autumn light is spectacular, and the temperatures are perfect for this distance.
Distance: 60-80 km round trip. Variable elevation. Best ridden early morning.
The north: Teguise to Órzola
The route through the north of the island offers a landscape that changes constantly: from the historic town of Teguise, through the volcanic terrain of the north, to the fishing village of Órzola with its views of La Graciosa. In autumn, the light on the north coast is particularly beautiful.
Distance: 50-70 km depending on starting point. Moderate elevation. Exposed to wind on open stretches.
Coastal tour: Arrecife to Costa Teguise
A shorter, more relaxed route that's perfect for autumn mornings or afternoons. The coastal path from Arrecife to Costa Teguise is flat, scenic and easy to ride at any pace. In autumn, you can do this route at any time of day without worrying about heat.
Distance: 15-25 km round trip. Completely flat. Ideal for all levels.
Famara and the Risco
The route to Caleta de Famara and the impressive Risco is a must for any cyclist visiting Lanzarote. In autumn, the combination of golden light, crashing waves and the dramatic cliff face creates one of the island's most memorable cycling experiences.
Distance: 40-50 km depending on starting point. Gentle elevation with some steeper sections near Famara.
What to pack for autumn cycling in Lanzarote
Autumn in Lanzarote doesn't require the extreme preparation of summer or the layering of winter, but there are some specifics worth noting.
- Light layers. Mornings can be cool, especially on north-facing descents. A light vest or arm warmers that you can remove as the day warms up are ideal.
- UV protection. The sun is still intense in autumn. Sun cream, UV sunglasses and light-coloured clothing are essential.
- Hydration. You'll still need plenty of water, even though it's not as hot as summer. The wind and the volcanic terrain mean you lose more fluid than you might think.
- Rain jacket (light). Occasional autumn showers are possible. A packable rain jacket that fits in a jersey pocket is worth carrying on longer rides.
- Electrolytes. Still important in autumn. The wind and exertion mean you need to replace minerals lost through sweat.
Training in autumn: the ideal preparation season
For cyclists and triathletes, autumn in Lanzarote is an excellent time for training blocks. The conditions are ideal for quality work without the extremes of summer heat or winter competition season pressure.
Endurance base
The mild temperatures and varied terrain are perfect for building endurance. Long rides at a comfortable pace, accumulating kilometres without the stress of extreme conditions, are the foundation of a good winter training programme.
Intensity work
If you're doing interval work or specific training sessions, autumn temperatures allow you to hit your targets without the heat limiting your output. This is the time to do quality sessions that would be difficult in summer.
Skill development
Whether it's descending, cornering, riding in crosswinds or practising race nutrition, autumn conditions allow you to focus on skills without the added challenge of extreme heat or cold.
Autumn events and community
Autumn in Lanzarote isn't just about individual riding. There are events, group rides and a cycling community that's active and welcoming.
Gran Fondo and sportive events
Several organised events take place in autumn, offering the chance to ride with others, challenge yourself and experience the island's roads in a supported environment. Check local cycling calendars for dates and registration.
Group rides
Local bike shops and cycling groups organise regular rides throughout autumn. These are an excellent way to discover routes, meet other cyclists and learn about the island from people who ride it every day.
Cycling with an e-bike in autumn
Autumn is arguably the best season for e-bike riding in Lanzarote. The temperatures are perfect for longer rides, the routes are quieter and the conditions allow you to explore more of the island without the exhaustion that summer can bring.
An e-bike in autumn lets you cover the whole island in a day — from one end to the other, through volcanic landscapes, coastal roads and charming villages — and still have energy left for dinner.
Choosing the right bike for autumn
The type of bike you choose for autumn in Lanzarote depends on your goals:
- Road bike: The classic choice. Autumn conditions are ideal for road riding — comfortable temperatures, manageable wind and quiet roads.
- E-bike: Perfect for exploring the whole island without limitations. The best choice for tourists who want to see everything.
- Gravel bike: The variety of surfaces in autumn (dry trails, farm tracks, quiet roads) makes this a great time for mixed riding.
- Mountain bike: After any summer rain, the trails are in excellent condition for off-road riding.
At Papagayo Bike, you'll find all these options and the local advice to help you choose the right one for your autumn riding.
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Plan your autumn cycling trip to Lanzarote
Autumn is a popular time for cycling tourism, so it's worth planning ahead:
- Book your bike rental in advance. Good bikes go quickly in autumn, especially road bikes and e-bikes.
- Check flight availability. Autumn flights to Lanzarote are generally less expensive than winter, but popular dates can fill up.
- Plan your routes. Have a mix of long and short rides planned, with alternatives for windy days.
- Pack light layers. Mornings and evenings can be cool, midday can be warm. Layering is the key.
Check the bicycle rental options in Lanzarote and reserve your bike for autumn. Because if there's a season that was made for cycling in Lanzarote, it's autumn.
Lanzarote in Autumn: The Best Season for Cycle Tourism
