Buses are the main form of public transport on Lanzarote. Here are some useful phrases, as not all bus drivers speak English:
- Intercambio = interchange
- Estacion = (bus) station
- Cambio = change
- Pago con tarjeta = payment by card
- Parada = (bus) stop
- Fuera de servicio = out of service
- Dias laborales OR lunes a viernes = Monday to Friday
- Sabado = Saturday
- Domingos y festivos = Sundays and public holidays
The system is managed by IntercityBus Lanzarote. Here is everything you need to know to get around like a local.
1. Essential Tools for Planning
- The Website: ArrecifeBus.com is the official site for timetables and route maps.
- The App: Download the IntercityBus Lanzarote app (available on iOS and Android). It provides real-time “next bus” information and allows you to check your balance if you buy a travel card. You can also use Google Maps for bus times and journey planning.
- Mapping: While Google Maps is generally reliable for routes, always cross-reference with the official app for the most accurate weekend or holiday schedules.
2. Buying Tickets & Fares
Fares are distance-based, typically ranging from €1.40 to €4.00.
- Cash: You can buy single tickets directly from the driver. Important: Drivers usually cannot give change for notes larger than €10. Therefore, it is advisable to have some coins or a 5€ note ready.
- Contactless Card: While some newer buses are rolling out debit/credit card readers, it is not yet universal. Carry cash as a backup. If you can pay by card, avoid foreign exchange fees but still use your own bank with Curve.
- The “Bono” (Rechargeable Card): If you plan on taking more than 3 or 4 trips, buy the General Transport Card (Bono Bus).
- Cost: €2 for the card, then top it up with €5–€50.
- Benefit: It gives you a 10% discount on all fares and can be shared by multiple people (just tell the driver your destination and tap for each person).
- Where to get it: At the main bus stations in Arrecife or Playa Blanca, or directly from many bus drivers.
- If you’re a resident on the island, find out if you could get free public transport.
3. Major Routes for Tourists
Most routes radiate from the capital, Arrecife, or the Airport.
- Airport (ACE) to Resorts: * Route 22/23: To Arrecife and Playa Honda.
- Route 161/261: To Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca.
- Between Resorts: * Route 03: Connects Costa Teguise, Arrecife, and Puerto del Carmen (very frequent). However, you may need to change at Arrecife Intercambiador when travelling from Arrecife airport to Costa Teguise. Check notices, ask the driver or use Google Maps. Buses only depart from Terminal 1. However, all international flights operate out of this terminal. Terminal 2 is only used for inter-island flights, and is within walking distance of Terminal 1.
- Route 60: Connects Arrecife and Playa Blanca.
- Special Sunday Service: * Routes 11, 12, 13, and 14: These run on Sundays specifically to take people to the famous Teguise Market.
4. Tips for a Smooth Ride
- Wave the Bus Down: Buses will not always stop unless they see you clearly signaling (a simple hand wave).
- Exit Strategy: Press the “Stop” button before your station. You must exit through the middle/rear doors, not the front.
- Accessibility: Most buses are modern, air-conditioned, and have ramps for wheelchairs and strollers.
- Timing: Buses are generally punctual, but frequency drops significantly on weekends and public holidays. Always check the “Sábados, Domingos y Festivos” column on schedules.
Pro-Tip: If you want to visit Timanfaya National Park or the Jameos del Agua caves, public buses are limited. For these specific sights, a guided tour or a rental car is usually more practical than the “guagua.”
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