Jardin De Cactus

The Cactus gardens (Completed in 1991)

Designed by César Manrique,

Cacti species gathered by expert Botanist Estanislao Gonzalez Ferrer

Situated towards the north of Lanzarote in the small village of Guatiza, close to Mala and Arrieta. The Cactus Garden was César Manrique's final work, opened to the public one year prior to his death in 1992. This spectacular botanical Jardin displays more than 10,000 cacti from over 1,400 different species which originate from all over the world including: The Americas, Madagascar, and of course the beautiful variety native to the Canary Islands themselves.

Background information: César restored the old mill in 1973, which originally dates back to 1850 . The aim as the project progressed through the 1980's was to incorporate the semi buried monoliths on the land, and to recover the deteriorated areas from the original quarry of volcanic ash. In the past the picon from this area had been used by the local community to cover their crops, and to keep their produce flourishing all year through.

The local community:  Historically this area had a huge impact on the island economy and to the survival of the local community. Between 1830 and 1870 the production of cochineal hit an all time high both in Lanzarote and throughout the Canary islands. Vast fields of prickly cacti were cultivated to produce the dye, taken from the small parasite which survives on such plants. 

Why visit? This attraction is a celebration of the natural environment, local produce, and economic history to the people of Lanzarote. In the typical Manrique-esque style, the gardens rise effortlessly from the ground which sits central to 300 acres of farm land, an area which has long been dedicated to the cultivation of the Tunera Cacti.

What to expect: On a personal note this was the last of the attractions that I cared to visit, simply because naively I thought,

'how interesting will a garden full of cacti be?' 

I was quite pleasantly surprised to learn that the sight within the amphitheatre style gardens, which cleverly mirrors the traditional Canarian stone wall fields is absolutely beautiful (in answer to my question), 

'Cacti are among the most interesting and diverse plants to look at!'

The education involved in the visit was one of my favorites of all Cesar attractions, mainly because its so personal. The Cactus garden is an undeniably impressive and tranquil haven, most certainly not to be missed.

Top tip: Take a drink or a bite to eat at the cafe located on the top layer, and enjoy the view, you will want to use your camera ;) 

Location: The journey to Haria (North Lanzarote) via the LZ-1 takes you directly to Guatiza and Mala, heading towards Arrieta.