Geoconservation and Geotourism in the Lanzarote and Chinijo Islands UNESCO Global Geopark

Abstract

Lanzarote is a well-established tourist destination with numerous geosites located in tourist centers on the island, such as seven Art, Culture and Tourism Centers, the Timanfaya National Park, Cesar Manrique’s Foundation and some tourist attractions like Los Hervideros cliff, Salinas del Janubio or El Golfo volcano. Although these places are visited mainly for their spectacular scenery and performance, until now, there was a lack of geological information and interpretation about those emblematic natural sites. Thus, the Lanzarote and Chinijo Islands UNESCO Global Geopark has developed a geoconservation strategy by promoting sustainable geotourism. The main aims of this strategy are to improve the knowledge of the geological elements present in tourist areas as well as to widen the touristic offer by promoting less known geosites and alternative geo-routes. In order to improve the outreach of geology and the tourist experience through the understanding of geoheritage that underlies the volcanic landscape, two actions have been implemented: 17 interpretative panels for Lanzarote and La Graciosa Islands, and 5 geo-routes by car in Lanzarote. The interpretative panels and the geo-route brochures guide visitors through the geology of the UGG, including some aspects of historical, cultural and natural interest. The geo-routes themes selected, go from the formation of ancient volcanic massifs to quaternary eruptions and sedimentary processes. Interpretative panels, road guides and brochures are meant to promote a more sustainable alternative to the prevailing “sun and beach” tourism on the islands. Carrying out these actions, this UNESCO Global Geopark improves its outreach information, and in turn upgrades tourist infrastructures, trying to draw the attention of tourists who come to the islands for other reasons than its Geology.