An unusual burst of rainfall has transformed the volcanic landscape of Lanzarote, one of the Canary Islands, into a vibrant green expanse, attracting both tourists and locals eager to witness the rare spectacle. The phenomenon, occurring in early February 2026, is a stark contrast to the island’s typically barren terrain.
Briton David Gainford, a resident of the Canary Islands, shared images of the verdant scenery online. “It’s not something you witness often here,” he said, as quoted by Daily Mail. “Millions of people travel to Lanzarote to see the volcanoes and volcanic landscape. But now, hundreds of tourists and residents have arrived to enjoy the blossoming countryside.”
The area between the town of Yaiza and the port of Puerto Calero is experiencing the most dramatic change, with the characteristic black terrain largely obscured by greenery. Visitors are taking photos, enjoying picnics, and walking with family and pets amidst the unexpected bloom.
Lanzarote- normally quite a barren volcanic landscape, used for filming alien scenes in several films, but every ten years or so the right amount of rain & perfect conditions dormant seeds burst into life transforming the landscape, delighted me & @Ziggystairlift are here to see. pic.twitter.com/y5Rx994wfD
— Dame Josephina (@Buntybuntyness) February 5, 2026
“No one wants a rainy vacation, right? But the Canary Islands have seen a good amount of rain at the beginning of 2026, and we’re now competing to see which island is the greenest,” Gainford added. He noted that not only has grass grown, but similarly beautiful wildflowers. “The views are truly breathtaking, with the budding landscape stretching for kilometers.”
The typically dusty and sandy terrain has turned green, Gainford observed, adding that the north of the island is currently the most vibrant. He also urged tourists to limit sharing photos and videos, fearing that large crowds could damage the blossoming meadows.
According to Daily Mail, this winter is among the coldest and wettest on record for the Canary Islands. While the inclement weather may disrupt some tourists’ plans, local farmers are welcoming the rainfall, anticipating a good harvest.
