description El Golfo Overview
El Golfo is a partially eroded volcanic tuff cone located on the northwestern coast of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands, Spain. It was formed by hydrovolcanic activity, creating a crater that has been partially breached by the Atlantic Ocean. The breached crater contains a distinctive green lagoon known as Charco de los Clicos or Lago Verde, whose color is caused by the presence of a specific type of algae. The surrounding landscape features red and black volcanic rocks, contrasting with the green water and making it a notable geological site.
help El Golfo FAQ
Why is the lagoon at El Golfo green?
The crater's lagoon, known as Charco de los Clicos, gets its striking emerald-green color from algae living in the water, aided by the mineral-rich volcanic setting. The color contrasts dramatically with the surrounding black sand beach.
Can you swim in the lagoon at El Golfo, Lanzarote?
No, swimming in the Charco de los Clicos is prohibited because the site is protected. Visitors explore a viewpoint and walking path around the crater rim instead.
Was El Golfo used as a film location?
Yes, the lagoon famously appeared in the 1966 film One Million Years B.C., which starred Raquel Welch. Its otherworldly landscape made it a natural prehistoric backdrop.
How was El Golfo on Lanzarote formed?
It is a partially eroded volcanic tuff cone created by hydrovolcanic activity, where magma met seawater. Over time the Atlantic breached the crater wall, exposing the lagoon and the dark volcanic beach.
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