International sports events in Lanzarote

Lanzarote is one of Europe's leading sports destinations: home to historic races such as the Ironman (since 1992), the Volcano Triathlon (since 1985) and the Travesía a Nado El Río, plus international open-water, cycling and mountain bike competitions. This is the calendar of the island's major elite sports events.

Ironman Lanzarote — cycling leg on volcanic roadsTrail running by the Risco de FamaraLanzarote International Marathon in Costa TeguiseOpen-water swimming crossing off the volcanic coast

2026-2027 calendar of elite races

  • Ironman Lanzarote

    Since 1992
    May 2027 — 35th edition · 15 May 2027 Puerto del Carmen · Club La Santa

    Long-distance triathlon (3.8 km + 180 km + 42.2 km)

    One of the toughest Ironmans on the world calendar. 180 km bike course with more than 2,500 m of climbing through La Geria, Timanfaya, Mirador del Río and Haría, plus the final marathon in Puerto del Carmen. 2027 marks its 35th anniversary.

  • Club La Santa Volcano Triathlon

    Since 1985
    March 2026 Club La Santa · Tinajo

    Olympic-distance triathlon (1.5 km + 40 km + 10 km)

    One of Europe's oldest triathlons. Start from the inner lagoon of Club La Santa, bike leg on volcanic roads and run around the complex. Sprint and Super Sprint events run in parallel.

  • Ocean Lava Lanzarote Triathlon

    September 2026 Costa Teguise

    Half and Olympic-distance triathlon

    International triathlon starting from Las Cucharas in Costa Teguise, bike leg through the north of the island and run along the seaside promenade. One of the most popular races on the national calendar, with a great grass-roots atmosphere.

  • Travesía a Nado El Río

    Since 1999
    June 2026 Órzola → La Graciosa

    Open water (2.9 km and 1.5 km)

    Iconic crossing of the El Río strait between Lanzarote and La Graciosa, a Biosphere Reserve. Over 1,000 swimmers. One of Spain's most historic open-water events.

  • Lanzarote International Marathon

    December 2026 Costa Teguise

    Marathon, half marathon, 10K and 5K

    International marathon with a flat course along the Atlantic, ideal for personal bests in winter. Combined races for every level, with a kids' race included.

  • La Santa Half

    October 2026 Club La Santa · Tinajo

    Half Ironman (1.9 km + 90 km + 21.1 km)

    Half Ironman organised by Club La Santa with a bike leg through the central-north of the island and a run around La Santa. Limited entries and a very international atmosphere.

  • Lanzarote Open Water Challenge

    November 2026 Sur de Lanzarote

    Open water by stages

    Open-water swim challenge with several stages at different beaches and coves in the south, designed for experienced swimmers who want to combine competition with discovery of the volcanic coastline.

  • 4 Stage MTB Race Lanzarote

    November 2026 Toda la isla

    Mountain bike by stages

    4-stage mountain bike race through the island's most spectacular volcanic landscapes. A benchmark on the European winter MTB calendar.

Plan your pre-season in Lanzarote

Local coaching, sports physiotherapy, cycling outings, open-water swimming and everything you need to reach the start line in top shape.

Coastal hiking in Famara at sunset
Coastal hiking
Yoga in a volcanic cave facing the ocean
Yoga & recovery
Trekking on volcanic paths towards La Corona
Volcanic trekking
Freediving and open-water training
Freediving & open water

Frequently asked questions

What is the most important sports event in Lanzarote?
The Ironman Lanzarote, held every May since 1992, is the benchmark race. It is considered one of the toughest Ironmans in the world due to the elevation gain on the bike leg and the wind. 2027 marks its 35th anniversary.
When is the Ironman Lanzarote 2027 held?
The 35th edition of the Ironman Lanzarote is scheduled for Saturday 15 May 2027, with the start at Playa Grande in Puerto del Carmen and the finish back in Puerto del Carmen after 226 km of racing.
Can amateurs take part in these races?
Yes. Almost all the events (Ironman, Volcano Triathlon, Ocean Lava, Travesía a Nado El Río, marathon) are age-group races open to amateur athletes, with caps per category. Sign up several months in advance — they usually sell out.
How do I train in Lanzarote before a race?
The usual approach is to book a training camp in Lanzarote (Club La Santa, Sands Beach Resort or private coaching with Benty). The island offers quiet roads, excellent tarmac, technical wind and an ideal microclimate from October to April to prepare for long-distance races.
Are there physiotherapy and recovery services?
Yes. Lanzarote has sports physiotherapy, therapeutic massage and recovery services (compression, cryo) in Costa Teguise, Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca, many with experience supporting athletes before and after Ironman races.