Sóo: Landscape, Hiking Trails and Cultural Heritage

Landscape and natural environment

Sóo is located in the Chinijo Natural Park between La Santa Beach to the west and Famara Beach to the east. From Sóo, there are panoramic views of Pico de la Vieja Andrea. If nature and landscape shape your travel plans, the protected area, sandy landscape, and panoramic views are specific points of interest in Sóo.

El Jable is made up of organogenic sands. They form from crushed seashells and are transported by the trade winds. In the rural surroundings of Sóo, these sands support traditional crops such as sweet potatoes, melons, and watermelons. The technical term “organogenic” refers to the material’s origin; wind transport and agricultural use also show how the formation and use of the sandy landscape are connected. El Jable is also a Special Protection Area for birds (ZEPA) and is home to numerous steppe birds. Thus, both the formation of the sand and the birdlife and its protection are part of the area’s natural profile.

Activities in the natural area between Famara and Guacimeta

In this natural area, local businesses offer interpretive routes, birdwatching tourism, and food experiences connected to the landscape. Each format has a different focus: interpreting the landscape, exploring ornithology, or taking a culinary approach.

Hiking trails starting in Soo

The Camino Real de Soo a la Villa de Teguise starts in the village of Soo. The trail is 6.8 kilometers long and rated moderate; the total duration is six hours. When planning your day, consider the time as well as the distance, and check current trail conditions before setting out. Los Volcanes de Soo also starts in the village and is a circular hike. The Camino Real’s route title names the Villa de Teguise, while Los Volcanes is laid out as a loop.

Festival traditions and history

At the festival in honor of San Juan Evangelista, residents and visitors came together in 2025 in an atmosphere shaped by community and tradition, keeping local customs alive. In June 2016, the San Juan festivities ran from June 10 to 26; the traditional bonfire took place on June 23 from 9 p.m. Residents of Sóo prepared traditional Truchas de Batata by hand for the festival. Check the festival dates in advance for your travel year.

The Ermita de San Juan Evangelista was originally built in the 17th century and later altered. Despite these later changes, it is considered one of Lanzarote’s most distinctive hermitages. In 2025, the church was closed for services pending repairs. Check access before visiting.

At Montaña de Juan del Hierro, there is a site with prehistoric rock engravings made by the Indigenous inhabitants. Archaeological ornaments and a small treasure made of chalcedony were found in a shelter at the summit of Pico Colorado. Cisterns for collecting surface runoff can be seen on the slopes of Pico Colorado.

Discover more destinations: Famara, Teseguite, Los Valles, Caleta De Sebo, Oasis De Nazaret, Guatiza, Tahiche, Muñique.

For the broader travel overview: Teguise.