There are two sides to Fuerteventura—fly-and-flop beach resorts contrasting with wild, empty landscapes warmed by Saharan breezes. Most visitors to this Canary Island stay steadfastly on their sunloungers, breaking only to visit Corralejo’s billowing dunes, enjoy wine tastings, and explore Puerto del Rosario, the capital, as well as whitewashed villages such as Betancuria. Sporty types, meanwhile, find endless things to do in Fuerteventura—surfers, windsurfers, and kiteboarders scud Jandia’s big-skied seas; snorkelers and wildlife buffs sail to the turquoise-watered island nature reserve of Los Lobos; and adventure-seekers book 4WD, hiking, and bike expeditions into the jagged interior.
Fuerteventura draws serious sun worshippers between June and August, when temperatures shake range from 75°F (24°C) to 82°F (28°C), the sea is inviting, and the skies are clear. The downside is that this is the high season, so beaches and resorts are busy. Luckily, Fuerteventura has also plenty of good weather other times of year. Visit in winter for mild, sunny days and the island’s vibrant February-to-March carnivals, or come or in the spring or fall, when temperatures hit an average of 73°F (23°C) and peak-season crowds have thinned.
Renting a car is the easiest way to see Fuerteventura. Rates are very reasonable, and the island is pocket-sized, so even the furthest corner is doable in a day trip. Fuerteventura’s public buses are efficient too, with routes radiating across the island, although fares can mount up and you may have to change buses at Puerto del Rosario on longer distances. Alternatively, if you’re not planning to travel much, you can get around town by cab and explore more distant spot by taking the occasional guided tour.
Hikers should prioritize taking a trek up the Montaña de Escanfraga volcano. Book a guided hike for safety, and follow the trails up to the plateau for cinematic views of northern Fuerteventura and the Atlantic. After descending, you can refuel at the nearby village of Villaverde, which boasts a number of hidden-gem restaurants. Feast on prawns in garlic at Escanfraga or keep things simple with a scrumptious custard donut from the family-run Mi Dulce Hogar bakery.
Attractions 10 | Tours 145 | Reviews 5,651 |
One of Spain’s Canary Islands off the coast of northwestern Africa, Fuerteventura is a volcanic island known for almost year-round sunshine and a lunar, rocky landscape. Unlike some volcanic islands, Fuerteventura has golden, sandy beaches with plenty of windsurfing and kite surfing—another thing Fuerteventura is known for.
...MoreIt might be a small island, but there are plenty of things to do on Fuerteventura. Visit arts and crafts markets in Corralejo, or head to the beach for surfing and snorkeling. Travel inland to explore the island’s dormant volcanoes, or visit a traditional vineyard to taste the local produce.
...MoreWhile the temperatures stay mild throughout the winter months, April–May and September–October are the best times of year to visit Fuerteventura. It can get very muggy in the summer, but in spring and autumn, the temperatures reach a comfortable 77°F (25°C) with clear skies and fresh breezes.
...MoreLanzarote and Fuerteventura are so close they can see one another—but they are quite different. Fuerteventura feels much wilder, with its beautiful, barren volcanic center and many hidden beaches and coves. Lanzarote, on the other hand, has a greener landscape and more tourists—and is much more developed.
...MoreYes. There are two theme parks in Fuerteventura—a water park and a unique nature preserve specially designed for its animal residents. At Oasis Park in La Lajita, learn about conservation and see shows featuring animals. Acua Water Park in Corralejo offers a lazy river, wave pool, slides, and chutes suitable for all ages.
...MoreYes. Fuerteventura is the ideal holiday destination for travelers looking for beaches, picturesque towns, and plenty of activities. Relax by the pool or ride a dune buggy to the volcanoes, kite-surf over the dunes or taste the local seafood—there are lots of reasons to visit.
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