Fuerteventura is one of the seven Canary Islands, located just off the coast of Africa. It’s the second-largest island in the archipelago and is known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and year-round warm weather. The island has a rich history and culture, with influences from the indigenous Guanche people and the Spanish colonizers. In this Fuerteventura travel guide, we will explore the top sights, tours, and activities, transportation and lodging options on the island.
Top Facts
- Fuerteventura is the second-largest of the Canary Islands, after Tenerife.
- The island has been declared a biosphere reserve by UNESCO due to its unique landscape and ecosystem.
- The official language of the island is Spanish, but English and German are also widely spoken.
- The island’s main airport is located in Puerto del Rosario, the capital of the island.
- The island is famous for its white sandy beaches, with over 150 kilometers of coastline to explore.
- Fuerteventura is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, with excellent conditions for surfing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding.
- The island is home to the Betancuria Rural Park, a protected natural area that features stunning landscapes and a rich diversity of flora and fauna.
- Fuerteventura is known for its lively festivals and events, including the Carnaval de Puerto del Rosario, the island’s biggest carnival celebration.
Top Sights
- Corralejo Natural Park: A protected nature reserve that features miles of white sandy beaches, dunes, and crystal-clear waters.
- Lobos Island: A small, uninhabited island located off the coast of Corralejo. The island is home to many rare bird species and offers excellent snorkeling and hiking opportunities.
- Betancuria: The old capital of the island that is now a quaint, picturesque village with a museum, a church, and a historic town square.
- Oasis Wildlife Park: A popular attraction in La Lajita that features over 250 different animal species, including lemurs, kangaroos, and crocodiles.
Tours & Activities
- Jeep Safari: A fun and adventurous way to explore the island’s rugged terrain and scenic landscapes.
- Scuba Diving: Fuerteventura offers excellent scuba diving opportunities, with plenty of diving schools and sites for both beginners and advanced divers.
- Daily Boat Trips: A great way to explore the island’s coastline, including stops at hidden beaches and coves, and the chance to spot dolphins and whales.
- Water Sports: With excellent conditions for surfing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding, Fuerteventura is a top destination for water sports enthusiasts.
- Catamaran Cruises: Take a relaxing cruise around the island’s stunning coastline and explore its hidden coves and beaches.
- Sailing: Enjoy a day out on the water and take in the island’s stunning scenery from a unique perspective.
Top Holiday Resorts
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break or an adventure-packed holiday, the island has something for everyone. Here are some of the top holiday resorts in Fuerteventura.
Corralejo
Corralejo is one of the most popular holiday resorts in Fuerteventura, located in the north of the island. It’s a lively resort with a wide range of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as a beautiful beach and plenty of water sports activities. Corralejo is also home to the famous sand dunes, which are a must-see.
Caleta de Fuste
Caleta de Fuste is a purpose-built resort located in the center of Fuerteventura. It has a wide range of accommodations, including apartments, hotels, and villas. The beach is man-made and is perfect for swimming and water sports.
Costa Calma
Costa Calma is a quieter resort in the south of the island, with a beautiful beach and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to unwind and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There are also plenty of water sports activities available here, including windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Puerto del Rosario
Puerto del Rosario is the capital of Fuerteventura, and a great place to stay if you want to experience the local culture. It’s a charming town with a lovely promenade, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and take in the views.
Morro Jable
Morro Jable is a small fishing village in the south of the island, with a beautiful beach and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great place to stay if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy a more authentic Fuerteventura experience.
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Jandia
Jandia is a popular resort town located on the southern tip of Fuerteventura. It has a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly to luxury. The beach is the main attraction, but there are also plenty of restaurants and bars in the area.
La Oliva
La Oliva is a historic town located in the north of Fuerteventura. It’s a great destination for those who want to experience the island’s traditional architecture and culture. The town is also home to the famous Casa de los Coroneles, a beautiful colonial mansion that’s now a museum.
Top Excursions
To explore the best of the island has to offer, there are numerous excursions and daily tours to choose from.
If you’re looking for an exciting way to explore the rugged and beautiful landscape of Fuerteventura, a Jeep safari might be just the thing for you. This thrilling adventure allows you to discover the hidden corners of the island and experience its natural beauty in a unique and exhilarating way.
If you’re looking for a thrilling way to explore the scenic landscapes of Fuerteventura, a quad or buggy safari might just be the perfect activity for you. This exciting excursion offers a unique way to discover the island’s natural beauty while experiencing the excitement of off-road driving.
Another must-visit attraction in Fuerteventura is the stunning Lobos Island. This small, uninhabited island is located just off the coast of Fuerteventura and is a popular destination for daily tours and cruises. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and even a rare species of lizard. Visitors can take a boat ride to the island, explore the stunning scenery, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the island’s lagoons.
One of the best ways to explore Fuerteventura is by taking a daily boat trip or cruise. From family-friendly excursions to romantic sunset sails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
There are also numerous other excursions and daily tours available in Fuerteventura. These include island hopping tours, cultural and historical tours, water sports activities, and much more. Some of the other popular activities include paddleboarding, windsurfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
Shopping
Fuerteventura is a great destination for shopping. Whether you are looking for fashion, accessories, souvenirs, or local products, you are sure to find something that catches your eye in the island’s shops.
Nightlife
There are plenty of options for enjoying the night scene in Fuerteventura. From trendy bars and clubs to live music venues and beach parties, nightlife in Fuerteventura is very lively.
Lodging
Fuerteventura offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels and villas. The most popular areas to stay are Corralejo, Caleta de Fuste, and Costa Calma, where you can find a variety of options for every budget.
Transportation
The most convenient way to get around Fuerteventura is by car, as public transportation can be limited. You can rent a car at the airport or in any of the major towns. Taxis and buses are also available, but they may not be as frequent or reliable as in bigger cities.
- Air Travel: Fuerteventura is served by Fuerteventura Airport, located in El Matorral, which offers regular flights to and from major European cities.
- Car Rental: Renting a car is a popular way to explore the island, with several rental companies offering affordable rates.
- Public Transportation: Fuerteventura has an extensive bus network that covers most of the island’s major towns and tourist destinations.
- Taxis: Taxis are widely available on the island and are a convenient way to get around, especially for short distances.