Fuerteventura is much more than beaches. Its volcanic landscape, wide open spaces, and the contrast between mountains, ravines, dunes, and coastline make the island a perfect destination for those who enjoy hiking in nature.
The hiking trails in Fuerteventura offer a variety of landscapes depending on the area you choose. In the north, you'll find volcanoes and sand dunes; on the west coast, cliffs and geological formations; and in the south, some of the most challenging and spectacular routes on the island.
Furthermore, from Corralejo you can complete the experience with a visit to the Lobos Island, a protected natural area with marked trails and privileged views towards Fuerteventura and Lanzarote.
In this guide we have gathered several recommended routes, organized by areas and levels of difficulty, to help you choose the route that best suits your experience, the time available and the type of landscape you want to discover.
Recommended hiking routes in Fuerteventura
Hiking in northern Fuerteventura: volcanoes, dunes and views towards Lobos
The north of Fuerteventura is one of the most attractive areas on the island for beginners in hiking. From Corralejo, Lajares, or La Oliva, you can access a wide variety of routes, from volcanic paths to walks across vast stretches of sand.
It is an area especially recommended for those looking for accessible routes, open landscapes and the possibility of combining the walk with other plans in Corralejo or Isla de Lobos.
Calderón Hondo from Lajares
- Approximate distance of the linked route: 13,24 kilometers.
- Elevation gain: 398 meters.
- Orientation difficulty: media.
- Landscape type: volcanic and panoramic.
Calderón Hondo is one of the most recognizable volcanic cones in northern Fuerteventura and one of the most popular routes in the Lajares area.
The route crosses an arid landscape dominated by ancient volcanoes and dirt tracks. As you approach the crater, the terrain rises and views open up towards the north of the island, the Corralejo coast, and, when visibility is good, the Isla de Lobos.
The level of difficulty depends on the chosen route. There are short options to get closer to the volcano and longer routes that connect Lajares with the Corralejo area. The original track included in this article corresponds to a longer alternative, so it's advisable to carefully check the distance before starting.
It is recommended to wear closed-toe shoes, bring water, and sun protection. The route is very exposed to the sun and wind, with very little shade.
Check out the Calderón Hondo route on Wikiloc.
Dunes of Corralejo
- Approximate distance of the linked route: 10,48 kilometers.
- Elevation gain: 68 meters.
- Orientation difficulty: low or medium, depending on the terrain.
- Landscape type: dunes, coast and beaches.
The Corralejo Dunes Natural Park offers a completely different experience. Here, the focus is not on the mountains, but on a vast landscape of light-colored sand alongside the Atlantic Ocean.
Although the incline is slight, walking on sand can be more demanding than it seems. Therefore, the actual difficulty will depend on the length of the route, the wind, and each person's physical condition.
The route offers stunning contrasts between the dunes, turquoise waters, and the silhouettes of Lobos and Lanzarote on the horizon. It's a particularly appealing option for those looking to combine hiking, beautiful scenery, and a stop by the sea.
It's best to avoid the hottest hours of the day in summer, carry plenty of water, and check the wind forecast. On windy days, the sand can make walking difficult and reduce comfort.
Consult the Corralejo Dunes route on Wikiloc.
Lobos Island, a unique route off the coast of Fuerteventura
- Approximate distance of the linked circular route: 11,5 kilometers.
- Elevation gain: 104 meters.
- Orientation difficulty: average due to distance and exposure.
- Landscape type: volcanic, coastal and protected.
Lobos Island deserves a special mention among the routes in northern Fuerteventura. To get there, you need to take the ferry from the port of Corralejo, a crossing of approximately 20 minutes.
Once on the island, the trails allow you to discover places like Las Lagunitas, the Punta Martiño Lighthouse, La Caldera Mountain, El Puertito and La Calera Beach.
Although the overall elevation gain isn't significant, completing the circular route requires time and some planning. The sun, wind, volcanic terrain, and lack of shade can increase the perceived exertion, especially during the summer.
To avoid repeating all the information about the itinerary, times and main stops, you can consult our specific guide on routes, sea and activities on Lobos Island.
It's also important to book the ferry and obtain your access permit in advance. With Nortour, you can check available schedules and arrange your transfer from Corralejo before starting your route.
Consult the circular route of Lobos Island on Wikiloc.
Hiking on the West Coast: Geological Landscapes and Cliffs
The western coast of Fuerteventura features a more rugged landscape, exposed to the Atlantic. Its routes combine cliffs, ravines, caves, and small villages that maintain a close relationship with the sea.
In this area it is especially important to check the weather conditions and avoid approaching the edges of the cliffs or the water when the sea is rough.
Ajuy Route and its caves
- Approximate distance of the linked route: 5,64 kilometers.
- Elevation gain: 214 meters.
- Orientation difficulty: low or medium.
- Landscape type: coast, cliffs and geological formations.
The Ajuy route is one of the most interesting options for those who want to combine hiking, scenery and geological history.
The route begins near the small coastal village and leads to the cliffs and the well-known Ajuy caves. The path offers open views over the Atlantic and reveals a landscape quite different from the beaches of eastern Fuerteventura.
The route is generally not technically difficult, but some sections have steps, uneven terrain, and exposed areas. It is important to wear appropriate footwear and exercise extreme caution in strong winds or rough seas.
After the tour, the village of Ajuy allows you to rest next to its dark sand beach and discover one of the most unique small fishing enclaves on the island.
Consult the Ajuy route on Wikiloc.
Hiking in southern Fuerteventura: the most challenging routes in Jandía
The south of Fuerteventura boasts some of the island's most challenging hikes. Jandía Natural Park offers mountains, ravines, and spectacular views towards Cofete and the west coast.
These routes are more recommended for people used to walking, especially due to their length, elevation gain, and exposure to sun and wind.
Ascent to Pico de la Zarza
- Orientation difficulty: High average.
- Tour type: prolonged round trip ascent.
- Landscape type: mountains, coast and views over Jandía.
Pico de la Zarza is the highest point in Fuerteventura and one of the reference routes for hikers looking for a greater challenge.
The trail begins in the Morro Jable area and gradually ascends towards the highest part of the Jandía peninsula. It's not a technical route, but the distance and elevation gain mean that a good level of fitness and sufficient time are required to complete the round trip.
On clear days, the summit offers sweeping views towards Cofete, the Jandía mountains, and much of the island's south. However, conditions can change during the ascent, and the peak may be windy, cloudy, or have reduced visibility.
Before starting the route, it is advisable to check the forecast, start early, and bring enough water, sun protection, some food, and closed shoes.
How to choose a route according to its difficulty
The difficulty of a route depends not only on its distance or elevation gain. In Fuerteventura, wind, sun exposure, terrain, and lack of shade also play a role.
- For an easy hike: You can choose a short tour through the Corralejo Dunes or the Ajuy area.
- For a route of medium difficulty: Calderón Hondo or the circular route of Isla de Lobos are good options.
- For more experienced hikers: The climb to Pico de la Zarza offers a longer and more demanding day.
Times and difficulty levels are always approximate. Before starting, review the complete route and consider your experience, the physical condition of those accompanying you, and the day's weather conditions.
Tips for hiking in Fuerteventura
The landscape of Fuerteventura may seem simple, but walking through an arid and exposed environment requires some preparation.
- Wear closed, comfortable shoes to protect your feet from the heat and stones.
- Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap or hat.
- Bring more water than you think you'll need.
- Avoid the middle of the day during the summer.
- Check the wind, temperature, and visibility before heading out.
- Do not leave the marked trails.
- Do not collect stones, plants, or other natural elements.
- Take all your waste with you, including organic waste.
It is also advisable to download the route beforehand or carry an offline accessible map, as coverage may be limited in some areas.
Fuerteventura, an island to discover at every step
Hiking in Fuerteventura allows you to discover a side of the island that goes far beyond its beaches. Each area offers a distinct landscape: the volcanoes of the north, the dunes of Corralejo, the cliffs of Ajuy, the mountains of Jandía, or the protected trails of Isla de Lobos.
You don't need to complete the longest routes to enjoy the experience. The important thing is to choose a route suited to your level, prepare well for the day, and walk respectfully towards the environment.
If you're staying in the north of Fuerteventura, you can complement your hiking days with a visit to Lobos. Check out our Guide to visiting Isla de Lobos and organizes an experience that combines ferry, volcanic landscape, trails and sea off the coast of Corralejo.
