Lobos Island, a true jewel of Fuerteventura

Lobos Island, a true jewel of Fuerteventura with an extension of just 4.5 square kilometers, is located 4.6 km from Corralejo.

This magical place belongs to the municipality of La Oliva and is a 15 minute ferry ride from Corralejo .

An island of volcanic origin, like all the islands of the Canary archipelago , and with a sterile soil, a true spectacle of nature with breathtaking landscapes.

Lobos Island Fuerteventura owes its name to the monk seals, called in Spanish lobos marinos (sea wolves), which were once present on this island.

The fishermen eliminated these animals, believing that they greatly reduced the fish in the surrounding waters, since one such animal requires 30-30 kg of fish per day.

The islet falls within the Lobos Natural Park, a nature reserve hosting various plant and bird species.

The highest peak on Lobos Island in Fuerteventura is La Caldera at 127 metres and is one of the best preserved areas in the Canary Islands.

There are few man-made attractions, here nature reigns supreme.

Its Caribbean white sand beaches, crystal clear water, volcanic landscapes and cliffs crashing into the ocean.

 

Population and tourism

Lobos Island was inhabited until 1968 by lighthouse keeper Antonio Hernández Páez and his family, but is currently uninhabited.

Thanks to its extraordinary charm, the island of Lobos in Fuerteventura is a constant destination for fishermen, tourists, swimmers, divers and surfers.

Isla de Lobos  is an island with controlled entry for visitors with a constant maritime connection service from the port of Corralejo, one of the best harbours in Fuerteventura.

In fact, to visit it you need a permit and the tourists’ visit is divided into time slots.

It is accessible only by sea and there are several ferry companies that will allow you to discover a landscape that has not changed for centuries.

 

Natural values ​​of Lobos Island

Isla de Lobos continues to be a reminder of natural values, perfect for those who want to enjoy relaxation in an unspoiled paradise.

Surrounded by transparent waters, Lobos Island in Fuerteventura is the perfect place to discover quiet and semi-deserted beaches.

Las Caleras or La Concha, so called because of their shape, are idyllic settings for swimming.

The island of Lobos , the most suggestive of Fuerteventura and of all the Canary Islands, has great ethnographic and landscape values ​​and a rich flora and fauna:

• Presence of vulnerable and some endangered seabirds and migratory birds
• Great biodiversity with the presence of endemic species unique to Lobos Island
• Presence of sea and migratory birds and a variety of vegetation
• Ethnographic elements include: The Salt Flats, the Lime Kiln and the “Faro Martiño”
• Paleontological deposits from the Jandiense and Erbanense periods, dating back more than 100,000 years.

 

What to see on Lobos Island?

Lobos Island Natural Park

Lobos Island includes precious habitats, remaining in their natural state, approximately 142 species of plants and birds.

Lobos Island Natural Park was declared a Nature Reserve in 1982.

The seabed of Lobos Island is an underwater reserve area, which is why fishing is prohibited here.

The island of Lobos Canary is divided into 4 parts:

• ZUG Area – General Use Area
• ZUM Area – Moderate Use Area
• ZUR Area – Reserved Area
• Area ZE – Exclusion Area

 

The Marrajo Salt Pans

To see the ancient Marrajo salt pans you need to take a detour from the path. 

The landscape is very particular and right at the salt mines there is a beautiful well.

These are new salt mines, with the particularity of not having any annexed buildings, but only evaporation and crystallization tanks.

They are well preserved and give this corner of the island a very special charm.

 

The Caldera Mountain

Undoubtedly the main attraction of the island is the Montaña Caldera, an ancient volcano just over 100 meters high overlooking the sea.

This volcano is the extension of the chain of volcanoes of Fuerteventura which also includes Calderón Hondo and Bayuyo.

The climb is quite steep, but once you reach the top you can admire the impressive views of Fuerteventura and Lanzarote.

The wind is always very strong here so be careful when climbing and wear suitable shoes.

 

The Martino Lighthouse

On Lobos Island there is also a small lighthouse, the Martiño lighthouse, a 19th century construction.

In a neoclassical design, when the typical Canarian elements can be noticed such as its central patio.

It was the first place of residence on the island with the necessary services of daily life.

From the lighthouse you can enjoy a truly wonderful view of the whole island of Lobos and also of Lanzarote, and just below the lighthouse there is a lagoon where numerous birds live.

 

The Lagoons

The area of ​​Las Lagunitas really leaves you speechless, after having traveled the whole island between sand and rocks.

This small natural lagoon is  an area of ​​great scientific interest, as salinization has allowed the development of vegetation.

Once you leave the lagoon you come across numerous black rocks that stand out against the blue sea.

 

Kitchen Jable

This sandy esplanade is a place of remarkable beauty, which you come across along the way to El Puertito.

The sand with a pale white-golden hue and the vegetation typical of this coastal area is an enchanting and very picturesque place.

 

El Puertito

El Puertito is the last stop on our tour of the island, a spectacular area with several natural pools that change with the tide.

Here are the only houses on the island, once used by fishermen.

Right here is also the only restaurant on Lobos Island, if you choose to have lunch at the restaurant, as soon as you disembark you must go and book a table because places are limited.

 

The beaches of Lobos Island

True relaxation on the Caribbean beach of La Concha, quite large with fine white sand, crystal clear water with all shades of blue and very quiet.

The beach is divided into two parts, the first is more suitable for families and the other for people who practice nudism .

From Playa de La Concha you can enjoy a breathtaking view towards the island of Fuerteventura and the Dunes of Corralejo.

There are no services, as it is a Protected Nature Reserve.

The south-western part of the island is suitable for surfers , immersing themselves in unforgettable scenery.

Even snorkelling lovers can discover an incredible seabed on Lobos Island in Fuerteventura .

 

What to do on Lobos Island?

There are lots of things you can do on Lobos Island, to enjoy the marvelous holiday at Fuerteventura.

Let’s look togethere some of them!

Tour of the island by bike

You can reach Lobos Island and explore it on foot, or rent a bicycle to make the most of your time.

Isla de Lobos is not too big and it takes about 45 minutes to cycle around it.

It would be necessary to look for a bike rental in Fuerteventura in other locations and take it with you during the crossing.

 

Trekking between volcanic cones and the paths of the Island

The Lobos trail offers the opportunity to admire a great variety of attractions: from salt flats to the formations of small volcanic cones called “small stoves”. 

The route that runs around the islet is a circular path that leads from the pier to the Martiño lighthouse. 

The return walk is through the Puertito , an ancient temporary settlement for the island’s fishermen, including shellfish fishermen, active in the area.

The longest route is the one that reaches the Caldera, the highest point of the island.

 

Snorkeling on Lobos Island

If you love the sea and unspoiled nature, there is nothing better than a cruise and snorkeling tour to Lobos Island . 

Its bay has an ideal shape for snorkeling given its protection from ocean currents.

Crystal clear water with all the shades of blue, very calm sea and the spectacle of colorful fish, it would be unmissable on this wonderful island.

There are many companies that offer such services, which include: 

• Permission to enter the island
• Round trip ticket
• Drinks and snacks on board
• Snorkeling equipment
• Multilingual Island Tour 

Furthermore, the crew of these small boats is very professional, serious and reliable, kind and helpful.

 

 Glass Bottom Boat Tour with Dolphin Watching

A glass-bottom boat tour to explore the beautiful Isla de Lobos with dolphin watching is an experience not to be missed.

It would be impossible to give up a breathtaking spectacle of uncontaminated nature and everything that this little island has to offer.

Of all the beaches in Fuerteventura, those on Lobos Island best reflect the beauty of a Biosphere Reserve.

 

Permition to visit Lobos Island

Lobos Island is a Protected Natural Park, and for this reason a permit is required, as it must be constantly controlled and monitored.

To obtain it you need to access a website, starting 5 days before the visit and you only need an identity document.

The answer comes via email and it’s all free.

There may be a charge, if you contact the ferry companies that take care of everything.

 

Tips for a visit to Lobos Island

To visit the island of Lobos in Fuerteventura, it is advisable to always bring a sweatshirt.

And always in case of wind and if you suffer from seasickness, it is better to choose a less windy day to discover the beauties of this natural treasure.

When visiting Lobos Island it would be ideal to have a packed lunch on the beach, as there is only one restaurant there.

Wear comfortable shoes, not flip-flops, if you plan to walk or hike on Caldera Mountain.

Don’t forget your hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun, as there are no shelters or trees on the island, despite the sea breeze.

Uncontaminated nature must be preserved and no traces of one’s passage on the island must be left.

Do not leave garbage or organic waste, as they can feed predatory species of migratory birds that nest on the island.

 

Permitted uses and important recommendations

• Walk along the paths and respect the signs present
• Cycling on designated paths
• Respect the animals, do not disturb them and do not feed them
• Preferably use sunscreens that are marine-friendly

Activities that require authorization from the Cabildo of Fuerteventura

• Permit to enter Lobos Island
• Collect geological and biological material for educational, research and management purposes
• Recording movies or photo sessions

 

Prohibited uses on Lobos Island

• Rod fishing in the “Caldera” area, the “Las Lagunitas” lagoons and in the beach areas.
• Disembark on the island from any point other than the dock
• Bringing pets such as dogs or cats to the island
• Walking off the authorized trails
• Accumulating flammable materials and lighting bonfires in the open air.
• Making noises that disturb the tranquility of the Island
• Climb the “Caldera” mountain during the bird breeding season.
• Place advertising signs
• Hunting activities
• Throwing away waste of any kind
• Alter, destroy or extract materials or objects of patrimonial value, as well as biological material

In general, any activity that endangers the landscape of the park is prohibited and violation of the aforementioned rules will be penalized.

 

A magical place where peace reigns

It is impossible to resist the extraordinary beauty of the island of Lobos during a trip to Fuerteventura.

A magical place where peace and tranquility of the soul reign and where you can become one with uncontaminated nature.

The sweet sound of the wind and the ocean waves become faithful traveling companions for anyone visiting the island of Lobos .

The island of Fuerteventura, a Biosphere Reserve, is full of natural places, heavenly beaches that offer breathtaking views.

The spectacular contrasts of a land marked by volcanic erosion and everything seems drawn by the hands of a painter.

It’s easy to get lost in the unique charm of Lobos Island , a place you never want to leave.

And you remain on that pier, which has become the symbol par excellence of this little piece of earthly paradise.

 

How to get to Lobos Island?

• By ferry from Corralejo

After requesting and obtaining the entry permit, simply access the ferry booking site from Corralejo.

The cost is €15 per person return, departing from 10.00 to 15.30 and returning from 11.15 to 17.00 (18.00 in summer).

• By water taxi, faster and costs the same
• By catamaran or glass bottom boat 

Catamaran trips are very popular, as they allow you to swim offshore where the water is crystal clear and you can snorkel.

The Lobos Island tour by catamaran costs around €60 and includes:

• Departure in the morning and afternoon
• Tour duration: 4 hours
• Catamaran transport
• Guide for the whole tour
• Free consumption of drinks
• Snorkeling equipment
• Stand up paddle boards
• Kayaking Equipment