The Spanish archipelago of Fuerteventura, located off the northwest coast of Africa, is the second-largest of the Canary Islands and is known for its stunning beaches, natural landscapes, and year-round warm weather.
The climate is a dream, with temperatures ranging from about 75o to 82o in the summer, and hovering around 68o in the winter. It is temperate and has a minimal rainy season, so you’re likely to have lovely weather whenever you visit.
The island’s landscape is characterized by its volcanic origins, and you can witness various volcanic formations and landscapes while exploring Fuerteventura. The Parque Natural de Corralejo is a protected nature reserve famous for its vast sand dunes, while the volcanic region of Malpaís de la Arena offers unique lava formations and surreal landscapes.
The coastline stretches for more than 200 miles and offers a diverse range of beaches, from pristine white sand to volcanic black sand. Black sand is such a unique sight, and alongside the Cuevas de Ajuy – the oldest formations in the Canary Islands, dating back some 100 million years – is a stunning dark sand beach with a turquoise ocean crashing upon it. Visiting is easy, rustic, and memorable. You can also find black sand at the Playa de la Solapa, a beautiful beach on the west coast of Fuerteventura. It stands out from the rest of the beaches with massive sea caves that are perfect for photo ops.
One of the most visually stunning beaches in the world, Playa El Mejillón, aka “Popcorn Beach,” is home to marine algae called rhodoliths that are pushed ashore by waves, creating a truly unique shape. Every beach in Fuerteventura has a special element that makes it a different experience.
Fuerteventura is not for the sedentary. This isn’t an all-inclusive relax-and-park-yourself-on-the-beach experience. While those trips can be lovely, if you’re in the Canary Islands, get ready to embrace your inner outdoor enthusiast. The island offers a wide range of activities, including water sports that are incredibly popular due to the island’s strong and consistent winds. Additionally, you can enjoy activities like hiking, mountain biking, quad biking, and golfing.
For animal lovers, the island is particularly known for its birdlife, with the Isla de Lobos, located just off the coast, being a significant nesting site for seabirds. Marine life is also abundant, and you can spot dolphins, turtles, and even whales in the surrounding waters. You can book tours and embrace the beauty of the flora and fauna.
Beyond its natural beauty, a beautiful culture thrives here as well. The cuisine of Fuerteventura is influenced by both Spanish and African flavors, with an emphasis on the fresh seafood off the coast. Goat cheese, known as queso majorero, is a local specialty that you must try. The island also produces its own wines, which are gaining recognition.
Fuerteventura has a rich cultural heritage influenced by its history and indigenous people, known as the Guanches. The island boasts several museums and historical sites, such as the Betancuria Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography, which provide insights into the past.
For your next trip, challenge yourself and make Fuerteventura your next unknown.