Planning a trip to Lobos Island? This guide contains all the information you need to visit the island, including how to get there, things to do, where to stay and what to bring to Lobos Island. I visited Lobos Island in December 2022 on a trip to the Canary Islands.

View of a small Island, brown volcanic landmass, turquoise bloue sea and small white boats and catamarans.
Isla De Lobos, Fuerteventura, Canaries

In a hurry? Here are some quick links for Lobos Island:

  • This boat trip is the best one for dolphin watching Lobos Island.
  • This sailing trip is the best for sailing round the island.
  • This is the best luxury hotel to stay at in Fuerteventura.
  • Here are the current deals on hotels in Corralejo.
  • Book your ferry ticket from Corralejo to Lobos Island here.
  • Get your Fuerteventura rental car here.
  • You can’t beat this packable sun hat for style and practicality.

Guide to Visiting Lobos Island Fuerteventura

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Where is Lobos Island?

Lobos Island is situated between the Canary Islands of Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, just west of Africa. It is a small protected island with just 4 permanent inhabitants.

Aerial View Of Coast Glass Beach Fuerteventura Canary Islands
Glass Beach, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

Map of Lobos Island

The map below shows Lobos Island and all the places as listed in this post. Click the blue icons to see more information about each place. Click the star to add to your own Google Maps.

How to Get to Lobos Island, Fuerteventura

The only way to get to Lobos Island, or Isla Lobos, is by boat or water taxi from Corralejo, Fuerteventura. It’s an easy 15 minute ride and is perfect for a day trip.

There is no direct connection from Lanzarote, but you can take a ferry from Playa Blanca in Lanzarote to Fuerteventura (30 minutes), and then jump on the Lobos ferry after that.

A bright marina is seen through a rectangular frame, with a row of yachts for charter on the right and green foliage in the foreground.
Corralejo Marina, Fuerteventura

Where to Stay Near Lobos Island

You cannot stay overnight on Lobos Island, so the nearest option would be to stay in stay in Corralejo in Fuerteventura. Ferries depart from Corralejo to Isla de Lobos several times a day.

Corralejo is a great destination in itself, and an excellent place to base yourself for exploring Fuerteventura. It is the home of the stunning Las Dunas protected Natural Park (full of huge rolling sand dunes) amongst many other attractions and places to visit. Fuerteventura is also a UNESCO world heritage ‘Biosphere Reserve’ site.

A beach scene, yellow sand with footprints, blue sea with waves and blue sky with white clouds. Small volcanic island (Lobos Island) on the horizon.
Playa Grande Beach in Corralejo, with Lobos Island (and Lanzarote) in the distance.

Here are my picks for hotels in Corralejo:

Or you can have a look at the current deals on hotels in Corralejo on Booking.com. I recommend reserving your room immediately to avoid price increases (you can always cancel later, most properties on Booking.com allow free cancellation right up to the day before).

See my guides 10 Great Things to do in Fuerteventura and 10 Best Things to do in Corralejo for more information.

Obtaining an Island Permit

Lobos Island is a special protection area, and is restricted to 400 visitors each day. If you’re intending to visit during peak season, make sure you purchase tickets in advance. Most operators will take care of this process for you. You can buy tickets from the stands at Corralejo harbour, or purchase tickets online here. You can also book boat trips which involve dolphin watching as well as snorkelling and other experiences too.

Coastal view of crystal clear waters flowing over brown rocks, volcano in the distance. Green water and one white boat.

Isla Lobos Opening Times

Lobos Island Fuerteventura typically opens at 10:00 in the summer months and 11:00 in the winter. The closing time is usually around 18:00, but can be as early as 16:00 on days where tourist numbers are lower. Make sure you check the last ferry times.

2 small boats in the shallow green waters of Lobos Island, with volcanic cones and mounds protruding from the water. Cloudy skies.
You can also reach Lobos Island using your own vessel

Things to Do on the Island

Lobos Island is small enough that you can get round most (if not all) of the island in one day.

There is a hiking trail which goes around the whole island. There are several stunning beaches on the island (each one different) plus lagoons, a volcano crater and a lighthouse.

Here is a round up of some of the things to do on Isla Lobos:

Playa de la Concha

Playa de la Concha (also known as La Caleta) is a breathtaking beach with an impressive view of the volcano crater. It only takes 5-10 minutes to reach Concha beach on foot from the ferry stop. It is a beautiful white sand crescent-shaped beach with calm waters.

Aerial view of Lobos Island with blue/green water, crescent shaped yellow sand beach and large brown volcano caldera in the distance.
La Concha beach from above

Puertito Isla de Lobos

Puertito Isla de Lobos is a 5 minute stroll from the harbour. This unique formation is actually a hidden pool with crystal clear turquoise waters. The waters at Puertito are probably the clearest in the whole archipelago, and therefore great for snorkelling.

You will also find the only restaurant on the island nearby, and a beautiful wooden pier which makes for perfect photo opportunities.

Wooden Pier stretches out into crystal clear blue and green waters, with black volcanic rocks around the edges and a blue sky
Wooden pier at El Puertito

Montaña La Caldera

Montaña La Caldera is the highest point on Lobos island, at 127 metres. You can climb up to the summit in about 20 minutes. It’s advisable to wear sturdy hiking shoes or sneakers along the pathway as it can be somewhat rugged in certain spots. I recommend these hiking socks.

Volcanic sandy landscape with brown stones and a volcano crater in the distance. Blue skies with white clouds.
The path to the caldera on Lobos Island

At the top, you can admire the breathtaking views of Lobos, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote islands. You can also look directly into the ancient volcano crater too.

If you love volcanoes then you can’t miss this volcano tour on Lanzarote island. Check my post 14 Amazing Things To Do in Lanzarote for more detail.

Faro de Punta Martiño Lighthouse

Faro de Punta Martiño is a lighthouse that was erected in 1867. It first operated using whale oil, and then switched to kerosene at the beginning of the 20th century. Sitting 22 metres high, the bright beam from this lighthouse can reach distances of up to 26 miles out to sea.

Brown Sandy beach with yellow sand and brown rocks, with a square cream coloured lighthouse on top of a hill and blue sea.
Lobos Island Lighthouse

Still operating today, this traditional lighthouse provides essential navigation and safety guidance for operators in the area. Punta Martiño lighthouse is about an hour’s walk from the ferry port at island Lobos. The structure itself is not particularly amazing, but once there you can take in the beautiful, panoramic views of Lobos and Fuerteventura.

What to Bring to Lobos Island

Bring comfortable shoes for beach walks and hikes. Don’t forget your swimsuit and a sand-repellent towel like this one, plus lots of sunscreen if you plan on swimming or snorkelling in the beautifully clear ocean.

A daypack or rucksack (I recommend this one) is essential for carrying food and drinks, as well as beach accessories like hats, sunglasses, and a camera. I find this foldable sun hat particuarly useful for packing purposes, and it’s stylish too.

Insect repellent will help protect you from bugs – this one really works, and doesn’t contain harmful chemicals.

Beige and brown volcanic landscape with sand trails and volcanic cones in the distance.
Trails on Lobos

You might also want a waterproof pouch for your phone just in case you go boating. Lobos Island has stunning views from the sea that are definitely worth capturing.

Finally, as always, never travel without decent travel insurance. World Nomads travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities. Get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road.

Food and Drink on Lobos

There is only one restaurant on the island, and there is no guarantee it will be open. I recommend packing up a picnic (a cute picnic set like this one is perfect) and bringing plenty of water and drinks too.

If the restaurant is open, then that is an added bonus, but always bring food and snacks with you to Lobos island. Remember this island is largely uninhabited so you won’t find much in the way of tourist facilities.

Isla-De-Lobos-Puertito-Beach-Fueterventura
Puertito-Beach

Nature and Wildlife on Lobos

The unique ecosystem of Lobos Island hosts over 130 plant species, including the siempreviva (Limonium ovalifolium) which is endemic to the island.

Additionally, the island is home to many seabirds which nest on rocks and cliffs. Examples include Cory’s shearwaters, little shearwaters, European storm petrels and Band-rumped Storm Petrels as well as resident Kentish Plovers. The area has been declared both a Special Protection Area (SPA) for birds by BirdLife International as well as being acknowledged further still with Important Bird Area (IBA) status.

Close up image of a brown and white Ruddy Turnstone sea bird on a stone beach, standing on one leg
Ruddy Turnstone bird in Lobos

In addition to the avian species, a wide variety of fish and marine life can also be seen in its waters. Commonly seen are barracudas, hammerhead sharks, and bream.

When to Visit Lobos Island

The best time to visit is usually between April and October, when temperatures are warm. During this period, visitors can enjoy swimming and snorkelling activities in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island, as well as admiring its volcanic landscape. I visited in December 2022 – the weather was still mild but it was quite windy.

Lobos Island still offers a relatively mild climate for outdoor activities in winter, such as hiking or birdwatching among its native species. Just be aware it can get quite windy.

Beige and brown volcanic landscape with sand trails and volcanic cones in the distance.
Trails on Lobos
Beige and brown volcanic landscape with sand trails and volcanic cones in the distance.
Volcanic landscape with the caldera

Responsible Tourism on Lobos Island

Isla Lobos is a protected nature reserve. To ensure the island’s continued protection, the government has launched multiple awareness campaigns and legislation to penalise those who do not respect the rules.

To minimise your impact, follow these guidelines:

  • Drinking Water:  Bring your own water in a refillable bottle. Aim for a silicone bottle or stainless steel bottle, to avoid plastics (there are two suggestions in my Travel Essentials post here).
  • Sunscreen: Be careful, as sunscreens often contain oxybenzone which is harmful to corals. Try a natural, reef-friendly sunscreen like this one.
  • Single-use plastics: Bring your own bottles an straws. Try a reusable travel-straw like this one.
  • Waste Disposal: Packaging can be blown away by the wind and end up in the ocean (even when you put them in a bin). Take rubbish home with you.
  • Respect the beach: Don’t take sand, shells and rocks away from the beach. It damages the ecosystem and habitats.
  • Respect wildlife: Remember the wildlife lives here – you are just visiting.
Lobos Island with a yellow beach and blue sky

Lobos Island Fuerteventura FAQs

Is Lobos Island worth a visit?

100% yes. Lobos is a stress-free and cost-efficient day trip from Fuerteventura or Lanzarote. From its beautiful lagoon to picturesque beaches and hiking trails, the island has lots to offer. I highly recommend a visit.

Does anyone live on Lobos Island?

There are officially 4 inhabitants on the island.

What is Lobos Island known for?

Lobos Island is known for its other-worldly landscapes, volcano beaches and one of the most diverse ecosystems of wildlife in Europe. It’s a protected zone and special protection area (SPA) for birds

How do you get to Lobos Island?

To get to Lobos Island, you can get a short ferry from Fuerteventura (15 minutes). There is no ferry from Lanzarote, but you can get a 30 minute ferry from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura, then switch ferries to Lobos.

How long does it take to walk around Lobos Island?

There is only one trail to follow around Lobos Island, and it takes between 2.5 and 3 hours to complete. It includes a climb to the peak on the island.

Do you need a permit to visit Lobos Island?

Yes you do need a permit to visit Lobos Island, and there is a limit of 400 visitors per day. Most tour operators can sort this for you.

Close up image of a pinky brown coloured small Pipit sea bird on a stone beach
Pit sea bird in Lobos

Lobos Island Summary

With its stunning landscapes and natural beauty, a visit to Lobos Island is always a unique and rewarding experience.

To make the most of your trip, remember to check opening times, prices and permits before setting off. Make sure you come prepared with plenty of supplies. Preferably stay in Corralejo, Fuerteventura, and take care to minimise your environmental impact while on the island.

Fun Fact: Isla de Lobos means ‘Wolf’ Island in Spanish. The tiny Canary island got its name from the monk seals (also known as sea wolves) which lived here in the past.

Aerial view of bright blue sea with several white boats, and the edge of a dark brown coloured volcanic island.

I hope this post has helped you to plan your trip to Lobos Island off Fuerteventura.

See below for more travel advice:

Pinterest: Pin it For Later

Lobos island is one of the most beautiful islands.
Lobos island is one of the most beautiful islands in the world

Canary Islands: Related Reading

Have you been to Lobos Island or Fuerteventura? Let me know in the comments below.

Travelling soon? Check my 20 Must-Have Travel Essentials post before you go.

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