Planning a trip to Lobos Island, Fuerteventura? 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.
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.
Guide to Visiting Lobos Island Fuerteventura
I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my affiliate links.
If you don’t know me, hi! I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger based near London, in England. I have visited most of the Canary Islands, and I visited Lobos Island in December 2022. You can read my other Canary Islands posts here.
I have split this post into 13 sections. You can scroll through the post, or use the jump links below to skip straight to a specific section.
- Where is Lobos Island?
- Map of Lobos Island.
- How to get to Lobos Island Fuerteventura.
- Where to stay near Lobos Island.
- Obtaining an Island Permit.
- Opening Times.
- Things to do on Lobos Island.
- What to bring to Lobos Island.
- Food and drink on Lobos Island.
- Nature and Wildlife on Lobos Island.
- When to visit Lobos Island Fuerteventura.
- Responsible Tourism.
- Frequently Asked Questions.
1. Where is Lobos Island Fuerteventura?
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.
Further Reading: Which Canary Island is Best? All 8 Islands Reviewed.
2. Map of Lobos Island Fuerteventura.
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.
3. 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.
4. Where to Stay Near Lobos Island.
You cannot stay overnight on Lobos Island, so the nearest option would be to stay in Corralejo in Fuerteventura. Ferries depart from Corralejo to Isla de Lobos several times a day.
Further reading: 10 Best Things to do in Corralejo, Fuerteventura.
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.
Here are my picks for hotels in Corralejo:
- High end hotel in Corralejo: Secrets Bahía Real Resort & Spa Adults only
- Mid-range hotel in Corralejo: Barceló Corralejo Sands
- Budget hotel in Correlejo: Hélène Holidays and Retreats
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.
5. 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 guided tour tickets online here. You can also book boat trips which involve dolphin watching as well as snorkelling and other experiences too.
6. 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.
7. Things to do on Lobos Island Fuerteventura.
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:
7.1. Visit Playa de la Concha Beach.
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.
7.2. Visit 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.
7.3. Climb the 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.
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 Lanzarote post for more details and my experience of the volcano tour.
Further reading: 14 Amazing Things to do in Lanzarote.
7.4. See the 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.
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.
8. What to Bring to Lobos Island, Fuerteventura.
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.
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.
9. Food and Drink on Lobos Island Fuerteventura.
There is only one restaurant on the island, and there is no guarantee it will be open. I recommend packing up a picnic 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.
10. Nature and Wildlife on Lobos Island.
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.
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.
11. When to Visit Lobos Island Fuerteventura.
The best time to visit Lobos Island Fuerteventura 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.
12. 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.
13. Lobos Island Fuerteventura FAQs.
Below are some frequently asked questions about Lobos Island Fuerteventura.
Q: What is Lobos Island?
A: Lobos Island (Isla de Lobos) is a small, uninhabited island located just off the northern coast of Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands, Spain. It is known for its natural beauty, clear waters, and diverse wildlife.
Q: How can I get to Lobos Island Fuerteventura?
A: You can reach Lobos Island by taking a ferry or water taxi from the nearby town of Corralejo in Fuerteventura. The boat ride typically takes around 15-20 minutes.
Q: Do I need a permit to visit Lobos Island?
A: Yes, visitors need a permit to visit Lobos Island. The permit is free but must be obtained in advance due to the limited number of daily visitors allowed (400 visitors per day) to preserve the island’s natural environment. Permits can be requested online or through tour operators.
Q: What can I do on Lobos Island Fuerteventura?
A: Lobos Island offers several activities, including hiking, snorkelling, bird watching, and exploring its beaches. Popular attractions include the Martiño Lighthouse, La Concha Beach, and the volcanic crater of La Caldera.
Q: Are there any facilities on Lobos Island?
A: Facilities on Lobos Island are minimal. There is a small restaurant near the dock, but I’d recommend you bring your own food, water, and any other necessities. There are no accommodation options on the island.
Q: Can I camp or stay overnight on Lobos Island Fuerteventura?
A: No, camping or staying overnight on Lobos Island is not allowed. The island is a protected natural reserve, and visitors are required to leave by the end of the day.
Q:. What wildlife can I see on Lobos Island?
A: Lobos Island is home to a variety of wildlife, including seabirds such as the Cory’s shearwater, endemic plants, and marine life like fish and crabs. The island is named after the monk seals (sea wolves) that once inhabited the area, though they are no longer present.
Q: . What is the best time to visit Lobos Island Fuerteventura?
A: The best time to visit Lobos Island Fuerteventura is during the spring and summer months when the weather is warm and the sea is calm. However, it can be visited year-round due to Fuerteventura’s mild climate.
Q: Is Lobos Island suitable for families with children?
A: Yes, Lobos Island can be a great destination for families with children, offering safe swimming areas and easy hiking trails. However, parents should keep an eye on their children due to the natural terrain and lack of facilities.
Q: . What should I bring with me when visiting Lobos Island Fuerteventura?
A: Bring essentials such as sunscreen, hats, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, towels, food, and plenty of water. Snorkelling gear is also recommended to explore the underwater life.
Q: Is there any historical significance to Lobos Island?
A: Lobos Island has historical significance due to its ancient lighthouse, Faro de Martiño, which dates back to the 19th century.
Q: Are guided tours available on Lobos Island?
A: Yes, guided tours are available and can be arranged through various tour operators in Fuerteventura. These tours often include transportation, permits, and a guided exploration of the island’s highlights. These are the most popular tours on Viator (my preferred tour website):
- Visit Lobos Island with Snorkel from Corralejo, Fuerteventura
- 4-Hour Sailing Tour of Lobos Island from Fuerteventura
- Ferry to Isla de Lobos: round-trip tickets from Corralejo
- SpeedBoat Shuttle to Lobos Island
Q: 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.
Q: Does anyone live on Lobos Island Fuerteventura?
A: There are officially 4 inhabitants on the island.
Q: What is Lobos Island known for?
A: 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.
Q: How long does it take to walk around Lobos Island?
A: 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.
14. Summary: Lobos Island Fuerteventura.
With its stunning landscapes and natural beauty, a visit to Lobos Island is 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.
I hope this post has helped you to plan your trip to Lobos Island, Fuerteventura.
15. Lobos Island Fuerteventura – Pinterest Pins.
Use these images to pin the article to your Pinterest boards.
16. Canary Islands: Related Reading
- Which Canary Island is the Best? All 8 Islands Reviewed
- 14 Amazing Things to do in Lanzarote, Canary Islands
- 10 Great Things to do in Fuerteventura, Canary Islands
- 14 of the Best Beaches in Fuerteventura
- 10 Best Things to do in Corralejo, Fuerteventura
- 20 Dramatic Lanzarote Photos to Inspire Your Wanderlust
Have you been to Lobos Island or Fuerteventura? Let me know in the comments below.
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You are reading Hazel’s Travels – an online publication and travel blog which aims to provide advice and inspiration for travel in Europe, the UK and USA.
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