Isla de Lobos (Islote de Lobos) is a small, unspoilt island located only 2 kilometers from Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands. Despite its small size of about 5 square kilometers, this nature preserve is sure to surprise any city-weary traveller with its rugged landscape, hidden beaches and unspoiled nature.
Like the rest of the Canary Islands, it is a volcanic island with hot, desert-like climate. It derived its name from the sea wolves or monk seals (lobo in Spanish) that used to live on the island many years ago, but have since disappeared.
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What to do on Lobos Island
Hike around the island – It takes about 2 hours of leisurely walking from El Puertito (little port) to La Concha Beach – this excludes the detour to the lighthouse. The trails are clearly marked, but due to the rocky terrain, it is not recommended for people with mobility issues.
Visit the Punta Martiño lighthouse – Located on the northern tip of the island, you won’t miss this historical landmark. The area around the lighthouse is open to the public, but the lighthouse tower itself is inaccessible. This adds some 30-45 minutes to your hike.
Climb up the La Caldera mountain – The mountain is the highest point of the island at 127 meters, and it takes about 2 hours to climb up and down. At the top, you can enjoy the view of the coast and the island of Fuerteventura.
Watch the wildlife – The island is full of interesting birds, fish and lizards – some are endemic to the area.
Swim! – All around the island, you will see small rock pools, lagoons with shallow water (La Lagunita) and of course, La Concha beach (also known as La Caleta). The water is cold – we went in September, and for me it was colder than what I was used to. But it was exactly what I needed after that long hike under the scorching sun. The waters of La Concha are crystal clear, and at one point, I found myself surrounded by silver-white fish!
What can’t you do on the island? Aside from the usual littering and making noise, people should not stray from the hiking trails. The entire path around the island is clearly demarcated by big stones and visitors should not leave this trail so as not to disturb wildlife or damage natural rock structures. It is not allowed to use jet skis or similar motorized boats in the swimming areas. It is likewise prohibited to build campfires or make those silly rock stacks. Lobos is a protected nature park and it is every visitor’s responsibility to help preserve it.
What to bring to Lobos Island
Sunscreen – SPF 50 highly recommended, remembering to apply generously every 2 hours or after heavy sweating or swimming. When we where there, the UV index went up to 10 at noontime!
Swim and beach stuff – bringing googles and snorkels would be a great idea, as well as your beach blanket (no sunbeds or umbrellas for rent). Some people also brought collapsible chairs.
Shade – there are practically no trees and there are very few shaded rest areas. Bring your hat and/or beach umbrellas. Not surprisingly, no one pitched a tent – I can imagine how oven-like it would feel inside.
Shoes – it is much better to come with proper footwear like tennis/sports shoes or hiking shoes. The hiking trail can be very hard on your feet due to all the rocks, and flipflops and sandals will not be enough. The right shoes will be especially important if you decide to climb up to the caldera.
Snacks – there is only one restaurant on the island, and all tourists must place their orders upon arrival. Bring your own food and beverage if you don’t want to deal with the headache of lining up for orders. We had our own food (donuts, croissants and bananas) so I have no idea about the types or prices of food served.
What accommodation is available on Lobos Island?
There are no guest accommodations on the island. Tourists are only allowed to stay for 4 hours: 1000-1400, or 1400-1800. Everyone is expected to leave the island at the end of the day.
How to get to Lobos Island
If you are already at the town of Corralejo, the ferry trip from the port to Lobos Island takes only 15-20 minutes. It costs EUR 17 round trip.
As we were not staying in Corralejo, we needed to book a bus+ferry combination to take us from Caleta de Fuste to the Corralejo port by bus, and then the ferry to Lobos Island. This booking is valid for the trip back as well. Both of these options already include the visitor permit that you need in order to disembark on the island. This costs EUR 35 per person, and the tour operator will let you know the time and pick up point (depending on your hotel location).
There are other options as well, if you want to experience going on a catamaran, or combine your Lobos visit with a snorkeling trip (the ferry company provides the snorkels).
Read your ticket booking carefully. While most bookings already includes the visitor permit, some might not and you have to apply for yourself. The permit is free, but who needs an additional headache while on holiday?
Random ferry tip! In the ferry, use the bathroom and buy additional snacks, if you can. The lack of toilet facilities on Lobos Island may be a problem for many people. The toilets are located at the tourist center, about 100 meters from the port. But expect queues!
Lobos Island is truly a place for relaxation and tranquility. I really enjoyed its rugged, quiet beauty and this visit is one I want to do again.
