Fuerteventura: Jandía Natural Park & The Puertito Buggy Tour

Planning a day of adventure on Fuerteventura? This buggy tour offers a fantastic way to explore the southern landscapes, from rugged mountains to coastal villages. With a mix of off-road excitement, scenic views, and knowledgeable guides, it’s a solid choice for travelers craving a hands-on outdoor experience that blends fun with nature.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its family-friendly vibe—you don’t need prior experience to enjoy it. Plus, the emphasis on safety with detailed instructions, dust goggles, and safety talks makes it accessible for most. The only caveat? It’s quite dusty, so packing a bandana or scarf is well-advised if you want to stay comfortable.

This adventure suits those who enjoy active outings, natural beauty, and a touch of adrenaline. If you’re looking for a mix of sightseeing and fun, and don’t mind getting a little dusty, this tour could be a memorable highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Accessible for beginners: No need for prior off-road experience, thanks to thorough safety instructions.
• Stunning scenery: From mountains to coastlines, the views are breathtaking and photo-worthy.
• Wildlife spotting: Keep an eye out for local animals like goats, donkeys, and squirrels.
• Good value: At $159 for a two-hour group experience, you’re getting a lot of fun for your money.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for most ages (over 7) and adaptable for groups.
• Safety gear provided: Dust goggles and a quick safety talk help ensure a smooth ride.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

How the Tour Begins: From Hotel to Adventure

The journey kicks off with hotel pickup in areas like Jandia, Costa Calma, Morro Jable, or Esquinzo. The activity provider, Fuerteventura Quad, communicates pickup times via WhatsApp, making it straightforward to plan your day. The transport is comfortable, usually in a mini-van, and there’s a sense of anticipation as you head toward the port of Morro Jable, where your off-road adventure officially begins.

The Safety Briefing and Instruction

Once at the meeting point, you’ll receive a briefing from your guide—not just about how to drive the buggy but also safety measures. A quick demonstration ensures even total beginners feel confident. Guides like “Juan” or “Carlos” (based on reviews) are praised for their friendly, informative manner, making sure everyone understands signals and controls before taking the wheel.

You’ll be fitted with dust goggles—crucial for protecting your eyes from the wind and dust—and given a chance to buy masks if needed. Wearing a bandana or scarf is recommended, especially if you’re sensitive to dust or wind.

The Route: Nature, Wildlife, and Coastal Views

The core of this experience is a roughly two-hour ride through the imposing mountains and lush natural landscapes of Jandía Natural Park. As reviewers have highlighted, the scenery here is spectacular—think rugged terrain, sweeping mountain vistas, and vistas out to the ocean.

The tour makes a stop in Puerto de la Cruz (The Puertito), a charming village where you can listen to stories from your guides and appreciate the tranquil fishing port vibes. Several reviews mention this as a highlight, with some describing it as a “magical place,” perfect for a quick photo or a break before heading back.

Wildlife and Local Encounters

While driving through the park, look out for local animals—squirrels, goats, sheep, donkeys, and possibly even wild horses. The guides are friendly and eager to share tidbits about the local fauna, making the ride both scenic and educational.

The Drive: Off-Road Fun with a Purpose

The off-road sections are designed to give you a taste of driving on gravel and dirt tracks, with some reviewers noting that the route stays mostly on gravel roads rather than truly rugged off-road terrain. Nevertheless, the thrill is real; you’ll feel the power of the buggy as it tackles the uneven surfaces.

Some guests mention that the buggies are well-maintained, but a few note that some vehicles may have minor issues, like loose steering or suspension. Still, guides are quick to handle any breakdowns and keep everyone safe.

Expectations and Tips from Past Travelers

Many reviewers mention that driving the buggy isn’t overly complicated, especially with the guidance provided. One review pointed out that “you don’t need to change gears,” which is great for those unfamiliar with manual vehicles. The experience is more about controlling the vehicle and enjoying the scenery than technical driving.

If you’re worried about getting tired, don’t be—most enjoy their turn at the wheel, while others prefer sitting back and taking in views. The route is designed for enjoyment, with just one stop for pictures at the coast or mountain outlooks, before returning to base.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

Fans of the tour love the knowledgeable guides who go above and beyond to ensure safety and fun. Reviews often praise the guides’ friendliness, their ability to keep the experience light-hearted, and their helpfulness when dealing with the dusty, bumpy ride.

Some mention that the trip can be dusty, especially if it has rained recently, but that’s part of the charm. Several guests recommend bringing a bandana or scarf and wearing clothes that can get dirty—it’s all part of the adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s included features—hotel pickup/drop-off, a safety briefing, dust goggles—are well thought out. The price of $159 per group, which covers up to two people, offers good value considering the full two-hour guided experience and the personal thrill of driving a buggy through natural landscapes.

However, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or enjoy local cafes afterward. Also, the tour is only available in specific areas—if you’re outside these zones, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

Accessibility and Practical Details

The activity is wheelchair accessible, and it’s suitable for most people over age 7. Guests should have a valid driver’s license, and the maximum weight limit is 309 lbs (140 kg), so check your weight before booking. Pregnant women are advised to avoid the tour for safety reasons.

The Verdict: Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re seeking a fun, active way to explore Fuerteventura’s natural beauty, this buggy tour ticks many boxes. It’s perfect for families, friends, or solo travelers craving a taste of adventure with minimal experience required. The scenic stops, wildlife spotting, and knowledgeable guides ensure that even those not used to off-road driving will find plenty to enjoy.

While the dusty nature of the ride might not appeal to everyone, the overall value—combining scenery, wildlife, and a memorable driving experience—makes it a compelling choice. It’s especially suited for adventurers who want a break from traditional sightseeing and love hands-on activities.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for children aged 7 and above. Always check with the provider regarding age restrictions and safety guidelines.

Do I need a driving license?
Yes, a valid driver’s license is required to operate the buggy.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes that can get dusty or dirty. It’s a good idea to bring a scarf or bandana, and don’t forget your driver’s license.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts approximately 2 hours, including safety instructions and the drive itself.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, pickups are provided in Jandia, Costa Calma, Morro Jable, or Esquinzo. The exact time will be confirmed after booking.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible.

What wildlife might I see?
You could spot squirrels, goats, sheep, donkeys, and possibly wild horses.

Can I switch drivers during the tour?
Yes, the route is designed for both drivers and passengers to take turns during the ride.

What happens if it rains?
The tour can proceed in light rain, but heavy rain might cause delays or cancellations for safety reasons.

Final Thoughts

This buggy tour through Fuerteventura’s Jandía Natural Park offers a lively, scenic, and genuinely fun way to see the island’s diverse landscapes. With friendly guides, stunning vistas, and the thrill of off-road driving, it’s an experience that appeals to adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike. Though it gets dusty and the terrain isn’t overly challenging, the views and wildlife encounters make every minute worthwhile.

For those craving an active, unique way to explore, and don’t mind getting a little dusty along the way, this tour delivers great value and plenty of memorable moments. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure—and a scarf!