Day trip to Fuerteventura from Lanzarote

Taking a day trip from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura offers a fantastic way to see more of the Canary Islands’ natural beauty and laid-back charm. With a mix of boat rides, guided tours, and free time at picturesque spots, this experience promises a blend of scenery, culture, and relaxation. The tour features a quick ferry crossing, visits to the famous Corralejo Dunes, and charming villages like El Cotillo—all packed into roughly 8 hours.

One of the standout features of this trip is the seamless combination of transportation and guided insight. We particularly love the way the tour balances structured activities with free time, giving you the chance to explore at your own pace. However, for those who prefer a more flexible, less scheduled day, some reviewers have noted that parts of the itinerary can feel rushed or overly structured.

This tour is ideal if you’re looking for a well-organized, value-packed day that covers key sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, the chance to see dramatic dunes, and a taste of local coastal life. Just keep in mind that it’s a full day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy itinerary and a group setting.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary offers a mix of guided excursions and free exploration
• Knowledgeable multilingual guides enhance the experience with local insights
• Convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off saves time and effort
• Affordable price point provides good value considering transport, guide, and sights
• Stunning scenery especially at the Corralejo Dunes and El Cotillo beaches
• Some reviews mention long waits and tight timings, so flexibility can vary

An In-Depth Look at the Day Trip to Fuerteventura from Lanzarote

This tour is a solid option for visitors who want to see Fuerteventura’s highlights without the stress of organizing multiple transport links or navigating on their own. Starting with a ferry crossing from Playa Blanca at 9:30 am, the boat ride takes about 30 minutes, offering travelers panoramic views of the Atlantic and a gentle start to the day. The ferry is modern and comfortable, and WiFi is available onboard, making the journey a pleasant, scenic introduction.

The Corralejo Town Experience

Once docked, you’ll hop onto an air-conditioned bus that whisks you into Corralejo, the bustling northern town. This part of the trip is flexible—around 1 hour 15 minutes—giving you time to browse shops, grab a quick coffee, or just soak in the lively coastal atmosphere. Reviewers like Marsha_H appreciated the well-organized nature of this part of the trip, noting clear communication and the freedom to explore at her own pace.

However, some travelers, like Gillian_C, felt this segment could be a little rushed, suggesting that more time in Corralejo might let visitors enjoy its charms more fully. The advantage here is that you get a taste of the town without feeling committed to a rigid schedule, which is perfect for those wanting to blend sightseeing with casual wandering.

El Cotillo Fishing Village

Next, the tour heads to El Cotillo, a serene fishing village that hasn’t been overrun by travelers yet. The walk along the beachfront offers stunning views of rolling waves and rugged coastlines. Reviewers often mention the peaceful vibe—one noted it as “the spirit of Fuerteventura.” You can enjoy some free time here, with the option to have lunch at a local restaurant, though meals are not included in the tour price.

One helpful tip from a reviewer, MolliePye, was to skip heavy lunches and opt for tapas instead, so you have more time to explore without feeling sluggish. This stop is particularly appreciated for its relaxed atmosphere and scenic setting, perfect for unwinding after the boat ride.

The Dunes National Park

The highlight for many is undoubtedly the Parque Natural de Corralejo, with its vast, rolling sand dunes. A 45-minute coach ride takes you to this natural wonderland, where the slopes and crests of sand provide endless photo opportunities. As Mick_S pointed out, the dunes are “unforgettable,” and photography here is a must.

In the dunes, you’d have about 20 minutes to take in the scenery and, if you’re feeling energetic, perhaps have fun climbing or taking photos from different angles. This part of the trip is a crowd-pleaser, especially with those who want to experience something more than just beaches—though, be prepared, as some reviews mention that it’s a quick stop rather than a long lounging session.

Beach Relaxation and Free Time

Following the dunes, you’ll spend around 1.5 hours relaxing at the nearby beaches. This is the perfect chance to dip into the Atlantic, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the scenery. Reviewers like Kevin_K found this segment “a great way to unwind,” highlighting the quality of the beaches and the opportunity to swim or relax on the sand.

However, a common concern, voiced by Julieandrew21, is that the timing can feel tight, and the last stop—the beach—may leave you wishing for a bit more time for swimming or sunbathing. But overall, the balance of activities offered a good mix of exploration and relaxation.

Return Journey and Considerations

The tour wraps up with a ferry back to Corralejo around 5:10 pm, with disembarkation around 6 pm. From there, a coach takes you back to Playa Blanca or your hotel. Several reviews, like that of Hugh_T, mention frustrations with the return transfer—sometimes the bus might pass by hotels without stopping, or wait times can be longer than expected.

One noteworthy point is that the tour price does not include the return coach from Playa Blanca to your accommodation, which adds a small extra cost but is generally straightforward.

What We Think About the Price and Overall Value

At $71.08 per person, this trip offers a compelling value. It includes ferry tickets, transportation, the guidance of multilingual experts, and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off (for select hotels). For travelers eager to see Fuerteventura’s highlights without the hassle of planning, this tour provides a straightforward, guided experience.

While some reviewers felt the itinerary was a bit rushed—especially the time spent at certain stops—the advantage is that you get to cover multiple key sites in a manageable day. The price compares favorably to organizing your own transport and activities, making it a reasonable choice for those on a budget or seeking convenience.

The Guide and Group Atmosphere

Many reviews praise the guides, with Neli being singled out for her friendly, unhurried manner. The multilingual aspect ensures that a diverse group can enjoy the commentary and local insights, which adds depth to the experience. The group size maxes out at around 50 travelers, so it’s still a social experience but not overly crowded.

What to Bring and Tips for the Day

• Sunscreen, hat, and swimsuit are essential—especially for the beach and dunes.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the villages and dunes.
• Remember your passport or ID—as some reviews mention, Spanish law requires it for travel.
• A camera is a must, especially at the dunes and scenic stops.
• If you want to maximize your free time, consider bringing snacks or small drinks, as meal options are not included.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a well-organized, affordable day exploring Fuerteventura’s most iconic sights. If you’re after stunning scenery like dunes and beaches, combined with some cultural flavor from villages like El Cotillo, you’ll find this tour hits the mark. The mix of guided commentary and free exploration is perfect for those who like to balance structure with flexibility.

It’s also a wonderful choice for families or groups who enjoy sightseeing together without the stress of transport logistics. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace, longer beach stays, or a private experience, this might feel a little rushed or crowded.

Overall, with its friendly guides, scenic stops, and good value, this day trip offers a memorable way to see North Fuerteventura and enjoy a taste of island life.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included at select Lanzarote hotels, which makes the start and end of your day hassle-free.

How long does the ferry crossing take? The ferry from Playa Blanca to Fuerteventura lasts about 30 minutes, offering scenic views and a smooth start to your day.

What are the main stops on this tour? You’ll visit Corralejo town, the El Cotillo fishing village, the natural sand dunes park, and enjoy free time on the beaches.

Do I need to bring my passport? Yes, it’s advisable to bring your passport or ID, as Spanish law mandates it for travel purposes, even if it might not always be checked.

Is there free time at each stop? Yes, you’ll have designated periods to explore each location—longer at Corralejo and the beaches, shorter at El Cotillo and the dunes.

Can I buy lunch during the tour? Lunch is not included, but there are local restaurants at El Cotillo. You might prefer to bring snacks or opt for tapas to save time.

What’s the group size? The tour can accommodate up to 50 travelers, which is manageable but still lively.

Are guides multilingual? Yes, guides speak multiple languages and are generally praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

Is transportation comfortable? The bus is air-conditioned and equipped with WiFi, making the journey comfortable and enjoyable.

This full-day trip from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura is a good way to see more of the Canary Islands’ northern coast, especially if you’re after scenic landscapes, local villages, and a taste of the dunes. With careful planning, it’s a cost-effective, enjoyable option—though a slightly tight schedule might not suit those wanting a more relaxed pace.