Lobos Island

Fuerteventura might seem like enough of an island paradise, but it isn’t the only one that you’ll want to be conquering in this part of the Canaries: just 2 kilometers off shore sits a tiny islet that is a worthy destination unto itself. Called Lobos Island, the volcanic land mass spans 1.8 square miles and gets its name from the large population of monk seals (also called sea wolves) that used to live here.
Although the island’s formation dates back to thousands of years ago, 1405 marks the first recorded presence of man, when Jean de Béthencourt used it as a resupply station during his conquest of Fuerteventura. Since those times, it has remained virtually uninhabited, with a lighthouse keeper having lived there until 1968, after which the illuminated beacon became automated.
Today, and since 1982, Lobos Island has been classified as a nature reserve, noted for its abundance of vegetation species (over 130 different kinds), and its bird population, which swells during migratory season. Visitors can witness the beauty of the island easily, too, by simply taking a short ferry ride from Corralejo. Once there, you can explore the landscape via marked paths, checking out the lighthouse, Playa de la Concha Beach and caldera, where you’ll find the highest point on the island, which reaches 417 feet tall.

Practical Info

It is possible to camp on the Lobos Island, however there are no proper facilities; stays are limited to three days and only in a designated area; and the Office of the Environment must grant permission. Whether making just a quick visit or staying for longer, it is also important to note that food and bathrooms are limited to the lagoon area, so you should be sure to plan accordingly.