Dunas de Corralejo is a stunning natural wonder located on the northern coast of Fuerteventura. This protected natural park is home to a vast expanse of never-ending white sand dunes, crystal clear waters, and a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Canary Islands.
How to get to Dunas de Corralejo Natural Park from other parts of Fuerteventura?
There are a few options, including public transport, renting a car, or taking a taxi. The best option for you will depend on your budget, schedule, and travel preferences.
Public Transport
If you’re on a budget, public transport is a convenient and affordable way to get there from other parts of Fuerteventura. The park is situated near Corralejo (region La Oliva), which is served by a regular bus service from other parts of the island. The bus service is operated by Tiadhe, and the main bus station in Corralejo is located on Avenida Nuestra Señora del Carmen. You can easily check the schedule and prices here.
If you’re staying in Corralejo itself, you can easily walk or cycle to there from most accommodations. If you’re staying further away, you can take the bus to the park’s visitor center, which is located at the entrance to the park.
Renting a Car
If you prefer more flexibility and independence, renting a car is a great option for exploring not only the dunes, but also other parts of Fuerteventura. Car rental companies are available at the airport and in most major towns, and the roads in Fuerteventura are generally well-maintained and easy to navigate.
To get to there from other parts of the island, you can simply follow the signs to Corralejo and then to the park itself. The journey should take no more than an hour from most parts of the island.
Taking a Taxi
If you don’t want to rent a car or use public transport, you can also take a taxi to the park from other parts of the island. Taxis are widely available and relatively affordable in Fuerteventura, and you can usually arrange for a pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or accommodation.
Getting from Lanzarote
If you’re coming from Lanzarote, the easiest way to get to Corralejo sand dunes is by taking a ferry to Corralejo. There are several ferry companies that operate regular services between the two islands, including Naviera Armas and Fred Olsen.
Getting from the airport
Fuerteventura Airport, which is located in Puerto del Rosario, is about 40 kilometers south of the park. From there, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use public transportation to get to the park. If you’re driving, take the FV-1 highway north from Puerto del Rosario to Corralejo, and then follow the signs to the park.
Once you arrive in Corralejo, you can then take a bus, taxi, or rent a car to get to the park itself, as described above.
History of the sand dunes in Corralejo
They were formed thousands of years ago by the accumulation of sand carried by the winds and waves of the Atlantic Ocean. It is said that the sand was brought to the island from the Sahara Desert, located just a few hundred kilometers to the east. Over time, it has accumulated and formed the stunning dunes that we see today.
The park was declared a protected natural area in 1982, and since then, it has become one of the most important tourist attractions on the island. They attract millions of visitors each year, drawn to the unique beauty of the area.
Geography of Corralejo sand dunes
The Dunas de Corralejo span an area of approximately 2,600 hectares, making it one of the largest natural parks in the Canarias. It is divided into several distinct zones, each with its own unique characteristics. The central zone is home to the most extensive and most impressive views. These dunes reach heights of up to 50 meters and are constantly shifting and changing shape due to the wind. They are made up of fine-grained sand that is soft to the touch and perfect for walking barefoot.
The eastern zone of the park is characterized by its rugged coastline and cliffs. The area is ideal for hikers and nature lovers who want to explore the unique flora and fauna that call the area home. Visitors can expect to see a wide range of plants and animals, including endemic species that are unique to the Canarias.
You’ll find there a number of different plant species, including sea lavender, samphire, and sea fennel. These plants help to anchor the sand in place and provide a habitat for insects and other small animals.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the wildlife that makes it home in the dunes. This includes several species of lizard, as well as a variety of birds, such as hoopoes, stone curlews, or houbara bustard, which is an endangered species that is found only in North Africa and the Canary Islands.
Activities
The western zone of the Corralejo natural park is known for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters and pristine beaches. The area is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and sunbathing. Visitors can enjoy the warm ocean and soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches that line the coast.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in the area, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers. The park offers a range of guided tours, including hiking, cycling, and jeep tours, which allow visitors to explore the different zones of the park.
If you are a fan of hiking, you will find there several well-marked trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels, so there’s something for everyone. Some of the trails take you to hidden beaches, while others lead to volcanic craters and stunning viewpoints.
One popular route is the “Sendero de las Dunas” (Dunes Trail), which is a 7-kilometer circular route that takes you through the heart of the dunes. The trail is well marked and offers stunning views of the sand dunes and the ocean.
Another route is the “Mirador Morro Velosa” (Morro Velosa Viewpoint), which is a 14-kilometer hike that takes you to the top of a mountain where you can enjoy panoramic views of the park and the surrounding landscape.
For those who want to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery, there are plenty of picnic areas and rest stops. Visitors can take a break and soak up the beauty of the dunes, surrounded by the sounds of the ocean and the rustling of the sand. You might enjoy the volcanos view from one side and the kilometers of coastline from the other.
Once in Corralejo, you might want to try some water sports, as this region is famous for surfing and kite-surfing top spots. If you’re just a beginner – don’t worry. There are many schools near Corralejo that will be happy to teach the basics.
The beaches near Corralejo are some of the best in the world
In addition to the dunes themselves, the area around Corralejo is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The water is crystal clear and warm, and the sand is soft and white. There are a number of different beaches to choose from, ranging from secluded coves to busy tourist spots.
One of the most popular beaches in the area is Playa de Corralejo, which is located just a few minutes’ walk from the town. This beach can get quite crowded during peak tourist season, but it’s worth it for the beautiful views and the excellent swimming conditions. Other popular beaches include Playa del Médano and Playa de la Concha.
Corralejo itself is a charming place to visit
If you’re looking for a break from all the outdoor adventure, be sure to spend some time exploring Corralejo itself. This charming town is home to a number of excellent restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as a beautiful marina where you can watch the boats come and go.
There are also a number of historic landmarks and cultural attractions in and around the town, such as the old church of Nuestra Señora del Carmen and the Centro de Arte Canario.