Fuerteventura

Spain

Fuerteventura is the Canary Islands' beach paradise - a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with 150km of pristine coastline, Africa-like landscapes, and world-class wind and water sports. The oldest island geologically, its dramatic volcanoes, golden dunes, and turquoise lagoons feel like another planet.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay6 days
Budget$60/day
Mid-range$110/day
Luxury$250/day

Known For

fuerteventuracanary_islandscanariasspainbeachessurfingkitesurfingwindsurfingdunesdesertall_year_sun

🇪🇸 Country Information: Spain

CapitalMadrid
CurrencyEuro (€)
Language Spanish , Catalan, Galician, Basque, Valencian
Phone Code+34
Electricity230V (Type C, F)
Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

  • Tipping is generally not obligatory but appreciated for good service; 5
  • 10% in restaurants is common for good service, rounding up taxi fares, small change for baristas

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available, especially in urban areas
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and tourist areas, but smaller establishments might prefer cash
  • It's good to have some cash for small purchases and less urban areas
  • There is no black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Meal times are typically later than in many other countries, with dinner often starting at 9 PM or later
  • Siesta is less common in major cities but still observed in smaller towns
  • Personal space can be closer than in some other cultures
  • Dress codes are generally casual but respectful, especially when visiting religious sites

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Spain is very LGBTQ+ friendly with comprehensive anti-discrimination laws and legal same-sex marriage since 2005. There is strong societal acceptance.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are complex: private use and cultivation of cannabis are decriminalized, but public consumption and trafficking are illegal and carry severe penalties

Special Laws

  • It is illegal to drink alcohol in public spaces outside of designated areas
  • Smoking is prohibited in many public indoor spaces
  • Nudity and topless sunbathing are allowed on some beaches but can be restricted in others

Common Phrases

HelloHola (OH-lah) Hola
PleasePor favor (por fah-VOR) Por favor
Excuse mePerdón (per-DOHN) Perdón
Thank youGracias (GRAH-see-ahs) Gracias

Climate

Desert climate - driest Canary Island. Constant trade winds. Temperature 18-28°C year-round. Very little rain. Wind can be strong - great for surfing.

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

- No special vaccinations required (Spain/EU)

Staying Connected

- EU roaming, eSIM available

Local Cuisine

Majorero Cheese regional_speciality

Fuerteventura's famous goat cheese with DOP status. The semi-cured version rubbed with paprika or gofio is particularly prized.

Cabra (Goat) must_try

Goat is the traditional meat of Fuerteventura, typically slow-cooked in estofado (stew) or roasted. The island has more goats than people.

Fresh Seafood must_try

Surrounded by rich Atlantic waters, Fuerteventura offers excellent fresh fish - try sama, vieja, or lapas (limpets) with mojo verde.

Papas Arrugadas must_try

Wrinkled potatoes with mojo sauces are essential on every Canarian table. Fuerteventura's volcanic soil produces excellent potatoes.

Gofio regional_speciality

Toasted grain flour used since pre-Hispanic times. Try gofio amasado (kneaded with honey) or escaldón de gofio with fish broth.

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Lobos Island Day Trip Transport
Book 1-4 weeks ahead

The small island off Corralejo requires a permit (free) and ferry booking. Daily visitor limit of 400.

Fun Facts

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