Fuerteventura is the second largest beach coast among Spain’s famous Canary Islands. It is most famous for its majestic beaches, boasting of white and golden sandy shores. The tourism in the island was established quite recently, making it the perfect, underrated tropical getaway destination.
The island is located less than 100 kilometers away from the Sahara Desert, near the border of Western Sahara and Morocco. Fuerteventura enjoys 300 days of sunshine yearly from its subtropical climate. It also also home to Europe’s largest area of desert.
Fuerteventura is ideal for those looking for a laid-back place to unwind. Its pristine beaches stretch miles long, where you can always find a private spot for yourself. The golden shores are not overcrowded with tourists even during the peak seasons.
Each of the main tourist areas in the island has its own distinct personality. These are Corralejo, which is the surfers’ favorite spot and where the night life is; Caleta de Fuste which offers the best secluded beaches and is the closest one from the airport; Costa Calma which has amazing virgin beaches; and Morro Jable/Jandia which has the best weather and stunning beaches.
This island truly has a little something for everyone to enjoy. From surfers looking for some stoke to families looking for a relaxing holiday retreat. Here, you will find everything you need to know before traveling to Fuerteventura.
Currency
The currency that circulates in Fuerteventura is Euros. Conveniently, there are ATM’s located in all resorts on the island. However, there is usually a withdrawal charge of 2% to 3%, depending on the bank. Although most restaurants and resorts accept credit cards, common modes of transportation and local shops or restaurants only take cash as payment. For you to fully experience the authentic goods in the island, you will need cash to avail of them.
Money changers are also available in most seaports and airports. More often than not, money changers offer better rates than banks. Lines and waiting time are relatively faster as well compared to banks. Exchange rates vary in different parts of the island, so feel free to ask for recommendations from your hotel or resort concierge.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to travel to Fuerteventura is in late May to early November, especially between July to October. During this period, you can expect long summer days and a warmer weather with less humidity. It is the sunniest time of the year in the island with minimal to no rainfall.
The beaches are also perfect during this period as the Atlantic Ocean is at its warmest. You will get to enjoy the sunny shores and swim in warm waters. Surprisingly, the beaches are not crowded with locals and tourists even during the warm season.
Transportation
Since Fuerteventura is the longest island in the Canaries, distances between landmarks are longer that you might expect. The airport, in particular, isn’t exactly as well-served by public transportation. That said, it is best to prepare beforehand if you plan on touring different sites in the island.
Fuerteventura has an extensive public bus network run by Tiadhe. However, not all tourist areas in the island do not have direct transport connections from the airport. Corralejo, for example, is not a specific stop on the public bus line. Therefore, travelers must switch to a different bus line in Puerto del Rosario to get to Corralejo.
If you would like the ease of being able to get around the island, taxis are always conveniently available. Taking a cab to get from one point to another within the same locality is fairly affordable. However, if you are going to a different locality, fares surge quickly. For example, a taxi from one locality of Corralejo to the airport in Puerto del Rosario could set you back 50 Euros, while a trip to Morro Jable could cost as much as 150 Euros.
Ironically though, hiring a private car is the most economical and convenient way to get around the Fuerteventura island. For as little as 110 Euros, you can get a private car for a week. Just from getting to and from the airport, this amount is already worth every centavo. It is also a huge plus that you can manage your own time in hopping around the island, without worrying about fare costs.
Tipping
Providing tips is not necessarily obligatory, though most visitors leave a small sum of change for tips. If you are happy with the service, the common tipping rate is 5% of the bill. Local porters who help with your luggage are usually given 1 Euro. Meanwhile, taxi drivers do not expect tips though rounding up on your metered fare would be greatly appreciated.
Visa
Citizens of the European Union member states can travel to Fuerteventura with just their national identity card and a valid passport. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival, otherwise, you could be denied entry. By law, European citizens are required to bring their identity cards or passports with them at all times while touring around Fuerteventura.
For citizens of Australia, Canada, United States, Japan, New Zealand, and Israel, tourist visas are not required to stay in the island for up to 90 days. Meanwhile, citizens of other countries are generally required to have a Schengen visa.
Schengen visas are quite easy to apply for through the Spanish embassy in your country. Tourist visas are valid for 90 days within a six month period upon approval, and it cannot be extended. Requirements to process a visa differ in each country, just state that the main itinerary for your travel is to visit Fuerteventura.
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