Fuerteventura North: Corralejo Dunes, El Cotillo & Lighthouse Day Trip

Summary

Wind-shaped dunes, wild coasts & old fishing villages up north

You’ll cross Fuerteventura’s northern landscapes by minivan, walking barefoot in Corralejo’s dunes, sampling fresh Aloe vera gel at a local farm, lingering in El Cotillo’s peaceful streets and beaches, and feeling Atlantic winds at Toston Lighthouse. Expect real moments with locals, sun-warmed skin, and a sense of space that stays with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

I was still brushing sand off my shoes when our minivan rolled to a stop at this spot called KM.14 — apparently the most photogenic bit of the Corralejo dunes. Our guide, Marta, grinned and told us to just “listen for a second.” It was mostly wind, honestly, but there’s something about that sound — like you’re standing at the edge of a big empty canvas. The light kept shifting over those pale gold hills. I tried to take a photo but it never really caught how soft the sand felt under my feet.

Next thing I knew we were inside an Aloe vera place (Finca Canarias). I’d always thought aloe was just for sunburns, but the woman there let us try this fresh gel straight from the leaf. It smelled almost grassy and clean — not what I expected. She laughed when I wrinkled my nose (I guess I’m not used to tasting plants). We talked about how people here use it for everything; her hands moved fast as she explained in Spanish and Marta translated bits for me.

El Cotillo came after that — sleepy little fishing village with faded blue doors and some old men playing dominoes in a bar. The air tasted salty and you could hear gulls fighting over scraps behind the tapas bars. We wandered down to Los Lagos where the water’s so clear you can see every stone under your toes. Lunch wasn’t included but we grabbed papas arrugadas and some grilled fish anyway (honestly, worth it). It felt like time slowed down there.

The Toston Lighthouse sits out on this rocky finger where the Atlantic just hammers at the coast. It’s windy enough to make your eyes water if you look up too long — which I did anyway because that view sticks with you. On the way back we stopped by Piedra Playa cliffs where surfers looked like tiny dots below us. Marta pointed out some local birds but I was mostly thinking about how small you feel with all that sky around you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Fuerteventura North Coast

• Set off to central-northern island
• Cross Corralejo Dunes natural park
• Walk and photo stop at KM.14
• Visit Aloe vera showroom and demo
• Pass through El Cotillo village
• Relax at Los Lagos natural pools
• Lunch break at nearby tapas bars
• Visit Toston Lighthouse viewpoint
• Admire west coast at Castillo de Toston
• Stop at Piedra Playa cliffs for photos

Top questions

How long does this Fuerteventura North tour last?

The tour covers several key stops in Fuerteventura's north over one day, including time for lunch and beach relaxation.

Is lunch included on this day trip from Corralejo or El Cotillo?

No, lunch isn’t included in the price; you can buy food at local tapas bars or restaurants during the stop in El Cotillo.

Are hotel pickups available for this Fuerteventura tour?

The tour includes private transportation but does not specify hotel pickup; check directly when booking for details.

Can infants or small children join this excursion?

Yes, infants and small children are welcome; prams or strollers are allowed and specialized infant seats are available.

What should I bring for stops at El Cotillo beach?

Bring comfortable shoes and whatever you need for the seaside—swimsuit, towel, sunscreen—and a sweatshirt if it’s windy.

Does this Fuerteventura day trip include entry fees?

No special entry fees are required for any of the stops on this itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels; activities are relaxed with plenty of breaks.

Will there be opportunities to buy Aloe vera products?

Yes, during the visit to Finca Canarias Aloe Vera showroom you can purchase natural products directly on site.

What’s included

Your day includes private minivan transportation across Fuerteventura’s north with an experienced local guide; stops at Corralejo dunes for walking and photos; entry into an Aloe vera farm with product tastings; free time in El Cotillo village and beaches; visits to Toston Lighthouse and Piedra Playa cliffs before returning in comfort—just remember lunch is not included so bring cash if you want to eat by the sea.