Picture yourself in the middle of an unforgiving desert when you cross these sand dunes surrounded by the faint lines of distant mountains.
Corralejo Dunes National Park consists of miles of unspoiled sandy terrain leading to a beach with sparkling aquamarine ocean water. The protected strip of parkland stretches for 7 miles (11 kilometres) down the eastern coastline of Fuerteventura. Capture photos of the immense sand hills with a backdrop of mountains on one side and the ocean and Lobos Island on the other.
The pristine white sand in the park makes a nice change of scenery from the darker, rockier parts of the island that developed from volcanic eruptions. As you wander through the seemingly endless sandy hills, imagine the immensity of being trapped in the middle of the Sahara. Fortunately, these dunes are next to a stunning beach with ocean water to cool you down.
Find tour operators in the town to take you into the park and provide activities such as kite surfing. Follow trails in the sand and even try cycling along it. Discover intriguing natural features, such as the crater of an extinct volcano. Walking the length of the park should take 2 or 3 hours.
Jog along the coast at sunset with a remarkable view of mountains and sand dunes against the changing colours of the sky. The beach has a nudist section which you can seek out or avoid, depending on your personal preference.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen and a hat to protect you from the afternoon sun.
The park is on the scenic route from the airport to the resort town of Corralejo, which is a fantastic introduction to the island.
Corralejo Dunes National Park is just south of the town of Corralejo on Fuerteventura’s northeast coast. Drive down the road passing through it or take a tour bus from town. Use several designated parking lots along the route, but do not drive onto the sand, as you may get stuck.
