The Best Itinerary to Discover Lobos Island
Between Lanzarote and Fuerteventura lies the small islet of Lobos, a place of sinuous shape and magnetic charm.
Its volcanic nature is immediately apparent — especially at Montaña de la Caldera, a volcanic cone just over 100 meters high located on the island’s northwest tip.
Climbing to the summit, accompanied by a certified guide as required by local regulations, rewards you with an unforgettable panoramic view: Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and the golden dunes of the Corralejo Natural Park stretch out before you in breathtaking harmony.
A walk along the circular coastal trail around the island is a must.
Starting from the south, at El Puertito — a tiny former fishing village and home to the island’s only restaurant — the route leads you past small saltwater lagoons, where resilient native plants thrive.
Continuing to the northeast, you’ll reach the lighthouse, crossing fields of dark volcanic rock that have become a haven for many seabird species.
The inland path offers a lunar-like landscape, adding to the diversity of the island’s terrain.
After climbing Montaña de la Caldera, you’ll want to refresh yourself at Playa de la Concha (also known as La Caleta) — a crescent of fine white sand with calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for a swim.
Roman remains on Lobos Island
Archaeological remains found on Playa de la Concha reveal that Lobos was once used by the Romans to produce purple dye, extracted from marine mollusks and used to adorn the clothing and hairstyles of nobles and patricians.
Lobos gets its name from the sea lions (”lobos marinos”) that once lived on the island. Sadly, these creatures were exterminated by Spanish conquistadors during colonial voyages. Hunted for their meat, skin, and fat, they were wiped out entirely — a sobering chapter in the island’s history.
Lobos and the threat of mass tourism
Lobos can be reached by regular ferries or by water taxis — high-speed inflatable boats that dock directly at El Puertito.
However, the explosion in tourism has raised serious concerns. Though Lobos is a Protected Natural Park and part of the Fuerteventura Biosphere Reserve, which limits daily access to 200 visitors, enforcement has been inconsistent.
Since spring 2017, the island has seen over 2,000 visitors per day, far exceeding the legal limit.
This overload has led to serious issues: Lobos lacks public bathrooms, water treatment systems, and infrastructure to manage the environmental impact of thousands of daily visitors.
Water taxis often zip through El Puertito, dangerously close to swimmers and snorkelers.
Local institutions have begun to confront the issue. One can only hope they choose respect over exploitation, ensuring that this fragile paradise survives.
Dolphins of Lobos Island
The greatest gift anyone could give me is a boat ride between Lanzarote and Lobos to see the dolphins. The emotions they bring are hard to describe — pure joy, wonder, and connection.
But with every passing day, I fear that unchecked tourism will threaten their habitat. Like the sea lions before them, they may be driven away… or worse.
I understand tourism is vital to these islands — it creates jobs and allows many to experience natural beauty they will never forget.
I just wonder: will our supposedly advanced human minds find a way to enjoy Lobos without destroying it?
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