Fuerteventura: Ajuy Caves & hike to secret Las Penitas Arco

Exploring Fuerteventura’s Hidden Treasures: Ajuy Caves & Las Penitas Arco Hike

If you’re looking for a day that blends adventure, natural beauty, and a touch of the unexplored, this tour of Fuerteventura might just be what you need. While the island is famous for its beaches, this experience takes you off the beaten path to discover some of its lesser-known but equally stunning sights. From dramatic ocean caves to secret rock formations, it’s a chance to see the island’s raw, untouched side.

What we love about this tour is how it balances physical activity with relaxed sightseeing. The guided hike through Las Penitas canyon offers breathtaking views and a sense of discovery, while the visit to Ajuy’s caves adds a sense of adventure and history. Plus, the fact that it’s suited for different fitness levels means it’s accessible to most travelers who enjoy a bit of outdoor exploration.

A potential consideration? The tour involves a fair amount of walking and some climbing, so it’s not ideal if you have mobility issues or prefer a more relaxed, sit-back experience. That said, it’s well-suited for those who want to actively experience the island’s natural beauty in one day.

This tour works best for curious explorers, nature lovers, and those eager to find the island’s hidden spots. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who value guided insights and want more than just beaches during their visit.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: You’ll explore some of Fuerteventura’s lesser-known but stunning natural sites.
• Guided Hike: The approximately 2-hour trek through Las Penitas canyon offers spectacular views and a genuine adventure.
• Historical & Natural Sights: Visit the protected Ajuy Caves, formed by ancient lava flows, and learn about their significance.
• Flexible for Fitness Levels: Routes are adapted to different fitness abilities, making it accessible for most.
• Taste of Local Culture: Enjoy a seaside lunch with scenic views, blending nature with a relaxed meal.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Pickup and Journey Begins

The day kicks off early, with a hotel pickup for those staying in the north of Fuerteventura, typically between 8 and 9 am. For cruise guests arriving at Puerto de Rosario, the pickup is at 9:15 am at the port—a handy arrangement that lets you maximize your time on the island without fussing over logistics.

Once everyone is aboard the white Fiat Ducato van, the journey begins. The drive from Corralejo or other northern spots takes about an hour, giving you your first peek at the island’s landscape and setting the tone for the day ahead.

Las Penitas Canyon: A Hidden Paradise

Arriving at Las Penitas canyon, you’re stepping into one of Fuerteventura’s most striking natural areas. Known as Barranco de las Peñitas, this canyon isn’t just beautiful—it’s a bit of a secret. It’s a natural setting that has attracted Hollywood filmmakers, thanks to its dramatic rock formations and lush oasis feel.

The guided hike lasts approximately two hours, and it’s the core of the adventure. You’ll trek along well-marked trails that wind through this untouched landscape, passing dams, small chapels, and scenic viewpoints. The trail to the “El Arco” or the secret window, is especially popular for its stunning photo opportunities. This rock formation has been sculpted by nature into a natural arch that frames the sky and sea—a moment that many reviewers describe as well worth the climb.

During the hike, your guide will share insights about the canyon’s history, geology, and the flora and fauna you might encounter—adding depth to the experience. The scenery is so spectacular that it’s easy to forget you’re in a relatively remote part of the island. The canyon’s contrasts—verdant greenery against stark volcanic rock—make it a visual treat.

Visiting Ajuy’s Historic Ocean Caves

After the hike, the tour transports you to Ajuy, a small coastal village famous for its dramatic sea caves. Declared a natural monument in 1987, these caves are the result of volcanic activity from 100 million years ago, with their creation driven by ancient lava flows.

The walk from Ajuy to the caves is about 500 meters, making it accessible and straightforward. Along the way, you’ll see fossil dunes, some of the island’s oldest formations, and lime holes—remnants of traditional lime extraction that played a role in local construction for centuries.

The caves themselves are impressive—dark, mysterious, and a little wild. Guides often take you inside, explaining how these caves have been shaped over millions of years and their importance in the island’s geological history. A visit here is perfect for those who love natural history and dramatic coastal scenery.

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Lunch with a View

Post-caves, the tour includes a well-deserved lunch on the beach. Many reviews highlight how the setting enhances the experience—sitting on the cliffs with views of the ocean, enjoying a simple sandwich and a non-alcoholic drink. It’s an opportunity to relax, take in the scenery, and reflect on the morning’s adventures.

Return Journey and Drop-Offs

After lunch, the journey back takes approximately 85 minutes. The tour ends at two convenient locations—either at Corralejo or La Oliva—making it easy to plan your afternoon. The overall day lasts about 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The strength of this experience lies in its combination of active exploration and cultural exposure. The guided hike through Las Penitas offers a chance to see a less-visited corner of Fuerteventura that’s breathtakingly beautiful. It’s a great way to see the island’s volcanic past and lush landscapes, away from crowded beaches.

The visit to Ajuy’s caves complements the hike perfectly—adding a historical and geological dimension to the day. The fact that the caves are protected and recognized as a natural monument adds to their significance. The trails to the caves also provide interesting sights like fossil dunes and lime holes, making the visit educational as well.

Reviewers consistently praise the guides—“Bas is extremely knowledgeable and always chose routes that were exciting, spectacular, yet completely safe,” says one reviewer, highlighting the importance of a good guide when exploring such rugged terrain.

Price and Value

While the tour isn’t the cheapest activity on the island, many find the price reasonable for what you get: hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, guided hikes, a visit to the caves, and a seaside lunch. Considering the small group size (limited to 10), you’ll likely enjoy a more personalized experience, with room for questions and interaction.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want to see more of Fuerteventura than just beaches. It’s ideal for adventure-minded travelers who appreciate natural beauty, geological wonders, and scenic hikes. Since it involves some walking and climbing, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or very young children under 4.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, older children or teens who enjoy hiking and exploration should find it engaging. It’s best suited for those comfortable with some physical activity.

What should I bring?
You’ll want to bring sunscreen, a hat, sports shoes (closed shoes are required), a daypack, water, and perhaps a camera. Sandals or flip-flops aren’t allowed for safety reasons.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

How long is the hike?
The guided hike through Las Penitas canyon lasts around 2 hours, covering scenic trails and viewpoints.

Can I join if I’m not very fit?
The routes are adapted to different fitness levels, but some walking and climbing are involved. It’s suitable for most, but those with mobility challenges should consider this.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour won’t take place during a weather alert or if fewer than two people book. Always check the forecast and contact the provider if unsure.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a sandwich lunch and a non-alcoholic drink are part of the package, served at a scenic spot on the beach.

How do I meet the guide?
For hotel guests, the pickup is from your accommodation in the north between 8-9 am. Cruise guests are picked up at 9:15 am at Puerto de Rosario. The guide will arrive in a white Fiat Ducato van.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded mix of adventure, history, and natural beauty—perfect for travelers eager to see the island’s lesser-known spots. The guided hikes and visits are tailored to different fitness levels, making it accessible to most who want an active day out. The small-group setting ensures a more personal touch, with knowledgeable guides to enrich your experience.

If you’re after a day of discovery that’s a bit more rugged and authentic, and you’re comfortable with walking, this could be one of the most rewarding ways to connect with Fuerteventura’s wild side. It’s especially suited for curious explorers who love breathtaking scenery, geological history, and a chance to step away from crowded beaches.

For those who prefer a more relaxed or beach-focused holiday, this might not be your top pick. But if you want to combine gentle exercise with cultural and natural sights, it’s a brilliant choice that delivers more than just typical island sightseeing.

In summary, this tour is a smart pick for adventure lovers and nature fans who want to see the island’s secret landscapes, learn about its volcanoes and geology, and enjoy some stunning views along the way. With a knowledgeable guide and small-group intimacy, you’re set for a day full of memorable moments that go beyond the usual tourist spots.

You can check availability for your dates here: