Guide to Visiting Calderon Hondo in Fuerteventura

Calderón Hondo is one of the seven volcanic cones within the Bayuyo mountain range, and one of the best preserved. This group of volcanic cones formed approximately 50,000 years ago through a series of eruptions that led to the creation of Isla de Lobos. The magnitude of this activity increased the surface area of Fuerteventura and its neighboring island, Lanzarote.

As one could imagine, the calderas, lava fields, and hiking routes around Calderon Hondo make this one of the most popular spots in Fuerteventura.Trekkingaround Calderon Hondo is a truly unique experience that allows you to fully appreciate the distinctive landscapes of this region.

My experience climbing this famous volcanic landmark a few years ago offered unparalleled views from its peak. Reaching the rim of the crater is not as difficult as anticipated, making it accessible even for those without extensive hiking experience.

The optimal way to see the park’s coastlines, dunes, woodlands, and wetlands is to take this led tour in a 4×4 vehicle. Be sure to bring your camera, because viewing this scenic region is undoubtedly one of the notable attractions of southern Spain that you’ll want to document!

How to get to Calderon Hondo in Fuerteventura

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The most straightforward way to arrive at the Calderon Hondo volcano is by leasing an automobile in Fuerteventura. We constantly utilize DiscoverCars whenever we require a vehicle in Fuerteventura, and we’ve never had any issues. Plus, their website features some of the best deals on rental cars.

Having your own vehicle will help you move around more quickly and independently explore the remainder of the island according to your schedule. Even if you plan on joining a guided hike to CalderonHondo, renting a car is still worth it for convenience, particularly if you intend on visiting other destinations.

Once arriving at Lajares, take the roundabout and head towards the initial exit, leading to Majanicho. From there, drive another mile or so until reaching the parking lot, where the trailhead is located.

If you aren’t renting a car, you can take public transportation (guagua bus) from Corralejo. Bus route 08 goes from Corralejo to Lajares and takes approximately 40 minutes.

How to climb Calderon Hondo on your own

The ascending path to Calderon Hondo is viewed as one of the finest hikes in Fuerteventura, owing to its well-kept trail and low level of trouble. Even if you’re traveling with kids, you should have the ability to completely enjoy this hike, so I wouldn’t stress too much.

The route to the Calderon Hondo volcano leads to the crater`s highest point, at around 912 feet above sea level. From there, you can see the entire coast of Fuerteventura as well as the surrounding islands. You`ll also notice the yellowish hues of the 230-foot-deep crater, which results from sulfur.

Locating the trailhead is easy since it’s clearly marked and right in the parking lot. During the initial 1.5 miles of the hike, you’ll travel through a field of volcanic rocks, known as the malpaís. Be certain to stay on the indicated path, as this area is extremely rocky and uneven, and the stones have jagged edges that can hurt you if you’re not cautious.

Once at the volcano`s base, you can begin your climb up the named volcanic structure. The path has been carved into the volcanic rocks, rendering it uncomplicated. Depending on pace, the ascent can be completed in around 45 minutes.

That said, don’t miss the chance to walk around the perimeter of the Calderon Hondo volcanic crater. It’s about 0.8 miles around the circumference, and you’ll get to see different perspectives of the volcano from above, so I recommend it. Once you`re done admiring the views, you can take the same path back down to the parking lot.

• Distance: 2.9 miles
• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Type: Loop
• Elevation gain: 577 ft

Guided hike to Calderon Hondo

If you prefer undertaking the trek to Calderon Hondo with a guide, you have several touring alternatives to pick from. First, I like this tour, which is led by a local expert who will take you up the volcano and share interesting geological details.

It’s a good option if you’re unsure about your hiking abilities, plus you don’t have to drive to the parking lot since hotel pick-up is incorporated. A photographer will also accompany your group and capture amazing moments from your hike, so you can bring home incredible memories of the excursion.

• Notable spots: Calderon Hondo, Lajares
• Startingpoint: Lajares
• Duration: 3 hours
• Price: €35+

There are other tours of the Calderon Hondo volcano, such as this day excursion that covers other landmarks in northern Fuerteventura. This trip involves a visit to the Cañada de Melian Canyon and El Cotillo, one of the most famous towns on the island. Here, you’ll have time to see some beautiful beaches and attractions like the Tostón Lighthouse.

• Key sights: Calderón Hondo, panoramic views, El Cotillo, Tostón Lighthouse
• Startingpoint: Lajares
• Duration: 5.5 hours
• Price: €40+

Tips for hiking Calderon Hondo

Before hiking up Calderon Hondo, I want to provide helpful tips and recommendations to make the most of this incredible experience:

• Wear appropriate footwear. Although it’s a simple route, the path has some uneven terrain and sharp rocks that can be dangerous if precautions aren`t taken. I recommend wearing hiking boots or shoes with good traction to prevent falls.
• Bear in mind to carry sunscreen and a hat to shield your face.
• Remember that there isno available water source in this region, so bring adequate water to stay hydrated throughout the hike.
• Bring a trash receptacle with you so you can properly dispose of any waste you accumulate and leave this natural area as pristine as you found it.
• Observe all trail indications and do not depart from the route. This will help to protect the environment so other hikers can enjoy its natural beauty as much as you did.
• Finally, the ideal time to scale the volcanic Calderón Hondo mountain is early in the day, or just before sunset to watch the sun sink down from above. During these periods, temperatures are lower, so the hike will be easier and more pleasurable.

What to see around Calderon Hondo in Fuerteventura

I recommend allocating around half a day to complete the route to Calderon Hondo. Going out early allows time to discover other parts of the island. That`s what we did, and later we opted to relax on the beach. Some of the most scenic coastlines in Fuerteventura require a short drive and look exceptionally beautiful at sunset.

Specifically, I propose checking out La Concha Beach or Los Charcos, which showcase phenomenal natural beauty with their fine sand and bright waters. Both locations are near El Cotillo, enabling you to explore the town and potentially stop for a traditional Canarian meal at one of the local eateries. El Cotillo boasts many things to do, but I like wandering aimlessly through its small streets and admiring scenic viewpoints.

That said, you may want to explore one of the finest beaches in El Cotillo,Playa del Aljibe (or Piedra Playa). Here, you’ll find a natural, untamed landscape that’s away from the tourist crowds, so it’s a great escape. It’s one of my preferred beaches across all of Fuerteventura, so if you go, be sure to tell me what you think!

On the other hand, you can go to Corralejo, one of the busiest and most popular towns on the island. Spend some time exploring the top sights in Corralejo, or take this ferryboat to Isla de Lobos, a small islet that’s full of hidden gems.

Finally, I suggest stopping by one of the most peculiar sights on the island: Playa Bajo LaBurra. This is considered one of Corralejo’s premier beaches, and it’s known for its coastline that’s covered in unusual algae. Theserodolitos look like popped corn, which is why many visitors call this place “Popcorn Beach.”

That`s all the information from me! Now you know everything about hiking Calderon Hondo, one of the most impressive spots in all of the Canary Islands. If you have any other questions about the Calderon Hondo volcano or any of the tours I mentioned, please leave a comment below. I`d also love to hear your thoughts on this famous volcano.

I hope you have a wonderful journey!