Fuerteventura is mostly open, dry country, and the north is crossed by dirt tracks that ordinary hire cars are not supposed to use. A guided buggy safari solves that. You ride in a small two-seat off-road buggy, follow a guide in convoy, and drive across volcanic plains, dry river beds and stony coastal tracks that would be hard to reach any other way. The trip runs for about two hours and sets off at fixed times through the day, so you can choose a bright morning start or a late-afternoon run when the light is softer and the heat has eased. It is an active, noisy, dusty experience rather than a gentle sightseeing tour, and it suits people who like to drive and do not mind a little sand in their teeth. The route stays in the north around Corralejo, so it also gives you a feel for the dry scenery behind the beaches. Because the buggies are open, you need to dress for dust, sun and wind.
How it works
You meet at the operator’s base, receive a briefing on driving the buggy and following the guide, and then drive in a line at a pace the guide sets. Two people share each buggy and can usually swap who drives, although you should check the booking details for licence and age requirements before you reserve, since drivers must hold a valid licence and children are normally limited to riding as passengers. Helmets and scarves or goggles are the standard kit, and you should bring sunglasses, a buff or scarf for the dust, closed shoes and a layer for the wind.
What you see
The north of the island is a patchwork of black volcanic cones, pale sandy plains, stone-walled fields and a rough Atlantic coastline. From the saddle of a buggy you cover more ground than on foot and reach tracks that give wide views over the landscape, with Lobos and Lanzarote often visible across the water on a clear day.
The ground can be bumpy and the tracks loose, so this is a ride for people who are comfortable with a little shaking about. Anyone with back or neck problems should skip it or choose a calmer activity.
Making the most of it
Choose the earlier or later start to avoid the middle-of-the-day heat, wear clothes you do not mind getting dusty and bring water. Because the buggies kick up fine dust, the second buggy in the convoy gets the worst of it, so ask to swap places if it bothers you. The buggy safari fits easily alongside a morning at the Corralejo dunes or a sailing trip, and it makes a good backup on windy days, since the wind that cancels boats and kite lessons rarely stops buggies.
Remember that the dunes of the Corralejo Natural Park are protected, so reputable operators keep to established tracks and do not drive on the dunes themselves.
What to expect
The experience
A guided convoy drive in two-seat off-road buggies over dirt tracks, volcanic plains and rough coastline in the north.
Best time
The first or last start of the day, when the heat is gentler and the light is better for photographs.
How long
About two hours including the briefing.
Tips
Bring sunglasses, a scarf or buff for the dust, closed shoes and a layer for the wind, and check licence and age rules before booking.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active couples and friends who want a fast, fun way into the dry interior of the north.
- Families
- Best with older children who can ride as passengers; check the booking details for age and licence rules.
- Couples
- One drives and one navigates, then you swap, and the late start catches softer light.
- Pair with
- A morning on the Corralejo dunes or a sailing trip to Lobos.
- Time needed
- Two hours plus travel to the base.
Good questions
How long does the buggy safari last?+
About two hours, including a short briefing before you set off. Start times are set through the day, so pick the one that suits you.
Do I need a driving licence?+
Drivers normally need a valid licence, and age rules apply. Check the booking details before you reserve so the right person can drive.
Is it dusty?+
Yes, the tracks are dry and the buggies are open, so bring sunglasses and a scarf or buff, and wear clothes you do not mind getting dirty.
Does the wind cancel the trip?+
Strong wind that stops boats and kite lessons rarely affects buggies, although the operator can change plans in extreme weather.
Do the buggies drive on the dunes?+
The Corralejo dunes are a protected natural park, so tours follow established tracks. Choose an operator that respects the park rules.
