Fuerteventura: Ajuy Caves & hike to secret Las Penitas Arco

If you’re dreaming of discovering some of Fuerteventura’s lesser-known treasures, this tour offers a fantastic mix of adventure, natural beauty, and fascinating history. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a compelling picture of what to expect.

What I love most about this experience is how it combines hiking through untouched landscapes, visiting protected natural monuments, and finding secret spots like Las Penitas Arco. The inclusion of a guided walk means you’ll learn about the area’s geological features and local history, making it more than just a sightseeing tour. Plus, the visit to Ajuy’s caves promises a glimpse into a dramatic volcanic past.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is suited for those with a basic level of fitness—it’s not designed for wheelchairs, mobility issues, or very young children. It’s also a full day, so packing the right gear and being prepared for some physical activity is essential.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures and enjoy exploring scenic landscapes at a relaxed pace. If you’re after a mix of cultural insight, natural beauty, and light hiking, this tour will likely tick all your boxes.

Good To Know

• Balanced Adventure and Sightseeing: Explore untouched landscapes and stunning geological formations.
• Learn from Experts: Guided by knowledgeable guides who share insights into local geology and history.
• Suitable for Most Fitness Levels: Adapts to various levels, though some walking and climbing are involved.
• Beautiful Photo Opportunities: Iconic sights like the secret window ‘El Arco’ and coastal caves.
• Authentic Local Experience: Visit a small chapel dedicated to the patron saint and enjoy a relaxed lunch by the sea.
• Good Value for Money: Includes transportation, guided hikes, entrance fees, a meal, and drinks.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Transfer

The tour begins early, with hotel pickups in the North of Fuerteventura, between 8 and 9 am, or at 9:15 for cruise guests at Puerto de Rosario port. The roughly 75-minute drive to Las Penitas canyon sets the tone for a day of discovery. The group size is kept small—limited to 10 people—making it intimate and ensuring personalized attention.

Las Penitas Canyon: A Hidden Oasis

Our first stop is the captivating Barranco de las Peñitas, often described as one of the most beautiful and striking sites on the island. This canyon remains largely free of crowds, which makes it a perfect escape into nature. The hike here lasts around two hours, covering trail routes that weave through this natural marvel.

What makes Las Penitas special? It’s a kind of natural film set—Hollywood has used this landscape for shoots, according to many travelers. The canyon features a dam that’s one of the few remaining on the island, adding a touch of historic engineering to the scenery. You’ll pass a small chapel dedicated to Virgen de la Peña, offering a peaceful moment amidst spectacular views.

The highlight for many is the ‘El Arco’, a naturally sculpted rock formation resembling a window, which is ideal for photos. Reviewers rave about the views and the chance to stand in awe of nature’s artistry, describing the climb to the Arco as “well worth the effort” and “spectacular.”

Ajuy Caves and Coastal Beauty

After the canyon adventure, the tour moves on to Ajuy, a quaint coastal village. The visit includes a guided tour of the famous Ajuy Caves, declared a natural monument in 1987. Created by volcanic lava flows, these caves tell stories of the island’s volcanic past and are protected as part of Betancuria Rural Park.

The walk to the caves is about 500 meters along a well-maintained trail, and along the way, you’ll see some of the oldest fossil dunes on the island—formed over 100 million years ago. The lime holes in the area hint at a traditional industry that once supplied lime to other Canary Islands, adding a layer of cultural history to your visit.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch with a View

No trip to the coast is complete without a seaside meal, and here, you’re treated to a sandwich and a non-alcoholic drink while seated on the cliffs overlooking the ocean. The reviews praise this simple yet scenic lunch spot, with one reviewer noting, “We had a lovely lunch sat on the cliffs at Ajuy—a glorious view looking out to sea.”

Return Journey and Drop-offs

After a leisurely lunch, the group heads back to the north of Fuerteventura, with the return drive lasting around 85 minutes. The tour concludes with drop-offs at specified locations, including Corralejo’s Acua Water Park—perfect if you want to unwind with a splash or relax afterward.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Expert-guided hikes add immense value, as guides like Bas are praised for their knowledge, safety, and route choices. The fact that the tour is suitable for different fitness levels means it’s accessible for most travelers, without losing the essence of adventure.

Travelers consistently mention how the views are “well worth the climb” and how the guide makes the experience engaging. The small group size ensures that you’re not just another face in the crowd, fostering a friendly and personalized atmosphere.

The natural beauty of Las Penitas and Ajuy’s caves offers authentic encounters with Fuerteventura’s volcanic genesis. The scenery is a perfect backdrop for memorable photos, especially the Arco de Las Penitas, which reviewers describe as “a great moment for some fantastic photographs.”

Value for money comes from the inclusive nature of the tour: transportation, a guided hike, entrance fees, and a meal are bundled into a single price, offering convenience and a worry-free day. It’s a good choice for those who want a comprehensive exploration without the hassle of planning each step.

Practical Tips for the Tour

To make the most of your day, bring comfortable closed shoes suitable for hiking, a hat and sunscreen to shield against the sun, and a daypack with water. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone—these sites are incredibly photogenic.

Since the tour doesn’t accommodate very young children or individuals with mobility issues, consider your own fitness level when booking. The hike involves some climbing and uneven terrain, but it is generally manageable for most.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for those who love outdoor adventures combined with cultural and natural exploration. It’s perfect for adventure travelers looking to see the island’s hidden corners, as well as nature lovers who appreciate geological formations and scenic landscapes.

If you value small-group tours for a more intimate and engaging experience, this tour provides just that. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding experience, the moderate hike and scenic stops are still manageable.

It’s also a fantastic option for travelers wanting a value-packed day that covers different aspects of Fuerteventura—hiking, history, geology, and coastal views—all in one go.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not really—it’s designed for those with low to moderate fitness levels and involves some climbing and walking over uneven terrain. Children under 4 years old are not recommended.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring closed shoes for hiking, sunscreen, a hat, a daypack, water, and possibly a camera. Sandals or flip flops are not allowed for safety reasons.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
No, this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the nature of the hike and terrain.

How long is the total tour?
It lasts about 7 hours, including transfers, the hike, lunch, and sightseeing.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a sandwich and a non-alcoholic drink are provided, with a scenic spot to enjoy your meal.

Are transport and pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup from the North of Fuerteventura and drop-off are included, with cruise-ship pickups available at the port.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour is not scheduled in case of weather alerts or unsafe conditions, ensuring safety for all participants.

This tour offers a balanced blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural insights. The guided hikes through Las Penitas and the visit to Ajuy’s caves make it more than just sightseeing—it’s an immersive experience into the wild side of Fuerteventura.

For travelers craving authentic landscapes, stunning photo spots, and engaging guides, this trip delivers excellent value. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy light to moderate physical activity and want to see the island’s hidden gems away from crowded tourist spots.

If you’re after a full day of scenic exploration and geological wonder, this tour could be a highlight of your Fuerteventura visit. Just prepare your gear, bring your curiosity, and get ready for a memorable adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: