Discover the Calderón Hondo volcano in Fuerteventura: a geological wonder with accessible trails, stunning views, and an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit now!
Introduction
Fuerteventura, with its volcanic landscape and untamed beauty, is home to one of the island’s best-preserved volcanoes: Calderón Hondo. Located in the north of the island, near Lajares, this extinct volcano offers one of the most accessible and rewarding hikes in Fuerteventura. With its perfectly shaped crater and breathtaking panoramic views, it is an ideal destination for hikers, nature lovers, and travelers seeking unique landscapes.
In this complete guide, we will tell you everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Calderón Hondo.
History and Cultural Context
Calderón Hondo is part of the Bayuyo volcanic alignment, a series of eruptions that took place approximately 50,000 years ago. These eruptions contributed to the island’s northern expansion, creating the spectacular lava and “malpaís” landscape that characterizes this region of Fuerteventura.
For centuries, the local population has taken advantage of the volcanic soil’s richness for agriculture and the extraction of construction materials. Today, Calderón Hondo is an important tourist attraction, especially for those who want to experience Fuerteventura’s wild and natural side.
Location and How to Get There
Calderón Hondo is located in the municipality of La Oliva, near the charming village of Lajares. There are several options to reach the starting point of the trail:
By Car
From Corralejo, take the FV-109 road towards Lajares. In the village, follow the signs to the Calderón Hondo trail. The journey takes about 15 minutes, and there is a small parking area at the trailhead.
By Public Transport
Bus options are limited, but you can take line 08 from Corralejo to Lajares and walk about 2 km to the trail entrance.
Description of the Place
Calderón Hondo rises to 278 meters above sea level, and its crater is about 70 meters deep. Its well-preserved structure allows visitors to clearly see the volcano’s geological composition, with reddish and ochre hues contrasting against the deep blue of the Canary sky.
The ascent trail is easy and accessible to most visitors. Once at the top, you will enjoy spectacular views of northern Fuerteventura, including Lobos Islet and the neighboring island of Lanzarote.
Recommended Activities and Experiences
Hiking
The route to Calderón Hondo is of low difficulty and suitable for all ages. The hike takes between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on your pace.
Photography
The views from the top offer a perfect setting for landscape photography. Additionally, the presence of squirrels and local birds provides opportunities for wildlife photography.
Stargazing
At night, the Calderón Hondo area is ideal for astronomical observation, as there is very little light pollution.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Best time to visit: Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking.
- What to bring:
- Plenty of water.
- Sunscreen and a hat.
- Comfortable footwear.
- Camera or smartphone for photos.
- Safety:
- Stay on marked trails.
- Do not get too close to the edge of the crater.
Visitor Reviews and Experiences
What Travelers Say on TripAdvisor and Google Reviews
- “An easy hike with stunning views. Perfect for a half-day excursion.”
- “The trail is well-maintained, and the crater is impressive.”
- “I recommend bringing water and proper footwear, especially in summer.”
- “A magical place, perfect for nature lovers.”
- “The views of Lanzarote and Lobos from the top are unbeatable.”
For more reviews, visit:
Curiosities and Lesser-Known Facts
- During the colonization of Fuerteventura, the volcanic area was used as a natural refuge against pirates.
- It is said that the red color of the crater walls is due to the oxidation of iron-rich minerals.
Conclusion
Visiting Calderón Hondo is a must-do experience in Fuerteventura. Its accessibility, scenic beauty, and the feeling of being in an untouched volcanic environment make it one of the island’s best excursions. Don’t miss the chance to discover this incredible corner of Fuerteventura!
Plan your visit today and experience the magic of Calderón Hondo!
Sources and References