Barranco de las Peñitas
Explore the dramatic Barranco de las Peñitas, a natural gorge with unique rock formations and the iconic Arco de las Peñitas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday heat
Barranco de las Peñitas
Best Time
Avoid midday heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the dramatic Barranco de las Peñitas, a natural gorge with unique rock formations and the iconic Arco de las Peñitas.
"One of the most impressive places on Fuerteventura, a must-visit for nature lovers."
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for navigating rocky trails. :athletic_shoe: Leave flip-flops at home!
Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. :sunwithface: The sun is intense!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Arco de las Peñitas
Barranco de las Peñitas
A stunning natural stone arch, a testament to millennia of wind and water erosion. A truly unique geological wonder.
Barranco de las Peñitas Gorge
Near Betancuria, Fuerteventura
Explore this impressive natural gorge, once a passage for early settlers. Offers unique landscapes and a sense of ancient history.
Ermita de la Peña
Barranco de las Peñitas
A historic hermitage nestled within the gorge, adding a cultural and spiritual dimension to the natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit Barranco de las Peñitas
What to Pack for Barranco de las Peñitas
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for navigating rocky trails. :athletic_shoe: Leave flip-flops at home!
Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. :sunwithface: The sun is intense!
Trails Aren't Marked
Be prepared for un-marked paths. Use Google Maps for guidance. :compass:
Hike to the Dam
Allow 30-50 mins for the hike to the dam. Views are great! :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for navigating rocky trails. :athletic_shoe: Leave flip-flops at home!
Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. :sunwithface: The sun is intense!
Trails Aren't Marked
Be prepared for un-marked paths. Use Google Maps for guidance. :compass:
Hike to the Dam
Allow 30-50 mins for the hike to the dam. Views are great! :hiking_boot:
Free to Visit
Enjoy the natural beauty without any admission fees. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Barranco de las Peñitas is lauded as one of Fuerteventura's most impressive natural wonders, offering beautiful hiking and unique geological formations like the Arco de las Peñitas. Visitors appreciate the free access and the sense of exploring an ancient landscape. However, the lack of clearly marked trails and the intensity of the sun are common points of caution.
"Beautiful hiking area with great views over the region. The hiking routes are not clearly marked. You should allow 30 to 50 minutes for the hike to the dam. Sturdy shoes and sun protection are a must. The visit is free of charge."
Oskar Vitlif
"Nice rock “climbing” route, i enjoyed it. I would recommend to stop at the closer parking as from the dam’s side there is addiotional walk, which was a bit unecessary, nothing really to see."
Daniella Marczin
"One of the most impressive places on Fuerteventura. The first medieval settlers passed this narrow gorge to found Betancuria, the oldest town of the Canary Islands."
Robeers Michel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Barranco de las Peñitas is located near Betancuria in Fuerteventura. You can drive to a parking area near the gorge. Some recommend parking closer to the dam for a more direct route, though the hike itself is part of the experience.
Yes, there are parking areas available, though they might not be clearly signposted. It's advisable to use GPS coordinates or follow signs for the Barranco de las Peñitas or Arco de las Peñitas.
A rental car is a convenient way to reach Barranco de las Peñitas. The roads leading to the area are generally accessible, but be prepared for some unpaved sections depending on your exact route.
Public transport options to reach Barranco de las Peñitas might be limited and time-consuming. It's generally recommended to have your own vehicle for easier access and flexibility.
While some trails are not clearly marked, using Google Maps with the location 'Arco de las Peñitas' can help guide you. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Barranco de las Peñitas. It's a natural attraction that is free to explore.
Barranco de las Peñitas is an outdoor natural area and is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
The Arco de las Peñitas is a natural formation within the Barranco and does not have an entrance fee. Access is free for all visitors.
While not always advertised, some local operators might offer guided hikes or canyoning tours. It's worth checking with local tourist information centers or online tour providers.
Yes, Barranco de las Peñitas can be visited year-round. However, the best times are during the cooler months and avoiding the hottest part of the day in summer.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main activities include hiking through the gorge, admiring the unique rock formations, and visiting the Arco de las Peñitas. It's a great spot for photography and enjoying nature.
The hike to the dam typically takes between 30 to 50 minutes. The overall time spent exploring the gorge can vary depending on your pace and how much you stop to take in the scenery.
No, the hiking routes are not clearly marked. Visitors should be prepared for un-marked paths and use navigation aids like Google Maps.
The Arco de las Peñitas is a prime photo spot. The unique rock formations, the oasis-like feel with palm trees, and the reddish rock walls also make for stunning photographs.
The area offers opportunities for rock climbing and bouldering, with specific routes mentioned for those interested in the sport.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no immediate dining options within the gorge itself, nearby towns like Betancuria offer restaurants. One reviewer mentioned Casa de la Naturaleza in Vega del Rio Palmas for post-hike dining.
Yes, it's highly recommended to bring your own water and snacks, especially for longer hikes, as there are no facilities within the gorge.
Local cuisine often features Canarian specialties. If you venture to nearby towns, you might find traditional dishes and fresh seafood. +1
There are no designated picnic areas, but you can find suitable spots to rest and enjoy your packed lunch amidst the natural surroundings. Remember to pack out all your trash.
One reviewer mentioned that Casa de la Naturaleza in Vega del Rio Palmas offers gluten-free options, thickening dishes with cornstarch.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for capturing the unique rock formations and the Arco de las Peñitas.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the gorge and the arch. A drone can also provide stunning aerial perspectives.
There are no specific restrictions on personal photography. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permits, so it's best to check local regulations.
The contrasting colors of the reddish rock walls, the green palm trees, and the clear blue sky create a visually striking landscape. The natural arch is a unique subject.
Drone usage is possible, and many impressive aerial shots have been captured. However, always be aware of local drone regulations and respect the natural environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Remember to pack essentials like sturdy footwear, water, and sun protection to fully enjoy the trek. 📸 Photographers
Remember to be mindful of the environment and any local regulations regarding drone usage.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Barranco de las Peñitas
+1This area holds historical significance as well, having been a passage for the first settlers of Fuerteventura who founded Betancuria, the island's oldest town. The hike through the barranco offers a chance to connect with this history and experience the raw, untamed beauty of the Canary Islands. While the main trails are not always clearly marked, the journey itself is part of the adventure, with many finding the exploration rewarding.
For those seeking adventure, the Barranco de las Peñitas also offers opportunities for rock climbing and bouldering, attracting enthusiasts to its unique rock faces.
Whether you're a hiker, photographer, or simply a nature lover, the Barranco de las Peñitas provides a memorable and visually stunning experience.The Iconic Arco de las Peñitas
+1Finding the arch can be part of the adventure, as trails are not always clearly defined. However, its location is generally marked on Google Maps, guiding visitors to this spectacular formation.
The surrounding landscape, with its reddish rock walls and occasional pockets of greenery, enhances the visual appeal of the arch, creating a dramatic and unforgettable scene. Many visitors are captivated by the sheer scale and natural artistry of the Arco de las Peñitas. It's a place that inspires awe and wonder, reminding us of the incredible power and beauty of the natural world. The effort to reach it is consistently described as worthwhile, offering a unique photographic opportunity and a lasting memory of Fuerteventura's dramatic landscapes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit