Adventure brief
Isla de Lobos - La Ruta de los Delfines
Scan the Atlantic for dolphins, step onto the volcanic shore of Isla de Lobos, and spend 2.5 hours exploring La Concha beach, tidal pools, and a lighthouse — all on a 5.5-hour cruise from Varadero de Puerto del Carmen. A picnic lunch and guided commentary are included.
On a clear morning off the east coast of Lanzarote, the Biosfera Jet cuts through the Atlantic toward Isla de Lobos, a compact volcanic islet that sits between Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. This half-day outing — Isla de Lobos - La Ruta de los Delfines — departs from Varadero de Puerto del Carmen and unfolds over roughly 5.5 hours, blending open-water wildlife viewing with 2.5 hours of free time on the island itself. The crossing follows the ruta de los delfines, where common and bottlenose dolphins often ride the bow wake and occasional whales pass in deeper water.
Boat-side commentary frames what you see: coastal cliffs of black lava, pale sand beaches, and the long shadow of Fuerteventura across the horizon. On arrival, the island’s compact geography reveals a handful of distinct features: La Concha, a crescent beach of pale sand and clear shallows; a scattering of natural tidal pools carved into lava rock; the low volcanic cone that invites a short hike; and the lighthouse at Punta Martiño, a weathered navigational point overlooking both channels. With 2.5 hours ashore you can choose pace and terrain.
Snorkelers find the underwater rock shelves and pools rich with small fish and vivid algae; hikers can take the scrub-lined trail toward the cone for panoramic views; or you can walk into the tiny fishing hamlet and the visitor center to learn about endemic plants and seabird colonies that use the islet as a rookery. A picnic lunch — sandwiches, gazpacho, drinks, and a snack — is included, and the vessel provides guided commentary en route. Transfers to and from hotels are part of the booking, and groups are capped at a maximum of 48 passengers.
Practical details matter here: the island is a protected natural area, not wheelchair accessible, and some landings can be tricky for guests with reduced mobility. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a swimsuit, a towel, and footwear suited to uneven volcanic rock. Snorkel gear is not included, so pack or rent it if you want to explore the shallow reefs.
Why this trip stands out: in a single morning you cross open water, scan for wild cetaceans, and step onto an island where lava geology meets Atlantic clarity. It’s a compact taste of Canary Island nature — brisk sea air, bird noise at the headland, and the hush of La Concha beach — ideal for families, photographers, and anyone looking to add a wildlife and island walk to a Lanzarote itinerary. Book early during high season to secure hotel transfers and preferred seating, and let the crew know dietary restrictions at least one day before to ensure the picnic accommodates allergies or vegetarian needs.
Bring a light windproof layer for the crossing and sunglasses.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Bring reef-safe sunscreenessential
Protect the island’s fragile marine life and your skin; apply before boarding and reapply after swimming.
- 02Wear sturdy water shoeswarning
Landings involve volcanic rock and tidal pools—closed-toe water shoes make walking and snorkeling safer.
- 03Reserve transfers earlyinfo
Hotel pickup/drop-off is included but limited—book early in high season to secure your spot.
- 04Notify dietary needs 24 hours aheadessential
Operator provides a picnic lunch—inform them at least one day before for vegetarian or allergy accommodations.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Swimsuit & quick-dry towel
For beach time at La Concha and quick drying after snorkeling.
summerEssentialReef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and the island’s sensitive marine ecosystems.
summerEssentialSturdy water shoes
Grip and protect your feet on lava rock, tidal pools, and beach approaches.
EssentialSnorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins)
Optional—bring or rent to explore the shallow underwater terraces and tidal pools.
summerLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
The west-side tidal pools—quiet, excellent for close-up marine life observation., Short trail to the summit cone—offers the best island-wide view without a long climb.
Local fauna
Bottlenose dolphin, Cory's shearwater and other seabirds
Historic heritage
Isla de Lobos has a tiny traditional fishing hamlet and visitor center that explain the island’s maritime heritage and its protected status as a natural area.
Mindful exploration
The islet is protected—stay on marked paths, pack out waste, and use reef-safe sunscreen to minimize impacts on seabirds and marine life.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- From the Biosfera Jet bow for bow-ride dolphin shots, La Concha beach edge for shallow-water reflections, Trail to Punta Martiño lighthouse for sweeping channel views
- Subjects
- Cetaceans and seabirds, Volcanic shorelines and natural pools, Intimate beach and portrait scenes
- Best times
- Mid-morning for active dolphins, Golden hour for La Concha shoreline, Late afternoon at the lighthouse
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Are dolphin or whale sightings guaranteed?
No—cetacean encounters are common along the route but not guaranteed because these are wild animals.
What is included in the trip price?
Round-trip transfers from hotels, the boat crossing to Isla de Lobos, guided commentary, a picnic lunch, and 2.5 hours of free time on the island are included.
Is the island accessible for wheelchairs or reduced mobility?
No—the island is not wheelchair accessible and some landings and paths are uneven; people with reduced mobility may find movement difficult.
Is snorkel equipment provided?
Snorkel gear is not included; you should bring your own or arrange rentals if you plan to snorkel.
What is the meeting point for departures?
Departures are from Varadero de Puerto del Carmen—check your confirmation for the exact meeting time and any transfer pickup details.
Can I request vegetarian or allergy-friendly meals?
Yes—inform the operator at least one day before departure to arrange vegetarian options or accommodate allergies.