How to drive in Fuerteventura: everything you need to know
Many visitors wonder if driving in Fuerteventura is difficult.
The good news is that, in most cases, driving on the island is simple, relaxing, and suitable even for those who don’t have much experience driving abroad.
The main roads are generally in excellent condition, traffic is limited compared to many European cities, and travel is pleasant thanks to the open views and long stretches of coastline.
However, there are some peculiarities that it is useful to know before getting behind the wheel.
The main roads
Fuerteventura’s road network easily connects all the main tourist resorts.
The most important arteries are:
- FV-1, which connects Puerto del Rosario to Corralejo.
- FV-2, the main road that crosses the island to Morro Jable.
- FV-10 and FV-30, ideal for visiting inland villages and some of the most spectacular views.
Most of the roads are paved, well signposted and in good condition.
The roundabouts: a constant presence
If you’re driving in Fuerteventura for the first time, you’ll notice one thing right away: roundabouts are everywhere.
They are also used to regulate traffic at points where, in other countries, there would be a normal intersection.
To deal with them safely, simply follow a few simple rules:
- slow down near the roundabout;
- give way to vehicles already inside;
- Use the turn signals when exiting.
If you are not used to driving with many roundabouts, it only takes a few kilometers to become familiar.
Speed limits
The limits may vary depending on the type of road and the signs present.
Indicatively:
| Type of road | Generally expected limit |
|---|---|
| Built-up areas | 20-50 km/h |
| Rural roads | 70-90 km/h |
| Smoother sections | Up to 100 km/h where allowed |
It is always important to respect the signs, because the limits can change even along the same road.
In some areas, there are speed controls, both fixed and mobile.
How do the inhabitants drive?
In general, driving in Fuerteventura is quiet.
Local drivers know the roads very well and can maintain a faster pace than tourists, especially in the suburban sections.
If someone wishes to overtake you, stay calm and let them pass when it is safe to do so.
You don’t need to feel pressured – driving carefully is always the best choice.
Beware of the wind
One of the elements that characterize Fuerteventura is the wind.
On windier days you may experience slight deviations of the vehicle, especially:
- on coastal stretches;
- in the most open areas;
- when overtaking buses or trucks.
Simply keep both hands on the steering wheel and moderate your speed.
Animals on the roadway
In rural areas it may happen to encounter:
- goats;
- sheep;
- small animals.
It is a rather rare event on the main roads, but it can occur especially in the inland areas of the island.
Reduce your speed if you notice animals near the roadway.
Driving at night
The main roads are easily passable even after dark.
However, in less populated areas, public lighting may be limited.
If you plan to drive at night:
- maintain a moderate speed;
- pay attention to animal crossings;
- Use the navigator if you don’t know the area.
Alcohol and driving: what are the limits?
As in the rest of Spain, drunk driving is severely sanctioned.
For most drivers, the blood alcohol limit is 0.5 g/l of blood (0.25 mg/l in exhaled air). For novice drivers and some professional categories, the limit is lower.
⚠️ always check the updated limits on the official website of the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT), as the legislation can be modified.
Do the fines arrive even after returning to Italy?
Yes.
If an offence is committed during your stay (e.g. speeding, illegal parking or using a mobile phone while driving), the rental company may communicate the driver’s details to the authorities.
In many cases, the report is then sent to the driver’s address or the company may charge the administrative fees stipulated in the contract.
The most frequent infringements concern:
- exceeding speed limits;
- parking in prohibited areas;
- use of mobile phone while driving;
- failure to use seat belts.
The advice is simple: always respect the signs and speed limits, thus avoiding unpleasant surprises after returning.
💡 Board of Corralejo.info
After a few kilometers you will realize that driving in Fuerteventura is much easier than you can imagine.
The island does not present great difficulties for those who are used to driving in Europe. With a little attention to roundabouts, speed limits and particularly windy days, you can get around with peace of mind and easily reach some of the most beautiful beaches and landscapes on the island.
