Overview
El Matorral is a small settlement on the southern tip of Fuerteventura, one of Spain's Canary Islands, located in the municipality of Pájara. It is best known internationally as the site of Fuerteventura Airport (FUE), officially named Aeropuerto de Fuerteventura, which serves as the main gateway to the island.
The settlement itself is modest in scale and primarily functional in character, sitting within the Jandía Peninsula — a protected natural area of striking arid landscapes, volcanic rock and long sandy shores. Travelers passing through El Matorral are usually en route to the popular resort of Morro Jable, a short drive to the southwest, or to the beaches of Playa de Sotavento and the wider Jandía Natural Park.
While El Matorral is not a conventional tourist destination in its own right, its position at the southern end of Fuerteventura means visitors who spend even a little time here are close to some of the most dramatic and least-developed coastal scenery in the Canary Islands.
Before You Go
Visas and Entry
Fuerteventura is part of Spain and therefore the European Union and the Schengen Area. For visa requirements relevant to your nationality, check TravelerPulse's Visas section and the official Spanish immigration authority (Secretaría de Estado de Migraciones) before travel.
Health and Vaccinations
No specific vaccinations are required for travel to the Canary Islands from most countries. Tap water is technically drinkable on Fuerteventura but many residents and visitors prefer bottled water due to the desalination process used; verify conditions locally. EU citizens should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC or GHIC for UK residents).
What to Pack
- Sun protection is essential year-round; UV intensity is high even in winter
- Wind can be strong on the Jandía Peninsula — a light layer is useful in the evening
- The terrain around El Matorral and the airport area is arid and dusty; closed shoes are practical for inland walks
- Cash is useful for smaller local shops; card payment is widely accepted at larger establishments
Getting There
By Air
Fuerteventura Airport (IATA: FUE) is located directly adjacent to El Matorral and is the primary point of entry to the island. It receives scheduled and charter flights from major European hubs as well as inter-island connections within the Canary Islands operated by carriers such as Binter Canarias and Canaryfly. Flight frequency and airlines vary by season; verify current routes and schedules with airlines or booking platforms before travel.
By Ferry
Fuerteventura is connected by ferry to the nearby islands of Lanzarote and Gran Canaria. The main ferry port for southern Fuerteventura is at Morro Jable, a short drive from El Matorral. Naviera Armas and Fred. Olsen Express are among the operators serving these routes; check their official sites for current timetables and fares.
By Road from Elsewhere on the Island
The FV-2 highway runs along the eastern coast of Fuerteventura connecting the north (Corralejo, Puerto del Rosario) to the south. Driving time from Puerto del Rosario, the island capital, to El Matorral is roughly 45–60 minutes depending on traffic.
Getting Around
Car Rental
Renting a car at Fuerteventura Airport is the most practical way to explore the Jandía Peninsula and the rest of the island. Several international and local rental agencies operate at the terminal. Book in advance during peak season. Roads in the southern peninsula are generally well-maintained but some tracks to remote beaches require a vehicle with higher clearance.
Buses (Tiadhe)
The island's public bus network is operated by Tiadhe. Buses connect the airport and El Matorral to Morro Jable and other settlements. Schedules are limited compared to urban services; verify current timetables on the Tiadhe official website or at the bus stop before relying on public transport for time-sensitive journeys.
Taxis
Taxis are available at the airport. Fares to Morro Jable and Jandía resort areas are metered; confirm the approximate fare with the driver before departing. Verify locally whether ride-hailing apps operate on the island.
Things to See & Do
Jandía Natural Park
The Jandía Peninsula, within which El Matorral sits, is a protected natural area characterised by volcanic mountains, arid plains and long Atlantic beaches. The park is open to exploration; walking and cycling routes exist, though the terrain can be demanding and shade is minimal. Carry water and sun protection.
Playa de Cofete
One of the most remote and visually dramatic beaches in the Canary Islands, Cofete is accessible via an unpaved track from the village of Morro Jable over the Jandía mountains. The beach stretches for several kilometres in near-total isolation, backed by steep hills. Swimming can be dangerous due to strong currents and waves; heed local warnings. A four-wheel-drive vehicle or a dedicated excursion is recommended for access.
Windsurfing and Kitesurfing
Fuerteventura is internationally regarded as one of Europe's premier destinations for wind sports, and the waters around the Jandía Peninsula — particularly near Morro Jable — are a focus for this activity. Several schools and rental outlets operate in the area; verify seasonal availability locally.
Birdwatching
The arid scrubland around El Matorral supports populations of Canary Islands endemic and resident bird species, including the Houbara Bustard, which inhabits flat arid zones of Fuerteventura. The area near the airport is known to birders as a site where this species can occasionally be observed from public roads and tracks.
Food & Drink
El Matorral itself has very limited dining options given its small size and largely functional character. The vast majority of restaurants, cafés and bars are located in nearby Morro Jable and the Jandía Playa resort strip, both a short drive away.
What to Eat
Canarian cuisine is the culinary reference point. Look for papas arrugadas (small wrinkled potatoes boiled in heavily salted water, served with mojo sauces), fresh grilled fish, gofio (a toasted grain flour used in various traditional dishes) and local goat's cheese (queso majorero), for which Fuerteventura holds a Protected Designation of Origin.
For dining in the area, head to Morro Jable's harbour front, where a range of restaurants serve both local and international food. Quality and pricing vary; verify current hours and menus locally as establishments change seasonally.
Practical Information
Emergency Numbers
In Spain, the general emergency number is 112 (police, fire, ambulance). The National Police can also be reached on 091 and local police on 092. Verify any additional local contacts on arrival.
Connectivity
Mobile coverage on Fuerteventura is generally good in built-up areas and along main roads; it may be weaker in remote parts of the Jandía Natural Park. The airport has Wi-Fi. EU roaming regulations apply to EU-issued SIMs; travelers from outside the EU should check roaming costs with their provider or consider purchasing a local SIM.
Money
ATMs are available at Fuerteventura Airport and in Morro Jable. Card payment is widely accepted at hotels and larger establishments. Carry some cash for smaller local businesses.
Electricity
Spain uses Type C and Type F plugs at 230V / 50Hz. Travelers from the UK, US or countries with different standards should bring an appropriate adapter.
Safety
Fuerteventura and El Matorral are generally considered safe destinations for travelers. The principal safety considerations in this area are environmental rather than social.
- Sun and heat: The sun is intense year-round. Heatstroke and sunburn are real risks, particularly during summer months (June–September). Use high-factor sunscreen, cover up and carry water.
- Ocean currents: Beaches on the Atlantic-facing (western) side of the Jandía Peninsula, particularly Cofete, can have very strong currents and are not recommended for swimming. Always follow local signage and advice.
- Remote terrain: If hiking or driving on unpaved tracks in the natural park, inform someone of your plans, carry sufficient water and ensure your vehicle is suitable for the terrain.
- Airport vicinity: Standard precautions apply around any airport area — keep luggage secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Petty theft, while not a major issue in this part of the island, can occur at busy tourist spots; standard common-sense precautions apply.