Fuertaventura offers a number of fascinating trekking routes that allow you to discover the most beautiful parts of the island without straining your budget. One of the most famous routes is the Camino Natural de Fuerteventura, which crosses the entire island from north to south. This route of about 155 kilometers allows you to see the diverse landscapes of Fuerteventura - from desert dunes to rocky coastlines. The trail is well marked and divided into stages, making it easy to plan your trip. It's worth remembering to bring enough water and provisions, as there are no replenishment options on some sections.

For those who prefer shorter hikes, a great option is the route leading to the Caldera de Gayria. This extinct volcano offers fascinating views of the surrounding countryside. Entrance to the crater is free, but it is worth remembering that access is prohibited from February 15 to June 31 due to the bird nesting season. The trail is relatively easy and accessible to people of all fitness levels.

Another interesting trail is the Camino Natural de Fuerteventura GR 131, which is part of a longer route that crosses the island. This section leads through picturesque volcanic terrain, offering unforgettable views of the surrounding craters and stagnant lava flows. Along the way you may encounter friendly squirrels, who often approach tourists in search of refreshments.

For lovers of more challenging trails, Malpais de La Arena presents a real challenge. This 'bad country' (translation of the name) is an area covered with solidified lava, creating a harsh, lunar landscape. The route requires good preparation and proper footwear, but you will be rewarded with spectacular views and a sense of communing with true wilderness.

All of these routes offer a unique opportunity to experience the diversity of Fuertaventura's landscapes - from sandy dunes to volcanic cones and rocky coastlines. What's more, most of them are available free of charge, making them ideal options for frugal travelers. However, remember to be properly prepared - comfortable trekking shoes, plenty of water and high UV sunscreen are the bare minimum for these trails.

Fuertaventura is famous for its natural parks, which offer not only beautiful views, but also opportunities to be active in nature. One of the most impressive is the Parque Natural de Corralejo, best known for its vast Sahara-like sand dunes. It's the perfect place for photography enthusiasts, especially at sunrise and sunset, when the light creates fascinating shadow plays on the sand hills. Admission to the park is free, making it an excellent option for frugal travelers. However, remember to follow designated paths to protect the delicate dune ecosystem.

No less fascinating is Parque Natural Jandía, located on the southern tip of the island. It's a trekker's paradise, offering a number of trails of varying difficulty. One of the most popular spots is Degollada de Cofete, a pass that offers breathtaking views of Cofete beach and the ocean. It's the perfect place to take souvenir photos and admire the island's rugged beauty. Getting to the pass requires driving on a gravel road, but the views will certainly reward the effort of the journey.

For those looking for less traveled destinations, Volcano Bayuyo offers an interesting alternative. This extinct volcano, located near Corralejo, offers a relatively easy ascent and fantastic views of the northern part of the island and neighboring Lanzarote and Lobos. It takes about 30-40 minutes to climb to the top, and about 20 minutes to descend. It's worth remembering to wear appropriate footwear, as the path can be slippery in places.

One of the lesser-known but equally fascinating places is Peñitas Dam. It's a picturesque canyon with interesting rock formations and palm trees that provides an oasis of greenery in the desert landscape of the island. The site is part of a longer trail that runs throughout the island, but can also be visited as a stand-alone attraction. The trail is not too demanding, making it accessible to families with children.

All of these places offer the opportunity to be active in nature without having to spend a lot of money. Admission to most natural parks is free, and the only cost may be transportation. However, it is worth remembering to prepare properly - comfortable shoes, plenty of water and protection from the sun are essential when visiting these places. In addition, it's always a good idea to check up-to-date information on the availability of trails, especially during bird nesting periods, when some areas may be temporarily closed to tourists.

When planning an active vacation in Fuertaventura, it's worth taking advantage of some practical tips that will allow you to enjoy the charms of the island without straining your budget. First of all, consider using the services of local guides, such as Mahan Trekking. This company offers a range of tours of the island's most interesting corners, led by experienced guides who know the area well and can share fascinating information about Fuertaventura's history, geology and flora and fauna. While this comes at a cost, it can be an investment to discover places inaccessible to the average tourist and gain a deeper understanding of the island.

For those who prefer to explore on their own, an excellent option is the GR 131 route, known as the Camino Natural de Fuerteventura. This roughly 155-kilometer trail crosses the entire island, offering the opportunity to see its diverse landscapes - from desert dunes to rocky coastlines. The route is well marked and can be traversed in stages, adjusting the length of the day hikes to suit your own abilities. However, it is worth remembering to plan the stages carefully, as access to water and supplies may be limited in some sections.

One of the best ways to explore economically is to use public transportation. Buses in Fuerteventura are relatively inexpensive and reach most popular tourist destinations. Consider purchasing a Bono Bus card, which offers discounted fares. For those who plan to do a lot of sightseeing, renting a car may prove more economical, especially if the cost is shared among several people.

As for lodging, camping can be a great option for frugal travelers. There are several official campgrounds on the island, which offer basic amenities for a small fee. However, it is worth remembering that wild camping is prohibited and can result in hefty fines.

In terms of food, local markets and bakeries offer fresh produce at affordable prices. Preparing your own meals and packing provisions for trips can significantly reduce travel costs. It's also worth trying local specialties at small, family-run restaurants outside the main tourist centers - they often offer tasty meals at affordable prices.

When planning a visit to natural parks such as Dunas de Corralejo or Parque Natural Jandía, it's worth remembering that admission to most of them is free. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature without spending money. However, you should always follow the rules of environmental protection and follow only designated trails.

Finally, it is worth mentioning the off-season. Fuertaventura enjoys a mild climate year-round, but prices are much lower outside the main tourist season. Traveling during months such as May, June or October can save you a lot of money while enjoying pleasant weather and fewer crowds of tourists.

Remember that the key to a successful and economical trip is good planning. It's a good idea to study trail maps in advance, check bus schedules and book accommodations in advance. This will allow you to fully enjoy the charms of Fuertaventura without worrying about overspending.